Wall Shelf

Sheet 2 · The build

A 24-inch shelf that hangs on a French cleat, so it sits tight to the wall and lifts off when you want to move it. It uses one board and teaches you a hanging method you'll use for years.

Tools

• Tape measure and square
• Saw that can cut a 45° bevel (circular saw or table saw)
• Drill with countersink bit
• Stud finder and level
• Clamps, sandpaper (120 and 180 grit)

Materials

• One 1x6 pine board, 8 ft
• 1-5/8" wood screws, about 12
• 2-1/2" screws for the wall, 2 or 3
• Wood glue
• Finish of your choice

Cut list

Sizes in inches: thickness × width × length

Steps

1. Cut A, B and C to 24". Rip a 1-1/2" strip from the leftover board and cut it to 24" for spacer D.
2. Set your saw to 45° and rip C down the middle along its length. You now have two cleats, each with one beveled edge.
3. Sand all parts to 180 grit and ease the sharp edges.
4. Glue and screw the back B to the rear edge of the shelf A, with the bottom of B flush with the underside of A. Drill pilot holes and use three 1-5/8" screws.
5. Glue and screw one cleat to the back of B, flush with the top. The bevel goes at the bottom and slopes up toward B, so it forms a hook that points down.
6. Glue and screw spacer D to the back of B at the bottom. It's the same thickness as the cleat and keeps the shelf plumb.
7. Apply your finish and let it dry.
8. Find two studs. Screw the second cleat to the wall through the studs, level, with the bevel on top sloping down toward the wall. Drop the shelf's cleat into it.