Beat the Bookcase Blues...

Bookcases are a great way to show off your favorite pieces of literature and accessories, but let's be honest they are a little boring. In this post I'm going to share some easy and cheap ways to make your bookcase a statement. Along with step-by-step instructions on how I did it this week.

In past posts we've talked about pattern and accent walls. You can treat the back of your bookcase the same way! This is especially great for those not quite ready to attack a whole wall. You can use the tips I shared about mixing patterns and creating accent walls to make your bookcase a statement and not just a holding place.

This week I've been working diligently on getting our master bedroom put together. I set a timeline to be done by the end of February, but I wanted to get the bones done so I can spend the rest of the month tweaking it and making it just right. We purchased a bookcase and it was so boring. I had to do something to add some interest to it. I decided to wrap the backing of the shelf with fabric to add some visual interest. Off to JoAnn's I went and I found a blue print that I really liked. I rushed home and got to work.

I started by laying out my fabric and the backing board from the shelf on top. I cut around the board leaving about 1.5-2" around the edge to wrap around. 

Once you have cut out the fabric, it is important to make sure your pattern is straight. After I cut out my fabric I realized that perhaps the front of the fabric was too dark and bold. At the last minute I decided to use the reverse (back) side of the fabric because I liked how the print was much lighter.

Next, I used my hot glue gun and put some beads of glue on the board and folded over the fabric. I've done this before and if you ever want to change the fabric you can simply use a razor blade scraper and it comes right off. While attaching your fabric it is important to do opposite sides first. So, if you do the top first, then do the bottom next. Make sure to pull it tight and keep your print straight.

Done! All that is left is to attach it to the back of the bookcase.

There are other options if you don't want to go the fabric route. Here are some other options to spice up your bookcase. 

In my living room I simply painted the back of the shelf with a light blue paint to add a subtle 

contrast. 

You can also opt to paint the back a much bolder color. I especially love the contrast of the dark charcoal bookcase with the white pitchers. I'm kind of obsessed with it and I'm already thinking about where I can do this in my home. 

I love how this home owner used the beadboard to add texture and then painted it a bold color. If you are little concerned about a bold color, paint the beadboard to match the bookcase to add great texture.

This home owner decided to stencil the back of the bookcase. I think this is a great way to add pattern, and if you get tired of it just paint over it. 

Lastly, I'm totally in love with this graphic trellis wallpaper. For many it may be too much, but I think for the eclectic feel of this space, it is absolutely perfect!

Now, it is your turn. Use your bookcase to add interest and intrigue to your space. You can't go wrong.