Things You'll Need:
- Stud/electrical/pipe finder
- Drywall hand saw
- Wood
- Butt joints
- Framing square
- Wood glue
- Support blocks
- Rubber mallet
- Nails or screws
- Molding
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Step 1
Find the wall studs in the area where you have decided to install recessed shelving. Use a tool that is a combination stud/electrical/pipe finder. You can find one of these at your local home improvement store if you don't have one. Once you've found a clear area where there is nothing between the studs, use your drywall saw and cut out the spot where you plan to put the shelf. For this example, the shelf will fit between the wall studs.
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Step 2
Cut wood to build a box with butt joints to install recessed shelving. The box will serve as a frame. Match the sides so the box will line up evenly. Check to make sure the grain on the wood runs parallel to the sides so the wood will stay even when it swells.
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Step 3
Check the cuts you've made for your box frame by laying the box out and lining up the joints. Clamp the sides together to hold them in place. Use a framing square to make sure the corners are squared.
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Step 4
Install your wood shelves after you've made your box frame. Use wood glue on each end of the shelf. Then, screw support blocks into the studs under where the shelf will go to give greater weight-bearing support.
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Step 5
Slide the box into place, using a rubber mallet to tap it until it is flush with the drywall. Use screws or nails to install your recessed shelving box firmly to the wall.
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Step 6
Finish installing your recessed shelving unit by framing it with molding. This will give it a more professional, polished look.
