DIY Floating Shelves

By Ben Uyeda

SKILL
easy

Transform your space with these budget-friendly DIY floating shelves! In this step-by-step tutorial, @HomeMadeModern guides you through the process of creating stylish and functional floating shelves for under $100. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned DIY enthusiast, this project is perfect for adding a touch of modern charm to any room.

Tools

  • 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 1/2" Drill/Driver
  • 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Cordless Rotary Tool Kit
  • Tape Measure
  • 18V ONE+ HP Brushless Cordless Rotary Tool Kit
  • Whole Stud Detector
  • 18V ONE+ 5" Random Orbit Sander
  • 18V ONE+ HP Brushless 10" Sliding Compound Miter Saw Kit

Steps

Step 1

Using a 2”x8” board and a Miter Saw, cut three pieces that are each 24” in length. Sand each piece to desired finish.

Tools

Miter Saw, Sander

Step 2

Make three marks on one side of the board where you will drill the holes for the dowels. One mark on each side, 2” from the end of the board, and one in the middle.

Tools

Drill

Step 3

Use a nailset and a hammer to make small indents where you want the drill bit to go. This will help the bit stay steady as you drill. Drill holes using a 3/8” bit. Holes should be several inches deep.

Tools

Drill Hammer

Step 4

Using a track saw, trim off a 1-1/2” to 2” strip of the board, through where the holes are drilled. Ensure that there is enough depth of the holes left in the main board to support the dowels.

Tools

Track Saw

Step 5

Cut dowels into 4” pieces. Nine total are needed.

Tools

Miter Saw

Step 6

Place the dowels into the holes on the trimmed-off pieces of the shelf. Use a hammer to secure the other ends into the main shelf.

Tools

Hammer

Step 7

Stain or paint as desired.

Step 8

Remove the back support (trimmed-off piece) and drill holes through the board 16” apart.

Tools

Drill

Step 9

Locate wall studs using a stud finder, and screw back support piece into studs.

Tools

Drill Stud Finder

Step 10

Push the shelf onto the back support piece. These can be secured with wood glue in the holes if desired.