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  • Trestle Shelving Final
  • Step 1: Make the Biscuit Slots
  • Step 2: Assemble the Frames
  • Step 3: Attach the Hinges
  • Step 4: Secure the Sash Cord
  • Step 5: Make the Shelves
  • Step 6: Finish and Assemble
  • Trestle Shelving Final
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[+]
  • Trestle Shelving Final
  • Step 1: Make the Biscuit Slots
  • Step 2: Assemble the Frames
  • Step 3: Attach the Hinges
  • Step 4: Secure the Sash Cord
  • Step 5: Make the Shelves
  • Step 6: Finish and Assemble
  • Trestle Shelving Final
00

Written by Darryl Chapman

Step 1: Make the Biscuit Slots

Along the legs measure 1 1/4" and 15" from the ends to mark the center of the biscuits then mark along the center of the rail ends. Clamp the pieces on the workbench to align the biscuit joiner and cut the slots for the biscuits.

Step 1: Make the Biscuit SlotsSue Ferris[+]

TIP

Using one wood size of 2 1/2" x 3/4" for all the parts keeps the assembly simple, and finger-jointed (FJ) pine comes in long, stable lengths. Use a miter saw or cut the parts by hand.

Step 2: Assemble the Frames

Position a leg with the slot facing up, apply wood glue into the slot and along the adjoining faces, push in the biscuit then position the rails. Attach the opposite leg, checking for square and clamping until dry.

Step 2: Assemble the FramesSue Ferris[+]

TIP

Choosing gesso-primed pine ensures the wood is ready for painting and saves time. (Gesso is a white factory-applied primer suited to acrylic or oil paint.)

Step 3: Attach the Hinges

Position the frames top to top, using the barrel of the strap hinges as spacers, clamp a straightedge along the side then secure the hinges using the supplied screws.

Step 3: Attach the HingesSue Ferris[+]

TIP

Use an offcut of 3 1/2" x 3/4" wood as a straightedge.

Step 4: Secure the Sash Cord

Use a drill with a 1/2" twist bit to make holes in the rail that supports the middle shelf. Tie a figure-eight knot in the cord, mark 21 3/4" along, feed it through and tie a second knot at the mark. Trim the end and apply a drop of adhesive to prevent fraying.

Step 4: Secure the Sash CordSue Ferris[+]

Step 5: Make the Shelves

Position four slats with 1/2" wide offcuts as spacers, mark 4" from the ends then three marks 33 1/2" apart to position the cleats evenly. Make pilot holes and countersink, securing the cleats with two screws into each slat.

Step 5: Make the ShelvesSue Ferris[+]

Step 6: Finish and Assemble

Check the fit of the frames with the shelves then remove all the hardware to apply two coats of low-sheen acrylic paint and leave to dry.

Replace the hinges, slide the closed frames along the shelves then open them up.

Step 6: Finish and AssembleSue Ferris[+]
Trestle Shelving FinalSue Ferris[+]
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How to Build Trestle Shelving

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