How to Build a Box Shelf

One way to install unique and functional shelving while avoiding the necessity of purchasing and installing brackets is to create a box shelf. Box shelves can be made out of a variety of materials, depending on the decor of the room in which they are to be installed. By screwing the box directly to the wall studs, the additional expense and space used by brackets can be avoided, as the structural integrity of the box provides the support for the weight it carries. For this reason, premade boxes are often ideal, though when using vintage boxes for this purpose they may need to be reinforced with modern materials.

Stud finder
Pencil
Measuring tape
4 boards, 1 foot by 6 inches by 1/2 inch
3- by 13- by 1/2-inch board
Drill
Drill bit
Wood screws, 2 inch
Carpenter's level

Instructions

- 1
  Use the stud finder to locate and clearly mark the spacings of the studs in the wall on which the shelf will be installed. Mark each side of the studs to be used. Measure the distance from the center of each stud to the next stud using the measuring tape.
- 2
  Position the four similar boards on their longest, thinnest sides, and arrange them in an even square, so each pair of boards forms an "L" shape and the square measures 13 by 13 inches exactly. Place the square board on top of the arranged boards and predrill evenly spaced holes around the edge of the board, about 1/4 inch from the side. Drill two holes through the square board into each side board. Attach the square board to the side boards by drilling wood screws through the premade holes.
- 3
  Drill two evenly spaced holes at each joint between the side boards, so the holes pass through the side of one board and into the end of the adjoining board. Ensure that these holes are centered in the side boards. Attach the side boards together with the wood screws in the previously made holes.
- 4
  Measure off and mark two evenly spaced, small spots on the outside of the box, on the square board's surface to serve as the location for the attachment to the wall. Predrill these holes.
- 5
  Hold the box shelf up to the wall and line the predrilled holes up to the markings for the studs. Set the carpenter's level inside the shelf, and arrange the shelf on the wall so that it is level. Mark the location of the predrilled holes on the wall using a pencil or a wood screw.
- 6
  Predrill holes where the wall markings are, making sure each hole hits a stud squarely. Return the shelf to the wall and attach it in place using the wood screws.

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