I'm a total beginner getting into woodworking, and I'm trying to make a shelf for behind my couch. It's going to be a simple L shape, 6 inches wide, 40 inches tall with a 90-degree corner, and 118 inches long overall. I'm considering using a box joint for the corner since it'll be visible, but I'm not sure if I need to use a scarf joint to join the boards along the top, or if I could go with another box joint for a decorative touch. Since I don't have a truck, I can only transport multiple 6-foot poplar boards. The top will be supported by brackets anchored in the studs, so it should hold water bottles and ice cream bowls without much issue!
3 Answers
If the bottom part of your joint isn't visible, you can just butt the boards together and support them with a 3-inch wide piece underneath, glued and screwed. For the corners, you could try screwing the top to the leg with matching or contrasting dowel plugs, or even go for a big dovetail joint, which is pretty easy with a handsaw and adds some visual interest. Avoid using a miter joint, though! Enjoy the process!
Pocket screws could be a great option for you! They’ll simplify the assembly process quite a bit. If the boards are on the thicker side, you might also want to consider using countertop connector bolts for a sturdy joint!
Including a picture would really help us give you more specific advice! It’s always easier to visualize the joints and where they’ll be placed.
I’ll definitely take a pic once I get started! Thanks for the suggestion.