DIY Network

Building Storage Units If you want to hide the TV and display more books, here are some great tips and projects to get your place organized and looking great. From "Today Show Tips" episode DTST-124

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This totem shelf unit is assembled with no glue or nails.

Build a Totem Shelving Unit

A totem shelf is an elegant piece of furniture that provides a lot of display space without taking up too much space in the room. It's easy to build, too; you don't even need nails!

Materials:

3/4" chisel
compound miter saw
6x6 post (cedar works well)
wood for shelves (at least 11 inches wide). Use solid wood, not plywood.

1. Cut 2-1/2" slots into the front of the 6x6 post about 12 inches apart. If you have a table saw, use a dado blade. If not, make several cuts next to each other with the miter saw, setting the blade for about 2-1/2 inches.

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Use a sharp chisel to clean out the slots for the shelves.

2. Use the chisel to clean out the slots. Clean up the edges.

Slide the shelf into the slot. Use a shim to secure it.

3. Cut the shelves to size. To mount them, just slide them into the slots on the post. You can mount them all in the center, or you can place some to one side and the rest to the other side.4. Use shims to hold the shelves in place. Insert a shim under each shelf and cut off the excess with a utility knife.

5. To maintain a contemporary look, use tung oil to finish the totem shelves. It will bring out the color and the grade of the wood beautifully.

6. To mount the totem, use an L bracket to attach it to the wall.

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