Bookcase and shelf wrap

A new finish for bookcases and shelves

Apply Velven to smooth bookcase backs, shelf faces and side panels to introduce a woodgrain, stone or soft plain finish without repainting the whole piece. Choose one visible area or carry the finish across several panels.
Bookcase shelf back shown with Bronzed Quilted Maple finish Bronzed Quilted Maple Desk shelves shown with Natural Walnut finish Natural Walnut

Change the back panel. Keep the shelves.

Study nook and open shelves shown with Dune Oak finish Dune Oak Low shelf unit shown with Sereno Oak finish Sereno Oak

See the finish behind your books and objects first

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Shelf tutorial

Practise on a shelf or back panel

A small smooth panel is a controlled place to learn the pressure and smoothing motion before wrapping the whole piece.

Furniture

Apply film without trapped air

A focused demonstration of controlling self adhesive film on a smooth surface.

Practise this motion on a small removable furniture panel first.

Video by its Renee Watch on YouTube

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Before you start

Choose the surfaces that will make the difference

Bookcase backs, shelf faces and side panels each create a different result. Decide which areas will remain visible, then test the finish and plan the cuts around the construction of the piece.

Start with the back panel

A smooth back panel gives you one continuous surface behind books, ceramics and storage. Use a woodgrain, stone or soft plain finish as the background while the shelves and frame remain unchanged.

Wrap shelf faces and side panels

If the back panel is not the right surface, wrap the visible shelf edges, outer sides or selected cubby panels. Measure each face separately and decide where the finish will stop before cutting.

Plan around books and objects

Consider how much of the finish will remain visible after the shelves are restyled. A larger grain or stronger colour needs enough exposed area to read clearly behind the objects.

Check the substrate

Velven needs a clean, smooth and sealed surface. Remove dust and residue, then test a small hidden area to confirm the bond and check how the original surface behaves when the sample is removed.

See the finish in place

Hold samples behind the objects and view them in daylight and evening light. A4 samples are $7.95 each, or choose six finishes in a Sample Box for $29.95. Samples ship free, and your sample spend can be used as up to $30 off a later order of A$50 or more.

Measure before ordering metres

Measure the back panel, shelf faces and side panels separately, then add an allowance for trimming and edge wrapping. Plan the grain direction across adjoining sections before calculating the total length.
Choose six finishes