HomeTutorialsBuilding Floating Shelves
Back to Tutorials
carpentryIntermediate 2 hours Premium

Building Floating Shelves

Create beautiful, sturdy floating shelves that appear to hover on your wall. Perfect for displaying books, plants, and decor.

Building Floating Shelves

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Plan Your Layout

Decide on shelf placement and spacing. Use a level and pencil to mark a straight line where each shelf will go. Locate wall studs with a stud finder.

2

Prepare the Wood

Cut your boards to the desired length. Sand all surfaces starting with 120-grit and finishing with 220-grit. Apply your chosen stain or paint and let dry completely.

Premium Content

Unlock the Full Tutorial

This premium tutorial has 3 more steps, expert tips, and safety warnings. Subscribe to get full access to all tutorials.

Only $20/month — cancel anytime.

Tools Needed

  • Stud finder
  • Level
  • Drill/driver
  • Measuring tape
  • Wood boards
  • Floating shelf brackets
  • Sandpaper
  • Wood stain or paint