How to Build a Custom Shelf
Custom-cut shelves can be expensive to purchase, because an employee at the lumber yard must cut the plywood sheet to suit your shelving needs. Build a custom shelf at home using common woodworking tools and supplies to save yourself some money. In addition, building a custom shelf for your home gives you full control over the size and design of the shelf. Custom-made shelves made with plywood also allow you to paint and design them to suit your existing décor. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Measuring tape
- 1-inch thick plywood, 1 sheet
- Ruler
- Circular saw
- Medium grit sandpaper
- Paint or stain
- Paintbrush
- Wall stud finder
- 2 shelving brackets, at least 1 inch wide
- Cordless screwdriver
- 2-inch long screws
- Level
- Screwdriver
- 1/2-inch long screws
Instructions
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1
Measure the space where the shelf will be mounted. Collect the total length and width of the space, so you can create the custom shelf. Write the measurements down and lay the plywood sheet on a flat surface. Draw the outline of the custom shelf, using a ruler so you get an even rectangle.
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2
Cut the shelf with a circular saw. Sand the edges and surfaces of the shelf to ensure it is smooth with no splinters. When done, apply a layer or two of your chosen paint color with the paint brush. For a bolder look, apply several layers. Let it dry before mounting it.
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3
Find wall studs located in the wall, so your custom shelf gets the proper support when you start using it. Make pencil marks on the wall when the stud finder informs you of a stud. Locate at least two wall studs. Line one shelving bracket up to each stud mark. Install the shelving brackets to the wall using the cordless screwdriver and the 2-inch screws. Make the shelving brackets vertically even using the level.
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4
Place the custom cut shelf on top of both the shelving brackets and attach it to the shelving brackets by screwing the half-inch screws upwards into the shelf using the installation holes as your guidance.
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