How to Build a Hidden Bookcase Door and Have it Look AMAZING

In this video, I'll show you how to build a hidden bookcase door. This is a great project for DIYers of all skill levels, and it's a fun way to add a touch of mystery to your home.
While you’re here, be sure to check out this DIY Floating Shelf w Secret Compartment w Fingerprint Lock - • 2ft Floating Shelf wit...
You want to build a hidden bookcase door but you've got to build it right. That means using the right hinge, building the bookcase, installing the hinge correctly, and trimming it out correctly. If you don't do ALL of these things, it won't be hidden.
Here are some of the materials you'll need:
Wood -
Hidden hinges - geni.us/Jz01
Latch - geni.us/BSpwh
Wood screws -
Level - geni.us/QHyeed
Measuring tape - geni.us/2OPsZ
Saw - geni.us/BB6TJc
Cutting guide - geni.us/eAp9
Chop Saw - geni.us/yyilT
Drill - geni.us/iy8ht
Router - geni.us/gGBw1AG
Chisels - geni.us/X7UJT
Wood Cut List:
2 - 1x6 - 25 1/2"
4 - 1x6 - 24"
2- 1x6 - 62 3/16"
1 - 1x3 - 29"
1 - crown molding 29"
1 - 1/4" plywood 62 3/16" x 25 1/2"
amazon.com/shop/FieldGuidetoDIY
"As an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. I also on occasion get products sent for me to review and demonstrate.
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[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

While you’re here, be sure to check out this DIY Floating Shelf w Secret Compartment w Fingerprint Lock - kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3eln2ypiZ5mh6M

[@PCHPatti]

I always wanted to understand how the hardware worked and the mechanics of putting together a hidden door. Thank you for a clear, succinct video. Short and sweet. Well done!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Absolutely! I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for watching.

[@zerostalkertolerance]

Really laughed at the 'OWWW!' at the end. Hooe you gave an interior door handle on itnow as well? LOL

[@DubiousDubs]

Not a homeowner yet, but will definitely be doing something like this once I am

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I know right. Plus I think teens would love to have a unique entrance to their space. Thanks so much for watching!

[@rachellaird434]

Wow! I’ve been fascinated by hidden rooms and passages myself. if I ever become a homeowner, I’ll hire someone to create and install one for me. Great video!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Aw, thank you Rachel. I appreciate you watching.

[@randykish8242]

Great Job. Might just be the best instructional video ever! Bravo!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Wow, thanks! So glad it was helpful. I appreciate you watching.

[@alexnewell9631]

So cool! Just bought a log cabin style house on 10 acres. Being 23 i have a decent amount of repair and remodel knowledge but your videos are helping me figure out the rest. Definitely plan to use this one down the road!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

So glad it helps. Let me if you have any questions or suggestions. Thanks so much for watching!

[@alexnewell9631]

@FieldGuidetoDIY would love to know more about water softners and the other kinds of systems a well water system uses

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

@@alexnewell9631 good deal. Coming soon.

[@MattyB_84]

love that painting trick you did to protect the carpet, I am about to paint all my trim and quarter round and I have been wondering how to not get paint all over my newly installed LVP floors. What kind of tool is that? looks much easier than taping the entire house.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

That is a 14" spackle knife or mud or tape blade - geni.us/BPyWA

[@FineBakedPastry]

I love how you kept the "oww" at 7:49 in the video. You need a door handle on the inside so you can pull it closed it without pinching your fingers.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Great idea. I can't screw it into the back because that's only 1/2". But I can definitely scree it into the sides of the shelving box. Thanks for the tip and hand saver.

[@stanwest3529]

great job..and you certainly know how to make a mess...kind regards from the U.K.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Funny. Not the first time I’ve been told that.🤣 I appreciate you watching. Thanks so much.

[@user-vw9sm7wl5s]

Nice sharing👍

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Thank you! I greatly appreciate it. Thanks so much for watching!

[@chudman71]

Great video, will try and copy this at somepoint

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Thanks so much! I greatly appreciate it.

[@wjchesla]

Great video! I was considering making something like this for a bifold closet door behind me that's typically on video, and seems simple enough that I believe I'll try it!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

You got this! Let me know if you run into any issues.

[@Mary-lw5us]

Amazing!!!!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Thanks!! I'm so glad you enjoyed it.

[@Joebloe-be5rw]

Dude, the mudding work!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I know, right? I have such respect for those tradesmen and women who are masters of drywall.

[@Data4664]

Good job very amazing!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Let me know if you decide to build one as well. Thanks so much for watching.

[@SaabAholic]

Thanks for the video! 🤠👍🏻

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Absolutely!

[@kevinhoeg]

You did a great job ... step by step. I need something like this for the space under stairs. I didn't understand the purpose of the of the dead bolt. How would you unlock it.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Thanks so much for watching. I added the deadbolt as a bit of a safe room to prevent or delay intruders’ access to the family.

[@anonymoushuman8344]

Cool.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I glad you agree!

[@Pete.Ty1]

👍👍👍.Thank you

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Thanks so much Pete! Thanks so much for watching.

[@deathknightrevan]

I'm working on renovating a small room into a guest bedroom for my sister who will be staying during college and I've been thinking about ways to optimize space usage, this will work great. 😊

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

First off, I commend you for inviting your sister to stay with you. That is cool. Secondly, for trying to create a space that is unique and different for her. I hope this video helps. Let me know if you have any questions.

[@wewemcrhyne]

I’m going to remove sliding closet doors, build a smaller entrance to the closet. Maybe 30 inches for the invisible door. Do you think I could buy a bookshelf the size I need and have someone install it or am I missing something

[@SaabAholic]

Step 1: Buy $10,000 worth of tools. 🤠. I like it!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Jeff, well there is that. Thanks so much for watching!

[@GuitarHeroPhenomSux]

Having tools and the skills to use them will save and make you more than that in your lifetime. Imagine how much a professional charges you for something that you could do yourself.

[@hawksworthproduction4308]

You can definitely do this with hand tools if you have the patience

[@sethalbert1239]

You watching diy vids with no tools...weirdo

[@davidhunt6508]

@@hawksworthproduction4308That's a lot of patience.

[@ryaj2356]

I’ve looked up kits online and to get a premade one, basic wood, thinnest possible, most basic design, $1300 and anywhere from 9 weeks to 12 week lead time. This video here allows me to build this all on my own, my own way.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Yes, I've shopped those kits too and I was not impressed. I appreciate you recognizing the flexibility of this design. Thanks so much for watching!

[@bangurowned]

What kit is 1300? I haven’t even seen them that cheap lol

[@Paine137]

Wood glue doesn’t really work when the wood is already primed or painted. Better to use construction adhesive.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Great tip. Thanks so much!

[@nicholassouris7689]

This was great and super helpful, would you mind sharing the link of the exact magnet you purchased?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Sure thing. It was a 90 lb cabinet magnet (I only used one and it is plenty strong). - geni.us/vvdws

[@jennytaylia5371]

That looks pretty cool. I’m skeptical about how much weight it could hold though. Just one tote full of books is quite heavy and that’s not THAT many books 😅

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I’ve seen this style hinge hold solid core 8 foot walnut doors with no issue. I haven’t loaded it up yet. It looks like it will have not problem since it is so smooth. I imagine the function of the hinge would not be the factor as much as the construction of the bookcase.

[@jennytaylia5371]

@@FieldGuidetoDIY i don’t doubt the hinges. Moreso the construction of the bookcase itself (or perhaps i’m just one of those types who uses more screws than necessary :p)

[@logan5326]

Forget how much it holds, the primary job of the door is to hide a space/room. If that concerns you (dead weight on shelves) buy some fake book covers, that should solve your problems.

[@AirmanCS]

Amazing and it looks like you really love doing this. But a kind advice, at min 6:07 you use your fingers between the fence and the blade, also you overreach to catch the wood, try to avoid those 2 they are very dangerous. Use a push stick if you need to hold the wood between the blade and the fence and a table on the back to let the wood rest there or let it fall on a soft foam/towel, stay safe!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Airman, thanks so much. I do enjoy it and would like to keep doing it. I greatly appreciate your concern. I was not nearly as close to the blade as the camera made it look. I will take your recommendations to heart. Once again, greatly appreciate it.

[@normbograham]

you should have used some fiberglass mesh around the bookcase, in the drywall mud. and the barrel bolt, should not be installed such that it can fall, and lock (because it will). It is however, a great job. Really impressive.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Good idea!

[@capaio]

Nice, i like it! I'm just not sure about the locking. What if some vibration makes it fall closing the door from inside? I think on the side would be better... but just my opinion :)

[@alexnewell9631]

The latch has to be moved to the side before it drops down. I see what you mean about it being shaken, i dont think that will be to much of an issue for the most part but perhaps just a bigger one with more of a sideways motion would work

[@nativeamericanfeather9948]

I love this..why couldnt you be my neighbor😭 lol Ive been wanting to make this for the last few years. But, I dont have your skill..or tools lol you did a great job♡ thank you for sharing

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Aw, you are so kind. Yeah, I wanted one for the longest time too and now we’ve got on. It was a lot of work but it is a neat feature that dresses up the house. I’ll let you know if one of the houses on either side of us goes up for sale. 🤣. Seriously, thanks so much for watching!

[@bhargi4692]

I added one but the guy didn't do a great job. I sent this video to the guy fixing it up so he knows how high I have set the standard!

[@user-ce6cf5vd5k]

how do I get a material list for this project?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

So glad you found it. Please let me know if you have any questions.

[@ruttlerowe2161]

Love this video. What’s the name for the bolt you used? Does it have a name I can google or ask for at the hardware store? Thanks

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

So glad you enjoyed it. Yes, those are called Heavy Duty Pivot Hinges for Wooden Door - Hidden hinges - geni.us/Jz01. Let me know if you can find them.

[@ruttlerowe2161]

@@FieldGuidetoDIY found them! Thanks

[@hsmd4533]

I’d love to know how you make sure the top and bottom hinges are perfectly lined up.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

You can use a plum bob. I knew my side stud was plum so I just measured off that. GREAT question.

[@hsmd4533]

@@FieldGuidetoDIY awesome, thank you!!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

@hsmd4533 absolutely!

[@dustinbaird1008]

How many different drills do you own?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Haha. Truthfully, Dustin, I own four; two corded and two cordless. And you?

[@emilyjones6750]

I may have missed it, but is the right side wall (the opening side) finished in some way? Since the trim is connected to the door on that side, I can see a rough edge in the part of the video that you are nailing the upper trim. I'm just not sure how to finish out that wall without messing up the opening space. Any ideas?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I had to frame it to the size of the opening. I used a header since it spanned a stud. I then cut the wall drywall at the middle of the existing studs so when I pieced replacement drywall, I could attach to the existing stud. Then I nailed the trim into the new studs framing the bookcase doorway.

[@p.f.5718]

Very easy to do 🥴🤣 and imagine - make a hole in an european built house 🫣🤯 Love from Austria 🇦🇹

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@simoncameron4355]

I saw the mirror right next to where you put the shelf... personally it would have been easier to make the opening there and hinge the mirror!

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Absolutely. That was tempting but I wanted something even more of a decoy. I have other plans for the mirror.

[@YourGuiltyConscience]

How do you pick where the door/entrance should be within the house?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Great question. Fortunately the location I used there was already a door there. Otherwise you’d need to frame it correctly structurally. Most of those Ive seen have installed them where there already an existing doorway.

[@sidbream9585]

Your studs will be set on 16 or 24 inch increments. Ideally you can use a stud for one side of your jamb, and frame up the other side. Don't use nails for anything. Nails are used in building for specific reasons. Screw everything.

[@Dashone93]

What is minimum gap size u used, what was frame dimensions

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I made the frame w 1/16" clearance on the bottom and 3/16" clearance on the top. I have 1/4" on each side and had to router and round the front corner and back corner of the shelf to get it to clear. Please let me know if you have any more questions.

[@jamessteele5310]

Hey I’m trying to build one but the clearance. I think it’s to tight. How much clearance did you do on each side?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

That depends on the depth of your shelf. I have 3/8” on each side and had to round the front corner and back corner.

[@cathy3606]

I want a hidden door/bookshelf without a lower door jam or threshold. This hinge solution requires a lower jab. Is there a hinge solution that is different?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I used this hinge because of the bookshelf. I guess you use another style and screw it to the stud if you didn’t have so much weight to support (like hiding the doorway behind a mirror or painting).

[@jeffnarum1373]

I see alot of houses. You can always spot these.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Agreed.

[@lindag4999]

I love this but I have the frame and don't want a hinge on the bottom, not sure how to accomplish this as a frame on the bottom would be a trip hazard

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Could you install the bottom hinge plate directly in the floor?

[@davidhunt6508]

You could add some sort of low voltage lighting to really make it pop off.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Great thought! I’m even exploring a motorized opener.

[@davidhunt6508]

@@FieldGuidetoDIY I think a motorized opener would be extremely unnecessary, though I suppose it adds to the cool factor. Especially from a perspective of just proving you can do it, and making an additional YT video. It would be especially cool if the switch was either across the room in a far less obvious context, or somehow hidden in the bookcase, like maybe behind an altered book. As for the lights, I somehow think that gives it more purpose. Like a random inset/built-in bookcase could seem a little odd and out of place, but it had lights to highlight some sort of display or something, it would seem more purposeful? Idk, just my thought.

[@debbiemcghee6617]

Do you have to have a...bottom attached to the floor or could it be attached to the base of the bookself?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I’m not sure I follow. The underside of the bottom shelf has the hinge attached to it and the other part of the hinge is attached to the threshold. I hope that helps.

[@yourpillow454]

Stand to the right of your fence on the table saw. Please 😂

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Will do. I appreciate your concern. Thanks so much for watching.

[@yourpillow454]

Nice job on the door and the tutorial 👍 great video

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

@yourpillow454 thanks so much. Are you thinking about putting one in?

[@yourpillow454]

@@FieldGuidetoDIY indeed. I am going to put one in to replace the door going under my stairs. Your video was the first to pop up and is more than enough to not need any more research lol. I'm a taper and finisher and just did a flush door where I framed out and built an opening for an electrical panel cover up on a clients home. After successfully building that flush door, I started thinking the door, which was 27x19" would have looked better if it was a mini shelf nook that could swing open to reveal the panel. Anyway, now I'm wanting to do this only replacing a whole door now.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

@@yourpillow454 I like it not only because of the novelty of a secret doorway but also the security of a safe room for intruders. I keep reading about home invasion stories where this type of feature might have really been helpful.

[@TheNotoriousNemo]

pls tell me that dead bolt cant vibrate and fall down

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Thanks for your concern. No, you have to line it up JUST RIGHT in order for it to lock.

[@ScottLeClair-rv8fb]

what is the rough opening for the bookshelf?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Roughly 21” wide by 56” tall.

[@mariokart8715]

What are the dimensions of this bookcase door? I’m thinking of making something similar with my Dad that’ll lead to an unfinished sump pump closet; it’ll be installed above the baseboard. The top piece of it will be an arch, trim piece, keystone or salvaged vent hood facade.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Mine is 25 1/2" byt 62 1/4".

[@fattonyd232]

Where do you buy those hinges?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Hidden hinges - geni.us/Jz01

[@bernicegraybeal333]

How do I know where to put hinges?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

The hinges came with a template that I didn’t trust. I mocked up the placement of the hinges on a scrap piece of wood I cut the the width of the bookcase. I tested the swing of the bookcase in a drawn opening. I then had to exactly line up the top hinge directly above the lower hinge.

[@GregoryGuay]

Can you tell me what brand or hardware that used?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Hidden hinges - geni.us/Jz01 Latch - geni.us/BSpwh Wood screws - Level - geni.us/QHyeed Measuring tape - geni.us/2OPsZ Saw - geni.us/BB6TJc Cutting guide - geni.us/eAp9

[@AaronStrube]

No tape on the drywall joints?

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Good eye, Aaron. I may have some cracks to address later. Thanks for pointing that out and thanks so much for watching!

[@TheNerdJockPod]

How big is your doorway (width)? I am trying to calculate the size to make the bookshelf if my doorway is 14.5 inches wide.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

You’ll notice in the video the template I made. I suggest you do the same. Also, I suggest your round the front left corner of your bookcase and your right rear corner to allow for the swing of the bookcase. Let me know if you have any other questions.

[@TheNerdJockPod]

@@FieldGuidetoDIY I appreciate this! Thanks

[@samson2968]

It can't be done, you will never fit your big butt through a 15" door!

[@TheNerdJockPod]

@samson2968 it can be done. I did it, and it works perfectly. Just takes some engineering skills.

[@user-ce6cf5vd5k]

never mind. we found it!

[@mattlion4725]

Is this like a joke video? Made me laugh so much nearly peed myself. Thank you

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

Im so glad you enjoyed it. Thanks so much for watching, Matt!

[@henryskinner1092]

Where do you live? I will buy the home next to you or as close to you I can. Please let me know 🙏.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

🤣 Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it. We’re in North Carolina. I’ll let you know when either of our neighbors list their homes. Thanks so much for watching.

[@TrvrSand]

Had to stop watching the second he said “using my Ryobi brad nailer…” I’ll find another video on this

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I’m sorry to disappoint. Personally I love this thing. It’s a lot easier than busting out the compressor for my pneumatic brad nailer. Thanks for trying to get through it. 😉

[@TrvrSand]

@@FieldGuidetoDIYhaha , well, I’m glad you have a sense of humor ! Youve brought me back aboard, finished a few of your videos and now a subscriber. Thank you for your detailed commitment and content. 🤙

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

@@TrvrSand absolutely. Thanks again for the feedback and thanks for giving me a second try. (And thanks for the sub). Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions for the channel! Thanks again.

[@ryanthompson4982]

Watching you use tools makes me cringe.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

🤣 I still have all 10 digits. I thank you for watching!

[@ryanthompson4982]

@@FieldGuidetoDIY astonishing. I just hope nobody follows your lead and ends up losing a few as a result. And no problem. Helps me block dangerous pages I’m not interested in from showing up on my feed. Keep up the sloppy work and stay working in sandals. Looks so professional.

[@GOLDFOLDS1]

what a mess.

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

🤣🤣🤣

[@user-dm4kk3sc2c]

What is minimum gap size u used, what was frame dimensions

[@FieldGuidetoDIY]

I made the frame w 1/16" clearance on the bottom and 3/16" clearance on the top. I have 1/4" on each side and had to router and round the front corner and back corner of the shelf to get it to clear. Please let me know if you have any more questions.