DIY: Open Kitchen Shelving
Whether modern, rustic or country, open kitchen shelving can create a distinctive feel. Open shelving allows you to quickly see what groceries you have and makes quick work of putting away dishes. The simple, straightforward design is significantly less expensive than formal cabinets with doors and can be even more cost-effective when you build them yourself.
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Materials
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If you currently have bottom kitchen cabinets and plan to maintain a cohesive design, it may be best to take one of the doors off its hinges and bring with you to shop for wood. Find a wood that closely resembles your current cabinets. If your cabinets are stained, find a similar stain.
For completely new kitchens, choose a wood appropriate for the design you plan to implement. For example, country-style kitchens are most noted for their use of white pine and oak, while rustic kitchens may use a knotty pine or hickory. Modern kitchens can include either white painted maple or sleek mahogany.
When purchasing the wood, also need to consider what type of trim, if any, you plan to use. Most home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe's carry a large variety of decorative wood trims. You also will need brackets to support the shelving. There are many options available, including metal and decorative wood.
Other necessary materials are finishing nails, wood screws, wood glue and paint or stain. It may also be helpful to get a polyurethane sealer since the shelves may be subjected to moisture and grease during normal kitchen use. To install, you will also need a drill and level.
Construction
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Cut your wood to the desired lengths and sand the ends smooth using sandpaper. Take into consideration what you plan to store on the shelves and make sure they are not too long because they may sag in the middle. Once you have each length cut and sanded, paint or stain and let dry completely. Follow with a coat of polyurethane sealer and let dry.
Measure and cut the trim, making sure the ends are cut at a 45-degree angle so they will fit together properly. Paint and seal, letting dry completely between coats. Run a bead of wood glue along the back of the trim and adhere to the shelving. Tap in finishing nails for added strength.
Screw a wood bracket to the shelf using wood screws and set aside. Mark the wall where you plan to install then drill a pilot hole. Using a level, line the brackets up with pilot holes and attach to the wall with wood screws. Check with the level again and make adjustments as necessary.
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