DIY Cabinet Shelving Quickly Transforms Kitchens
If your kitchen is feeling disorganized and cramped, installing custom shelves inside your existing cabinets can help maximize every inch of available space. DIY cabinet shelving is an easy, budget-friendly approach to tackle clutter while adding style and functionality.
With some basic tools, materials, and a bit of elbow grease, you can quickly transform those empty cabinet boxes into practical storage solutions.
Getting Started with Cabinet Shelving
Before you start drilling and sawing, assessing your space and storage needs is key. Carefully measure the inside dimensions of the cabinets you want to add shelves to. Note any existing shelves, drawers, pipes or obstructions within the cabinets. Understanding the layout and weight capacity will inform what type of shelving will work best.
Choose Cabinet Shelving Materials
Now comes the fun part - picking your shelf building materials. Plywood is affordable and can support medium-weight items. Wood boards make for sturdy, natural-looking shelves. Glass or metal shelves add a touch of modern style. Consider cost, durability, weight tolerance and visual appeal when deciding.
Design Custom Shelving Plan
Sketch out some shelf measurements based on your cabinet space. Factor in spots to avoid pipes, wires or existing drawers. This will determine if you need standard 12-inch brackets or custom lengths. Planning it out ensures your DIY shelves will fit perfectly.
Installation Process for DIY Shelving
Prepare the Cabinet Box
Clear out the cabinet interior and remove any existing shelving or hardware. Give all surfaces a thorough cleaning before installing new components. Now you've got a blank slate for your new organized space!
Cut Boards to Size
Use a circular saw or table saw to cut your shelving boards to the measurements in your plans. Take your time to make straight, smooth cuts. Sand down any rough edges for a polished finish.
Mount Support Brackets
Determine stud locations first using a stud finder, then use a drill to attach sturdy brackets mounted into the studs. For extra stability, also attach to existing cabinet frames. Double check it can handle shelf weight.
Add the Shelving
Set shelving boards atop brackets and fasten them from below with screws. For a more lasting bond, apply wood glue before attaching. Then stain, paint or finish them to match your design style.
Extra Storage & Design Options
Get creative with shape, height, and accessories:
- Corner shelving utilizes awkward wasted spaces
- Pull-out shelves smoothly access heavy pots
- Drawer organizers neatly store utensils
Or go vertical with stackable shelves! The options for maximizing space are endless with DIY cabinet shelving.
Once you install your customized shelving and admire your organized kitchen, it's time to put your new storage space to work! Decorate shelves with pretty containers and regularly used gadgets for easy access.
Got some open shelves? Make a pretty display of cookbooks, spices or colorful dishes. Enclosed cabinets can neatly tuck away larger appliances and bulky cooking tools.
You can add style to your kitchen with the help of a few simple materials and tools. No professional contractor required!