How to Make a Wall Mounted Book Shelf
- 1). Purchase a ½-inch thick sheet of plywood and draw the outline of a rectangular bookshelf on it. Use a ruler to make straight lines. An example of a measurement is 6 inches by 15 inches.
- 2). Cut out the shelf using a saw, and then sandpaper the edges smooth. Paint or stain the shelf as desired and let it dry.
- 3). Purchase L-shaped brackets. For a larger bookshelf, purchase metal brackets. Use decorative and simpler brackets for a small bookshelf. The length of each side of the bracket should not surpass the depth of the bookshelf.
- 4). Decide where the shelf should be mounted. Locate the wall studs with the stud finder. Wait until it beeps or lights up, and make a mark on the wall with a pencil. Keep in mind that studs run vertically. Locate as many as possible within the chosen space.
- 5). Choose the vertical placement of the shelf on the wall. Decide on an appropriate height and use the pencil to draw a horizontal line on the wall, where the shelf will be. Check to see if the book shelf is straight by using the level.
- 6). Place the L-shaped brackets underneath the line just drawn. There should be at least one bracket per 14 to 15 inches for proper support, including one bracket on each end of the book shelf. Use a pencil to indicate where the brackets will be installed.
- 7). Use a drill to drill the holes for the screws to hold the brackets. Ensure the drill holes reach the wooden studs in the wall found earlier.
- 8). Attach the brackets to the wall by using the 3-inch-long screws. When done, place the level on top of the brackets to make sure they are evenly attached.
- 9). Place the plywood shelf on top of the brackets. Attach the brackets to the shelf from the bottom by using the ¼-inch screws.
- 10
Place books on the wall-mounted book shelf and use book supports to hold the books in place.
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