Do-It-Yourself Closet Organizer
If you are anything like me, your closet looks like a bomb went off inside! No matter how often I clear out the clutter, there just isn’t enough space to put my things – unless, of course, I get rid of my shoes and clothes! So this year, I decided I would get organized.
Now, you could purchase one of those closet organizers from your local hardware or Home Depot stores, or you could do-it-yourself by adding a few shelves. For this post, that is what we are going to do!
After deciding exactly how you want your closet to look, purchase or cut your shelves to the appropriate size and set aside.
Next, you need to find and mark the studs. The smart way to do this is by using a stud finder (available at your local hardware store.) I must admit that since using this little device, hanging my pictures and shelves has gotten a whole lot easier! Once you find them, mark their location with a pencil for the bracket installation. (Studs usually have a spacing of 16 inches to 24 inches.)
In order to seat the shelves flush to the wall, you need to mark and cut out a groove in the back of the shelf equal to the depth and width of the brackets. You can use a tenon saw and chisel to accomplish this, testing the bracket to insure a flush fit with the back of the shelf. Once this is done, screw the brackets to the shelves.
Apply a thin layer of white glue to the front of the shelves, then fix a facing (approximately an inch wider than the shelf) to the edge. Use finishing nails to secure the fit – approximately 12 inches apart, making sure to center the facing so it protrudes an equal distance on the top and bottom. Repeat this step with all the shelves.
Finish the shelves according to your taste. You can countersink the nailheads and fill them for a smooth finish, sand and paint, or stain, then let dry for a couple of hours before installing them.
Make sure to use a level when you mark the area for the brackets. Pre-drill the holes and use the appropriate plugs (if necessary for plaster and masonary walls.)
One final tip – if any of your shelves butt against the front sides of your closet, you might have trouble opening and closing the doors depending on the door style. To insure smooth operation, cut a triangular piece off the end of the shelf or shelves in question. Finish accordingly.
Good eye, free – it is indeed WordPress
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Thanks, Yadira. Glad you like the articles.
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Thanks, e1tq – there’s definitely a follow-up in the works
Adding to my bookmarks cheers, definitely consider a follow up post.
Sounds like you’re on the right track now, botkier
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Thanks, vinyl, Houston, Bettina, vin number!
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