How to Build Suspended Corner Shelves
Creating suspended corner shelves is a fantastic way to make the most out of limited space while adding a touch of unique charm to your home. These floating shelves are both practical and visually appealing, perfect for displaying items like picture frames, books, and decorative trinkets. Follow our step-by-step guide to build your very own suspended corner shelves.
Materials and Tools:
– Measuring tape
– Pencil
– Wood boards (desired thickness and width)
– Miter saw or hand saw with miter box
– Wood glue
– Sandpaper (medium grit)
– Wood stain or paint (optional)
– Wood screws (lengthy enough to go through the support boards)
– Power drill with screwdriver bit and countersink drill bit
– Stud finder (if mounting on studs)
– Wall anchors (if not mounting on studs)
– Shelf brackets (L brackets) or decorative brackets
– Level
Step 1: Measure Your Space
To start, determine the size and location of your desired shelves. Measure the available space in your corner, taking note of the height, width, and length. Keep these measurements at hand when buying wood for your shelves.
Step 2: Purchase or Cut Wood
Using the measurements taken earlier, purchase wood boards that match your desired thickness and width. If necessary, ask a professional at a hardware store to cut the wood for you or use a miter saw or hand saw with a miter box to cut accurate 45-degree angles at each end of the board.
Step 3: Sand and Stain
Before moving ahead with installation, sand down any rough edges using medium-grit sandpaper. To achieve a smooth finish, work in the direction of the wood grain. Wipe off any excess dust with a rag before staining or painting the shelf boards as desired.
Step 4: Install Wall Brackets
Next, determine the best position of your shelf brackets. If mounting directly on studs, use a stud finder to locate them. Alternatively, use wall anchors for added stability. Keep in mind that heavy shelves require sturdy support, so select appropriate brackets and anchors accordingly.
Using a pencil, mark the bracket positions on the wall while checking the alignment with a level. Drill pilot holes for screws at the marked spots and insert wall anchors if needed. Attach your brackets using wood screws, ensuring they are secure and level.
Step 5: Mount Shelf Boards
Apply wood glue to the mitered edges of your shelf board that will sit against each other, forming a right angle. Hold the glued edges together and mount them onto your installed brackets. Drive screws through pre-drilled holes on the bracket’s top into your shelf board while maintaining alignment with a level for a secure fit.
Step 6: Allow Glue to Dry
Depending on the adhesive you use and its recommended cure time, let the glue dry for at least 24 hours before placing any objects onto your newly-installed corner shelves.
Congratulations! With these simple steps, you’ve crafted practical and attractive suspended corner shelves that beautifully accentuate your space. Time to showcase your favorite items and enjoy your handiwork!