How to build wall shelves

Wall shelves have become a must-have element of modern home décor. Indeed, not only do they provide a practical solution for storing our favorite items, but they also provide a beautiful canvas for showcasing our personal treasures and decorative pieces.

But let’s be real – with so many options out there, choosing the right type of wall shelf can be a daunting task. Do you go for sleek and modern floating shelves, or do you opt for a more rustic, traditional look with bracket shelves? With endless possibilities it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Need help? You can count on us.

In this post, we’ll break down the different types of wall shelves, sharing our top tips and a step-by-step guide on how to build wall shelves that reflect your unique style and complement your home decor.

Different types of wall shelves

With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which type of shelf is best for you. From sleek and modern floating shelves to sturdy and traditional fixed-bracket shelves, each type of shelf has its own unique benefits and drawbacks. In this section, we’ll explore the different types of wall shelves, including floating shelves, fixed-bracket shelves, built-in shelves, adjustable slotted shelves, ceiling-mounted shelves, box or cube shelves, ladder shelves, tension rod shelving, and freestanding shelving. By understanding the characteristics of each type of shelf, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and choose the perfect shelf for your space. 

Floating Shelves

Floating shelves have become increasingly popular in home decor, and it’s easy to see why. Not only do they conserve space, making them perfect for compact or irregularly shaped rooms, but they also showcase treasured items with elegance and are relatively low-maintenance. The benefits of floating shelves are numerous:

One of their greatest advantages is their versatility in design, effortlessly blending with any style, from minimalist to bohemian. The sleek, bracket-free look creates a modern, clutter-free atmosphere ideal for displaying decorative pieces.

Another significant perk is their space-saving quality. By attaching directly to the wall, floating shelves create the illusion of a larger room, making them a great solution for small areas or rooms with limited floor space.

Additionally, floating shelves offer the freedom to customize their length, depth, and spacing to fit individual storage needs and design preferences.

What’s more, they’re relatively easy to install, requiring only basic tools and resulting in a seamless, professional-looking finish.

However, it’s essential to consider the drawbacks of floating shelves:

One major limitation is their weight capacity. While they’re perfect for displaying lightweight items like books, plants, and picture frames, they may not be suitable for heavy objects or large quantities of items.

Another potential issue is instability. If not installed correctly, floating shelves may sag over time, especially if not anchored to studs or wall anchors. Regular maintenance and occasional tightening of the mounting hardware are necessary to ensure stability.

Fixed-Bracket Shelves

The visible brackets can add a decorative touch to the shelf, and high-quality materials or ornate designs can elevate the overall look. While they may come at a higher cost, the decorative boost they provide can be well worth the investment.

Fixed-bracket shelves are versatile and can be used in various rooms of the home, making them a great option for displaying personal treasures or decorative items. Since the brackets are visible, they can also add an industrial or rustic touch to the space, depending on the design and material chosen. Overall, fixed-bracket shelves offer a stylish and functional way to showcase favorite items and add visual interest to a room.

Compared to floating shelves, traditional shelving has two main advantages: it is sturdy and can hold heavy objects, and it comes in a variety of styles and designs. However, it can be more complicated to install.

Built-In Shelves

Recessed into walls, built-in shelves are essentially customized bookcases that offer a seamless blend of form and function. Historically, they were often found in cozy alcoves or nooks, but today, they’re a common feature in new homes and retrofitted into older ones, as seen in this traditional example.

One of the primary advantages of built-in shelves is their ability to create a sense of warmth and organization while maximizing floor space.

They offer several benefits, including:

• Ample storage space without visually cluttering the room
• A sleek, streamlined appearance that complements its surroundings
• The ability to utilize unusual nooks and crannies, ensuring no space is wasted
• A calming and charming aesthetic
• The flexibility to create multi-functional spaces, such as a bedroom-office or living room-library combination
• Additional storage and display areas in spaces like garages and attics

However, built-in shelves also have some drawbacks to consider:

• Their fixed design means they cannot be easily rearranged to accommodate new furniture layouts
• They can be challenging to use if the items you want to display don’t fit their dimensions, and many are not adjustable
• They may impact the resale value of your home
• The color and design of a built-in shelf can significantly alter the ambiance of a room
• Custom-built features like built-in shelves can be costly due to their tailored design and construction, which is why many people opt for ready-made furniture instead. However, the authentic look and feel of a built-in shelf cannot be replicated by arranging separate pieces of furniture.

Adjustable Slotted Shelves

Adjustable slotted shelves offer flexibility and versatility in storage solutions. They can be freestanding or wall-mounted, making them suitable for various spaces, including interiors and garages.

The wall-mounted option is ideal for creating open shelving on a wall without the expense of built-in shelves or bookcases. Metal stripping with slots attaches to the wall, allowing shelves to be positioned at desired heights and spacings. This feature enables easy reconfiguration as storage needs change.

The benefits of adjustable slotted shelves include:

• Versatility: Accommodating diverse items and optimizing space utilization
• Ease of cleaning and organizing: Simplifying the process without requiring emptying the entire cabinet
• Decor flexibility: Facilitating easy rearrangements and updates to cabinet displays.

However, some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Sturdiness concerns: While quality materials and expert installation can mitigate these concerns, some users may still worry about the robustness of adjustable shelves,
• Wasted space: If not thoughtfully adjusted, adjustable shelves can lead to wasted space,
• Higher upfront cost: While adjustable shelves can save money in the long run, the initial investment may be higher than traditional shelving options,
• Complexity: Adjustable shelves may require more effort and planning to set up and adjust, which can be overwhelming for some users
• Limited weight capacity: Adjustable shelves may have weight limits, which can restrict the types of items that can be stored on them.

Ceiling-Mounted Shelves

Ceiling-mounted shelves offer a versatile and space-saving solution for storing items, especially when wall space is limited. They can be installed in various locations, such as above a kitchen island, in a closet, or in a garage, to store seasonal or outdoor gear. These shelves not only provide additional storage but also become a decorative feature in the room.

Unlike traditional shelving, ceiling-mounted shelves are less bulky and can be fitted almost anywhere, providing a sleek and stylish way to display items. They also make the most of unused space, leaving walls free for other furniture and decor.

One of the benefits of ceiling-mounted shelves is that they keep items out of sight and out of mind, reducing clutter and freeing up space in the room.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Items stored at a height can be difficult to access, requiring a ladder or other equipment.
• This type of storage may not be suitable for frequently used items, as it can be a hassle to retrieve them.
• Ceiling-mounted shelves may not be ideal for everyone, especially those with limited mobility or accessibility needs.
• They may require additional installation costs or expertise, depending on the type of ceiling and shelving system.

Overall, ceiling-mounted shelves can be a great option for those looking to maximize their storage space and add a decorative touch to their room. However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and consider individual needs and circumstances before installing them.

Box Or Cube Shelves

Cube shelves offer a unique twist on traditional floating shelves, featuring square, rectangular, or geometric shapes.

They’re ideal for showcasing small decorative items, providing unique and visually interesting design to add a touch of modernity to a room.

However, they can be challenging to install and may appear bulky, potentially detracting from the room’s aesthetic.

Ladder Shelf Or Leaning Shelves

Leaning shelves, also known as ladder shelves, feature a unique design with horizontal rods or shelves between two vertical rods, resembling a ladder. This design transformation from traditional square shelves creates a visually appealing appearance, with a wide base that narrows towards the top.

The narrow top design allows for a clutter-free appearance even when fully loaded, making it ideal for small spaces. While leaning shelves prioritize aesthetics over practicality, they still offer a range of benefits.

When choosing a leaning shelf, consider the material: wood is durable and affordable, while metal excels in non-deformability and moisture resistance. Select a shelf that suits your needs and space requirements.

Leaning shelves can slim a room’s profile, saving space while storing or displaying items. They’re also a cost-effective alternative to similarly-sized shelving units. Available in various sizes, they can accommodate different rooms and purposes.

The benefits of leaning shelves include:

• Versatile and spacious: Leaning shelves can serve as bookshelves, flower shelves, or even simple wardrobes, with adjustable layers to meet individual needs.
• Easy installation: Most models require minimal assembly and can be set up in a few steps.

However, some potential drawbacks to consider:

Floor space occupation: Leaning shelves take up floor space, which may be a concern in very small rooms.

Instability and limited capacity: Some models may be unstable or have limited weight capacity, which can impact their functionality.

Tension Rod Shelving

Consider a tension rod shelf if you need to create a stack or wall of shelving without the hassle of drilling. These shelves feature rods that extend from floor to ceiling, providing a sturdy frame. They’re an affordable and convenient option, ideal for small spaces, rentals, and temporary solutions. Plus, they leave no holes behind when you move out.

The benefits of tension rod shelving include:

• No drilling required,
• Affordable,
• Convenient for small spaces and rentals,
• Temporary solution with no lasting damage.

Some cons to consider:

• Occupies floor space,
• May detract from the room’s aesthetic,
• Some models may be unstable or have limited weight capacity.

Freestanding Shelving

Freestanding shelves are a classic and versatile type of shelving that come in a wide range of styles, materials, colors, sizes, and shapes. They often require some assembly, but installation is generally straightforward.

Free-standing cabinets offer several advantages.

Their sturdy and robust construction makes them suitable for holding heavy objects or large quantities of items. They also provide versatile design options, available in various styles, materials, and configurations, which can add a unique design element to a room. Additionally, they offer extra storage space, ideal for storing infrequently used items or as a creative room divider. Furthermore, they can be easily moved if needed, and their design makes them easier to clean, as they can be moved to access all sides and the floor beneath.

However, free-standing cabinets also have some drawbacks.

They occupy valuable floor space, potentially making a room feel crowded and cluttered. The visible support legs can also make them appear bulky and detract from the room’s aesthetic. Moreover, they are generally more expensive than wall-mounted cabinets, as all sides need to be finished. The selection of options from manufacturers may be limited, although custom designs are possible. Finally, they take up floor space, which can be a concern in small rooms with limited open space.

How to build Wall Shelves

Before building building wall shelves, let’s begin with planning the project, gathering all required materials and tools before proceeding with the comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to build wall shelves.

Step 1: Plan Your Project

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of executing your project, it’s essential to take a step back and plan your work. By taking the time to plan ahead, you’ll be able to identify potential issues, organize tasks, and make informed decisions. In this section, we’ll provide you with valuable tips and insights on how to plan your project effectively and setting yourself up for a successful execution.

Take measurement and choose the style of shelves

To begin, measure the wall where you want to install your shelves, considering the number of shelves you need and their size. This will help you determine the materials you’ll require.

Next, choose a style that fits your room’s aesthetic, such as floating, hanging, wall-to-wall, open, or bracket shelves.

Useful tips

• Take precise measurements: Measure the width, height, and depth of the wall space where you plan to install the shelves. Record these measurements to ensure accuracy.
• Consider the surrounding area: Take note of any obstacles, such as electrical outlets, windows, or doors, that may affect the shelf design or installation.
• Measure the distance between studs Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs and measure the distance between them. This will help you determine the best placement for your shelves.
• Check for any plumbing or HVAC: Verify that there are no pipes or ducts behind the wall that could interfere with your shelf installation.
• Determine the purpose of the shelves: Will they be used for decorative items, books, or storage containers? This will help you decide on the shelf size, material, and design.
• Choose a shelf style: Decide on the type of shelf you want to build, such as fixed, adjustable, or floating shelves.
• Consider the weight capacity: Calculate the weight of the items you plan to store on the shelves and design the shelves accordingly to ensure they can support the weight.
• Plan for shelf spacing: Decide on the spacing between shelves, considering the size of the items you’ll be storing and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
• Think about the shelf depth: Determine the depth of the shelves based on the items you’ll be storing and the space available on the wall.
• Select a material: Choose a material that fits your design style and budget, such as wood, MDF, or metal.
• Create a sketch or design plan: Draw a rough sketch of your shelf design, including the measurements and materials you’ll use. This will help you visualize the project and make any necessary adjustments before starting construction.
• Consider adding a back panel: A back panel can add stability and create a finished look for your shelves.
• Make a list of materials and tools: Once you have a solid design plan, make a list of the materials and tools you’ll need to complete the project. (Brackets, screws, wall anchors, hinges, finishing nails…)

Gather materials and tools you’ll need to build wall shelves

1- Wooden Shelves: Define the style and budget for your project to choose a type of wood/timber. Most common choices include plywood, pine or oak.

2- Shelf support/type installation kit:

• Floating shelf kit
• Shelf Brackets kit: These are essential for supporting your shelves. You can opt for metal or wood brackets, depending on your preference.
• Adjustable shelf kit
• Ceiling mounted shelves kit for Garage or for Living room
• Wood Screws: Essential for securing the brackets to both the shelves and the wall.
• Tape Measure: For precise and accurate measurements – Read our full review to find the best tape measure.
• Drill: Necessary for creating holes and affixing the fasteners and screws.
• Level or Self-leveling Laser Level: Guarantees the shelves are perfectly straight and leveled.
• Stud Finder: Assists in identifying wall studs for robust installation.
• Drywall Anchors: Required if wall studs are not present for mounting the shelves.
• Clamps: Bestow stability to the shelves during installation – Click to read our detailed reviews about clamps
• Paint: Optional for customizing the shelves to complement your room’s aesthetics.

3- Paint: Optional for customizing the shelves to complement your room’s aesthetics.

Step 2: Building your wall shelves

Prepare your workspace: Clear a flat surface, such as a table or countertop, to assemble your shelves. Cover it with a soft cloth or old sheet to prevent scratching.

Gather all the necessary tools and hardware: Make sure you have all the required tools and hardware before starting the assembly process.

Cut the Wood

Measure and cut the wooden boards to the desired length using a saw and sand the edges for a smooth finish. If desired, paint or stain your shelves to match your room’s decor and let them dry completely.

Attach the shelf support

Read the instructions carefully: Before you start assembling your shelves, read the instructions thoroughly to ensure you understand the process.

Then, attach the shelf support (brackets, floating shelf kit or rail shelf standard for adjustable wall shelving system) to the wall using wood screws and a drill, making sure they’re level and securely anchored into wall studs or with drywall anchors. For masonry walls, use an SDS drill, wall plugs, and screws to ensure a sturdy installation.

TOP TIPS

Use a level: Use a level to ensure the shelves are properly aligned and level during assembly.

Tighten screws gradually: Tighten screws gradually to avoid stripping the holes or damaging the shelves.

Choose the right wall anchors: Choose the right wall anchors for your shelves, such as molly bolts or toggle bolts, depending on the type of wall you have (drywall, plaster, or concrete).

Locate the wall studs: Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs, which are usually 16 inches on center. Install the shelves into the studs for maximum support.

TOP TIP#1: Mark the tape instead of the wall – To avoid repainting the wall, apply a strip of tape along the area where you’ll be working. Using a level, lightly draw a pencil line to mark the desired top edge of the shelf – this line will be hidden by the shelf once it’s installed. To protect the paint, use “delicate surface” masking tape. Next, locate the wall studs using an electronic stud finder and mark their centers on the tape. This will enable you to plan your shelf installation to maximize stud support and use the tape as a guide for leveling and securing the shelf.

TOP TIP#2: Leveling with a Laser – Need to level multiple types of shelves? A laser level is the ideal solution. While a self-leveling laser is our go-to choice, any laser that projects a horizontal level line will do the trick. The key is to avoid the hassle of aligning the laser line with the shelf’s height. Instead, project the line anywhere on the wall and use it as a reference point by measuring up from there. You can easily find a reliable and affordable self-leveling laser online, which will also come in handy for future interior leveling projects.

Tighten the wall anchors: Tighten the wall anchors gradually to avoid damaging the wall or the shelves.

TOP TIP#3: Aligning Keyhole slots – When it comes to hanging shelves or shelf brackets, keyhole slots on the back of shelves are a common solution. However, achieving perfect screw alignment can be a challenge. To overcome this, try this foolproof technique for transferring keyhole locations to the wall, ensuring accurate screw placement. If you’re fortunate, you might be able to align the screws with wall studs. Otherwise, use this method to mark the center of hollow-wall anchors.

Here’s how: attach a strip of masking tape to one edge of your level and mark the center of each keyhole on the tape. Hold the level against the wall at the desired shelf height, keeping in mind that the top of the shelf will be above your marks. Once the level is perfectly horizontal, mark the keyhole locations on the wall. Finally, install anchors or screw into the studs, and hang your shelf with confidence.

Assembly your shelves

Carefully hang your shelves on the installed support, using a level to ensure they’re straight. If necessary, loosen the screws and make adjustments to achieve a level installation.

Conclusion

Building wall shelves can be a fun and rewarding DIY project, but it requires careful planning and execution. With so many types of wall shelves to choose from, including floating, fixed-bracket, built-in, adjustable slotted, ceiling-mounted, box or cube, ladder, tension rod, and freestanding shelves, it’s essential to select the right type for your needs and space.

In this post, we’ve provided a comprehensive guide on how to build wall shelves, covering the different types of shelves, their benefits and drawbacks, and a step-by-step guide on planning and building your shelves. From measuring and choosing the right materials to assembling and installing your shelves, we’ve covered it all.

By following our tips and guidelines, you’ll be able to create beautiful and functional wall shelves that reflect your unique style and complement your home decor. Remember to plan carefully, measure twice, and take your time when assembling and installing your shelves. With patience and practice, you’ll be able to create stunning wall shelves that will enhance your living space and provide years of enjoyment.

So, get creative, get building, and happy DIY-ing!  

FAQ – Frequently Asked Question – How to build wall shelves