Introduction
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make freestanding shelves. This is a great project for beginners as it’s a straightforward build with few cuts. Once you’ve mastered this technique, you can make shelves in any size or shape to suit your needs.
You’ll need:
-4x4s (length will depend on the size of your shelves)
-2x4s (length will depend on the size of your shelves)
-1/2″ plywood (for the shelf surface)
-1 1/2″ screws
-2″ screws
-Wood glue
-Drill
First, cut your 4x4s and 2x4s to the desired length of your shelves. Next, assemble the frame by attaching the 4x4s to the 2x4s using 1 1/2″ screws and wood glue. Be sure to drill pilot holes first to prevent splitting the wood.
Once the frame is assembled, cut the plywood to size and attach it to the frame using 2″ screws. Space the screws evenly along the perimeter of the plywood for maximum stability.
Your shelves are now complete! You can finish them as desired or leave them as is.
What You Need
-Tape measure -Plywood -Ruler or a straight edge -Circular saw -High-grit sandpaper -Stain (optional) -Polyurethane (optional) -1x2s -Cordless drill -1/8 inch drill bit -Countertop brackets (4 for each shelf) L brackets (4 for each shelf) Screws (1 1/4 inch pan head screws) Washers
Making the Shelf
To make a freestanding shelf, you’ll need some basic carpentry tools and materials.
Start by measuring the space where you want to put the shelf, and then cut two pieces of lumber to that width. These will be the sides of your shelf. Next, measure the distance between the two side pieces, and cut a piece of lumber to that length. This will be the back of your shelf.
Now you’ll need to cut four more pieces of lumber to function as support braces. Two of these braces should be the same length as the back piece, and the other two should be the same length as the side pieces.
Once all your pieces are cut, it’s time to start assemble your shelving unit. Lay two side pieces down on a flat surface, and place a brace piece at each end so that it forms a 90 degree angle with the side piece. Nail or screw these brace pieces into place. Then, do the same with the other side piece and remaining brace piece. You should now have a rectangular frame.
Now place your back piece inside this frame, flush with the ends of the sidepieces. Nail or screw it into place at each corner.
Congratulations! You’ve just built a basic freestanding shelf unit!
Finishing Up
Assuming you want to know how to make freestanding shelves:
- Once the shelves are installed, you will need to finish them off by adding trim. If you are using a hardwood, such as oak or maple, you may want to use a router to create a bead along the edge of the shelf. This is purely for aesthetics and is not necessary.
- Next, use a drill to attach the brackets to the underside of the shelves. Be sure that the screws are long enough to go through both the bracket and the shelf material, but not so long that they come out the other side.
- Finally, add your desired finish to the shelves. This could be paint, stain, or anything else you like. Let the finish dry completely before adding any items to the shelves.