DIY Book Rest: The Ultimate Guide for Cozy Reading

Updated at: 10/05/2025

Are you tired of neck cramps and sore shoulders from reading in bed or on the couch? Do you dream of a perfectly positioned book, effortlessly supporting your reading marathon? Then you've come to the right place! This ultimate guide will walk you through creating your own DIY book rest, transforming your reading experience from uncomfortable to utterly cozy. Forget flimsy pillows and precarious stacks of books; we'll build a sturdy, customizable support tailored to your specific needs and reading style.

Imagine sinking into your favorite armchair, a perfectly illuminated book held securely in place, allowing you to lose yourself completely in the story. Building your own book rest is easier than you think, requiring only readily available materials and a little bit of your time. Ready to embark on this simple yet rewarding project? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions that will have you enjoying your new reading companion in no time!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Lumber (Mahogany recommended)
  • Tenon jig
  • Table saw
  • Compact router
  • Router template (circle templates)
  • Scrap wood
  • CA glue
  • Activator
  • Double-sided tape
  • Card scraper
  • Flush trim saw
  • Sandpaper
  • Rubio Monocoat oil finish
  • Mineral spirits
  • White Scotch-Brite pad
  • Dowels
  • Drill
  • Spline jig
  • Hard maple spline
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use appropriate tools and safety equipment (e.g., gloves, eye protection) when handling sharp objects like knives or saws.
  • Ensure your chosen materials are sturdy and stable enough to support the weight of your books without wobbling or collapsing, preventing potential injury or damage to your books.
  • If using paint or varnish, work in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, avoiding inhalation of fumes or skin contact.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Material Preparation

    • Choose and prepare your wood.
    Choose and prepare your wood.
    Material Preparation

  2. Cutting and Shaping

    • Cut the 30° angles using a tenon jig and table saw.
    • Route out the pen/pencil slot using a compact router and scrap wood as a brace.
    • Route out the teacup/coffee mug slot using a circle template and compact router.
    Route out the teacup/coffee mug slot using a circle template and compact router.Route out the teacup/coffee mug slot using a circle template and compact router.
    Cutting and Shaping

  3. Assembly

    • Assemble the main triangle structure using CA glue and clamps.
    • Create a spline jig to add stability to the miters and assemble using splines.
    • Add dowels to the underside for extra stability.
    Add dowels to the underside for extra stability.Add dowels to the underside for extra stability.Add dowels to the underside for extra stability.
    Assembly

  4. Finishing

    • Sand the book rest smooth.
    • Apply Rubio Monocoat finish for protection and enhanced look.
    Apply Rubio Monocoat finish for protection and enhanced look.Apply Rubio Monocoat finish for protection and enhanced look.
    Finishing

Read more: Build a Stunning Black Walnut Coaster Set: The Ultimate Furniture Protector

Tips

  • Use double-sided tape to secure your router templates for precise cuts.
  • Use offcuts to create clamping aids for easier glue-up.
  • Reverse offcuts to create an effective grip during assembly.
  • Clean up glue immediately to reduce cleanup work.
  • Sand off a point on one side of the dowels before gluing them in for a better fit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficient Support

Reason: The book rest is too small or flimsy, causing the book to wobble or slide.
Solution: Use sturdier materials and ensure the base is wide enough to provide stable support.

2. Uncomfortable Angle

Reason: The angle of the book rest is too steep or shallow, leading to neck or back strain.
Solution: Adjust the angle of the book rest until you find a comfortable position for reading.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make a DIY book rest?
The materials needed depend on your chosen design. Common options include wood, cardboard, fabric scraps, and strong adhesive. Specific materials will be detailed in the relevant instructions for each project.
How long does it take to make a DIY book rest?
Construction time varies based on complexity. Simple designs can be completed in under an hour, while more intricate projects might take a few hours, spread over a couple of days.
Can I customize my DIY book rest?
Absolutely! You can personalize your book rest by choosing your favorite fabrics, paints, or wood stains. The design itself can also be modified to better suit your reading preferences and the size of your books.