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Home improvement
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Build Floating Shelves

Figure out what to borrow, what to buy, and where you may need local advice before drilling into walls.

3-6 hoursIntermediate

Safety first

  • Confirm what is behind the wall before drilling.
  • Use anchors rated for the expected shelf load.
  • Wear eye protection when cutting, sanding, or drilling.
1

Measure the wall, mark shelf height, and locate studs.

2

Cut and sand boards or confirm purchased shelves fit the space.

3

Pre-drill mounting points and attach brackets or hidden supports.

Tool recipe

Mark what you have and find what you need.

Ask for custom help

Stud finder

requiredtool

Finds safe mounting points behind drywall.

Alternatives: Magnet stud finder

Ask how to confirm the stud edge and avoid false positives.

Drill/driver

requiredtool

Drills pilot holes and drives screws for brackets or supports.

Level

requiredtool

Keeps shelves straight before fastening.

Alternatives: Phone level for rough layout

Miter saw or circular saw

recommendedtool

Cuts shelf boards cleanly to length.

Alternatives: Have boards cut at the store

Ask for a quick safety demo if you have not used this saw before.

Wall anchors

requiredsupply

Supports shelf loads when studs are unavailable.