DIY Wooden Storage Shelves

Cabinet units

• A wooden shelf cabinet can be moved and used in different areas where needed. However, a cabinet unit is complex to build, needing strong and visually appealing shelves.

  When building a unit, always measure the area where it's going to go. An 8-foot shelf may sound great for your storage needs, but won't fit in your 7-foot room. Also, how much support do you need? Stacking one-gallon paint cans will require more rigidity than storing towels and linens. Use the necessary angled hardware support and side pieces to ensure the unit's strength.

  Give your unit a harmonious finish to go with the surrounding decor. Paint or stain the shelves, and avoid leaving any wood unfinished. Bare wood will eventually get stained, and spills and drips can't be wiped away once they've sunk into the wood.

Attached shelves

• Open wall space in any room is great for installing storage shelves. Options range from putting in manufactured racks to building shelf supports from wood, metal or plastic materials.

  Again, ensure the shelves' strength. Find the stud for driving a nail or other fastener behind the wall. Studs are the vertical 2-by-4 wood slabs spaced evenly along the length of the wall supporting the sheet rock, paneling or brick. They will dictate the overall width and placement of your storage shelves. A stud finder is an invaluable tool for the job.

  As with the wooden cabinet unit, consider the use for the shelves before attaching them to the wall. Heavy items will need more durable construction than stacking a few odds and ends.