Spiced Up Bookshelves

Lately I’ve been feeling that the bookshelves around the house are just kind of “blah” because every single one of them is plain, boring white. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but in a room with white walls it all just sort of blends together and I think it could be a little nicer. I’ve been seeing a lot of really great bookshelves that have painted, wallpapered or fabric covered backs and I’m thinking of trying it myself. Here are some resources and photos on jazzed up bookcases that I’ve pulled together.

Tutorials

• How to Paint the Back Wall of Bookcases: You’ll get advice on painting both freestanding and built-in bookcases here.
• How to Wallpaper the Back of a Bookcase: If you’re more of a wallpapering fan, this article can give you the basics of the process.
• Decoupage a Bookcase With Fabric: This is a process I’m especially interested in. There are so many great fabrics out there and many are the perfect width for bookcases!

Inspiration Bookcases

This wallpaper really makes the bookshelves pop. Though, I wouldn't want to cover it up with books.

Another wallpapered bookcase.

This bright and pretty paper makes the whole room.

I love this color combo.

Oooh, yellow.

Even a small bookcase looks great with a touch of color.

The more I look at these the more I want to paint my own shelves! Perhaps I’ll post the project in the coming weeks when I have time to get around to it.