How to Build a Crown-Molding Shelf

Don't let leftover molding go to waste -- turn it into a shelf. Here's how to do it:

Materials and Tools:

crown molding
paint
miter box and handsaw
small nails or brads
wood glue
hammer
scrap wood
drill
eye hooks or sawtooth hangers
cup hooks

Steps:

1. Cut the crown molding into three sections with a miter box: a long piece for the front and two small pieces of the same size for the sides. Practice on scrap molding before cutting the crown molding, as mitering can be tricky.

2. Paint the pieces as desired and let dry.

3. Put the pieces together and pre-drill holes to prevent splitting. Glue and nail the pieces together.

4. Cut the scrap wood to fit inside the top of the molding to serve as the shelf. Pre-drill holes, and then glue and nail it in place. Repeat for the base.

5. Add two eye hooks or sawtooth hangers to the top of the shelf for hanging.

6. If desired, add cup hooks to the bottom.