A Shelf That Folds Down When Not in Use

Scissor Type

• Use simple scissor brackets to support folding shelves. This type of bracket is designed with different weight capacities to use depending on how big a shelf you want or how much weight you plan to place on the shelf. Once you've decided on the shelf width -- typically between 8 and 11 inches -- and what you plan on using the shelf for, purchase an appropriate length- and weight-capacity scissor bracket. Scissor brackets look like a triangle when folded out. The center of the bracket locks when in the upright position, and folds back down into a small rectangle that lies flat against the wall. To install the scissor bracket, start by running a stud finder along the wall to locate all of the studs behind the shelf's desired location, and and mark the studs. Draw a line from stud to stud using a level. Screw the unfolded brackets to the line on selected studs, depending on how long the shelf is and how much weight you plan to put on the shelf; typically every second stud should do it. Place the shelf on top and screw the shelf to the top of the brackets from the bottom.

Ninety-Degree Type

• Ninety-degree brackets are similar to scissor brackets. This type of bracket -- more commonly used on tables -- work fine for shelves. They have a large metal square in the inside corner that locks the horizontal and vertical arms together when in the upright position. The bracket extends out from the wall more than the scissor type, but typically supports more weight. Check the manufacturer's instructions for weight capacity. This type screws directly to the wall studs, just like the scissor type. Ninety-degree brackets are more visible, and do not allow the shelf to fold completely flat due to the thickness of the bracket. They are used more often for utility purposes when aesthetics are not an issue because they are bigger and are usually made from shiny or unpainted metal, whereas scissor brackets come in a variety of colors, including brown or black, and are designed to fit in a setting where aesthetics are important.

Corbel Type

• Plywood corbels can be used to make a homemade bracket. This type of shelf can support more weight than almost any metal bracket. Corbels are in common use on island peninsula overhangs, on fireplace mantels and anywhere large, cantilevered shelves are used. They consist of flat pieces of plywood with a French curve cut into the front. The back is flat to fit against the wall, the top is flat to support the shelf, and the front features the French curve. Cut the corbel from a square piece of plywood that's as wide as the shelf. Cut the curve on the front and screw a piano hinge vertically to the back side. Screw a piano hinge to the back of the shelf, mark the studs, and then screw the shelf to the wall using the piano hinge. Screw the hinged corbels to the wall studs below the shelf when it's in the upright position. When you fold the corbels back flat against the wall, the shelf folds down over them at a slight angle to accommodate the thickness of the corbels. Hold the shelf up, fold the corbels out and allow the shelf to sit on top of the corbels for the upright position.

Shelf Material

• Folding shelves should be as light as possible, while remaining strong and resilient. Plywood works best. Use 3/4-inch hardwood plywood for nice-looking shelves. To take it one step further, nail a 1/4-by-3/4-inch strip of hardwood to the front of the shelf to cover the raw edge of the plywood. Finish the shelf with stain and lacquer and use it in any living room. Use fir plywood for folding utility shelves. It's strong, and if you use CDX fir plywood, it's water-resistant and holds up for years without any paint or finish. Another option for shelving is medium-density laminate. This composite material has a slick plastic coating on both sides that resembles countertop laminate. It's strong and easy to clean and looks attractive in almost any room. Paint the raw edge to match the laminate and use the shelf for almost anything.