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How to build a wavy bookshelf

A dark wavy bookshelf holding books and decorations stands beside a tall potted plant.

Overview

A wavy bookshelf is a great D.I.Y. project that blends function with style. With its flowing lines and sculptural look, it’s perfect for showcasing books, plants or home décor. This guide walks you through how to create your own using a few basic tools and some creative shaping.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

Steps

1Measure and plan your bookshelf

Start by measuring the space where your wooden bookshelf will go. This will help determine the overall height and width of your build. For this project, the bookshelf will stand 1400mm high. Once you’ve decided on your dimensions, cut your panels to size using a mitre saw. Double-check all measurements before cutting to ensure your panels are consistent and accurate.
A person is measuring and marking on a wooden board with a ruler and pencil to make a bookshelf.

2Sketch and design the wave shape

Now it’s time to give your bookshelf its signature look. Take one of the panels and divide it into three equal vertical sections. Use a large bucket to sketch out wide, flowing half circles along one edge, and a smaller tin to connect them and create a smooth wave pattern. Alternatively, you can freehand the curve—just start with a light pencil sketch and adjust until you’re happy with the shape. The more balanced and even your curves are, the more polished the final bookshelf will look.

Note: Cut your first wooden panel first, and use it as a template to trace the same wave onto the remaining panels for consistent shaping. As you trace each new panel, trim 50mm from the width to gradually reduce the size of each shelf. This stepped effect adds to the sculptural look of the bookshelf and ensures the shelves taper nicely from back to front. 

A person is using a bucket as a guide to sketch out wide, flowing half circles along one edge on a wooden board with a pencil.

3Cut the wave pattern into your panels

With the wave shapes marked, use a jigsaw to carefully cut along the curves. Take your time and follow the lines as smoothly as possible for the cleanest finish. Keep your cuts steady, especially around tight bends, to avoid jagged edges. Once all the wooden  panels are cut, you’re ready to smooth them out. Sand along the curves with medium-grit sandpaper to remove roughness or uneven cuts, then switch to fine-grit for a polished, splinter-free edge. A well-sanded panel not only looks better but makes the final assembly safer and more professional.
A person is using a jigsaw to carefully cut along the curves on a wooden board that is clamped to a workbench.

4Create notches for cross half joints

With your panels shaped and smoothed, it’s time to cut the notches that allow the bookshelf pieces to interlock. These cross half joints will be made where the curved shelves meet the vertical panels, helping the structure hold together securely.

Begin by marking out the book shelves shelf positions, spacing them evenly for both strength and appearance. The width of each notch should match the thickness of your timber—for example, 18mm plywood will need 18mm-wide notches. The depth of the notch should go halfway through the panel so the pieces slot together flush. 

A person is using a vertical board as a guide to mark the joint position on a wooden bookshelf panel with a pencil

5Cut to size

Use a mitre saw to make the two vertical cuts that form the sides of each notch. Be sure to line up the blade carefully with your pencil marks and keep each cut straight and square. Once both sides of the notch are cut, switch to a jigsaw to remove the centre section between them. This involves cutting across the grain at the base of the notch to free the middle piece. Go slowly and keep the jigsaw blade level to avoid digging in or overcutting. If needed, clean up the inside edges with a chisel or some sandpaper for a more precise fit. Taking your time here will make a big difference when it comes to assembling the panels neatly and securely.
A Bunnings Team Member is using a miter saw to make the two vertical cuts that form the sides of each notch.

6Test-fit the panels

Once all notches are cut, test-fit the pieces. If they’re too tight, lightly sand the edges until they slide in firmly but smoothly. This step is key to making sure your bookshelf fits together neatly and stays solid.
A person is testing the fit of the bookshelf panels by slotting in a wavy panel into notches on a horizontal board.

7Paint or varnish before assembly

Before putting everything together, it’s a good idea to paint or varnish the panels. This is much easier to do while the pieces are still separate, allowing you to reach all edges and curves. Let the finish dry completely according to the product instructions before moving on to the next step.
A person is using a foam roller to apply a paint or varnish to a wooden panel.

8Assemble the bookshelf

Once the finish is dry, start assembling your bookshelf by applying wood adhesive to each joint. Carefully interlock the panels, wiping away any excess wood glue with a damp cloth. Check that everything is square using a carpenter’s square. If anything is slightly out of alignment, adjust the panels before the adhesive sets.
A person is applying wood adhesive into a notch on a stained wooden panel, preparing it for assembly for the bookshelf.

9Add support 

To reinforce the structure, you can also add brackets to the back of the bookshelf, especially where curved and straight panels meet. Secure all joints using screws, starting near the front of the top shelf. For a clean, professional look, apply wood filler over any visible screw heads once they’re in place.
A person is adding brackets to the back of the bookshelf by securing all joints using screws.

10Looking for more D.I.Y. projects?

Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.