How to Make Shelf Brackets

Measure the depth of the shelf you are making shelving brackets for. The brackets should not extend beyond the edge of the shelf. Write this measurement down.

Place the plywood down and draw a rectangle that measures one inch by the measurement collected in the previous step. Create an additional rectangle that is identical to the original one.

Draw a triangle on the plywood, where the 90 degree angle sides have the same measurement as the one collected in the first step. Connect the ends with a straight line to finish the triangle.

Cut out the two rectangular pieces and the triangular piece using the jigsaw. Sandpaper each piece slightly, so the splinters from the cuts are removed.

Take the two rectangular pieces and place them in an L-shape. Use nails and a hammer to connect the two. After attaching the two, one piece will be 1/2-inch longer, due to one piece overlapping the other. The longer piece should be against the wall.

Lay the triangle piece down and draw the design you would like on the triangle. This could include random shapes or a flower design, for example. Do not draw anything around the edges, so leave at least half an inch free around the triangle perimeter. Use the jigsaw to cut out your design and sandpaper each cut edge.

Slide the sharp point of the triangle into the corner of the connected rectangles and find the center. Connect the triangle to the L-shape by screwing 3/4-inch long screws through the L-shape sides into the triangle using the mechanical screwdriver. Use at least two to three screws per side. When it is secured, you now have a custom-made shelf bracket ready for installation.