This project was built and designed by Tyler from DIYTyler. It features a live edge floating shelf with completely hidden hardware, combining natural beauty with a sleek, modern installation method.
The design prioritizes clean lines and functional simplicity. Tyler’s clever use of stainless steel bolts and a custom wall strip results in a sturdy, bracket-free shelf that appears to float effortlessly on the wall.
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Choosing a Strong and Beautiful Board
The foundation of this project begins with selecting the right slab of wood. Tyler chose a piece of spalted maple, prized for its dramatic grain patterns and structural integrity.
When choosing lumber for a floating shelf, it’s important to find a piece that is not only attractive but also free of cracks or structural defects. In this case, the live edge is preserved for the front-facing side, creating a striking visual focal point.
Preparing and Laminating the Shelf
To give the shelf both visual weight and extra strength, Tyler laminates multiple pieces of spalted maple together. This process increases the overall thickness, giving the shelf a more substantial look while improving durability.
Once laminated, the board is rough-cut on the bandsaw. Tyler flattens the back edge so that it sits flush against the wall, while preserving the natural shape of the live edge along the front.
Creating the Invisible Mounting System
One of the defining features of this build is the concealed mounting method. Instead of visible brackets, Tyler cuts a narrow strip of wood from the back of the shelf. This strip becomes the wall cleat and is later reattached using hidden bolts.
Stainless steel bolts are cut to length and inserted into the shelf using epoxy. These serve as dowels that slide into the wall-mounted strip, offering a tight fit that supports the shelf without visible fasteners.
Precision Drilling for a Perfect Fit
Drilling into the back of the shelf for the bolts requires accuracy. Tyler sets up a custom jig to keep everything stable and square during the drilling process.
Each hole must be deep enough to secure the bolts without weakening the shelf. Even spacing and perpendicular alignment are crucial for the shelf to sit straight and lock into the wall bracket cleanly.
Epoxying the Bolts and Final Prep
Once the bolt holes are drilled, Tyler secures the stainless steel dowels into place with epoxy. The epoxy bonds the bolts permanently, ensuring they stay aligned and hold up under weight.
He also adds a small hole in the bottom of the shelf for a pinch screw, which will later lock the shelf to the wall strip. This small but important addition keeps the shelf from shifting with seasonal wood movement.
Mounting the Shelf to the Wall
After everything cures, the shelf is ready to mount. Tyler first installs the wall cleat—cut earlier from the back of the shelf—directly to the wall using screws and anchors.
He then slides the shelf onto the bolts, using the snug fit of the stainless steel rods to keep it stable. Once the shelf is in place, the pinch screw is tightened underneath, locking the shelf securely without any visible hardware.
Sanding and Applying Finish
With the shelf mounted, Tyler sands all surfaces using progressively finer grits of sandpaper. Starting with a coarse grit helps flatten any high spots, while finer grits bring out the natural figure in the spalted maple.
A clear protective finish is applied to seal the wood and bring out its color and grain detail. This helps protect against moisture and wear, especially if the shelf is installed in a kitchen, bathroom, or entryway.
A Clean Look with Hidden Strength
The final result is a sturdy, functional shelf that looks like it’s floating on the wall. The hidden hardware gives it a modern appearance, while the live edge adds rustic warmth and character.
This project balances creativity with technical skill and shows how thoughtful joinery can make a design both stylish and strong. Tyler’s approach avoids complicated brackets or commercial floating shelf kits, making this an excellent DIY alternative.
A Great Project for Any Skill Level
While the precision drilling and epoxy process require some patience, the build itself remains approachable for most DIYers. The project can also be adapted for different wood species, shelf sizes, and room types.
Whether you’re outfitting a hallway, office, or living room, this shelf offers practical storage and standout style. It’s a great way to make use of character-rich lumber and upgrade your space without overwhelming your shop.
Please support Tyler by visiting his website here: diytyler.com