Materials:
pine or poplar
decorative trim
pegs
router with guide and 1/2" straight bit
wood glue
toggle bolts
torpedo level
awl or long nail
drill
spade bit
Tip: If you decide to stain the trim and paint the shelf, finish the pieces separately. Once everything has dried, put them together.
Steps:
1. Make the top and face boards the same length. Cut the support brackets at a 45-degree angle with a one-inch detail for more interest.
2. Make pencil marks on the shelf where the brackets will be placed (this provides end points for the route and groove that will hold the decorative trim). To start the cut, gently lower the router onto the board using the pencil marks as a starting point. Make several passes, adjusting the router guide each time.
3. Once the cut is made, glut the trim into place. Then put the shelf brackets into position to conceal the ends.
4. Drill holes for the pegs and glue them in place (except for the two end pegs ).
5. To install the shelf, make sure that it's secure to support the weight of towels by using toggle bolts. Drill pilot holes through two of the end peg holes to find holes in the wall for the toggles. Place the shelf into position,making sure it's level.
6. Using an awl or long nail, push through the pilot holes to make a location mark on the wall. Set the shelf aside and drill two holes large enough for the toggle to pass through with a spade bit because it doesn't slip out of position. While holding the shelf in place, pass the two toggles through the holes until they catch on the other side, and then tighten the screws while keeping pressure on the toggle. Readjust for level and put the last two pegs into position.
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