Introducing the Perfect Reading Companion: A Custom Wooden Book Rest with Built-in Lights
My son’s passion for reading is truly remarkable. He eagerly immerses himself in books, yet struggles to keep track of bookmarks, often losing them amidst the pages. To solve this, I decided to craft a durable, elegant wooden book rest that doubles as a nightlight, making his reading experience more enjoyable and personalized.
Designing a Unique Bookmark with Illuminated Features
Transforming a simple wood bookmark into a functional nightlight adds both practicality and charm. This customized book rest features a cutout initial on its front, which can be personalized with any letter or symbol of your choice. For added flair, consider creating decorative patterns or starry designs by drilling holes in various sizes, turning the piece into a cozy ambient light when illuminated.
The length of this book rest exceeds typical triangle bookmarks, providing ample space to hold a full-sized book while allowing gentle light to shine through. You can customize the dimensions, making it longer or shorter, or even design it to hold multiple books simultaneously for versatile reading sessions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Wooden Book Stand
Tools & Materials Needed
Recommended Tools:
- Miter saw – for precise angled cuts, consider a sliding miter saw for larger projects.
- Jigsaw – essential for intricate cuts and custom shapes.
- Kreg Adaptive Cutting System (ACS) – for accurate drilling and joining.
- Power drill – for assembly and creating holes for personalization.
- Impact driver – to ease screw driving without switching bits.
- Speed square – to measure and mark perfect angles.
- Brad nailer – for quick and secure fastening of components.
- Sander – to smooth all surfaces and edges.
Supplies:
- Wood materials:
- (1) 1×6 board, 1 foot in length
- (2) 1/4″ x 1 1/2″ strips, 4 feet long
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- 5/8″ brad nails
- Wood glue – for strong joints
- Small LED light strip – for illumination
- Four cutting board feet – for stability and clearance
Overall Dimensions
The finished piece measures approximately 6 1/2 inches in height, 6 inches in width, and 10 inches in length, offering a perfect size to hold books while providing enough space for integrated lighting.
Step 1: Cutting the Front and Back Panels
Begin by cutting a 6-inch section from your 1×6 board. Mark the center point (at 2 3/4 inches from each side) on one edge. Draw lines from the bottom corners up to this center mark to form an equilateral triangle. This creates the sloped front and back of the stand.
For a personalized touch, sketch a monogram, initial, or decorative pattern on the front piece using a computer font or freehand. Drill a small hole within the design to guide your jigsaw blade for clean cuts. Carefully cut out the design, taking your time to navigate tight corners and curves, preferably using a scroll blade for detailed work. Ensure both triangles are identical in size and shape before proceeding.
Step 2: Adding the Side Slats
Cut four strips from your 1/4″ project board, each 10 inches long. These will serve as the side slats that connect the front and back panels. Depending on your preferred width, you might use 1 1/2″ or 3/4″ wide strips. Attach these with wood glue and brad nails, ensuring the top edges are flush with the triangles’ top for a seamless appearance. Adjust the gaps between slats to your liking, balancing aesthetics and stability.
Step 3: Sanding and Finishing Touches
Sand all surfaces thoroughly, rounding over the top edges of the slats for a smooth, comfortable feel. Finish the wood with your choice of stain or paint; I recommend True Black stain from Minwax for a sleek, modern look that complements the lighting feature. Allow the finish to dry completely before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Installing the Lighting
Adhere the LED light strip to the interior of the book rest, starting at the bottom back corner to hide the cord. Carefully run the strip along the perimeter, up the back, and across the top center peak, cutting the strip as needed to fit. Leave enough length for the cord to exit at the back, providing a neat appearance. Connect to a power source and test the lights, enjoying the customizable colors and gentle glow that enhances reading ambiance.
Adding the Feet
Attach the four cutting board feet to the bottom of the stand, elevating it slightly to prevent wobbling and to facilitate cord management. Secure with small nails or screws, ensuring stability and ease of use.
Final Assembly and Usage
Once assembled, plug in your illuminated book rest, and enjoy a cozy, personalized reading nook. This handcrafted piece makes an ideal gift for book lovers, combining functionality with a warm, custom touch that elevates their reading experience.
Creative DIY Gift Ideas for Book Enthusiasts
This illuminated wooden book rest is a thoughtful and practical gift. To explore more unique DIY gift ideas, visit my collaboration with Shara from Woodshop Diaries, where we share five simple projects perfect for the holiday season or special occasions. From jewelry boxes to serving trays, discover creative ways to craft memorable presents for everyone on your list.
Additional Crafting Guides
- How to Make a Book Stand
- DIY Cheese Slicer from Scrap Wood
- How to Make a Basic Cutting Board
- No-Carve Wood Cooking Utensils
- DIY Modern Serving Tray with Handles
- DIY Wooden Lazy Susan
- Scrap Wood Tic Tac Toe Board
Happy building and creating memorable gifts that bring joy and functionality to everyday life!