What are some chic & cheap shelves I could make?

Question

I'm a graduate student with more books than bucks; I would like to have some bookshelves that don't necessarily reflect my financial status, and so I have decided the cheapest way is to use a board/cinder block technique. That said, how can I make some shelves that will work well? Are there more attractive ways to space the shelves than the blocks? A way to treat them, or perhaps paint them, make a cover, etc. Any other good ideas on how to assemble a cheap (<$20-$30) bookshelf that won't look atrocious?

Answer 1

The cinder blocks as well as the shelving can be painted. Depending on your decorating style I would suggest a flat black or charcoal. I used the same technique in my first apartment, used the same for my stereo components. Worked well, looked great! Also, places like Home Depot sell five-shelf book shelves for about $30.00. I bought three and connected them, they now stand in my den and are good looking and effecient.

Answer 2

this is just the thing... Okay buy, find a 3-4ft. wooden ladder. Can be any kind. Paint that baby black, flat black. Then you'll have to do some measuring but, you need boards, 3-4 depending on ladder rungs. About 3/4 of a inch thick and all of them graduating lengths, like a pyramid going up to a point.
Paint those black or get creative. This is very becoming, And chic and cheap. Styling book case!!!!!!

Answer 3

try diy.com, hgtv.com or lowe's.com for some good ideas & plans.