Are you looking to add some extra storage space to your walls without taking up any floor space? A floating shelf might just be the solution you need! These shelves are trendy and modern, and they’re easy to make with just a few basic tools. You don’t even need to be a handy person to tackle this DIY project. In this article, we’ll go through step by step how to make your own floating shelf that will look like it was professionally installed.

First, let’s talk about what a floating shelf is. As the name suggests, a floating shelf is a shelf that appears to be “floating” on the wall, without any visible support underneath. This minimalist design gives a sleek and clean look to any room and allows you to display items without the clutter of brackets or other hardware. Additionally, floating shelves offer a great opportunity to showcase your individual style and personality with decorative items, such as books, plants, and picture frames, so let’s get started on building one!

Gather Tools and Materials

Before you start any project, it’s essential to have all the necessary tools and materials at hand. Here is what you will need to make a floating shelf:

Tools:

  • Table Saw or Circular Saw
  • Mitre Saw
  • Drill
  • Clamps
  • Screwdriver
  • Router
  • Sanding Block or Sander
  • Level
  • Tape Measure

Materials:

  • Wooden Board (1 x 6 inches)
  • Metal Stud Finder
  • Wood Screws
  • Anchors
  • Wood Glue

Select the Best Wood for Your Floating Shelf

Choosing the right wood for your floating shelf is crucial. Opt for a hardwood like oak, maple or cherry, as they have a smooth surface texture and a stunning finish. Softwoods like pine or cedar may not be the best option since they have a knotty surface, and the shelf’s load-bearing capacity may vary.

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In addition, choose a board that is straight, without any warps, knots or cracks. Keep in mind that you’ll have to cut the board to the shelf’s desired length, so it’s best to have a board that is a bit longer than what you need.

Measure and Cut the Shelf

After purchasing your wooden board, you need to measure and cut it to the desired length. Use a measuring tape to determine the shelf’s length, mark the board with a pencil and then use a table saw or a circular saw to cut the board into the correct size.

Smooth the Edges and Surface

Since the shelves will be visible, ensure that they have a smooth surface texture and straight edges. Use a router to round the edges, followed by sanding it smooth. Sand it all along the surface using sanding paper or block until you get the desired finish.

Attach the Mounting Brackets to the Wall

Mounting brackets are essential for any floating shelf. You’ll need to install the brackets to the wall using anchors and screws. Drill pilot holes into the wall, then insert the anchors and screw in the brackets to the wall.

Attach Brackets to the Shelf

After attaching the brackets to the wall, you will need to screw them onto the shelf. Mark the placement of the brackets on the underside of the shelf, then screw them in place using wood screws.

Attach the Floating Shelves to the Wall Brackets

Gently place your wooden shelves onto the brackets, ensuring they’re seated securely. Attach the shelf by screwing through the bracket into the shelf’s underside. Check to see if the shelf is level and proceed to screw in the remaining screws to secure it in place.

Apply a Finishing Touch to Your Floating Shelf

Lastly, seal the shelf with a finish of your choice, including lacquer, oil, or Varnish. This will add an extra layer of protection to the wood and help to prevent scratches.

Decorate Your Floating Shelves

Now that your floating shelves are securely in place, it’s time to decorate! Add potted plants, framed photographs, or vintage books to bring your floating shelf to life.

Clean and Maintain Your Floating Shelves

Ensure that your floating shelves stay clean and dust-free by wiping them down with a duster or a dry cloth. Never rely on a damp cloth or any cleaning solvent as it may damage the wood. Also, avoid placing too much weight on your floating shelves, as they may bend or sag over time.

Materials Needed to Make a Floating Shelf

Once you have taken all the necessary measurements, it’s time to start assembling your floating shelves. But before you do that, you need to gather all the materials you will need to build your shelf. Here is a list of the materials you will need:

1. Wood: Choose a high-quality, durable wood like maple, oak, cherry, or walnut. Make sure that the wood is at least ¾ inch thick.

2. Wall anchors: These are essential if you want your floating shelves to be safe and secure. Make sure to get wall anchors that are strong enough to support the weight of your shelves.

3. Screws: You will need screws to hold the brackets in place and to attach the shelf to the brackets.

4. Drill and drill bits: You need a drill to make holes in the wall for the wall anchors.

5. Level: A level will help ensure that your shelves are straight and even.

6. Sandpaper: You will need sandpaper to smooth out the edges and surfaces of your shelf.

7. Paint or Stain: If you want to paint or stain your shelves, make sure to get the appropriate materials.

8. Saw or Jigsaw: You might need a saw or jigsaw to make precise cuts in the wood.

9. Measuring Tape and Pencil: Precise measurements are essential to ensure that your shelves fit properly.

10. Protective gear: Wear protective gear like gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from sawdust and other debris.

Once you have gathered all the materials, you are ready to start building your floating shelves. In the next section, we will discuss how to measure and cut the wood for your shelves.

Supplies Needed

Are you ready to start making your floating shelf? Here are the supplies you’ll need to get started:

Supplies Description
Wood board Choose a board that is the length and width you desire for your shelf.
Brackets You’ll need two brackets per shelf. Make sure they are the appropriate size for your board.
Screws You’ll need screws to attach the brackets to the board and the board to the wall.
Drill You’ll need a drill to attach the brackets and screws to the board and wall.
Level Use a level to make sure your shelf is even.
Pencil A pencil is helpful to mark where you’ll be drilling your holes.

Cut and Sand Your Board

The first step is to cut your board to the desired length and width. If you don’t have the necessary tools to do this yourself, most hardware stores will do it for you. You’ll also want to sand the board to smooth out any rough edges.

Attach Your Brackets

Take your brackets and attach them to the underside of the board using screws. Make sure they are evenly spaced and level.

Mark Your Wall and Drill Holes

Holding the board up to the wall where you want it to be, use a pencil to mark where the brackets will attach to the wall. Once these marks are made, drill holes in the wall at these locations. Make sure to use an appropriate drill bit for the size of your screws.

Hang Your Shelf

Finally, it’s time to hang your shelf! Line up the holes in the brackets with the holes in the wall and attach the shelf to the wall using screws. Double check to ensure the shelf is level and even and voila! You now have a beautiful floating shelf that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

That’s All For Now

And that’s all the steps you need to follow to make your very own floating shelf! It may seem daunting at first, but trust us, it’s really not as difficult as it looks! We hope that this guide has helped you out and that you’re feeling ready to tackle this DIY project with confidence. Thanks for taking the time to read this article, and don’t forget to come back soon for more fun and creative ideas for your home!