SLIDING ADJUSTABLE CURIO SHELF

This can be built to any size and width within reason using the formula I developed. I built this as a prototype for proof of concept with material I had on hand. I plan to build a larger model with better material. It is just two identical units which interlock and slide within each other to become wider or narrower.

TOOLS/ MATERIALS

Table saw

Soft or hardwood of the size desired, at least 3/4” thick

Brad nailer

Wood glue

Square

Pencil

Straight edge

Sander

Finishing materials, pant, stain etc.

Cut the boards to your required width. Mine were 4 inches.

Keep in mind the following ratio- 100%/ 75%/ 50%

Cut 2 uprights to your desired height. Mine were 12 inches. Consider this 100%.

The shelf will be 75% of this, in my case, 8 inches. Cut two.

The second upright, is 50% of the first upright, or 6 inches for mine. Cut two.

Sand and apply your desired finish.

Do a mock-up of the final product with the base against a solid straight edge like your workbench edge

Lay the short uprights against the long uprights (opposite where they will go) as shown in the photo

Place the shelves in position using the short uprights as spacers as shown in photo. Check for 90 degrees with your square then nail and glue shelves to the long uprights

Lay your straight edge along the top resting on both uprights

Using both straight edges as a guide, place the small uprights as shown in photo- observe the slight overlap. (Check photo detail) Nail and glue in position.

Place the right shelf in position then place the second shelf in the opposite configuration with the short upright resting on the shelf of the other. Slide to adjust to the size you want. The slight overlap will keep the shelves from coming apart.

NOTE: The ratio method will work for larger shelves but screws should be used for attachment and L and T brackets could be used on the backside to reinforce the structures and keep them square.