Laundry rooms often get overlooked when it comes to home organization, but having a well-organized laundry room can make a huge difference in your day-to-day life. A laundry room with adequate shelving can make the room look neater and more organized, as well as help you keep all your laundry essentials in one place.
In this DIY woodworking project, we’ll guide you through the process of building your own laundry room shelves. Whether you’re looking to add more storage to a small laundry room or simply want to upgrade the existing shelves, this project is a great way to put your woodworking skills to use and create a functional and stylish space.
Materials Needed
- Plywood
- 1×2 boards
- 1×4 boards
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Stain or paint
Tools Needed
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill/driver
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Pencil
- Clamps
- Sandpaper
Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wood
The first step in building laundry room shelves is to measure the area where you want to install them. Measure the length and width of the space and decide how many shelves you want to install.
Next, cut the plywood into shelves to fit your measurements. Cut the 1×2 boards into shelf brackets and cut the 1×4 boards into cleats to support the shelves.
Step 2: Sand the Wood
Once you’ve cut all the wood pieces, sand them to create a smooth finish. Use fine-grit sandpaper to remove any rough edges and create a clean surface.
Step 3: Install the Cleats
Attach the cleats to the wall using wood screws and a drill/driver. Use a level to ensure that the cleats are installed evenly and straight.
Step 4: Attach the Shelf Brackets
Attach the shelf brackets to the plywood shelves using wood glue and wood screws. Make sure that the brackets are centered on the shelf and flush with the back edge.
Step 5: Install the Shelves
Slide the shelves onto the cleats, resting them on top of the brackets. Use clamps to hold the shelves in place while you attach them to the cleats with wood screws.
Step 6: Finish the Shelves
Once the shelves are installed, you can finish them with stain or paint to match your laundry room decor. Apply the stain or paint with a brush or cloth, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tips for Success
- Measure twice, cut once. Make sure that you measure the space accurately and double-check your measurements before cutting the wood.
- Use a level. Keeping the shelves level is important for both the appearance and functionality of the shelves.
- Sand the wood thoroughly. Sanding the wood will create a smooth surface and help the stain or paint adhere better.
- Use wood glue. Wood glue will help create a stronger bond between the shelf brackets and the shelves, ensuring that the shelves are sturdy and stable.
- Don’t overload the shelves. Make sure that the shelves are only loaded with what they can handle. Overloading the shelves can cause them to sag or break.
Conclusion
Building laundry room shelves is a great DIY woodworking project that can improve the organization and appearance of your laundry room. With just a few materials and tools, you can create a functional and stylish space that makes laundry day a little easier. By following these steps and tips for success, you’ll be on your way to building beautiful and practical laundry room shelves in no time.