Easy DIY Bookshelf Ledges

This tutorial will show you how to make easy DIY bookshelf ledges!

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I think my favorite part of Ellie’s new bedroom is her new DIY bookshelf ledges. I actually got this idea from Ana White when she displayed a bunch of family photos on them, but for Ellie’s room I thought it would be a great place to display some of her book collection.

The best part? They’re super easy to make!
And cost me less than $10 for all 3.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

• 1×4 boards
• 1×2 boards
• 2 inch screws
• drill
• nail gun or 2 inch finish nails & hammer
• wood glue
• wood filler
• sandpaper

To start, you need to decide how long you want your bookshelf ledges to be. We opted for 2.5ft wide shelves.

Then for each shelf you’ll need to cut the following in that exact length: (2) 1×4 boards and (1) 1×2 board for EACH shelf. We made 3 shelves total so you can see the boards that we cut below.

Next you’ll want to pre-drill the holes lining up your two 1×4 boards in an L-shape.

Then use a little wood glue and counter sink your screws into those holes.

Next you will attach the front of the boards using wood glue and your nail gun (or just prefinishing nails and hammer).

Your wooden bookshelf ledges should look like this then…
all ready for sanding, then some paint or stain.

Use a stud finder to locate your studs and screw the bookshelf ledges directly into the studs for solid support. Make sure you use a level!

I had actually painted the shelves white but once they were up on the wall they looked a little bland.  Then I added some lovely Amy Howard at Home paint, the same blue color I used on Ellie’s nightstand and 5 drawer chest.

I finished them off with a little clear and dark wax. My favorite!

These bookshelf ledges are nice and deep so I can stack a couple books together. The best part? These ledges only cost less than $10 to make!