Industrial Book Rack

by Elizabeth Joan Designs

Easy

We are a part of a monthly DIY challenge with a group of very talented bloggers.This month’s pick was a copper fitting. I decided I was up for the challenge, purchased several copper elbows and other parts, and got to work making my hubby a Restoration Hardware inspired Industrial Book Rack.

industrial book rack, crafts, home decor, how to, repurposing upcycling

Supplies:

– (4) 1/2″ x 2′ PVC pipes

– (4) 3/4″ copper elbows – 90 degree

– (2) 1/2″ PVC crosses

– (4) 1/2″ PVC elbows – 45 degree

– (4) 1/2″ PVC reducers (I found these in the electrical aisle.)

– Can of Rustoleum Spray Paint and Primer- Oil Rubbed Bronze

– PVC Pipe Cutters

I decided to start with this book stand’s feet.

1. I measured out four 1 1/4″ sections and marked one of the 2′ PVC pipes with a pen.

2. I cut each marked section with the PVC cutters. I paid $10 for the pair of cutters I used, but they cut with ease and were totally worth it.

3. Each cut PVC piece was placed between a reducer and a 45 degree elbow and connected together.

4. At this point I could no longer see that 1 1/4″ piece, as it was completely inside the other two,

and now I had completed all four of the book racks feet. Yay!

* Tip: Use a hammer to make sure the pipes are completely in the fittings for each step. *

Next, I cut the remaining 2′ PVC pipes so I had eight 4 1/2″ long pieces that will be used for the legs and two 19″ long pieces for the book supports. After the cuts were all made, there was still a little extra pipe remaining. But I am sure there will be a future project I can use it on.

* Tip: At this point in the process, you can paint all of the parts. For tutorial purposes, I did mine later. This way in the pictures you better differentiate the pieces from one another. *

Then, I inserted four 4 1/2″ pipes into each of the PVC crosses. This created two wonderful “X” shapes for the sides.

After that, I placed two feet on each “X” shape. Making sure the feet were on adjacent pipes. The remaining two pipes of each “X” were fitted with the copper elbows. The long 19″ support pieces connected the entire thing together. (See photo below.)

Finally, the parts received several coats of Rustoleum Spray Paint and Primer in Oil Rubbed Bronze and the book rack was reassembled. I chose this color because it stays a little more true to my husband’s taste and our decor than the copper would. Because this is a gift for him, I suppose I should take his likes and dislikes into consideration. Right?