DIY Shelf Coat Hook

An customized version of the simple coat hook shelf.

One of the most functional and well-used pieces of shelving in a home is the entryway shelf, the perfect resting place for beloved winter hats and snow-covered coats. Whether planning a shelf for a tiny apartment or a sprawling home, the basic design of the classic entryway shelf can be adapted to fit any home and space. An entryway shelf is an excellent project for the beginning home improver, or a creative customization masterpiece for the more experience woodworker. The simplicity of the design and materials make this project completely adaptable.

Things You'll Need

• 4-foot-by-6-inch-by-1/2-inch board
• 3-foot-by-3-inch-by-1/2-inch board
• 4 coat hooks
• 2 wood shelf brackets
• Drill
• Drill bit
• Wood screws
• Stud finder
• Pencil
• Saw
• Measuring tape
• Carpenter's level

Instructions

1. Locate the studs in the desired wall using the stud finder. Mark their locations using the pencil. Measure the distance between the studs using the measuring tape.

2. Place the wider shelving board upside down. Position the wood shelf brackets underneath it as they will be installed, the same distance apart as the previous stud measurement. Fasten the brackets to the shelf board with wood screws, predrilling the holes if necessary.

3. Measure the distance between the insides of the two shelf brackets. Cut the 3-inch shelf board to fit within these brackets using the saw. Position the newly cut board between the brackets, flush and perpendicular to the 6-inch shelf board. Predrill holes through the top surface of the 6-inch shelf board and into the 3-inch board. Attach with wood screws.

4. Position the coat hooks evenly on the 3-inch shelf board and attach with wood screws, predrilling if necessary.

5. Place the assembled shelving unit against the stud markings and use the pencil to mark the screw positions in the brackets. Predrill these holes, making sure the drill bit strikes the wood studs each time. Attach the shelving unit to the wall studs using longer wood screws.

Tips & Warnings

• Screw the 3-inch shelf board to the wooden brackets also, if the bracket design allows, for additional stability.

• If no studs are available or their location is inconvenient, you can use drywall anchors, though these significantly reduce the shelf's load-bearing ability.

• Stain or paint the wood pieces of the shelving unit individually before assembly for an attractive and customized piece.

• Do not allow children to climb on this shelving unit, as it is not designed to bear such loads.

References

• Ana White: Build an Entryway Bench and Storage Shelf With Hooks
• Woodcraft.com: Hall Mirror & Coat Rack Combo Plan
• RemodellingGuy: Make this Beautiful Coat Hanger Shelf - Illustrated How-To