Simple unique bookshelves for kids

Today's project is a set of book shelves for the Twins:

When I started this one, it was because I had some leftover 3/4" pine that was pretty roughed up.  It all began as 1x12's that had been used as garage shelves.  Everything was chopped down to either 1x2's or 1x6's.  The 1x2's became the trim/frame and the 1x6 material became the shelves and vertical supports. 

Tools I used for this project were:
Table saw (this tool can be forgone if you have/purchase 1x2's and 1x6's)
Miter saw (can be replaced with a good straight hand saw)
Jig saw (this is the only must have power tool)
Drill (used for the pilot holes for the jig saw)
Router (this is only used for the optional step "4")
Sand Paper
Finish nailer (of course a hammer and finish nails will do)
Wood glue
Paint (I used a good primer and a couple cans of spray paint)


Here's the original lumber:

1)  It was processed down to 1x2's and 1x6's:

 

2)  Next I sketched out my kids names on the vertical supports, two for each kid.  My vertical supports were 3' tall.  Small tip on this one: if you take the total height of the support and divide it by the number of letters in your child's name then mark a line for each letter, it'll make for more even spacing.  I also need more help sketching, so I added a thickness mark for the non rounded letters.  Before cutting out the names, look at the connection points of each letter to the adjacent letter.  I ended up needing to modify one or two points to have a stronger connection as to avoid breakage (ex. where the "M" meets the "O").

3)  Cut out the names.  No trick here, just get to work.

 

4)  I rounded the edges of the names using a router and sand paper.  This is completely optional.

5)  Because I was using 2 different colors for each shelf, I primed and painted all the lumber at this point.  This left only touch up after assembly.  However, if you are using only one color, I'd recommend priming and painting after assembly.

6)  Assembly.  This part will vary based on your preferences.  I've attached a drawing with the basic plan that I used.  But get creative, and let me know if you have a better plan.

7)  Kid you not....  Load it up with books and let the kids start destroying them.