How to Build a Folding Shelf in Your Laundry Room

Finished shelf looks crisp and clean

My laundry room was perfect except for one thing- the washer was flat-topped and small, and there wasn't any place to fold my clothes. For just a few dollars I installed a custom-made shelf that really brightened up the room and made it perfect for my laundry needs.

Things You'll Need

• flat-topped washing machine or dryer
• 2x4 wood (1x4 would probably work as well)
• 6-8 long screws
• scissors
• drill
• vinyl tablecloth
• saw
• 1 sheet of plywood
• staple gun
• paint (optional)

Instructions

1. 

   Measure the space available for your shelf. You want a rectangle that reaches along the back wall (A), and along the side wall (B). This will make a rectangle for your shelf. Be as precise as possible. Either cut your shelf yourself or have the hardware store cut it. The supports should also be cut from a 2x4, one the length of (A) and one the length of (B).

2. 

   Paint anything that needs to be painted (shelf, supports, etc).

3. 

   Install supports with long screws. You might want to pre-drill the holes. The top of the support should be level with the top of the machine.

4. Cut the vinyl tablecloth to a rectangle that is three inches bigger than the shelf on all sides.

5. 

   Check the fit of the shelf. There shouldn't be any gaps on the sides.
   Cover the shelf the vinyl tablecloth. Staple the cloth underneath with a staple gun. At the corners, fold the fabric over to minimize wrinkles.

6. 

   Lay the shelf down on its supports and machine.

7. 

   If there is a vertical gap somewhere you can make an additional board with the scrap fabric to prevent things from falling behind.

Tips & Warnings

• When you need to access your machines this shelf simply pulls up and can be put aside.