Accurately cutting shelves for an alcove

[DLaing]

I'm building a bookcase in a square alcove that isn't terribly square - it's out by + / - 10mm horizontally and vertically.

My question is - what is the easiest way to fit shelves accurately in a recess where the walls either side and at the back are so out of true?

 

[Symptoms]

D - are you just fitting shelves to this alcove or are you building a bookcase (a rectangular or square box with shelves) that will stand in the alcove?

Shelves = vary the length of each one to accommodate it's position up the wall. Tip - don't use a tape measure to get wall to wall distances, use a 'rod' - 2 lengths of loose timber which, whilst being held together in one hand, are slid apart to touch the walls. Transfer this 'measure' onto the shelving material. Work well for heights too.

Standalone bookcase = make it slightly smaller than the alcove then cover the gaps with a facing strips which have been scribed to the walls. Or cut away offending plaster to accept a full-size box.

 

[Bilioustrumpstaine]

Modern equivalent of two bits of wood.

http://www.talmeter.co.uk/

 

[xerxes]

I find my Talmeter rule very useful, but you do have to be careful to read the correct figure, internal or external, depending which measurement you want. Of course, if you use it for direct marking no such confusion applies.

Interesting to see there's now a UK site for Talmeter.

 

[Bilioustrumpstaine]

I find my Talmeter rule very useful, but you do have to be careful to read the correct figure, internal or external, depending which measurement you want. Of course, if you use it for direct marking no such confusion applies.

Interesting to see there's now a UK site for Talmeter.

Very true, I don't mind admitting I have been caught out a couple of times

But for direct marking it is spot on.