Problem: Space is sometimes wasted at the end of a row of cabinets, and premanufactured corner shelves can be expensive.
Solution: You can build your own matching corner shelves quickly and inexpensively.
Equipment list:
Tape measure
Sandpaper
Sanding block
Tack cloth
Drawing compass or large circular object
Combination square
Clamps
Drill with drill bits, countersinking bit and magnetic Philips driver bit
Saber saw
Circular saw
Paint brush
Stain to match existing cabinets
Polyurethane
1" X 12" finished lumber
Wood screws
Safety glasses
Latex gloves
- Measure the height of the cabinet (figure A), then measure and mark the lumber for the back and side of the shelving unit.
* Use lumber that matches your kitchen cabinets.
- Use a combination square to mark straight lines for cutting the lumber.
- Use circular saw to cut along the lines.
- Use a countersinking bit to drill pilot holes on the long side of the lumber for the side, approximately 3/8" from the edge (figure B).
- Screw the boards together using 2" wood screws.
- Measure, mark, and cut lumber for three shelves.
- Use a large circular object such as a trash can lid (figure C) to trace curved lines for the shelves.
- Use a saber saw to cut along curved lines (figure D).
- Sand any rough edges, and wipe off sanding dust with a tack cloth.
- Fasten shelves to the back and side lumber by pre-drilling and using 2" wood screws as before.
- Smooth out any rough areas by sanding.
- Wipe away all sanding dust from the shelving unit.
- While wearing latex gloves, use a clean rag to apply the stain to the shelving unit (figure E).
- When the stain has dried, use a brush to apply a coat of polyurethane.
- Clamp the shelving unit into place.
- Screw the unit into place through the interior or underside of the existing cabinet (figure F).
* Double-check the length of your screws. If they are too long, they might go through the finish on your shelves.
- Drill pilot holes on top and back of shelving unit (figure G) and screw into place (figure H).
*When screwing through drywall, make sure your screws are long enough to go through the shelves and drywall into the supporting frame.
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