Looking for a fun and affordable way to display your favorite photos and art? This DIY photo ledge project was created by Bronte’s Life. With a few simple materials and tools, you can build your own custom art shelf to showcase your treasured memories.
Materials Needed
- Two 1×4 boards (cut to your desired length)
- One 1×2 board (for the front lip)
- Wood glue
- 2-inch wood screws
- Drill
- Stain (color of your choice)
- Clamps (2 to 4 depending on the length)
- Optional: 2-inch finishing nails, wood filler, sandpaper
Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wood
First, measure the area where you want your shelf. Bronte decided to place her shelf above the couch, between two windows, measuring about five feet in length. You can customize the length to fit your space perfectly. If you don’t have a saw at home, you can have the wood cut at your local hardware store.
Step 2: Apply Wood Glue
Using premium wood glue, apply a bead down the length of the wood panel where the front lip will attach. If you’re using finishing nails, position the 1×2 board and secure it with the nails. Bronte’s husband used a nail gun for this step to ensure it was extra tight.
Step 3: Attach the Back Piece
Next, attach the back piece using more wood glue and finishing nails. Clamp everything down and wipe up any excess glue that oozes out.
Step 4: Let It Dry
Allow the glue to sit for at least 30 minutes. Once dry, you can remove the clamps. If you plan to sand the shelf, now is the time to do it.
Step 5: Sanding the Shelf
Using 100 grit sandpaper and a sanding block, sand all edges and surfaces to ensure a smooth finish. If you have a sander, that would speed up the process, but hand sanding works too.
Step 6: Fill Nail Holes
Apply wood filler to any visible nail holes in the front lip. Wipe away excess and allow it to dry for at least two and a half hours, or overnight for best results.
Step 7: Staining the Shelf
Once the wood filler is dry, it’s time to stain your shelf. Bronte chose Varathane wood stain in a weathered oak color. Use a disposable paint tray and paper towels to apply the stain evenly. A little goes a long way, and you can always add more coats if desired.
Step 8: Hanging the Shelf
After the stain has dried overnight, it’s time to hang the shelf. Measure the desired height and use a level to ensure it’s straight. Mark the locations of the studs in the wall, as you’ll want to screw the shelf into these for stability.
Step 9: Secure the Shelf to the Wall
Drill pilot holes into the studs and attach the shelf using wood screws. For a cleaner finish, you can drill a small countersink hole for the screws to lay flush with the wood.
Final Result
Once everything is secured, step back and admire your work! Bronte was thrilled with the final look of her photo ledge, which added a lovely touch to her living room.
