How to Build a Shoe Rack for Your Closet

Build a rack in your closet for a stylish way to store your shoes.
Finished Homemade Shoe Rack

Painted Shoe Rack

This pink shoe rack designed by Kate Riley of Centsational Girl encompasses the colors found in her closet and complements its surroundings with a stylish and vibrant approach.

By: Kate Riley

Materials Needed:

  • one 3/4" x 8" x 36" poplar board (for sides)
  • two 3" x 1/2" x 36" straight poplar boards (for toe rest)
  • two 1/2"-3/4" x 36" dowel rods (for heels)
  • 1 1/4" wood screws
  • power screwdriver
  • drill bits
  • spray primer and paint color of choice
  • measuring tape
  • miter saw

Cut Wood for Sides

Measure the space of the shelf in your closet where the rack will sit and cut two pieces of the 3/4" x 8" poplar board to the height of the space. Allow for a minimum of 16 inches for two tiers of shoes.

Cut Wood on a Table Saw

Cut Wood for Sides of Shoe Rack

Measure the space of the shelf in your closet where the rack will sit and cut two pieces of the 3/4" x 8" poplar board to the height of the space. Allow for a minimum of 16 inches for two tiers of shoes.

Cut for the Toe Rest

Measure the width of the shelf of the closet, subtracting the width of the side boards. Cut your toe rest boards to that measurement.

Measure for Toe Kick and Rod

Using a high heel shoe as your guide, measure the location of the toe kick and dowel rod for both the bottom and top row.

Measure Your Shoe Rack

Measure for Toe Kick and Rod

Using a high heel shoe as your guide, measure the location of the toe kick and dowel rod for both the bottom and top row.

Drill Pilot Holes

Drill pilot holes for the wood screws in the location of the toe kick.

Drill Pilot Holes

Make Pilot Holes with Drill

Drill pilot holes for the wood screws in the location of the toe kick.

Drill Holes for Dowel Rod

Use larger drill bits to create the holes in the sides where the dowel rod will sit.

Drill Holes Into Wood for Dowel Rods

Drill Holes for Dowel Rod

Use larger drill bits to create the holes in the sides where the dowel rod will sit. Do it for both levels.

Attach Toe Rests

Use wood screws to attach the toe rests to the inside of the shoe rack.

Use Drill to Attach Toe Rests

Use Drill to Attach Toe Rests

Use wood screws to attach the toe rests to the inside of the shoe rack.

Insert Dowel Rods

Complete the assembly of the shoe rack by inserting the dowel rods into place.

Spray-Paint Rack

Prime your shoe rack with spray primer and either spray or brush on paint of choice. Return the shoe rack to your closet for a functional and stylish rack for your shoes.

Spray Paint Your Shoe Rack

Spray Paint Your Shoe Rack

Prime your shoe rack with spray primer and either spray or brush on paint of choice. Return the shoe rack to your closet for a functional and stylish rack for your shoes.

Next Up

How to Make a Decorative Pegboard Shelf

Need wall storage but can’t find just the right shelving unit? Try this modern take on an old-school storage idea. It’s easy to build and you can customize the colors however you’d like.

How to Build Rolling Garage Storage Shelves

Custom garage storage can cost a pretty penny. Luckily, we’ve got the perfect DIY garage shelves project for you.

How to Organize a Closet: Tips for Clearing Closet Clutter

Get the organized closet of your dreams with our strategies for storing clothes, photos and art supplies. Plus, learn how to turn your closet into a home office.

How to Build Oversized Garage Storage Cabinets

Say goodbye to clutter for good with the addition of extra-large garage cabinets. Inexpensive and easy to assemble, this DIY storage solution is a perfect weekend project.

Main Closet Design Ideas

Discover storage solutions and organizing tips for utilizing every inch of the space in your closet.

How to Build a Floating Shelf With Hidden Charging Station

Don't let unsightly cables and cords clutter your living space. This DIY floating shelf has a built-in power strip tucked away in a drawer — the perfect spot to charge your phones, tablets and other gadgets out of sight.

How to Make Wire Shelf Covers That Look Just Like Floating Shelves

This renter and homeowner-friendly hack transforms tricky wire shelves into stylish, faux floating wood shelves.

How to Build a DIY Kitchen Island on Wheels

Need some extra workspace in your kitchen? Build a rolling island for added functionality and style. One side stores a stand mixer, sheet pans, cutting boards and more, while the other side allows for extra seating. Perfect for small spaces, this portable kitchen island easily rolls out when you need it and neatly tucks away when you don’t.

How to Build Banquette Seating With Built-in Storage

Optimize seating and storage with an L-shaped bench that will turn any corner into a cozy destination.

12 Organization Essentials to Transition Your Closet From Summer to Fall

Get your wardrobe ready for chunky sweaters, cozy coats and knee-high boots with these closet storage and organization finds we love.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.