Looking to create a set of beautiful floating shelves without breaking the bank? These DIY floating shelves were designed and built by Glenn from DIY Creators, and they cost less than $7 each!
This step-by-step guide will help you build your own shelves that are not only stylish but also functional.
Materials Needed
- 1 – 2in x 6in x 8ft lumber (Spruce Pine)
- 1 pack of keyhole hangers
- 1 – 1/2in x 48in dowel
- Wood glue
- Oil-Rubbed Bronze paint
- Self-drilling drywall anchors
Tools Required
- Circular saw or miter saw
- Drill
- Dowel bit
- Wood clamps
- Dead-blow mallet
- Sander
- Speed square
Step 1: Cut the Lumber
Start by cutting your lumber into the required sizes. You’ll need four pieces measuring 32 inches and four pieces measuring 6 inches. If you have a miter saw, this will make the cutting process quicker.
Step 2: Assemble the Shelves
Apply wood glue to the joints where the pieces will connect. To ensure a strong bond, use 1/2 inch dowels. Mark the dowel locations so they go through both pieces of wood, and insert a dowel into each corner of the shelf.
Step 3: Sand the Edges
Once the glue has dried, sand the shelves down with 80 grit sandpaper, followed by 120 and 220 grit for a smooth finish. This step is crucial for achieving a professional look.
Step 4: Paint the Shelves
Choose your paint color; Glenn uses an oil-rubbed bronze. Apply two coats for a rich finish. The first coat may look ashy, but the second coat will enhance the color beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare for Mounting
To mount the shelves easily, take a piece of scrap wood and mark the location of the mounting holes. This will help ensure everything lines up correctly when it’s time to install the shelves.
Step 6: Install Keyhole Hangers
Trace out the keyhole hanger onto the wood before drilling. If you want a cleaner look, consider mortising the keyhole hanger into the wood.
Step 7: Mount the Shelves
Find the center of your marked wood and transfer those measurements to the wall where you want to hang the shelves. Use plastic screw drywall anchors to secure the shelves, ensuring they can hold a significant amount of weight.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! Your very own DIY floating shelves that are affordable and easy to make. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more DIY projects from Glenn at DIY Creators!
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