Skip to content

How to Make a DIY Crate Bookshelf

When you’re tight on storage, even small spaces can be utilized for clever storage solutions. These DIY crate bookshelf ideas will give you plenty of inspiration to repurpose old materials into a literal library of your favorite texts. (Pun intended). Best of all, crate bookshelves are totally portable! That means you could relocate your library whenever you want. Let’s crack the spine on DIY crate bookshelf ideas.

Different Types of Wooden Crate Wall Shelves

The easiest (and most portable) option is simply to buy as assortment of crates and stack them to fit your space. They don’t all have to be the same shape, size, or color. In fact, a little variety can make your finished project more interesting.

There are lots of stores and antique shops that sell crates, usually for about $10, including Home Depot and Walmart. You can paint them white, give them a distressed finish, or shake up your space by painting them a bold color or even stenciling them.

Since you won’t be fastening these in any way, you won’t want to stack the crates very high. (Note that if you have young children, it’s recommended to fasten all shelving and dressers to the wall to prevent accidents.)

If you have some basic carpentry skills and want to build something more permanent, take a look at this shelving unit on casters. Another idea is to configure crates as floating shelves. You can even use crates to organize your mudroom, as a coffee table, or even as a bed frame.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out the blog Handimania, which offers 14 different ideas for converting wood crates to furniture.

When You Just Need More Storage

No matter how clever your storage solutions are, sometimes you simply run out of room. If paying more for a larger space isn’t in the cards right now, consider renting a self storage unit. At StorageMart, we offer affordable self storage units that can be rented on a month-by-month basis and are always clean and well lit. Check out our storage unit guide or rent a unit online today.