Sketch Your Vision Start with a sketch showing the dimensions of the shelves, sides, footers, headers, and trim for your bookcase. For a pair of open bookshelves, your shopping list should include four sheets of 3/4-inch medium- density fiberboard (MDF), 2x4 scrap pieces to serve as vertical spacers between bookshelves, oil-based primer, semi-gloss paint, sandpaper, and 1–2 tubes of caulk. Before you start, consider painting the wall behind the bookshelves the same color as planned for the shelves. Measure and Cut A typical width for bookshelves is about 12 inches, with 4–7-inch footers and headers, and 2-1/2-inch trim pieces. Cut shelves and side pieces parallel to the longest dimension of the MDF. Use a miter saw to cut each 12-inch piece to the desired lengths for the sides and shelving. Next, cut two scrap-wood spacers as long as the planned distance between shelves. Begin assembling your bookshelf by standing each side piece on its side, using clamps to attach the shortest spacers to the bottom of each side piece. Place the bottom shelf
on top of the spacers and drive finishing nails through the sides to secure them in place. Repeat the process with each shelf. The Grand Finale The last shelf piece is the top of the bookcase and should lie flush with the sides. Attach a final support piece across the back, touching the bottom of the last shelf piece and lying flush with the backs of the bookcase sides. Stand the bookcase upright and use screws or metal brackets to attach the support piece to studs in the wall. Attach the footer and header strips to the top and bottom of the bookcase to achieve a more finished look. To make your creation appear more substantial, you can attach 2 1/2-inch strips of MDF to the front of each side piece and shelf. Sand the raw edges of the MDF, caulk the seams, and cover your entire creation with an oil-based primer. Then, top it off with two coats of semi-gloss paint. Now, step back and appreciate your creation. You’ve achieved a master-carpenter look on a bargain budget!
Built-in custom cabinetry and shelving are popular trends in home design and remodeling. They increase a house's value and storage space. However, custom carpentry costs have soared, making DIY built-ins the only affordable option for many homeowners. If you envision a wall of custom bookcases but can’t afford a carpenter, here are three guidelines for DIY success. Built-In on a Budget Create Custom Bookshelves Without Breaking the Bank
THE EXPENSIVE SIDE OF ‘YES’ FOMO Fuels Overspending
We all know the feeling: A friend posts that dreamy beach photo, someone’s heading to a music festival, or you see the perfect brunch video pop up on your feed, and suddenly there’s this itch, “What did I miss out on?” That whisper has a name: FOMO, or the fear of missing out, and when it nudges you to open your wallet, it becomes FOMO spending. FOMO spending is when the urge to partake in experiences like concerts, travel, and social getaways overrides your financial boundaries. It’s not just about wanting “stuff”; it’s about wanting in. The problem is that those desires often come with a huge price tag. Studies suggest this isn’t just anecdotal. Empower’s research found that 51% of Americans admit they’ve made purchases or investments sparked by FOMO, with many pointing to experiences like dining out
and traveling. When social media becomes a nonstop highlight reel, we compare ourselves and our bank accounts to a filtered ideal. The stakes are real. The 2019 Modern Wealth Survey sponsored by Charles Schwab revealed that more than a third of Americans admit their spending is influenced by what friends are doing, often leading them to exceed their means. In an experimental study, researchers found that FOMO significantly increased the likelihood of impulse purchases even with budget constraints in place. That tells us FOMO isn't just temptation; it’s a powerful nudge against rational behavior. Experiences are powerful. They build memories, foster connections, and bring joy. But when every experience becomes “must- do,” the balance breaks. You end up chasing the next event, trip, or spending spree, and
your long-term goals take a back seat. You
might skip saving, rack up credit card debt, or delay retirement goals all in pursuit of that next “memorable” moment. Here’s the catch: Living for the moment is fine until that moment’s price tag pushes your future out of reach. The challenge is to be intentional. Deciding where you should spend your energy (and money) gives you permission to skip the rest. The thrill of one impulsive decision fades fast; the peace of financial security lasts. If FOMO is the voice telling you to just go for it, try asking yourself: Will I thank myself in five years for this? Strike a balance between living fully today and protecting tomorrow. That’s how you stop FOMO from bankrupting your joy.
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DLJonesHomes.com
Dennis & Lisa Jones
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