How to Make a Block Shelf

Measure the area where you want to attach the shelf, to see how long it needs to be.

Measure and mark the length or lengths on a 4-by-4 post. Cut the post with a circular saw along the line.

Sand the post with sandpaper, starting with a coarse grit and increasing to 220 grit. Brush the post with a clean cloth to remove all dust from sanding.

Apply a primer to the piece and allow time for drying.

Paint the shelf with two to three coats, allowing plenty of time in between coats to dry.

Hold a laser level at the height you want the shelf, or have a helper hold it for you.

Place a stud finder on the wall in the area you want the shelf. Depending on the length of the shelf, locate two to three studs and make a small mark with the pencil at each one on the line from the laser level.

Drill holes in the wall at the marks. Drill the hole large enough for the anchor to fit.

Hold an anchor over a hole and tap into place with a hammer. Repeat for each anchor. Screw the matching screws into the anchors, leaving about 1/4 inch sticking out.

Place the shelf on the wall just under the screws, and line up where you want the shelf to sit. Mark the shelf at the location of each screw.

Attach a keyhole bracket to the shelf at each location marked. A keyhole bracket has a pear-shaped opening that the screws in the wall will fit into. Install the keyhole brackets using the included screws, with the larger opening downward. Repeat for each keyhole bracket.

Line up the keyhole brackets' larger ends with the screws in the wall. Place the shelf onto the screws and pull the shelf downward slightly. The screws will go into the larger opening and slip into the smaller top of the pear-shaped opening, where they can't slip out of place.