Build a Simple Bar Shelf For Extra Seating

A bar is built to wrap around the wall in a dining room.

DOD2604_Bar-Table_s4x3

From: Design on a Dime

Tools and Materials:

one sheet of 3/4” birch wood
three 2x4s
quarter-round molding
white semi-gloss paint
nail gun and nails
drill and 4” screws
one sheet of bendable plywood
wood filler
circular saw
orbital sander

DOD2604_Framing-Bar_s4x3

From: Design on a Dime

Steps:

1. Drill together 2x4s to create two cleats for bar (we made two because our bar wrapped around a corner).

DOD2604_Securing-Bar-Frame_s4x3

From: Design on a Dime

2. Using the stud finder, locate the studs on the wall. Determine the height you would like the bar to be.

3. Using 4” screws, mount assembled pieces as cleats into the studs at the appropriate height.

DOD2604_Bartop-attaching_s4x3

From: Design on a Dime

4. Cut two pieces of birch to the length/width of each cleat, creating the top and bottom pieces of the bar.

DOD2604_Edge-Banding-Bar_s4x3

From: Design on a Dime

5. Attach the top and bottom bar surface to the 2x4 cleats. Our bar wrapped around a corner, so we rounded the corner of the bar in order not to have a sharp edge.

DOD2604_Finished-Bar_s4x3

From: Design on a Dime

6. Face the front of the bar with a thin strip of bendable plywood attaching it with wood glue and nails. If you have a rounded corner, you may have to use clamps to hold the plywood in place until you can nail it on.

7. Fasten molding to the wall to cover the gap where the bar meets the wall. This is optional, but may be necessary if your walls are less the plumb.

8. Use wood filler to fill in gaps and nail holes, sand the bar then paint with white semi-gloss paint.

Next Up

How to Paint Wood Furniture

Learn how to strip, sand and paint wood furniture.

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 Design a Bold Home Bar Inspired by 'Windy City Rehab'

Skip the trip downtown this weekend and build this bold in-home bar inspired by Windy City Rehab instead.

How to Clean Wood Furniture

Say goodbye to water stains, ink marks and polish buildup on your wood furniture by following these simple cleaning tips and tricks.

How to Whitewash Wood: Whitewashing and Pickling Techniques

Easily brighten and add rustic charm to furniture and a variety of wood surfaces with these budget-friendly whitewashing and pickling techniques.

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.

Do-It-Yourself Butcher-Block Kitchen Countertop

Transform your kitchen on a budget with our step-by-step guide to creating a butcher-block countertop.

How to Build a Retractable Canopy

Control the shade by making your own DIY retractable canopy. Open it up to create a shady retreat or close it to let the sun in.

How to Build Floating Storage Shelves

Carter Oosterhouse uses extra wall space to add more storage to an entertainment center.

How to Build Recessed Bookcases

This attic was updated with bright color, sparkling white trim and built-in bookcases that are often found in houses of similar age.

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.