Creating a wooden storage shelf with cubbies for shoes is a relatively simple woodworking project. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build your own:
Materials Needed:
- Plywood (for the base, sides, and back)
- Wood boards (for dividers and front trim)
- Screws or nails
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Paint or wood stain (optional for finishing)
- Wood filler (if necessary)
- Measuring tape
- Saw (table saw or circular saw)
- Drill
- Clamps
- Level
- Pencil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Design Your Shelf
- Decide on the size of your shoe cubby shelf. The average size of each cubby should be about 12 inches wide and 12 inches tall, but you can adjust based on the types of shoes you want to store.
- Measure the space where the shelf will go and determine the number of cubbies you need.
2. Cut the Plywood
- Cut the plywood to form the top, bottom, and back panels of your shelf. You will need:
- 1 piece for the top
- 1 piece for the bottom
- 1 piece for the back
- The dimensions will depend on how wide and tall you want your shelf to be.
3. Cut the Dividers
- Measure and cut the dividers to the height of the shelf and the depth of the cubbies. These dividers will separate each cubby for the shoes.
- If you want a specific number of cubbies, calculate the number of dividers needed (you’ll need one fewer divider than the number of cubbies).
4. Assemble the Frame
- Lay the top, bottom, and back panels on a flat surface.
- Position the dividers between the top and bottom panels, ensuring they are spaced equally apart.
- Apply wood glue to the edges where the dividers meet the top, bottom, and back pieces.
- Use clamps to hold the pieces together and let the glue set for about 30 minutes.
5. Secure the Frame
- Once the glue is dry, reinforce the frame by drilling pilot holes and inserting screws or nails through the top, bottom, and back panels into the dividers.
- Make sure everything is level and square.
6. Install the Front Trim
- Cut wood pieces to create a trim around the front of the shelf for added stability and aesthetics.
- Attach the trim with wood glue and screws or nails.
7. Finish the Shelf
- Sand the edges and surfaces of the shelf to smooth out any rough spots.
- If desired, apply a wood stain or paint to finish the shelf and match your home decor.
- Let the paint or stain dry completely before moving on.
8. Install the Shelf
- Once the shelf is dry and finished, move it to its designated location.
- You can secure it to the wall using L-brackets if desired for extra stability.
9. Organize Your Shoes
- Finally, place your shoes in the cubbies. You can adjust the shelf’s position as necessary to ensure the cubbies are practical and accessible.
Tips:
- If you’re storing larger shoes, you might want to adjust the height of the cubbies accordingly.
- For a more polished look, consider adding doors or baskets to some of the cubbies.
- To save time, pre-finish the pieces before assembling, especially if you’re using stain or paint.
With these steps, you’ll have a functional and stylish shoe storage shelf that helps keep your entryway or closet organized. Happy woodworking!
For detailed woodworking plans and instructions, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course