How to Build a Corner Storage Shelf for Garages

Garages always seem to collect all the extra stuff in the house. An empty corner can be the perfect place to build a set of shelves to help with organization. Use 1x2 boards as stringers to support plywood shelves.

Things You'll Need

• Level
• Stud finder
• 1x2 lumber
• 2 1/2-inch screws
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• 3/4-inch plywood
• String
• Pencil
• Jigsaw
• Circular saw
• Wood glue
• 1 1/2-inch finish nails
• Hammer

Instructions

Hang the Stringers

1. Measure and mark the locations for the stringers. Size the shelves for the space and what you plan to store on them. A good vertical spacing is 12 to 18 inches, with the sides 20 to 30 inches. Use a level to mark along the walls. Use a stud finder to mark stud locations if the wall is finished with drywall.

2. Cut the stringers to length. Each of the sides should be the same distance from the corner. One side will be cut shorter than the other by the width of the board.

3. Attach the stringers to the wall. Drill pilot holes and attach each stringer with 2 1/2-inch screws into studs. Place the boards so that the wider dimension of the board is against the wall.

Add the Shelves

1. Measure and mark the plywood for the shelves. Each shelf will be shaped like a quarter-circle. For 24-inch sides, you can make four shelves from a 4-foot-by-4-foot half sheet of plywood. Measure halfway down each side and draw lines connecting the opposite sides. Drive a small nail at the center where the two lines cross. To mark the line for the circle, tie a piece of string to the nail and attach a pencil to the other end so that it measures exactly 24 inches from the center. Hold the pencil vertical and trace a circle.

2. Cut the shelves, using a jigsaw to cut around the circle. The lines used to locate the center should divide the circle into even quarters. Cut along these lines using a circular saw or table saw to separate the individual shelves.

3. Dry-fit each shelf to verify it fits correctly on top of the stringers.

4. Spread a thin layer of wood glue on the top edge of the stringers. Place a shelf on top and attach with 1 1/2-inch finish nails. Start with the bottom shelf and work your way up so you will have room to hammer the nails.

Tips & Warnings

• To save lumber or for a tight corner, you can shape the shelves as triangles rather than quarter-circles.

• Paint or stain the shelves to match the finish of your garage.

• If the shelves will hold heavy objects, you may need to add a horizontal support between the ends of the two stringers.

• Always read and follow all safety recommendations when using power tools.

References

• "Home Improvment 1-2-3;" Home Depot; 1995