There's a unique satisfaction that comes from building something beautiful and functional with your own two hands. A handcrafted piece of furniture doesn't just fill a space; it adds warmth, character, and a story to your home. If you're looking for a project that delivers a huge "wow" factor without requiring weeks of complex work, look no further.

Power Pro ambassador and skilled craftsman Drew Hanson of @hansonmadewoodworking designed and built this gorgeous, modern three-tiered shelf. Using rich cherry lumber and the holding power of Power Pro screws, he created a piece that's both a work of art and a practical storage solution.

The best part? It's a project you can tackle in a single weekend. Whether you choose to mount it on a wall or let it stand on a console table, this decorative shelf is guaranteed to elevate any room.

Why Cherry is the Perfect Wood for This Project

While you could build this shelf with many types of wood, Drew’s choice of fresh cherry lumber is what takes it to the next level. Cherry has been a favorite of fine furniture makers for centuries, and for good reason:

• Unmatched Beauty: Cherry wood has a fine, straight grain and a beautiful warm, reddish-pink hue that is simply stunning.
• Ages Gracefully: Unlike other woods, cherry gets better with time. Exposure to light and air will gradually deepen its color, developing a rich, dark patina that adds depth and character. The shelf you build today will be even more beautiful five years from now.
• Excellent to Work With: It's a durable hardwood that is surprisingly easy to machine, sand, and finish, making it a joy to work with in the shop.

From Boards to Beauty:  A Step-by-Step Guide

As the video shows, this project comes together through a series of simple, precise steps. By focusing on good technique and using quality materials, you can achieve a professional-quality result.

What You'll Need:

• Lumber: 4/4 or 5/4 Cherry Wood boards
• Fasteners: A box of Power Pro 3" Premium Wood Screws
• Adhesive: High-quality wood glue
• Tools: Tape measure, pencil, square, drill/driver, table saw or circular saw, sander
• Finishing: Sandpaper (up to 220 grit), and a clear finish like spray lacquer or polyurethane

Step 1: Mill and Cut Your Pieces

The first step is to prepare your lumber. Start by laying out your cherry boards to select the best grain patterns for each part of the shelf. Based on the video, the design consists of a central vertical support and three shelves that pass through it, creating a unique asymmetrical look. Measure and cut your pieces to your desired dimensions, ensuring every cut is perfectly square.

Step 2: Pre-Drill for Perfect Assembly

When working with a beautiful hardwood like cherry, the last thing you want is for the wood to split during assembly. Drew demonstrates the professional's technique: pre-drilling every screw hole. This small step ensures the screw has a clear path, preventing splitting and guaranteeing a clean, tight joint.

Step 3: Assemble with Power Pro Screws

This is where the project truly takes shape. Drew uses Power Pro 3” Wood Screws to construct the main frame. Choosing a premium screw is critical for furniture projects. Here’s why it matters:

• Incredible Holding Power: The aggressive thread design and durable steel construction mean these screws create an incredibly strong mechanical bond. Your shelf will be rigid, sturdy, and capable of holding decorative items without worry.
• No-Strip Star Drive: The star drive head provides a superior grip for the driver bit, allowing you to drive the screws with confidence and control, eliminating the frustration of stripped screw heads.
• Clean Finish:  Power Pro screws are designed to drive smoothly and can be countersunk slightly for a clean, flush finish that looks professional.

Step 4: Glue, Assemble, Finish

With the main structure built, the final assembly involves adding wood glue to the joints for long-term strength and fitting the shelves into place. Drew uses weights to ensure a tight bond while the glue dries.

After a final sanding to smooth all surfaces and edges, it's time for the finish. A clear spray lacquer, as seen in the video, is an excellent choice. It dries quickly, provides durable protection, and lets the natural beauty and color of the cherry wood be the star of the show.

Styling Your New Handcrafted Shelf

One of the best aspects of this design is its incredible versatility. It’s not just a shelf; it’s a statement piece.

• As a Free Standing Unit: Place it on a rustic console table in your entryway or on a buffet in your dining room. The contrast between the sleek cherry and a more rustic surface is stunning. Use it to display plants, candles, and treasured family photos.
• As a Wall-Mounted Display: Mount it in your living room to create a floating focal point. Its modern, architectural lines are perfect for showcasing art objects, small sculptures, or a curated collection of books.

This quick and rewarding project from Drew Hanson is the perfect way to add a touch of custom craftsmanship to your home. By choosing beautiful materials like cherry and relying on the strength of Power Pro screws, you can build a piece of furniture that you’ll be proud of for years to come.

So what are you waiting for? It’s time to head to the workshop and give it a try