How To Build Floating Shelves – DIY Floating Shelves

By Jill Approved
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Kreg Academy Kreg Academy

Floating shelves don't have to be expensive. These simple playroom shelves can be customized to the size you want and don't require any fancy cuts. These shelves are large enough to handle some heavy duty storage. They measure 48"x11 3/4"x4" but are easily customized.

Difficulty easy

Tools

Kreg Tools

Other Tools

  • Circular Saw (cordless)
    Circular Saw (cordless)
  • Tape Measure
    Tape Measure
  • Drill (cordless)
    Drill (cordless)
  • Nail Gun
    Nail Gun
  • Air Compressor
    Air Compressor
  • Stud Finder
    Stud Finder

Materials

Wood Products

  • 1 Plywood , 1/4" Thick , Full Sheet
  • 2 Board , 2x4 , 96"

Hardware & Supplies

  • 50 Kreg 2 1/2" Screws
  • 50 3/4" Brad Nails
See All Tools & Materials

Cut List & Parts

  • 2 2x4 @ , 47 1/2"
  • 10 2x4 @ , 10"
  • 4 1/4" plywood @ , 47 1/2" x 11 1/2"
  • 4 1/4" plywood @ , 4"x11 1/2"
  • 2 1/4" plywood @ , 48" x 4"
See Full Cut List & Parts

Directions

  • Step 1. Attach the 5- 10" 2x4s to the 47 1/2" piece

    Attach the 5- 10" 2x4s to the 47 1/2" piece. Space them 10" apart and attach using pocket hole screws.

    Step 1

  • Step 2. Mark the placement of the shelf base using a level

    Find and mark studs on the wall using a stud finder, then mark the placement of the shelf base using a level to be sure your shelf is properly placed.

    Step 2

  • Step 3. Attach the shelf base using two screws at each stud.

    Attach the shelf base using two screws at each stud. If you do not have studs to utilize, choose anchors that are rated for the appropriate weight of your shelf.

    Step 3

  • Step 4. Nail 47 1/2" plywood to the top and bottom of each shelf.

    Use a brad nailer and 3/4" nails to nail 47 1/2" plywood to the top and bottom of each shelf.

    Step 4

  • Step 5. Attach each 4"x11 1/2" plywood piece to the sides of the shelves

    Attach each 4"x11 1/2" plywood piece to the sides of the shelves using brad nailer and 3/4" shelves.

    Step 5

  • Step 6. Attach the 48"x4" plywood as the front of the shelves

    Attach the 48"x4" plywood as the front of the shelves using a brad nailer and 3/4" brad nails.

    Step 6

  • Step 7. Sand, stain and polyurethane your shelves

    Sand, stain and polyurethane your shelves as desired. You could also sand, stain and polyurethane the plywood before you attach it, and that may be a better idea. I am not a tidy finisher so let's just say I'm glad these walls were ready for a fresh coat of paint. By the time I was done staining, they needed it.

    Step 7

  • Preparation:

    Cut all of your wood and drill pocket holes in one end of the 10" 2x4 pieces.

    The Kreg Rip Cut is a great accessory for a plywood job like this one because you are using many of the same size pieces.

    To see my post on the Kreg Rip Cut, you can visit http://www.iamahomemaker.com/the-kreg-rip-cut/

    Step 8