How to Build a Sconce Shelf

The sconce shelf is a growing tradition among homeowners. This small wall shelf is mostly decorative, usually having just enough room to hold a tea light or jar candle. There is a huge variety of sconce shelf designs, making specific instructions very restrictive. Below are the basic guidelines for any non-electrical sconce shelf, covering the basic components and materials. The details are up to the individual.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wood
• Saw
• Drill
• Protractor
• Sandpaper
• Glue
• Nails

1. Select the type of wood you wish to use and make sure you have enough of it. Redwood, cherry, even pine makes great shelf material, but the choice is up to you. An average size sconce shelf requires approximately 24 inches in length and at least 6 inches in width.

2. Use a handsaw or jigsaw to cut the back plate of the sconce shelf. About 12 inches in length is a nice wall size but it can be much larger or a little smaller depending on your needs. A straight cut will provide you with a rectangular back plate but again, you can jazz things up with a mitered or beveled edge depending on your level of expertise.

3. Drill a small hole about an inch from the top of the back plate in the center of the wood. This will be the hole used to hang the shelf off a wall mount. Of course, you can use whatever type of wall mount you prefer and may not need to actually complete this step.

4. Determine the width of the shelf and cut using a saw. The width of the shelf should at a minimum match the width of the back plate but a few inches overlap on either side adds a very balanced look to the finished shelf. Be sure not to make the shelf overlong as the back plate may not hold its weight and it will look disproportional.

5. Cut a wooden triangle wedge out of the remaining wood of a comparable length to the main shelf. The angles should be perfect so use a protractor for greatest accuracy. Cut using your saw or jigsaw.

6. Sand all edges of the sconce shelf pieces beginning with a coarse grain like 180 and working down to a fine grit like 220 grain. Rough edges take away from the overall look of the shelf and may prevent the pieces from fitting together smoothly. Take your time with this step and don't move on until you are satisfied.

7. Adhere all pieces of the shelf with both wood glue and finishing screws using the triangle to attach the shelf to the back plate. Depending upon your design, you may want to clamp the shelf as it dries. Paint and decorate as desired.