Want to give your kitchen a stylish, modern refresh without a complete renovation? Open shelving is the perfect way to create an airy, spacious feel while adding both function and personality to your space. Whether you have a small kitchen or just love the idea of displaying your favorite dishware and décor, this project is an easy and affordable upgrade!
This step-by-step guide will show you how to install DIY open shelves, style them like a pro, and choose the best materials for durability and aesthetics.
Materials Needed:
🛠 For the Shelves:
- Solid wood planks (maple, oak, or pine)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood stain or paint
🔩 For Mounting:
- Heavy-duty shelf brackets (matte black, gold, or silver for a modern look)
- Wall anchors and screws
- Measuring tape & level
- Drill
Steps:
1. Choose & Prep Your Wood:
- Sand the wood to smooth out rough edges.
- Stain or paint the planks and let them dry completely.
Get high-quality wooden planks perfect for kitchen shelving—shop our top picks!
Barrington Hardwoods Maple Lumber Boards – 3/4 in x 4 in (2pc)
This wood is perfect for a wide range of projects including furniture, turning, carving, and more
Barrington Hardwoods Canary Wood Lumber Boards – 3/4″ x 4″ (2 Pcs)
Canarywood is known for its beautiful grain and color variations. Each piece is unique and will have a distinct pattern
HSYMQ 24PCS Sand Paper Variety Pack Sandpaper 12 Grits Assorted for Wood Sanding
Soft-backed sandpaper ensures good hand grip and can be used to polish objects smoothly with only moderate effort
Birchwood Casey Easy-to-Use Fast-Acting Walnut Wood Water-Based Stain
Water-soluble stain is sun-fast, true-to-color and non-bleeding. Produces a clear, rich color without grain clouding or smearing
Chip Paint Brush, 3 inch / 75mm Stain Brushes for Painting Walls and Fence Staining
With soft synthetic bristles, this wood stain brush is suitable for all water-based and oil-based stains, paints and sealers, latex, polyurethane, and more!
2. Measure & Mark Your Wall:
- Use a measuring tape to mark your shelf placement evenly.
Ensure a flawless installation with our recommended measuring tools and levels!
Laser Tape Measure 197Ft Laser Measurement & 16Ft Manual Measuring Digital Tape
With an advanced 197-foot laser measure for exceptional ±1/16-inch accuracy, the Cinta Metrica laser supports 6 laser measurement modes.
Laser Measure 50M/165ft, RockSeed Digital Laser Distance Meter with 2 Bubble Levels
With unique 2 Bubble Levels, providing more precise measurement compared to one bubble; With laser precision technology, accuracy ups to ±1/16inch
Laser Level Line Tool, Multipurpose Laser Level Kit
AikTryee Laser leveler tool is designed with one slider selection button in the front to make it easy for everyone to use
3. Install the Brackets:
- Attach the brackets to the wall, ensuring they’re level and properly anchored.
Shop durable, modern shelf brackets that add both support and style!
16 Pcs L Bracket Stainless Steel Corner Brace Sets
The screws in the set have deep threads to provide a firm hold and grip between wood materials
4 Pack L11″ x H 8″ Black Heavy Duty Shelf Brackets with Screws
Heavy-Duty design, maximum support weight of 240lb for a pair of this shelf bracket
Acrux7 12 Pack Black Steel Shelf Brackets 12x8inch
The decorative shelf bracket white has 66lbs/30kg bearing capacity. Triangle shape structure of stable right angle, easy to make level and get rid of wobbles.
4. Mount & Style Your Shelves:
- Arrange a mix of functional and decorative items like dishware, cookbooks, and woven baskets.
Need inspiration? Browse our collection of kitchen décor and organization essentials!
Glass Food Storage Jars 37 oz Set of 6
Keep your food fresher for longer with our Glass Food Storage Jars. The specially designed lids create an airtight seal that locks in freshness and prevents moisture from entering, preserving the flavors and textures of your favorite snacks and ingredients.
AmorArc Ceramic Dinnerware Sets for 4, 12 Pieces Handpainted Plates and Bowls Set
These dinnerware sets are designed by professional artists and feature a unique wavy rim and a clear, speckled glaze finish
Honey-Can-Do STO-02882 Nesting Banana Leaf Baskets
Add interesting texture and reduce clutter on shelves or countertops. Woven with water hyacinth, an eco-friendly natural material.
Conclusion (Final Thoughts)
With just a few simple tools and a little creativity, you’ve transformed your kitchen with beautiful open shelving! Not only does this project create more storage, but it also adds a modern, airy aesthetic to your space. Have fun styling your shelves and experimenting with different layouts over time!
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