Projects / 2×4 bookends

2×4 bookends

Two L-shaped blocks heavy enough to hold a shelf of paperbacks.

Beginner45 minutes4 parts2× lumber
2×4 · 3½″ × 36″A BaseA BaseB UprightB Upright

Cutting diagram

2×4 · 3½″ × 36″A BaseA BaseB UprightB Upright

Bright pieces are your parts; the dimmed wood is left over. Every cut allows ⅛″ for the saw blade.

Cut list

PartQtyWidth × lengthCut from
ABase23½″ × 6″89 × 152 mm2× lumber
BUpright23½″ × 6″89 × 152 mm2× lumber

How to build it

  1. Cut two bases and two uprights, squaring every cut so the bookends stand straight.
  2. Glue each upright onto the end of a base to form an L.
  3. Drive two screws up through the base into the upright, countersinking them.
  4. Round the top corners of the uprights and sand every face.
  5. Stain, paint or char them, and stick felt under the bases so they don't scratch the shelf.