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DIY Guide: Build Custom Laundry and Kitchen Shelves with Pro Tips

Building Custom Laundry Shelves

Construct the Basic Box

As an experienced woodworker, start by using a circular saw to cut pieces from 3/4" plywood. Assemble the box shape with wood glue and nails for a sturdy foundation.

Step 1

Add Shelves and Back Panel

Secure the shelves and back panel to the box using wood glue and nails, ensuring everything aligns perfectly.

Step 2

Apply Trim and Finish

Attach 3/4" wood trim to exposed front edges with a finish nailer. Prime and paint to match your space seamlessly.

Step 3

DIY Guide: Build Custom Laundry and Kitchen Shelves with Pro Tips

Install on the Wall

Locate wall studs, mark positions, level the unit, and drive screws through the box into the studs for secure mounting.

Building Custom Kitchen Shelves

Step 4: Design the Layout

This compact, rounded shelf tucks into the end of your kitchen cabinets—perfect for keys, phones, and daily essentials near the door. Measure cabinet depth and height precisely, then sketch the design.

Step 5

Cut the Plywood

Use a circular saw to cut oak plywood to exact dimensions. The two side panels match the cabinet end's height and width.

Pro Tip

Measure plywood thickness and narrow one side panel by that amount. This ensures a perfectly square assembly.

Step 6

Join the Sides

Glue and nail the side panels at a 90-degree angle. Position the narrower panel against the edge for uniform width.

Step 7

Shape the Rounded Shelves

Measure inside width from seam to edge. Cut plywood into a circle with that radius, then divide into four quarter-circles for versatile shelf options.

Step 8

Install the Shelves

Glue and nail shelves to the sides, double-checking for level and straight alignment before securing.

Step 9

Apply Veneer Trim

Cut iron-on oak veneer to size and apply per instructions. Trim excess with a utility knife for clean edges.

Step 10

Stain to Match

Wear gloves and apply stain to blend seamlessly with your cabinets.

Step 11

Mount the Unit

Screw into the adjacent cabinet side. Level carefully and use screws long enough to penetrate but not protrude through the unit.