We LOVE  the floating shelves look. We wanted the shelves to run the length of the base cabinet unit. I was very specific about color, size and also wanting some imperfections that natural wood panels have.  The grain pattern and the over all look of the floating shelves I was looking for was not available out there, so Clyde and I ventured out and we did them ourselves.  We headed out to Home Depot and found wood panels that were  2″ x 10″ x 16″ long.  I choose the right color, texture & over all aesthetic.

1. Cut the Wood Panel.

Not having the right tools can definitely deter you from doing a project, but don’t let it stop you this time. Home Depot was great at cutting my long board into three 60 in. long boards, so that took a lot of the hard work off my hands. The cuts were made professionally and perfectly straight. So make sure to know the measurements of your space before you head out; and get your boards cut into the right size.

2. Sand it down.

The next step we took was to sand down the wood boards, making the surface smooth and ready for paint.  Take time in this step and you will reap the benefits when you paint.

3. Wall Brackets

  1. Mark Bracket Position on Wood: Start by positioning the bracket on the back of the wood shelf, exactly where you want it to sit. Carefully trace around the back of the bracket onto the wood. This traced outline marks the area you’ll carve out for the bracket, allowing it to sit flush with the wood.
  2. Carve the Indent for the Bracket: Using a router with the appropriate bit , carefully carve out the area within the traced outline on the wood. This creates an indent deep enough for the bracket to fit into, allowing the shelf to sit flush against the wall when mounted.
  3. Drill the Hole for the Bracket Spike: After carving out the bracket’s outline, drill a hole in the wood where the bracket’s spike will go. This hole should align with the bracket’s spike to ensure a secure fit.
  4. Attach the Bracket: Insert the spike of the bracket into the drilled hole on the wood. The spike holds the shelf securely once it’s mounted.
  5. Mount the Shelf to the Wall: With the bracket securely fitted to the wood shelf, install the bracket onto the wall using screws. When the bracket is mounted, the shelf will sit flush against the wall, thanks to the carved indent.

This setup creates a sturdy, streamlined shelf installation with the wood sitting neatly against the wall for a clean, polished look.

4. Wood Veneer Edge Banding

I like every project we make to have a great finish, that is why I invested in this Wood Veneer Edge banding. I feel like it gave the wood shelves and added layer of glam and elegance. It makes the wood edge look more finished and more cohesive. It is so simple to add on. First make sure you get the right width, so that it covers your entire edge. Next using an iron on a warm setting ( see the specific instructions and temp for the veneer you buy) I ironed over the wood banding; it comes pre-glued -so the heat from the iron melts ( activates) the glue and it sticks to the wood board. Put some pressure on that and make sure that it is on nice and straight. You also want to make sure you don’t leave any bubbles.   Click to purchase ( this is an affiliate link) the Edge Supply Maple 2″ X 50′ Roll, Wood Veneer Edge Banding Pre-glued

5.  Attach the wood shelf to the wall

  1. Measure and Mark: Position the bracket on the wall where you want the shelf to go. Mark the locations of the screw holes with a pencil.
  2. Pre-drill Holes: Using a drill, create small pilot holes in the wall where you’ve marked the holes. This helps the screws go in smoothly and securely.
  3. Install Wall Anchors (Optional): For added stability, insert wall anchors into the pre-drilled holes, especially if you’re mounting on drywall.
  4. Attach the Brackets: Line up the bracket holes with your pre-drilled holes or wall anchors, then use screws to fasten the bracket securely to the wall. Repeat this process for the second bracket.
  5. Position the Shelf: Once both brackets are installed, align the wood shelf over the brackets. Insert the bracket’s spikes or pegs into the holes drilled into the underside of the shelf.

And you’re done! This setup ensures a sturdy, stable shelf that’s securely mounted.

5.  Base Cabinets

Next, we selected our base cabinet. We chose a single unit that met all our storage needs, with plenty of drawers and a clean, modern look. When planning your space, measure carefully and choose a base cabinet that suits your storage requirements. I’ve linked the exact cabinet we used; this is an affiliate link, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you. Click the image to shop!

4.  shelf rail/hardware.

Finally, the glam. I added glam in the details. By bringing in this polished brass shelf rail I was able to add a touch of glam to the natural wood shelves. I was also able to also bring in some glam in the hardware too. I played by mixing in some finished and I am totally loving what I picked out. The Polished Brass shelf rail I purchased in pieces: I purchased the following of each shelf: 1 Gallery Rail Center Post,  2 Gallery Rail End Posts   and  Gallery Rail – 6mm x 36″L – Solid Polished Brass   ( click the links for affiliate links).

We hope you loved this project and that you will want to add a home bar to your home.

S H O P   P O S T S

We hope these tips help you achieve pockets of peace and glam in your space. Please comment below and let us know which of these tips helped you the most.

R E L A T E D   P O S T S

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