How to Make Pantry Shelves

Do you have a pantry in your home you want to add additional shelf space to? This article walks you through step-by-step instructions on building simple shelves and installing them inside a pantry. All that is required to accomplish this task are a few carpentry tools, plywood, wood stain or paint of your choice, and hardware.

Things You'll Need

• Plywood (3/4-inch smooth-finish 8-by-4 feet)
• Measuring Tape
• Circular Saw
• Sander
• Wood Stain or Paint
• 1 1/2-inch Screws
• 4-inch Shelf Brackets
• Screwdriver

Instructions

Cutting Shelves for Your Pantry

1. Measure the length and depth of the pantry for your shelves if your pantry is rectangular. For a pantry shaped like a right-triangle, measure the 2 perpendicular sides of the pantry.

2. Transfer the dimensions from Step 1 onto the plywood. If you have triangular shelves, use the corners of the plywood for the perpendicular sides and connect them with a diagonal line. Cut out the number of shelves you want to install inside your pantry.

3. Sand all rough edges off the shelves. Apply wood stain or paint and allow to dry.

Installing Your Shelves

1. Determine the height of each shelf inside the pantry. Use a straight-edge and draw a light line around the inside walls of the pantry marking the bottom edge of all shelves. Make sure the lines are parallel to the floor.

2. Screw a shelf bracket every 4 inches along the underside of each line on the wall.

3. Place a shelf on top of each set of brackets.

Tips & Warnings

• Be cautious when using power tools.