How can I most easily (and inexpensively) build a shelving unit?

by Ann

Answered

I live in a house built in 1839; hence no closets. I want to build floor to ceiling shelves, including an open section to use as a wardrobe, against the wall of my bedroom. Can anyone help with ideas about making them sturdy and safe in the most efficient way possible?

4 answers

Tiffany from Dream Design DIY on Dec 11, 2018

Hi Ann,
Have you thought about building in closets? Here is a tutorial for building a closet. If you are wanting to build a wardrobe here is =diy%7Ctyped&term_meta[]=wardrobe%7Ctyped]Pinterest search. For safety you can attach the wardrobe to the wall by screwing screws in the studs. Enjoy your project!

Helpful Reply
Gk on Dec 11, 2018

I would go to your local big box home improvement stores and check out the shelving units for closets that you put together. They are quite sturdy and come in lots of variations, and several different price ranges. You can buy wire units and wood/mdf units. They are not too difficult to put together.

Helpful Reply
- See 1 previous
- Ann on Dec 11, 2018
  
  Thanks. I like to bicycle when I can, but I've looked at those and think there's a way to blend the old with the new.
  
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- Ann on Dec 11, 2018
  
  That's supposed to say "upcycle" !
  
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Michelle Leslie on Dec 11, 2018

Hello Ann, me again. Not sure if you've seen those shelves made using galvanised pipes. They're pretty easy to put together and you can adapt them to suit your space. Here's one with plans - https://www.simplifiedbuilding.com/projects/diy-closet-system-plans

Helpful Reply
Lynn Sorrell on Dec 11, 2018

Here's simple easy basics, you'll need to do them whatever size you need https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2t2weNRGIeA Are walls plaster? https://homeguides.sfgate.com/anchor-shelves-plaster-wall-23761.html you'll need to anchor shelves to walls here's tips https://homeguides.sfgate.com/build-closet-shelving-wall-studs-24388.html

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- Ann on Dec 11, 2018
  
  Thanks! I think I can do it!
  
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- Lynn Sorrell on Dec 11, 2018
  
  of course you can, these are easy and solid just need to draw out idea-configuration of what you want then get measuring tape and figure out how many boards each size you'll need make sure the boards you get are not warped and you can get them longer cutting them yourself will be cheaper. like if you need 6 boards 2ft long get 12ft boards & cut them down. You could use wide 2x8, 2x12 boards for shelves,bottom shelving and main sides then smaller 2x4s for smaller less weight bearing sides to save on cost of lumber you probably can get free delivery depending how much you spend at Lowes,Home depot or local lumber yard. Golden rule for any construction "measure twice cut once" don't throw out any scraps til you are sure you are done buy carpenter's glue,nails/screws in bulk it'll be cheaper. the small blocks of wood you can use to make rod holders by attaching them in "V" shape to sides of boards where you want rod and setting rod in it for added stability to hold rod(don't need fancy brackets or cheap plastic rod holders) You can use trim molding on front parts for decor,add curtains made of painters canvas tarp for covering and nice baskets/tubs (good place for baskets is Micheals craft store or Goodwill type stores) for storage on shelving that is open along with recycled/upcycled glass jars and tins.
  
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