If you’re looking to reclaim some space in your garage, this DIY garage storage shelf project created by Johnny Brooke from Crafted Workshop is perfect for you. With a straightforward approach, you’ll learn how to build effective shelving that utilizes the wasted space above your garage door.
Materials and Tools Needed
- 18 – 2×2 lumber
- 8 – 2×4 lumber
- 4 sheets of ½ inch plywood
- 3-inch screws (for fastening 2x2s to the walls/ceiling)
- 2 ½-inch screws (for attaching 2x4s to 2x2s)
- 1 ⅝-inch trim head screws (for attaching plywood)
- Wood glue
- Track saw or miter saw
- Jigsaw
- Line laser
- Stud finder
- Drill
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
Step 1: Clean Out the Garage
Before you begin building, it’s important to clear out your garage. This initial step sets the stage for your project and ensures you have enough space to work comfortably.
Step 2: Design Your Shelving Layout
Once the garage is clean, use a design software like SketchUp to plan where your shelves will go. Aim to stack two typical plastic storage bins on top of each other between the ceiling and shelves. This will help minimize waste when cutting dimensional lumber.
Step 3: Cut the Lumber
Head to the garage and start cutting your lumber using a miter saw. Set up a stop on the saw for quick and consistent cuts, ensuring all pieces are uniform in length.
Step 4: Locate and Mark Studs
Find your stud locations in the area where you’ll add shelving. Transfer these measurements to your 2×2 horizontal support pieces, which will make mounting easier.
Step 5: Mount the 2x2s
Using 3-inch screws, mount the 2x2s to the wall and ceiling. Ensure they are level and spaced correctly. Having a helper during this step can make it much easier.
Step 6: Prepare the 2×4 Uprights
Next, prepare your 2×4 uprights using 2 ½-inch screws. Pre-drill holes to avoid splitting the wood, then mount the uprights to the 2x2s, ensuring they are level.
Step 7: Add Additional 2x2s
Complete the framework by adding the last 2×2 at the bottom end of the uprights with more screws. This structure will support the shelving material.
Step 8: Cut and Mount Plywood
Cut the ½ inch plywood to size. This plywood will serve as the shelves. Secure it to the 2×2 framework using trim head screws, which allow for a smooth surface for your storage bins.
Step 9: Repeat for Additional Shelves
Repeat the process for any additional shelving areas you want to create. Use a line laser for precise alignment along the wall.
Step 10: Final Adjustments and Notching
For shelves above the garage door, measure and adjust the uprights to avoid interference. Notch around any bumps in the wall to maximize storage space.
Step 11: Load Up Your Shelves
With the shelving complete, load your bins onto the shelves. Note that you may need to slide the bins out partially to clear the 2x2s on the ceiling.
Conclusion
This DIY project will add significant storage to your garage while keeping everything organized. The total cost for the lumber and supplies was about $160, making this an affordable solution to your storage needs. If you’re interested in building your own, check out the free plans: https://craftedworkshop.com/store/diy-garage-storage-shelves-plans.