22 DIY Bookshelf Ideas That Will Totally Upgrade Your Space
Ever look at that sad, empty wall in your living room or bedroom and think, “I really need a bookshelf here… but I also don’t want to pay an arm and a leg”? Same.
I’ve been there, staring at IKEA catalogs like they held the meaning of life. But here’s the thing: DIY bookshelves aren’t just for Pinterest pros or people who speak fluent power drill.
With a little creativity and patience, you can make shelves that look store-bought—or better—without breaking the bank.
I’ve tried a few of these myself, some worked wonders, some… let’s say I learned a lot. Either way, these 22 DIY bookshelf ideas will inspire your next weekend project.
1. Floating Wall Shelves for a Minimalist Look
You know those shelves that look like books are just magically hovering? That’s floating shelves.
Why I love them:
- They make the room feel bigger since nothing touches the floor.
- You can stack books horizontally or vertically for a clean aesthetic.
- Great for small spaces or tight corners.
Pro tip: Use brackets hidden inside the wood. Trust me, visible brackets scream “I gave up.”
2. Ladder Bookshelf for a Casual Vibe
Ladder bookshelves lean against the wall and instantly make a room look relaxed yet stylish.
Quick tips:
- Place the largest shelves at the bottom for stability.
- Mix books with decor pieces to avoid a cluttered look.
- Lean it against a wall at a slight angle, not too steep.
IMO, ladder shelves are perfect for renters because no permanent holes required.
3. Crates or Wooden Boxes Stacked
Old crates aren’t just for farmers’ markets—they make amazing modular shelves.
Why this works:
- You can stack them in any shape.
- Sand, stain, or paint for a custom look.
- Easily rearranged if you get bored (hello, instant room makeover).
Bonus: This method doubles as storage for magazines, blankets, or plants.
4. Pipe and Wood Industrial Shelf
Want that trendy loft vibe without moving to Brooklyn? Try wood planks with metal pipes.
Perks:
- Super sturdy for heavy books.
- Industrial-chic aesthetic instantly upgrades your room.
- DIY-friendly if you can handle basic drilling and screwing.
My tip: Finish the wood with a matte stain to avoid that “cheap DIY” look.
5. Corner Bookshelves to Use Wasted Space
Corners are the most underutilized real estate in any home.
How to DIY:
- Cut triangular shelves to fit snugly in corners.
- Paint them to match the wall or go bold for a statement.
- Perfect for small apartments or cozy reading nooks.
Ever noticed how corners just vanish in a room? These shelves fix that problem.
6. Cube Storage Units
Cube-style shelves are not just for kids’ toys—they’re versatile and timeless.
DIY Tips:
- Stack cubes vertically or horizontally depending on your ceiling height.
- Use baskets inside cubes for hidden storage.
- Paint them different colors for a playful, eclectic vibe.
I once used cubes as a room divider, and it looked surprisingly chic.
7. Hanging Bookshelves with Rope
If you want floating shelves with a twist, ropes can add a boho flair.
How to make it work:
- Use strong rope, not the stuff from last summer’s camping trip.
- Secure with ceiling hooks for safety.
- Mix books with small plants for a whimsical look.
FYI, it’s fun but requires careful weight distribution. Don’t be that person with a shelf crashing mid-read.
8. Built-In Shelves Around a Window
Want a high-impact look? Build around a window for a sunlit reading area.
Benefits:
- Maximizes natural light.
- Creates a cozy nook for morning coffee and books.
- Customizable to room dimensions.
I did this in my old apartment, and it instantly became my favorite corner.
9. Staggered Floating Shelves
Not ready for symmetry? Stagger shelves in a zigzag pattern for a modern look.
Pro tips:
- Alternate lengths for visual interest.
- Keep shelves level on each side to avoid a “drunken ladder” effect.
- Great for displaying books, photos, and small decor items.
This style screams “I tried hard, but not too hard.”
10. Reclaimed Wood Rustic Shelf
Got old barn wood or pallets lying around? Time to put them to good use.
Why it works:
- Rustic charm without spending a fortune.
- Every shelf has character; no two planks are the same.
- Perfect for farmhouse or industrial interiors.
Side note: Sand thoroughly unless you enjoy splinters. Trust me on this one.
11. Bookshelf Headboard
Combine storage and function by making your bed the ultimate reading nook.
How to DIY:
- Build a low-profile shelf behind your mattress.
- Include cubbies for books, alarm clocks, or glasses.
- Keep it shallow so it doesn’t overpower the bed.
IMO, this is the ultimate “bookworm upgrade.”
12. Hanging Ladder with Hooks
Use a wooden ladder horizontally from the ceiling and add hooks for shelves.
Why it works:
- Dramatic floating effect.
- Perfect for lightweight books or magazines.
- Feels like something out of a designer home.
Pro tip: Ensure the ceiling supports the weight. Gravity is not your friend here.
13. Modular Hexagon Shelves
If you want geometric flair, hexagon shelves are the way to go.
DIY tips:
- Arrange like a honeycomb for a natural pattern.
- Mix in small decor items to avoid monotony.
- Paint or stain for contrast.
I tried this in my living room—looks complex, but assembly is easier than it appears.
14. Under-Stairs Shelving
Got stairs? That wasted space under them is begging for books.
Perks:
- Custom fit to available space.
- Adds storage without stealing square footage.
- Can double as a mini home library.
Honestly, every staircase should come with this upgrade.
15. Ladder + Shelf Combo
Combine a leaning ladder with horizontal shelves for a hybrid effect.
How to style:
- Use the ladder as support.
- Add shelves at various heights for books and decor.
- Works in living rooms, bedrooms, or hallways.
This design is quirky but practical—IMO, the sweet spot of DIY.
16. PVC Pipe Shelf
Cheap, fun, and surprisingly sturdy if you do it right.
DIY Tips:
- Cut PVC to desired lengths.
- Use wood planks as the shelf surface.
- Paint pipes for a clean finish.
I once made one for a kid’s room—held books, toys, and more without sagging.
17. Floating Box Frames
Think of a bookshelf as art. Floating box frames are both functional and decorative.
Styling tips:
- Stack boxes unevenly for a playful effect.
- Use boxes as frames for books, plants, or small figurines.
- Paint edges for visual contrast.
This is perfect if you like minimalism but also want personality.
18. Bookshelf Room Divider
Need to separate a space without walls? DIY a tall bookshelf for a divider.
Benefits:
- Open storage keeps room airy.
- Works for studios or open-plan apartments.
- Combine closed and open compartments for style and privacy.
I did this once—friends kept walking around it like a maze, but it looked amazing.
19. Floating Corner Hex Shelves
Combine two trends: floating shelves + geometric shapes.
How to DIY:
- Install hex shapes snugly into corners.
- Keep them shallow for books and trinkets.
- Paint for contrast or keep raw for texture.
Corners never looked this exciting before.
20. Rope Ladder Shelf for Plants + Books
Perfect for boho or casual interiors.
How to do it:
- Suspend wooden planks with rope from ceiling hooks.
- Mix books and greenery.
- Keep it lightweight to avoid disasters.
This one feels like you live in a tropical loft even if you don’t.
21. Hidden Bookshelf Behind Door
Want secret storage? Build a slim shelf behind a door.
Perks:
- Hidden yet functional.
- Perfect for smaller books or magazines.
- Easy to DIY with narrow boards.
FYI, nothing screams cleverer than “I found a bookshelf behind the door.”
22. Vintage Ladder Repurposed
An old wooden ladder becomes a rustic bookshelf with a little sanding and paint.
Why I love this:
- Quick project.
- Adds character and charm.
- Works in rustic, farmhouse, or eclectic spaces.
Pro tip: Lean it securely against the wall; books are heavy.
Wrapping Up: Pick a DIY That Matches Your Style
There you have it—22 DIY bookshelf ideas to suit every taste, room size, and skill level. Whether you like floating minimalism, rustic charm, or bold geometric shapes, there’s something here for you.
The best part about DIY? You control the size, style, and finish. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of building something with your own hands—bonus points if friends ask where you bought it 🙂
So, grab your wood, drill, or rope, and make a bookshelf that’s uniquely yours. Your books—and your Instagram feed—will thank you.
