Hey y’all! My linen closet was well overdue for a makeover, so I decided to get rid of those white wire racks and build my famous DIY floating shelves. Well technically they aren’t famous this is just the 4th time I have done this project, so I feel like I have finally mastered this DIY! This project can be done in any small closet type space. So if you’re ready to transform your linen closet follow this step by step tutorial which includes a video tutorial down below!

Materials

Click the link above to shop this supply list!

Lumber:

-1/2x2x2ft Select Pine

-1/2x2x3ft Select Pine

-1/2x3x3ft Select Pine

-1/2x4ftx8ft Maple Sanded Plywood

Tools:

-Circular Saw

-Kreg Rip Cut Jig

-Brad Nailer

-Impact driver

Misc.

-Screws

-Brad Nails

-Stainable Wood Filler

-Drywall anchors

-Stain of your choice (I used Minwax Wood Finish Oil Stain Oil-based Natural Semi-transparent Interior Stain in the color Natural)

-Stud Finder

-Laser Level

Step 1: Remove the Wire Racks

Before installing floating shelves, you’ll need to remove any existing wire racks. Here’s how:

Empty the Area: Clear off all items from the wire racks.
Unscrew the Hardware: Using a drill or screwdriver, carefully remove the hardware and screws holding the wire racks in place.
Patch Holes: Fill any leftover holes with spackle, let it dry, and sand it smooth. This will give your walls a clean slate.

Step 2: Plan Your Shelving Layout

Once the space is empty and the holes are filled, determine how many shelves you want and their placement. Use a measuring tape and laser level to mark the locations on the wall for each shelf.

Step 3: Cut and Install the Cleats

Cut the Cleats: Measure and cut the cleats to the desired size. Cut 3 per shelf including the back and both sides.
Locate Studs: Use a stud finder to locate studs. If no studs are present in the desired locations, plan to use drywall anchors.
Install the Cleats: Use a laser level to ensure alignment. Predrill holes through the cleats using an impact driver. This helps perfectly align screws or drywall anchors when securing the cleats to the wall.
Secure the Cleats: Drill all three cleats for each shelf into the wall, ensuring they are level and sturdy.

Step 4: Cut and Fit the Shelf Tops

Measure and Cut: Use a home improvement store’s cutting service or a Kreg Rip-Cut Jig to cut the plywood to size. If the space is not square, refer to this video tutorial to help you make more accurate cuts.
Attach the Tops: Place the cut wood onto the cleats.

Step 5: Attach the Shelf Fronts

Brad Nail the Fronts: Use a brad nailer to attach the front pieces to the shelves. If you don’t own a brad nailer, consider renting one.
Fill Nail Holes: Mix a small amount of water with stainable filler to help it blend seamlessly with the wood. Fill in the nail holes and let it dry.

Step 6: Sand and Stain the Shelves

Sand: Smooth the surfaces and edges with 220 grit sandpaper to prepare them for staining.
Stain: Apply your desired stain color, ensuring even coverage. Allow the shelves to dry completely before styling them.