I recently decided that I'm outgrowing my costume closet and I want to build a wardrobe. I want to build it, instead of buy it, because I want it to my specifications without paying an arm and a leg to a cabinetry shop. (Besides which, I'd probably drive them buggy about how specific I want things. *s*) Unfortunately, all my previous woodworking experience has been with crafts, props, and a few home improvement projects that were pretty straight forward. I'm still in the planning stages, but I do know that I want to a) build it in two pieces so that I have plenty of storage but still can move the piece if need be [the top would be for hanging clothes, the bottom a short chest of drawers] and b) I do not want to use plywood [although I know it would make the piece lighter.] I haven't decided if I want to use pine or some harder wood. My problem is that I know with a solid wood and the addition of all my costumes, the top piece will weigh heavily on the bottom piece. What I need is a book that helps one estimate how much weight one's finished piece will be able to hold. Or, ways to strengthen a piece of furniture to allow it to hold more weight.
Any book suggestions would be appreciated. :) Thank you, Jen