Nighttime reading

We just got new beds for the trio. They were simple beds from Ikea, but I just love the way they turned out once I added a book sling. Now, as they are tucked in tight each night they have a library at their fingertips.  The bookshelf is very easy to make, don't nudge your hubby. LOL Girls can use tools too! I used 1X4 inch pine for the sides and 5/8 dowels for the middle. Start by cutting the 1X4 pine to the desired height of your bookshelf. I cut a curve on the top to make it look pretty. :) A jigsaw works well and is very easy to use. Cut two 1X4 brace pieces the width of your desired bookshelf minus the width of your sidepieces. (48.5-1.5inches in my bookshelf). Cut your 2 dowels to the desired width of your bookshelf - one width of your side piece. (48.5-.75 inches in my bookshelf)

The second step is easy. Sand all of your 1X4 pine pieces. The smoother your wood, the less splinters in little hands. Take your time and you will appreciate the results.

The next step creates a place for the dowels to fit into your side pieces. Using a drill bit(pictured below) the size of your dowels drill half way thru the side piece. You decide the location of the the holes. The sling will fit onto the dowels to hold the books in a later step.

Simply nail or screw the pieces together. Pre-drill the holes for all of the screws that you are using.  A carpenter's square helps to keep the shelf square. Use screws on at least one side of the shelf so it can be taken apart to add the sling and later storage.

A coat of paint has the frame ready to install. The sling is very easy. One piece of fabric two inches wider than your desired sling and a length equal to twice the sling width plus 12 inches. Sew two loops or pockets for the dowels to fit inside. Make sure the top pocket is long enough to ensure the good side of the fabric shows on the front side. Happy reading!!