What timber panels for bookshelf?

[redbackspider77]

Hi all,

I am planning to build a solid timber bookshelf that is 2-2.2m tall and at least 30cm deep. However, I am struggling to find an applicable material for the side panels, which I'd prefer to be 2cm thick at most. I don't want anything crazily expensive, and liked these pine panels from Specrite, but they are too thick and heavy for my application. Something like this would be perfect if it were wide enough: 285 x 19mm 2.4m DAR Pine Premium 

Does anyone have recommendations? Thanks.

[JacobZ]

Hi @redbackspider77,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

I'd suggest using 18mm AA Grade Hardwood Marine Plywood, which is the exact material I used for the bookcase in my article How to make a kids bookcase.

Being 2440 x 1220, it can be cut down to make both sides of your bookshelf with plenty of material to spare, which could be used for shelves or other projects. Being AA grade, they are appearance grade, so they can be oiled, as I did, or finished with clear coatings such as varnish or wax.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[redbackspider77]

Thank you, but I'd prefer only solid timber — no plywood or MDF. Are there any options out there?

[JacobZ]

Hi @redbackspider77,

Unfortunately, no, I am not aware of solid timber options for that size of panel. The 285 x 19mm 2.4m DAR Pine Premium is the largest solid timber panel that I am aware of in our range.

The only other options that are close, like the Specrite 2200 x 600 x 26mm Timber Multi Use Pine Panel you mentioned, are typically used as benchtops, which need that little extra thickness because of their application.

You could try speaking with your local store's Special Orders or Trade desks to see if they have any regional timber suppliers in your area that could supply larger timbers, but in my experience, the 285mm wide pieces are the largest I've seen.

Apologies I couldn't be more help.

Jacob

[redbackspider77]

Thank you 👍 

Do you think the Specrite panel is suitable for use as a bookshelf side panel? Is it ok if I rip it in half along the grain? I saw that it is finger jointed, so I want to be careful.

[JacobZ]

Hi @redbackspider77,

Yes, they would be fine if you ripped them along the grain. Modern wood glues are just as strong as the natural glue, which is called lignin, that holds the wood fibres together.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob