How to put up floating shelves

A picture of floating wooden shelves on a dark blue wall — Our guide to putting up floating shelves

Floating shelves are set to stay on trend for 2018 and they couldn’t be easier to put up. Just follow our simple step-by-step guide.

What you need:

Cordless hammer drill
Cross line laser
Detector
Shelves
Fittings
Wood glue

Step 1

A picture of all the materials needed to put up floating shelves — Here's everything you need

Decide on how many shelves you want, making sure to leave at least 30m clearance between each shelf to fit books, ornaments and any other items you may wish to display. For one floating shelf you will need 2 pieces of wood in a length that suits you.

Step 2

Ensure the wall is safe to drill into using a detection device. We advise using the UniversalDetect as it detects metal, live cables and supporting structures in drywalls, meaning you can easily identify where it’s safe to drill, - Find out more here.

For tips on how to use a detection device check out our article here.

Step 3

Drill plot holes into the first piece of wood
Next drill holes into the second piece of wood to match the first piece of wood

Next drill two pilot holes using a cordless combi drill into either end of one piece of wood slightly inwards. Then drill two larger holes on either end of the wooden plank, big enough to fit dowels, on the outside of the pilot holes, as shown in the picture. Finally, take the second piece of wood and drill two larger holes on either side to match the holes on the first piece of wood.

Step 4

A picture of someone adding wood glue to the larger holes on the piece of wood — Add wood glue to the larger holes on the first piece of wood

Add wood glue to the two larger holes on the first piece of wood and place the wooden dowels in the holes and allow to dry.

Step 5

A picture of someone drilling the first piece wood onto the wall — Place the first piece wood onto the wall

Next, use a cross line laser to help ensure the shelves are fitted level and straight. We would recommend the Quigo. Use the laser lines as a guide and place the first piece of wood on the wall and drill screws in the pilot holes to secure the piece of wood firmly to the wall.

A picture of someone attaching the second piece of wood to the first to complete the shelf — Attach the second piece of wood to the first to complete your shelves

Now take the second piece of wood and match the holes to the wooden dowels and press. Make sure to press firmly to secure the shelf. Your floating shelves are now complete!