My Experience With Making Hidden Shelf Brackets
As an avid DIYer, I’m always looking for new and creative ways to improve my home. One project that had been on my mind for a while was creating floating shelves in my living room. I loved the modern look they provided, but I didn’t want to have visible brackets taking away from the sleek design. That’s when I discovered hidden shelf brackets.
How to Make Hidden Shelf Brackets
Hidden shelf brackets are a great way to achieve a floating shelf look without visible supports. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make them:
Materials:
- Angle iron
- Metal cutting saw or grinder
- Drill
- Screws
- Level
Steps:
- Measure the length of your shelf and cut two pieces of angle iron to match that length.
- Using a metal cutting saw or grinder, cut a slot in each piece of angle iron, about 1/3 of the way from the top. The slot should be the same length as the thickness of your shelf.
- Drill holes in the angle iron, about 1 inch from the top and bottom, for screws to attach to the wall.
- Attach one piece of angle iron to the wall using screws and a level to ensure it’s straight.
- Slide your shelf into the slot of the angle iron attached to the wall.
- Attach the second piece of angle iron to the wall, making sure it’s level and lined up with the first piece.
- Slide the other end of your shelf into the slot of the second piece of angle iron.
- Secure the shelf to the angle iron with screws through the bottom of the shelf and into the angle iron.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Making Hidden Shelf Brackets
- Choose a sturdy wall to attach the brackets to.
- Be sure to use a level to ensure the brackets are straight.
- Measure the thickness of your shelf before cutting the slots in the angle iron.
- Consider using decorative angle iron for a unique look.
- If you’re not confident with cutting metal, consider purchasing pre-made hidden brackets.
- Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall for added support.
- If you want a longer shelf, use multiple sets of brackets for added stability.
- Consider painting the brackets the same color as your wall for a seamless look.
- If you’re unsure about the weight capacity of your brackets, consult a professional before adding heavy items to your shelf.
- Use caution when handling and cutting metal to avoid injury.
Pros and Cons of Making Hidden Shelf Brackets
Like any DIY project, there are both pros and cons to making hidden shelf brackets:
Pros:
- Provides a sleek and modern look.
- Brackets are hidden, creating the illusion of a floating shelf.
- Allows for more flexibility in shelf placement, as brackets can be spaced to fit your needs.
Cons:
- May not be able to support as much weight as traditional brackets.
- Requires more precision and care during installation.
- Can be more time-consuming to make than traditional brackets.
My Personal Review and Suggestion for Making Hidden Shelf Brackets
Overall, I’m very happy with the way my hidden shelf brackets turned out. They provide the modern look I was going for while still being sturdy enough to hold my decor items. However, I would caution anyone attempting to make their own brackets to be careful when cutting and handling the metal. It can be a bit daunting for those who aren’t used to working with metal, so consider purchasing pre-made brackets if you’re not confident in your abilities.
FAQs
Can hidden shelf brackets hold as much weight as traditional brackets?
It depends on the weight capacity of the specific brackets you’re using. Some hidden brackets may not be able to hold as much weight as traditional brackets, so it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s specifications before adding heavy items to your shelf.
Do hidden shelf brackets require a special type of wall?
No, hidden shelf brackets can be used on any sturdy wall. However, it’s important to ensure the wall is able to support the weight of the shelf and items being placed on it.
Can I use hidden shelf brackets for longer shelves?
Yes, you can use multiple sets of hidden shelf brackets for longer shelves. Be sure to space the brackets evenly and consult the manufacturer’s weight capacity specifications.
Are hidden shelf brackets difficult to install?
They can require more precision and care during installation than traditional brackets, but as long as you measure and cut accurately and use a level to ensure they’re straight, they shouldn’t be too difficult to install.