How TO
INSTALL SHELVES

Shelves turn walls into workhorses, and even novices can construct and install them. But besides being sturdy, these ledges can also be stylish, uniting form and function.

first things first

You’ll need to mount the shelves securely, while also considering their appearance. Let the surroundings dictate the materials.

Search for Studs: If you prefer to mount your shelves by screwing directly into the wall, you’ll need to pinpoint the wall studs.

Find a Fastener: Alternatively, use anchors or bolts that spread out once they’re in the wall to create a strong hold. The type of fastener you should use depends on the type of wall you have (see page 73).

Choose the Brackets: You can find a seemingly endless supply of support systems, some utilitarian, others more decorative. The brass brackets shown on page 81 and others like them can be found at housewares shops and online retailers.

pick the planks: Wood, glass, stone—they are all viable options for the ledges. The shelf ledges on page 81 are precut marble windowsills, an affordable alternative to custom stone—and they happen to be the same depth as many brackets.

How-To

Follow these simple steps to install bracketed shelves, using mounting hardware (if any) that comes with the brackets.

Supplies

• Measuring tape
• Painters’ tape
• Level
• Shelving
• Shelf brackets
• Screws and anchors
• Drill

1. 1. First figure out how many shelves you want. Space them as desired, from top to bottom. Start with 12-inch intervals, which is what is shown on page 81 (and which will accommodate a variety of decorative objects and also standing books); opt for less or more space between to suit your needs and space.
2. 2. Use painters’ tape to mark the wall where the shelves will go, making sure it is level.
3. 3. Measure the space and purchase shelving to match (or have the shelving cut to fit at your local home-improvement center).
4. 4. Install the brackets first (two brackets per shelf), using studs or anchors; mark the position of the holes on the wall at even measurements from either end of shelf.
5. 5. Rest the shelf on top of brackets and check that they are level.