How to make floating shelves
You will need:
-
Drill
- 12mm MDF
- Panel pins and screws
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Pencil
- Wood glue
- Wall plugs or wood screws
- Saw
- Hammer
- Screws
- Beech effect sticky-backed plastic
Floating shelves - shelves that are attached to the wall without any visual means of support - are a spectacular way to show off your favourite pictures and accessories. Assemble two or three shelves on a wall for a truly eye-catching display.
Time to complete job: A morning, including painting.
Approximate budget: Around £25 for three shelves.
Tip: If you suspect the walls may contain wiring or pipes, use a pipe and cable detector to check before starting work. These can be hired, or you can buy one for around £15.
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Step 1: Measuring and drilling
For each shelf, cut two pieces of MDF to the desired depth for the sides, and cut one piece for the top and two pieces the desired length for the front and back.
Mark the wall where you want the top of the shelves, using a spirit level to make sure the marks are even.
For each shelf, hold the back piece below the marks next to the wall and drill two holes into the wall through the MDF. Take the MDF piece away and place wall plugs into the drilled holes in the wall. -
Step 2: Assembling the shelves
Attach the side, front and top pieces to the back piece of each shelf using wood glue and panel pins.
Cut a piece of beech vinyl to fit the top and side panels. Peel off the adhesive backing and stick firmly into place, tucking neatly under the side edges to finish off. Cut another piece for the front panel, peel off the backing and stick carefully in place.
Use a clean cloth to smooth out any air bubbles. -
Step 3: Finishing
Hold the back piece in position against the wall and screw tightly in place using a hand screwdriver. Paint as desired.
Tip: If you are painting the shelves a contrasting colour to the walls, it might be easier to paint the shelves before you mount them.
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EricR2434 Says:
Posted on 09 of November 2009
I liked the shelf idea. I didn't exactly know what MDF was so here is a link if you don't know either: MDF article from Wikipedia
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philT71821 Says:
Posted on 03 of April 2009
These are great, got my MDF cut to my size. Wife loves them, going to upload a picture as soon as I figure out how to.
Phil -
Louise - UKTV Says:
Posted on 16 of January 2009
As someone who's had 'need more shelves!' on their DIY to-do list for quite some time, I can avoid the task no longer. I'll be printing this off for sure...DIY weekend here I come!
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