How to Make Your Own Floating Shails
Floating shelves are a chic and functional addition to any home decor, whether you’re aiming to add more storage or simply want to showcase some of your favorite items. The beauty of floating shelves lies in their minimalist design and versatility. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create your own floating shelves, from gathering materials to the final installation.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
Materials Needed:
- Southern yellow pine
- Oak dowel
- Wood screws
- Safety materials
- Aspen plywood
- Pine boards (1×2, 1×3, 1×8)
- Aspen planks
- Wood stain
- Wall color touch-up paint
- Structural screws
- Wood glue
- Pocket hole jig (optional)
Tools Used:
- Miter saw
- Circular saw
- Table saw
- Power drill/driver
- Nail gun
- Long level
- Measuring tape
- Stud finder
- Clamps
- Sandpaper
- Mallet
- Paint brush
- Rags
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Floating Shelves
Step 1: Cut Lumber into Equal Parts
Start by cutting your southern yellow pine or aspen planks into equal parts. Depending on your desired shelf size, common dimensions include 24 inches or 36 inches in length. Use a miter saw for quick and accurate cuts.
Step 2: Cut Dowels into Pieces
Next, take your oak dowel and cut it into pieces that will serve as the mounting supports for your shelves. Each dowel piece should be at least 4-5 inches long. You’ll need two dowel pieces per shelf.
Step 3: Drill Holes in Lumber
Using a drill with a bit slightly smaller than your dowels, drill holes into the back of your shelf pieces. This will accommodate the dowels, which will be inserted into the wall for support.
Step 4: Rip the Lumber
Rip the lumber to the desired width using a table saw. This will form the surface of your shelf. Ensure all pieces are even to maintain stability and aesthetics.
Step 5: Shaping the Dowel
Shape the end of each dowel using sandpaper or a belt sander to ensure a snug fit into the drilled holes. This helps in better uniformity and fitting.
Sanding and Assembling the Shelf
Step 6: Sanding the Lumber
Sand all the wood pieces thoroughly to remove any splinters and rough edges. Start with a coarse grit sandpaper and finish with a finer grit for a smooth surface. This step is crucial for a polished final look.
Step 7: Assembling the Shelf
Begin by applying wood glue to the edges that will be joined. Clamp the glued edges until they are dry. Use a nail gun for faster assembly, and consider drilling pilot holes for stronger attachment if using screws.
Step 8: Stain and Paint
Once assembled, apply your chosen wood stain to enhance the wood’s natural beauty. Follow with a clear finish or paint matching your wall color. Use a paintbrush to apply the stain and rags to wipe off excess, ensuring an even application.
Installing the Floating Shelves
Step 9: Find Studs and Level
Using a stud finder, locate the studs where you plan to mount your shelves. Mark these spots with a pencil. Use a long level to ensure your markings are even.
Step 10: Attach Dowels to Wall
Drill pilot holes into the studs and insert structural screws, leaving enough protruding to fit into the dowel holes in your shelves. Use a mallet if needed to tap the dowels into place securely.
Step 11: Mount the Shelves
Carefully slide your shelves onto the mounted dowels. Use your level to ensure each shelf is straight. Adjust as necessary before finalizing the attachment with additional screws or mounting brackets if needed.
