A basic guide on how to build shelves

by Ann Hayward 08/14/2023


Need shelf organizers but not sure where to start? Adding shelves can provide much needed storage and organization to your space. Building your own wall shelves at home may seem like a challenge, however doing so can save you money and declutter any area. 

Why build your own shelves?

DIY shelves are a great way to organize your belongings. No matter what you need to store or display, you can create shelves to fit your needs.

Not only are DIY shelves a fantastic way to arrange your belongings, DIY wall shelves can be more affordable. When done by a professional, you have to pay for the shelves and installation. When you install them yourself, you bypass the installation fee. 

DIY closet shelving ideas

Adding a shelving unit to your closet can help keep the space organized and efficient. To get started, please consider the following tools and guides needed to install your shelving unit:

  1. Before installing anything, measure the space and determine the number of shelves you would like to install. 
  2. Next, cut a 1x4 board into 3 sections for each shelf. This is where your shelf will sit. 
  3. Use a stud finder to find and mark where your 1x4 boards will be placed. Then screw the boards into the studs. 
  4. Once the 1x4 boards are placed, you can add the shelf panels. You will just need to cut and size the boards to fit within the dimensions of the closet space. Once you have cut the panels, you can then nail them to the top of the 1x4s.  
  5. If there are any gaps between the paneling, try adding caulk for a cleaner appearance. Finally, feel free to paint your shelves a shade of your choosing. 

This project may take around a week to complete. However, the result will be worth your time and effort.

The versatility of plastic crate shelving

Plastic crates make for a fantastic wall shelving. They are sturdy and can be configured in many ways to suit your storage needs. Whether you want a basic or unique layout it can be done with plastic crates. 

Other DIY shelving ideas

There are many other shelf ideas to explore. For example, you can add a shelf to your bed’s headboard. This allows you to store and display your items right above your bed in a neat and fashionable way. 

Need more space in your kitchen? Consider installing shelves to sort your seasonings and glassware. 

Storage shelves are a crucial storage and display solution. Luckily, you can make your own shelving to fit your specific requirements. . Need help with finding materials for your next shelving project? Consider reaching out to an associate at your local home improvement store.

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About the Author
Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]