Building a coffin can be a somewhat morbid undertaking, but it can also serve as a meaningful project for individuals looking to personalize their final resting place. This DIY guide will outline 13 steps on how to make a coffin that can also be used as a bookshelf or piece of furniture until it is required for its intended purpose.

1. Gather materials and tools: To make a coffin, you will need plywood sheets, wood screws, wood glue, and sandpaper. For tools, you’ll need a tape measure, jigsaw, electric drill, and screwdriver.

2. Select the plywood: Choose high-quality plywood for durability and appearance. ¾-inch-thick plywood should suffice.

3. Determine size and shape: To ensure the coffin fits adequately, measure the person’s height and shoulder width. The standard shape of a coffin is hexagonal or trapezoidal; you may use either.

4. Cut the plywood: Cut six pieces of plywood according to your measurements – each side should be the height of the individual, and each adjoining end should be wide enough to accommodate shoulder width.

5. Adjust the width taper: On each long panel (side pieces), create an inward angle from the base towards the head end until it reaches the desired shoulder width – this creates the classic coffin shape.

6. Sand all edges: To ensure smooth edges and prevent splinters, sand all pieces of plywood with sandpaper before assembling them.

7. Assemble base and sides: Begin by joining one of the tall sidepieces to the base panel along its angled edge. Use wood screws (pre-drilling small holes if necessary) and wood glue to secure them together.

8. Attach remaining side panels: Add the other long side panel by attaching it to both base panel and first sidepiece with screws and glue at an angled join.

9. Secure head end panel: Attach the shorter head end panel to the base, between the angled sides at the head end of the coffin. Use screws and glue for a secure join.

10. Attach top end panel: Secure the top (widest) panel above the head end with two long screws driven through pre-drilled holes on each side.

11. Install crossbeams for added support: Place two or three wooden crossbeams horizontally across the inside of the coffin to provide added support for the person’s weight when required.

12. Sand and finish: Sand down any rough spots and apply a finish, such as paint or wood stain, to protect and enhance your coffin’s appearance.

13. Add a personal touch: Customize your coffin with embellishments, such as engraved nameplates, ornate hardware, or unique artwork that reflects your personality.

And there you have it – in just 13 steps, you’ve created a functional and attractive coffin tailored to your specifications. While typically unconventional, building your own coffin is an empowering process and provides a sense of accomplishment, knowing you’ve taken control of your final resting place.