I came across some bars that a gym was throwing out and decided to use them for the frame of a free standing shelf. Being that they used to hold weights, I figured they would be great for strength.
Problem... They are 36" deep. I have two ideas on how to create slats...
Idea 1: Similar to picture #3, but have 2 boards together. With 2 boards, it should be strong enough to prevent any bowing
Idea 2: Create slats in picture #3, then run single 2x4 perpendicular to slats through middle connecting all slats together.
Question: Both will cost nearly the same (#2 may save about $30) as figured will need ~35 2x4's for #1 and 25 2x4's for #2 idea. First will be easier in glue up and think it may hold better from bowing. Am I right or any other ideas?
See pics #1 http://67.169.201.134/shelf/1.jpg#2 http://67.169.201.134/shelf/2.jpg#3 http://67.169.201.134/shelf/3.jpgNote: slats on there right now are just extra 2x4's had laying around. Cut them to see if they would work. I think I like the 2x4's better than the 2x8's, so will probably stay with them for remaining shelves.
- Clayton