How to Manually Install Bookshelves

Customize the look and the versatility of your storage by installing shelves yourself.

Installing bookshelves is a quick and easy weekend -- or even weeknight -- project. Make an awesome storage area out of an unused closet, or an out of the way display area for dolls or collectibles, or just a place to organize your books!

Things You'll Need

• Stud finder
• Screwdriver or drill
• Shelving
• Shelf brackets
• Screws, 1 1/2- to 2-inch
• 2-foot level

Instructions

1. Measure your wall to determine what length of boards or shelving you'll need.

2. Determine the width of your boards by how far out from the wall they can jut without being in the way.

3. Locate the studs on your wall with your stud finder and mark their locations with a pencil mark.

4. Use your level to span across at least two studs to mark the wall at the same height for your brackets. The best way to do this is to mark with a faint horizontal line where the bottom or the top of the bracket will be placed. Then, using one of these marks as a guide, move the level to span another stud and mark the level again. Repeat this until you've marked everywhere you want to place a bracket.

5. Screw the brackets onto the wall, using the level to keep them straight. The screws must go into the studs or the brackets won't have enough support.

6. Place the boards snug toward the front of the brackets, leaving any gaps along the wall for ease of cord access.

Tips & Warnings

• You can have boards cut to size at the lumberyard or home improvement center. Your options include routing and finishing the wood yourself or just buying prepainted specific board lengths of shelving.

• Place a bracket at least every other stud to prevent future sagging of your loaded shelves.