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Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @JessicaBowyer. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about building display shelves.
The type of timber suitable for your shelves will really depend on the size of the unit and the span each shelf needs to cover between supports. The longer the shelf span, the stronger and thicker the timber will need to be to prevent sagging over time.
If you could share a quick sketch or photo of what you’d like the bookshelf to look like, including rough measurements, it would really help our members suggest suitable timber options and construction methods.
Have you also considered pre-made storage units? In many cases, the cost of materials, fixings and finishes can end up being higher than buying a ready-made product. Unless you’re after a specific size or style, it’s often worth exploring what’s available first.
For example, the Clever Cube storage range could work perfectly for displaying medium-sized LEGO models, and you can easily add cube inserts or lighting for a custom touch.
If you’re set on building your own, we can definitely help you through the process once we have a clearer idea of your design.
In case you haven't seen it, check out this Lego character display frame by @Kim—nothing to do with your current request, but still one of my favourite projects on the community.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
Thank you so much for your reply Mitchell.
I’ve been looking at bookshelves as some of my Lego pieces are large so a cube storage unit wouldn’t work unfortunately.
I’ve attached a photo of a shelving unit I like but can’t afford it unfortunately
The measurements for this unit is:
L 160cm x D 40cm x H 180cm
I think you could build something similar with SpecRite 1800 x 405mm 18mm Timber Panel Beech FJ Laminated and 42 x 19mm Pine. I've created a couple of renderings using that material for you. That would likely be the cheapest option, timber-wise. Apart from your drill driver, you need a handsaw or circular saw to cut the timber to length.
You'll need 60mm timber screws for joining the leg sections. Ensure you pre-drill with a 4mm drill bit. I also recommend you screw through the shelf supports up into the bottom of the panels, and 35mm timber screws would be great for that. I'd also recommend you use PVA glue on the joints for the legs.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
