Building a corner shelf can be a fun and rewarding DIY project that allows you to add a unique touch to your home decor while maximizing storage space. Whether you have limited wall space, want to showcase your favorite items, or simply want to fill an empty corner, building a corner shelf can be a practical and stylish solution.
With the right tools, materials, and a little bit of creativity, you can create a custom corner shelf that fits seamlessly into your room’s design and serves its intended purpose. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to build corner shelf from scratch.
From planning and measuring to cutting and assembling, we’ll cover all the essential steps to help you create a beautiful and functional corner shelf that will elevate the aesthetics and functionality of any room in your home. So, let’s dive in and learn how to build your very own corner shelf that will become a statement piece in your home!
What Is the Purpose of a Corner Shelf?
Corner shelves are a great way to maximize space in any room. They can be used as decorative storage, like for books and trinkets, or for functional purposes, such as displaying small appliances and cookware.
Because corner shelves can fit into tight spaces that would otherwise go unused, they’re an excellent choice if you’re looking for something to fill a corner that would otherwise be left empty.
Corner shelves are also much easier to install than other types of shelving, making them an ideal choice for DIY projects. With the right planning and hardware, you can assemble your own corner shelf in just a few hours.
Whether you want something functional or decorative, a corner shelf can be the perfect addition to any room. It’s easy to build one yourself with basic tools and lumber, so why not give it a try? Read on to learn more about how to build your own corner shelf!
Are Corner Shelves a Good Idea?
Yes, corner shelves are a great idea for creating additional storage space in any room. Corner shelves can provide an area to store books, dishes, plants, and other items. They can also be used as decorative pieces that add style to the decor of a room. Not only are corner shelves functional, but they also offer another way to showcase your favorite items and personalize any space.
With the right materials and tools, anyone can easily build their own corner shelf. Doing so allows you to customize the size and shape of the shelf while adding a unique touch to any room’s interior design. Whether you choose to install it yourself or hire a professional carpenter, building your own corner shelf is an excellent way to maximize storage potential in your home.
Corner shelves are also great for small spaces since they take up minimal floor space and can fit into almost any corner. This makes them perfect for apartments and other tight spaces that need extra storage without cluttering the room. In addition, corner shelves save time by allowing you to access items easily due to their convenient placement. Plus, they are easy to assemble, and they look great in any home.
Overall, corner shelves are an excellent addition to any room. They are functional and aesthetically appealing, making them a great choice for any home. Building your own corner shelf is also a cost-effective way to create additional storage space without breaking the bank. With the right materials and tools, you can easily construct your very own corner shelf and add style to your interior design.
10 Methods How to Build Corner Shelf
1. Plan and Measure
Before you start building your corner shelf, it’s crucial to plan and measure the space where the shelf will be installed. Consider the size and style of the shelf you want to build, and take into account the dimensions of the corner, as well as any existing furniture or fixtures nearby.
Measure the height, width, and depth of the corner to determine the appropriate size for your shelf. It’s also important to decide on the type of material you will use for your shelf, such as wood, metal, or glass, and gather all the necessary tools and materials for the project.
2. Design and Sketch
Once you have measured the space and chosen the materials, it’s time to design your corner shelf. Sketch out your desired shelf design, including the dimensions and any additional features, such as brackets or decorative elements.
This will serve as your blueprint and guide throughout the construction process. When designing your shelf, consider the wall’s angle and the type of corner it is. For example, if it’s an inside corner, make sure the shelf fits snug against the walls. If it’s an outside corner, you’ll need to take into account how the shelf will fit into the corner.
3. Cut and Prepare the Materials
Next, you’ll need to cut and prepare the materials for your corner shelf. If you’re using wood, measure and mark the dimensions of the shelves and brackets on the wood boards, and then use a saw to carefully cut them to size.
Sand the edges and surfaces of the cut pieces to smooth out any rough spots. If you’re using metal or glass, make sure to measure and cut the materials according to your design, and also smooth out any sharp edges.
4. Assemble the Brackets
The brackets are a critical component of your corner shelf, as they provide support and stability. Depending on your design, you may need to assemble the brackets before attaching them to the wall. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or your design sketch to assemble the brackets, making sure that they are level and properly aligned.
Once the brackets are assembled, use a level to make sure they are even. To make sure your shelf is secure, use a stud finder to locate studs in the wall and attach the brackets to them with screws. Although it is not necessary, you can use wall anchors for additional support.
5. Attach the Brackets to the Wall
Once the brackets are assembled, it’s time to attach them to the wall. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the corner of the wall, as these are the strongest points to anchor the brackets. Mark the positions of the studs on the wall and then use a drill to make pilot holes for the screws.
Align the brackets with the pilot holes and secure them to the wall using screws and a screwdriver or drill. To ensure the brackets are level and straight, use a bubble level to check. Finally, cover up any exposed screw heads with plastic anchors or other wall plugs.
6. Install the Shelves
With the brackets securely attached to the wall, it’s time to install the shelves. Carefully place the shelves on top of the brackets, making sure they are level and centered. Depending on your design, you may need to attach the shelves to the brackets using screws, brackets, or other hardware. Follow your design sketch or manufacturer’s instructions to properly install the shelves onto the brackets.
7. Add Decorative Elements
To enhance the aesthetics of your corner shelf, you can add decorative elements such as trim, molding, or paint. Depending on your design and materials, you may need to cut and attach trim or molding to the edges of the shelves to give them a finished look.
You can also paint or stain the shelves and brackets to match your room’s decor or create a contrasting effect. Make sure to properly prepare the surfaces before painting or staining, and allow the finish to dry fully before moving on to the next step.
8. Organize and Style the Shelf
Once your corner shelf is fully assembled and finished, it’s time to organize and style it. Consider the items you want to display on the shelf and arrange them in an appealing and functional way. You can use the shelves to showcase your favorite books, decorative objects, plants, or other personal items. Play with different arrangements and styles until you achieve the desired look for your corner shelf.
9. Secure the Shelf (Optional)
If you want to ensure additional stability for your corner shelf, especially if you plan to load it with heavy items, you can consider securing it further. One option is to use L-brackets or angle brackets to attach the shelves to the brackets or the wall.
Measure and mark the positions for the brackets on the underside of the shelves, and then drill pilot holes for the screws. Attach the brackets to the shelves using screws and a screwdriver or drill, making sure they are properly aligned with the brackets or the wall. This will provide added support and prevent the shelves from wobbling or falling off.
10. Finishing Touches
Lastly, add any final finishing touches to your corner shelf to complete the project. This may include cleaning up any excess sawdust or paint, polishing the surfaces, or adding any other decorative elements, such as knobs or handles, to further customize your shelf. Step back and admire your handiwork, and make any final adjustments as needed.
By planning, measuring, designing, cutting, assembling, and finishing the materials, you can create a custom corner shelf that fits seamlessly into your room’s design and serves its intended purpose. Don’t forget to properly attach the brackets to the wall, install the shelves securely, and add any optional reinforcements for stability.
With some creativity and attention to detail, you can create a beautiful and functional corner shelf that becomes a statement piece in your home, showcasing your personal style and enhancing your living space.
Things to Consider When Building a Corner Shelf
1. Choose the Right Materials for Your Shelf:
Selecting a strong, durable material such as wood or metal will ensure that your shelf is sturdy and long-lasting. Consider the type of material that will best suit your needs and style when choosing what kind to use.
2. Measure Twice, Cut once:
Accurately measuring out the desired size of your shelf is extremely important for ensuring it fits properly in the corner space. Take into account any other furniture or objects that may be in the area, as well.
3. Choose the Right Fasteners:
Using screws, nails, or another type of fastener appropriate for the material you choose will help ensure your shelf stays securely affixed to the wall and is not easily moved or knocked over. Make sure your fasteners are strong enough to hold the weight of whatever you choose to put on your shelf.
4. Consider Adding Brackets:
Using brackets can help support and reinforce your corner shelf, especially if it is going to be used for heavy items or will be holding a lot of weight. Steel L-brackets are a great choice for added stability and strength and can be easily affixed to the wall.
5. Decorate:
Once your shelf is complete, you can decorate it however you like. Paint it a color that matches your room’s interior décor, or add some fun accessories like plants, knick-knacks, picture frames, etc. to give it a finishing touch. Have fun with it!
Building a corner shelf can be an easy and rewarding DIY project that adds a great touch to any home. By following these considerations, you can ensure that your shelf is sturdy and long-lasting and will look great in whatever room it’s in.
Conclusion
To conclude, building a corner shelf is a great way to bring extra storage space into your home. It doesn’t require special tools or expertise, but the process still yields impressive results within a short timeframe.
Whether you construct your bookshelf from wood or use readymade pieces for it, take care of small details and bends when putting it together, as ultimately, that’s what makes this project so successful and long-lasting.
Don’t forget to stain or paint the shelf if you would like to get even more beautiful results. With this easy-to-follow guide, feel free to give How to Build Corner Shelf a try. Experiment with various designs and materials to master this skill in no time. Good luck!
