Build an Under-Window Bookcase

By Chris Baylor, About.com Guide

Now we're going to attach the quarter round and cove moldings, which will give the case a nice, detailed profile.

Using the same procedure that was used to miter and attach the base boards, measure and miter a piece of quarter round to attach to the front of the top of the case. Cut a shorter piece, mitered on the front and square on the back for each of the sides. (Keep in mind that when attached, the one flat side of the quarter round should be against the plywood top, and the other flat side should face downward.) Attach the three pieces of quarter round with finish nails.

Next, cut a piece of cove molding to fit directly underneath the front piece of quarter round, as well as a piece for each side, cut in exactly the same manner as the quarter round. This cove molding should fit up underneath the quarter round. Attach with finish nails.

Repeat the procedure with the cove molding for the bottom of the unit, directly on top of the 1x4 base. This cove molding will dress up the tops of the 1x4s on the front and two sides. Again, attach with finish nails.

Finally, we're going to cover the exposed front edges of the two standards and the center shelf. Cut one length of screen mold to cover the front of each standard and attach with finish nails. When both standards are covered, cut one length of screen mold to cover the center shelf, butting up against the other two pieces of screen mold. Attach this piece with finish nails as well.

Check all finish nails on the entire unit and set all nails with a nail set.