This project was built and designed by Alex from Bevelish Creations. It’s a clean and functional floating shelf that blends strength, simplicity, and smart design—all built with accessible materials from your local hardware store.
Floating shelves are a great way to add modern storage without cluttered brackets. In this build, Alex shares a clever method that’s beginner-friendly and results in a professional-looking, weight-bearing shelf ideal for any space.
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Using Common Materials for a Polished Result
Rather than using expensive hardwoods, Alex sticks to construction-grade pine. It’s readily available, budget-friendly, and—when treated carefully—can still yield a clean, refined result.
He selects the straightest boards he can find and trims them to length using a table saw and crosscut sled. This setup allows for accurate, repeatable cuts while keeping the process safe and controlled.
After the boards are cut, they’re planed to remove rough spots and round edges. This extra prep step ensures the boards will sit flush on the wall and helps give the final shelf a more finished appearance despite using standard lumber.
Creating the Hidden Bracket System
What gives floating shelves their modern appeal is the hidden support system. To make it work, Alex installs a set of steel shelf brackets with rods that slide into deep holes in the back of the wood shelf.
He starts by locating wall studs using a magnetic stud finder. Once the studs are marked, the metal brackets are attached directly into them using lag screws. This provides a solid base that won’t sag over time, even when weight is added to the shelf.
The tricky part is aligning the holes in the shelf with the metal rods. Alex rests the shelf on the installed brackets and marks the rod positions directly onto the wood. Then, he uses a drill guide to make perfectly straight holes, ensuring the shelf fits cleanly onto the supports.
Accommodating for Mounting Plate Thickness
A common issue when installing floating shelves is the thickness of the metal mounting plates. If not accounted for, the shelf can sit awkwardly and leave a gap between the wall and the back of the wood.
Rather than cutting into the drywall, Alex chooses to rout a shallow groove into the back of the shelf. Using a router with an edge guide, he removes just enough material to let the mounting plates nest inside the shelf.
The result is a tight, flush fit that makes the shelf look like it’s floating effortlessly. It also prevents any long-term issues with movement or visible hardware.
Adding Turnbuckles for Support and Style
To make the shelf even more stable—and add an interesting visual element—Alex incorporates turnbuckles between the shelf and the wall. These tension-based hardware pieces are commonly used in rigging, but they serve a dual role here as structural support and industrial design accent.
A D-ring anchor is attached to the wall, and the turnbuckle connects from that anchor to a U-bolt embedded in the bottom of the shelf. This setup adds rigidity, especially helpful if the shelf will be loaded with weight over time.
Careful positioning ensures the turnbuckles don’t interfere with the shelf brackets. It’s a well-balanced addition that helps the shelf stand out without becoming distracting.
Final Sanding, Painting, and Staining
Once assembly is complete, Alex moves on to finishing. The wood is sanded with a fine grit for a smooth surface, then stained to bring out the natural grain. A sealer is added for protection and to keep the shelf looking great long-term.
The metal hardware—brackets, turnbuckles, and U-bolts—is painted black to create contrast and tie together the shelf’s modern aesthetic. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in the finished appearance.
The end result is a floating shelf that blends in easily with most home décor styles while offering serious load-bearing performance. Whether you’re displaying books, baskets, or everyday essentials, this shelf is built to last.
A Great Build for Learning and Display
This project is a smart introduction to key woodworking skills—measuring, drilling, routing, and finishing—all wrapped into a build that’s actually useful in your home.
By using accessible tools and straightforward techniques, Alex shows how anyone can create high-quality floating shelves without specialty equipment. His approach is practical, clean, and packed with helpful tips for getting a polished finish.
If you’re looking for a way to add storage and style to your space—or just want a great beginner woodworking project—this one checks all the boxes.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Alex’s channel: