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Follow my step by step guide with pictures to build these 2 inch thin floating shelves that are sturdy and deep.
We are currently in the midst of a pantry makeover and while we added some upper cabinets to one side, we wanted to add some floating shelves to the other side to really maximize storage.
We wanted some deep and sturdy shelves but also didn’t want them to be extremely thick. Our shelves came out to be exactly 2 inches thick.
We built a total of 3 shelves measuring 40″ wide by 16 3/4″ deep by 2″ thick. They are spaced 12″ apart.
Tools You May Need
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DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill and Impact Driver
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Buy Now → Supplies
- 2×2’s for framing
- 1/4″ sanded plywood for the tops and bottoms
- 1 by piece of pine to rip to size for the front of the shelves (we used a 1×12)
- 2 1/2 inch pocket hole screws
- 3 inch wood screws for attaching to studs
We made sure to mark where the studs were on the ceiling before installing the shiplap panels so we didn’t lose track of where they were behind the shiplap.
To frame the shelf, we cut the 2×2’s to a width of 40″ and cut 2 side pieces to 14 1/2″. The 2×2’s are attached to studs on the backs and the sides using 3″ wood screws and an impact driver.
Then the sides are attached to the back 2×2 by using a kreg jig and pocket hole screws.
We then attached a 2×2 on the front as shown using the kreg jig and pocket hole screws.
Next, we attached 2 more 2×2’s to add extra support in the middle of the shelf. Ours are not perfectly spaced because we had to avoid the screw heads of the 3″ screws that go into the studs.
The next step was to cut 2 pieces of plywood for the tops and bottoms of the shelves. We then sanded it with 120 grit sandpaper to make them nice and smooth.
Then, we ripped our 1×12 piece of pine using a table saw to create a nice front piece. This came out to exactly 2 inches for the shelf thickness. We attached it with the 18 gauge nail gun.
Repeat these steps for any additional shelves.
We are extremely satisfied with the sturdiness of these shelves. They even pass the 35 pound toddler test with flying colors.
Pantry Makeover Progress
What’s next?
I am so pleased with how this pantry makeover is coming along but there is SO much work left to do. Lot’s of caulking and hole filling to come. Still need to decide on the paint color and cabinet hardware.
Follow along for the full Pantry Reveal!
