A bookstand is an invaluable tool for avid readers and students alike, providing a convenient and ergonomic way to hold books open while studying or enjoying a good read. This guide on how to make a bookstand will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating your own bookstand using materials that are easy to find.
Whether you are looking to craft a simple, functional stand or a more elaborate piece, this project caters to all skill levels and ensures a sturdy, reliable end product. With a little effort and creativity, you’ll soon have a personalized bookstand that enhances your reading experience.
What is a Bookstand?
A bookstand, also known as a book holder or reading stand, is a device used to support books in an upright position for comfortable reading. It typically consists of two panels connected by a hinge, allowing for adjustable angles to accommodate different book sizes or personal preferences.
Bookstands were traditionally made of wood and used in religious settings such as churches and monasteries. However, they have become more commonly used in homes, schools, and libraries as people recognize the benefits of using them while reading.
You may think that bookstands are only useful for large, heavy books, but they can also improve your reading experience with smaller books by reducing strain on your neck and arms. Additionally, using a bookstand can free up table or desk space, making it easier to take notes while studying.
Benefits of Using a Bookstand
- Improved Posture: Holding a book upright on a flat surface can cause strain on the neck, shoulders, and back. A bookstand allows you to adjust the angle according to your height and seating position, promoting better posture and reducing discomfort.
- Hands-free Reading: With a bookstand, you can hold your book open with one hand while sipping tea or taking notes with the other. This makes it ideal for multitasking while studying or enjoying a leisurely read.
- Protection for Books: Laying a book flat on a surface can damage the spine and cover over time. Using a bookstand not only prevents this but also keeps pages from getting crumpled or creased.
- Versatility: Bookstands are not just limited to holding books. They can also be used to support tablets, e-readers, cookbooks, sheet music, and more.
Materials Needed
2 Pieces of Wood (12 Inches by 9 Inches)
For the base and the back panel of your bookstand, you’ll need two sturdy pieces of wood, each measuring 12 inches by 9 inches. These wooden panels will provide the necessary support for your books. When selecting the wood, opt for a type that is strong yet lightweight, such as pine or plywood, which will make handling and assembling the pieces easier.
Hinges
Hinges are essential for connecting the base and back panel of your bookstand. Opt for durable metal hinges that can withstand repeated use and support the weight of books without breaking.
Screws
You will need screws to attach the hinges to the wood panels securely. Choose screws that are long enough to penetrate both pieces of wood but not so long that they protrude out the other side.
Drill
A drill is necessary for creating holes in the wood for attaching the hinges and securing the screws. Make sure you have a drill bit size that matches your chosen screw size.
7 Step-by-step Instructions on How to Make a Bookstand
Step 1: Prepare Your Materials
Gather all the materials needed for this project, including the wood panels, hinge, screws, drill, and screwdriver. Prepare your work area by laying down a protective covering to catch any wood shavings or debris. You may also want to wear safety goggles and gloves while working with the drill.
The wood panels can be cut to size beforehand or purchased pre-cut from a hardware store. But if you prefer, you can also cut them yourself using a saw. It’s important to have accurate measurements for your panels, so take the time to measure and cut carefully.
Step 2: Drill Holes in the Wood Panels
To begin drilling holes for the hinges, first mark the locations where the hinges will be attached. Place the base panel and the back panel on a flat surface, aligning their edges. Position each hinge at an equal distance from the ends of the panels, leaving about 2 inches from each corner. Using a pencil or a marker, mark the spots where the screws will go.
Next, equip your drill with a bit that matches the size of your screws. Carefully drill pilot holes at each marked spot on both the base and back panels. Make sure the holes are straight and do not go all the way through the wood to avoid any damage to the panels. Once the pilot holes are drilled, double-check their alignment with the hinges by briefly positioning the hinges on the panels to ensure everything lines up correctly before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Attach the Hinges
With the pilot holes drilled, it’s time to attach the hinges to the wood panels. Begin by aligning one hinge with the pilot holes on the base panel, ensuring the hinge’s flat side is flush against the wood. Insert a screw through the hole in the hinge and into the pilot hole. Use a screwdriver to manually tighten the screw or a drill with a screwdriver bit for quicker fastening. Repeat this process for the remaining screws, securing the hinge firmly to the base panel.
Next, align the corresponding hinge leaf with the pilot holes on the back panel. Just as you did with the base panel, insert screws through the hinge holes and into the pilot holes, tightening them securely. Make sure the hinges are firmly attached to both panels and that they allow smooth movement without any wobbling. This step is crucial for creating a sturdy and stable connection between the base and back panel, enabling the adjustable angle feature of your bookstand. Once all the screws are tightened and the hinges are in place, test the movement by opening and closing the bookstand to ensure it operates correctly.
Step 4: Sand and Finish the Wood Panels (Optional)
If you prefer a smooth and polished look for your bookstand, sanding and finishing the wood panels is a worthwhile step. Start by using medium-grit sandpaper (around 120-grit) to gently sand down any rough edges or surfaces on the wood panels. Move the sandpaper in the direction of the wood grain to avoid scratches. Once you’ve smoothed out the rough areas, switch to fine-grit sandpaper (around 220-grit) for a final pass to achieve a silky-smooth finish.
After sanding, you may choose to apply a wood finish or paint to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. If you opt for a wood finish, wipe down the panels with a damp cloth to remove any dust, then apply the finish according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This could be a stain, varnish, or oil that enhances the natural grain of the wood.
If you prefer to paint your bookstand, prime the wood first to ensure the paint adheres well, then apply your chosen paint color in thin, even coats. Allow the finish or paint to dry completely before proceeding to the next steps of assembly. Sanding and finishing not only improve the aesthetics of your bookstand but also ensure it will be a durable and long-lasting piece.
Step 5: Assemble the Bookstand
Now that the hinges are securely attached and the panels are smooth and finished (if you choose to do so), it’s time to assemble the bookstand. Begin by placing the base panel flat on your work surface, with the back panel standing upright and aligned with the base through the hinges. Carefully open the hinges so that the back panel can stand at the desired angle.
To ensure stability, you might want to add additional support behind the back panel. This can be done by attaching a small piece of wood or a bracket to act as a brace, preventing the back panel from falling backward. Measure and cut this support piece to fit snugly between the base and the back panel. Attach it using screws and a drill, ensuring it is securely fastened.
Step 6: Test the Bookstand
With your bookstand fully assembled, it’s time to test its functionality and stability. Start by placing a book on the stand to see how well it holds the book at various angles. Ensure that the back panel remains upright and stable when adjusting the angle. Try opening and closing the stand a few times to check the smoothness of the hinges and to verify that all parts are securely fastened.
Pay attention to any wobbling or instability, especially with larger and heavier books. If you notice any issues, such as the back panel being too loose or the hinges not moving smoothly, make adjustments as necessary. Tighten any screws that may have come loose during assembly and double-check that the support piece (if added) is providing adequate stability. This testing phase is crucial to ensure your bookstand is both functional and durable, ready to serve as a reliable holder for your books.
Step 7: Enjoy Your New Bookstand!
Congratulations, you have successfully built your own adjustable wooden bookstand! Now it’s time to put it to use and enjoy reading your favorite books hands-free. You can also personalize your bookstand by adding decorative elements or painting it in a color of your choice. With this project, not only have you created a practical item for yourself, but you’ve also learned valuable woodworking skills that can be applied to other DIY projects in the future. Happy reading! # End of Document
Following this article on how to make a bookstand, you can put it to use in various ways. It can serve as a stand for your recipe books in the kitchen, hold your tablet for easy reading or video watching, or even display decorative items such as framed photos or small plants. Additionally, this project can also make a thoughtful and unique gift for any book lovers in your life. The possibilities are endless with this versatile and functional wooden bookstand. Enjoy!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful construction, you might encounter some common issues with your homemade bookstand. Here are some tips to help you troubleshoot and resolve these problems:
Wobbling or Unstable Back Panel
If the back panel of your bookstand wobbles or feels unstable, check to ensure all screws are tightly fastened. The support piece should fit snugly between the base and back panel. If it doesn’t, you may need to re-measure and cut a new support piece for a better fit. Additionally, you can use wood glue along with screws for extra security.
Stiff Hinges
If the hinges are too stiff and difficult to move, you might need to apply some lubricant. A small amount of WD-40 or a similar lubricant can be sprayed onto the hinges to reduce stiffness. Be sure to wipe away any excess lubricant and open and close the hinges several times to distribute it evenly.
Loose Hinges
Should the hinges become loose over time, first check that the screws are fully tightened. If the problem persists, the wood around the screws might be stripped. In this case, you can insert toothpicks or wooden matchsticks coated with wood glue into the screw holes to fill the space, then reinsert the screws once the glue has dried.
Uneven Base
If your bookstand doesn’t sit flat on your work surface, the base panel may be uneven. Place the bookstand on a flat surface to identify the raised areas. You can sand down the higher areas or add small rubber feet to the corners of the base for a more balanced stand.
Damaged or Warped Wood Panels
In case the wood panels become damaged or warped, particularly due to moisture or temperature changes, consider replacing the affected panel. Using high-quality, well-seasoned wood and applying a protective finish can prevent future issues.
By addressing these common issues, you can ensure that your bookstand remains durable and functional for years to come. If you encounter any other problems, don’t hesitate to revisit previous steps and make any necessary adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What Type of Wood is Best for Building a Bookstand?
A: The type of wood used for a bookstand can vary depending on personal preference and availability. However, hardwoods such as oak, maple, or cherry are sturdy and durable options that can withstand the weight of books and provide a smooth surface for sanding and finishing. Softwoods such as pine can also be used but may not be as durable over time.
Q: Can I Adjust the Height of the Bookstand?
A: This particular bookstand design does not include height adjustment, but you can modify it by adding longer or shorter support pieces between the base and back panel to achieve your desired height. Alternatively, you could also add an adjustable stand at the bottom of the base panel for more versatility.
Q: How Long Does it Take to Build a Bookstand?
A: The time required to build a bookstand can vary depending on your level of skill and experience with woodworking tools. On average, it can take around 2-3 hours to complete this project, including drying time for any finishes or paint.
Q: Do I Need Special Tools to Build a Bookstand?
A: While having access to specialized woodworking tools such as a table saw and drill can make the process easier and faster, they are not necessary. Basic hand tools like a hammer, screwdriver, and sandpaper can also be used to complete this project. Remember to always take safety precautions when using power tools.
Conclusion
Building your own adjustable wooden bookstand is a rewarding and practical woodworking project that combines functionality with creativity. With a few basic tools and materials, you can create a personalized bookstand that not only enhances your reading experience but also serves as an attractive piece of home decor. The step-by-step guide on how to make a bookstand ensures that even beginners can successfully complete the project, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the process.
Moreover, this DIY bookstand is versatile and can be used in different settings—whether as a cookbook holder in the kitchen, a display stand for your tablet, or a decorative item showcasing cherished photos and plants. By choosing the type of wood and finishes that best suit your style, you can make it uniquely yours or create a thoughtful, handcrafted gift for a fellow book lover.
Remember, the key to any successful DIY project is patience and attention to detail. Take your time to follow each step carefully, ensuring that all parts are securely assembled and finished to your satisfaction. Enjoy the process and take pride in your craftsmanship. Happy woodworking!