DIY Invisible Shelf With Metal Bookends

Rest the ruler vertically down the center of one bookend. It's the part that rests against the books. It's not the part where the books sit. Divide the measurement of the bookend height by three to mark screw placement. For example, if the bookend is 9 inches tall, draw a mark 3 inches from the top of the bookend. Draw a second mark 3 inches below the first.

Drill holes at the two marks by using the drill and metal drill bit. Set the part of the bookend with the marks on the wooden block, so the marks face up. Place a dab of cutting oil on the mark. Hold the drill so that the bit points straight down on the mark, and keep it steady. Use a drill speed between low and medium settings to prevent the metal from overheating.

Repeat with the remaining bookends.

Locate a stud on the wall for hanging the shelf. Move the stud finder horizontally across the wall at the height that you've selected for the proposed shelf. Mark the stud with the pencil. This is one side of the stud. Continue moving the stud finder in the same direction until you locate the other end of the stud, and mark it with a pencil.

Place a mark at the center of the stud between the two marks. Erase the two marks for the edges of the stud, leaving the one remaining. Measure down from the first mark, and place a second mark for the other screw. For example, if the second screw is 3 inches below the first on the bookend, measure 3 inches below the mark on the wall.

Press the bookend against the wall, lining up the holes with the marks on the wall. Place one screw in the hole, and drill it into the wall. Keep the drill steady and pointed straight at the wall. Repeat with the second hole.

Repeat with the remaining bookends, placing them anywhere on the wall that you desire.