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How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Step 1

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Measurement opening

Measure window opening to determine leg and jamb measurements.

Step 2

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Cut the jambs and legs

Using 5 1/4 MDF, cut jambs and legs to frame size with a hacksaw. Be sure to measure from the cut edge to make the box square.

Step 3

Cut the legs of the shelf jamb

Custom cut the number of jamb legs needed to create the desired number of shelves. These will be parallel to the frame legs.

Stage 4

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Rip Down MDF

Break down the 5-1/4 MDF to 4-9/16 with a table saw. Make sure all jamb legs are the same width.

Step 5

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Round Jamb Leg Edges

Use a router to round each edge of the jamb legs to create a smooth polished edge.

Step 6

Measurement piece of colored glass

Measure the piece of stained glass to build the frame inside the shelving unit.

Step 7

Insert frame outside on opening

Use 2-1/2" drywall screws to attach all four sides of the frame and the legs to the jamb, making sure to pre-drill each hole before screwing. Once everything is in place, insert the frame into the opening of the window.

Step 8

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Secure to the wall

Using shims, make the framing level, and secure to the wall using a framing nailer with 2" nails.

Step 9

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Putting Pegboard against MDF

Once level, place the board glued against the inside of the MDF where the shelves will go.

Step 10

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

MDF drill

Drill the desired number of holes and the desired width, allowing you to create floating adjustable shelves.

Step 11

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Cutting Shelves

Measure the length of the shelves and cut each shelf to size with a hacksaw.

Step 12

Plain shelf

Cut each shelf down with the table saw to mimic the width of the jamb legs and route each end of the shelf for a smooth, polished look.

Step 13

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Install shelving

Install each shelf at the desired level.

Step 14

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Add a stopper

For the stained glass area, add a stopper, using 1/4 round cut to the size of the window frame. Cut each individual piece with a hacksaw.

Step 15

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Find depth

Find the depth where the stained glass will sit.

Step 16

How to build open shelving with a stained glass accent

Attach Cap

Attach one side of the 1/4 round bumper with the finish nailer.

Step 17

Insert the stained glass window and secure

When you have installed all four pieces, carefully insert the stained glass into the area. Place the other side of the stopper on the back of the stained glass window to hold it in place.

Step 18

Paint Shelves

Remove all the shelves to paint and paint the desired color.

Step 19

Reinstall the shelves

Add some trim around the edge of the window and reinstall the shelves.