I’m making a simple shelving unit/bookcase, with shelves fitting into dadoes in the sides (3/4” pine, with 1/4” plywood for back). The tops of the sides extend past the top shelf to create a lip so that things don’t fall off the top shelf side-to-side.
I’d like to put some trim on the tops of the sides because it’s ugly, but I’m worried glue isn’t enough since it is end grain. In the past I’ve used dovetail keys for something like this, but I’m a little reluctant here because a) I’ve done it before (I always like to try new things) and b) it seems like overkill on something like this.
any suggestions? I have a pin nailer. Would that be enough to secure the trim? I also have a brad nailer that would work I guess.
thanks.
Replies
One concern I have with a bookshelf that I made and attached trim (with nails), is that movers might use the trim as a hand hold. It probably will not support the weight of the bookshelf, even if it is empty.
Rather than attaching trim to the endgrain, I'd consider moulding the sides themselves.
First, let me say that it is possible to polish the end grain so that it looks good. Just sand to a grit or two higher than you do the rest of the wood. The higher the polish is the less contrast there will be in the grain as you stain it.
However, if you want to add trim, either way you mentioned is OK. Of course, nailing it on is the easiest, but a sliding dovetail is, in the long term, the best way. With the dovetail, you only need to glue a very short distance at either end or in the center.
Since you’re keeping the design simple, I’d just profile the ‘tops’ and finish the same with the extra sanding bilyo recommends.
ok thanks everyone. I'll skip the trim and just shape the sides and sand a grit or two higher. I don't have to worry about trim coming off then, and it is simplest, which fits the desires of the end user (my Mom. She always says "do whatever is easiest" when it comes to woodworking projects. She totally doesn't get it, ha).
Whatever is easiest would be leaving it unfinished, and letting her sand and finish . . .
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