How to Cover Shelves with Liner

Measure the width and depth of each shelf to which you want to apply shelf liner. Record the measurements in inches on paper. Multiply each shelf's length by its depth to find the shelf's square inches. Add the square inches of all the shelves to find the total amount of square inches to be covered with shelf paper. The shelf-lining project requires that amount of shelf liner.

Mark one shelf's length and depth on shelf liner using a ruler and pencil. Many shelf liners come with measuring grid marks on the back, making that task easier. Cut the liner neatly along the marks with sharp scissors or a utility knife.

Lay the cut piece of shelf liner on the shelf, and check whether or not it fits. If it doesn't fit, repeat Step 2.

Remove the shelf liner's self-adhesive backing if it has such a backing. Whether or not the liner has a self-adhesive backing, put one corner of the liner at the respective back corner of the shelf, and carefully press the liner into place. Smooth all wrinkles and tug the rest of the liner into position on the shelf. Rub out air bubbles by running your hand toward the liner's edges.

Trim excess liner material from the front or edges of the shelf with the scissors or utility knife.

Apply shelf liner to each shelf using the same procedure you used to apply liner to the first shelf.