I've never attempted any DIY projects before, other than assembling IKEA furniture, so please bear with me as I take my first steps into woodworking! I have a car for today, and I want to gather everything I need to build some shelves. I'm planning on creating one shelf for plants (about 150cm wide) and five shelves for shoes (20cm wide each). The walls are plaster, and I currently just have a drill. Here are my questions:
1. What materials do I need for this project? I'm unsure about brackets (which type?), wood glue, wood oil, screws, what kind of saw, and any other necessary tools.
2. I want the shoe shelves to be floating, but I'm not sure if I can find the studs in the wall. Any tips for installing them without studs?
I'd love for answers that are easy to understand, like I'm an 8-year-old!
5 Answers
When you head to buy the wood, make sure to ask for help! Most stores have knowledgeable staff that can guide you on your project. Bring a simple sketch of what you want to create and share it with them. They can help you figure out the right size planks and can often cut them for you. You'll definitely need brackets and screws that are strong enough for what you'll place on the shelves, and it's smart to go for a waterproof finish since you'll be putting plants and shoes on them. Consider getting a clear varnish to protect the wood. Good luck—DIY is super fun once you get going!
Definitely consult the store folks when you're there. They can help you with the basic anatomy of a shelf and the tools you'll need. Grab a set of screws and a good ratcheting screwdriver, as it’ll save you some effort! For floating shelves, you'll want some wall-retainers if you’re working with plaster. They do require more precision, but it’s totally doable! Also, I recommend checking out some carpentry books from your library—they're a great way to learn as you dive into this new hobby!
Going with brackets is a solid plan! Make sure to ask the employees for recommendations on what you’ll need. You’ll need wood, brackets, screws, and a drill with the right bits. A stud finder can be helpful, too. If you're thinking floating shelves, check out some tutorials on YouTube; they can really inspire your design. Just keep in mind, getting the bracket holes lined up can be tricky, so patience is key! Here's a great video for floating shelves: https://youtu.be/LR-Fq9tO1-Q?si=Z24OhD8zkcxg6nwT.
Start small with just one shelf! Look online for step-by-step instructions on building a DIY plant shelf. It’s crucial to find guides that provide details on everything—from materials to assembly. You might even find a book on shelves at a used bookstore for just a few bucks, which can give you a ton of ideas and info!
Before you buy oak, consider switching to poplar. It's easier to work with and more budget-friendly while still looking good! Check out some designs online first—Google "DIY shelf designs" and see what catches your eye. Finding plans will help you gather a complete list of materials before you hit the store.