DIY Floating Shelves: Step-by-Step Guide to Build and Install

Chunk, dark-stained wood DIY floating shelves with books and folders on top.

The thing I would say I struggle with the most in DIY is wanting to do everything all at once. I’ll have an idea for a total room makeover and want to do every element right away, multiplied by however many rooms we have in our house. But if these DIY floating shelves taught me anything, it’s that getting it right takes time (and sometimes a few adjustments).

We built these chunky, rustic-looking DIY floating shelves to fill a weird entryway space in our house (we’ve talked about it a little before when we made our DIY entryway bench for small spaces).

These shelves are perfect for displaying books, decor, and even lightweight plants, making them a versatile storage solution for small homes. They look amazing and really give that empty area some character, plus they tie in perfectly with our DIY fireplace mantel on the other side of the room.

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Tools & Materials for DIY Floating Shelves

To build sturdy DIY floating shelves that won’t sag, you’ll need the following materials and tools:

1×12 boards – 4 at 8-feet long (these will be for the top and bottom parts of the shelves)
1×4 boards – 3 at 8-feet long (these make up the front and sides of the shelves)
2×4 boards – 2 at 8-feet long (these will create the E-shaped inner supports)
Wood stain – (we used Varathane Provincial)
Polycrylic for sealing
Sander
Wood filler
Level
Stud finder
4-inch screws (these guys need to be heavy duty to go into your studs)
Drill
Pocket hole jig
1.5-inch Pocket hole screws
Brad Nails
Nail gun

By using quality wood and materials, these DIY shelves can last for years while maintaining their rustic charm.

How to Build Chunky DIY Floating Shelves

Prepare Your Inner Supports for Strong Floating Shelves

First, you’ll use your table saw to rip the 2×4 boards in half lengthwise, creating the E-shaped structure. These supports are key to ensuring your wall-mounted shelves can hold significant weight without sagging.

Cut and Assemble the Shelf Boxes

Using a 1×12 board, cut eight pieces at 46.5 inches to form the top and bottom of the four shelves. For the front and side panels, use 1×4 boards to create a smooth, cohesive look for your shelves.

Stain and Sand for a Rustic Floating Shelf Finish

Adding a wood stain brings out the natural grain of the shelves, making them perfect for rustic, farmhouse, or modern decor styles. For a long-lasting finish, seal the wood with polycrylic. This step not only protects the wood but also makes your shelves easier to clean.

Tips for Installing DIY Wall-Mounted Floating Shelves

Find Your Studs for Secure Shelves

Using a magnetic stud finder, locate the studs in your wall and mark their positions with painter’s tape. Proper placement is crucial for ensuring your shelves can support heavy decor items.

Mount the Inner Supports to the Wall

Drill the E-shaped supports into the wall at the desired shelf height. For a cohesive look, space your shelves evenly, leaving about 13 inches between each one.

Slide on the DIY Shelf Sleeves

This is the final step in installing your modern DIY floating shelves. Carefully slide the stained and sealed shelf boxes over the supports for a seamless finish. If needed, add a small screw at the back to secure the sleeves.

Frequently Asked Questions About DIY Floating Shelves

Can I build DIY floating shelves without a pocket hole jig?
Yes, but a pocket hole jig makes the assembly much easier and ensures a more stable structure for your shelves.

What is the best wood stain for floating shelves?
For a rustic look, we recommend darker stains like Varathane Provincial or Walnut. For a modern aesthetic, lighter stains or even whitewash can work beautifully.

How much weight can DIY floating shelves hold?
When installed correctly into studs, these shelves can hold up to 50 pounds or more, making them ideal for books, decor, and small plants.

Can I customize the size of floating shelves?
Absolutely! The dimensions of floating shelves can be customized to fit your space. In this guide, we built shelves that are 48 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 3.5 inches tall, but you can adjust the size to meet your needs.

What type of wood is best for DIY floating shelves?
Pine and poplar are popular choices for budget-friendly DIY projects, but hardwoods like oak or maple are more durable and can support heavier items. Choose wood that matches your budget and desired aesthetic.

Can I install floating shelves on drywall?
Yes, but it’s crucial to anchor the supports into studs for maximum stability. If you can’t hit a stud, heavy-duty drywall anchors can be used, but they may reduce the overall weight capacity.

How long does it take to build and install floating shelves?
Building and installing DIY floating shelves typically takes a weekend. The timeline includes cutting and assembling the shelves, staining and sealing, and installing the support structure.

Can floating shelves be removed easily?
Yes, if you avoid permanent adhesives. By securing the shelf sleeves with a single screw or leaving them unglued, you can remove or adjust them as needed without damaging the wall or shelves.

Whether you’re looking to add rustic charm to your entryway or need functional storage in a small living room, these DIY floating shelves are a budget-friendly solution.

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