Radiator Cover Shelf

Add a useful surface and interest to a radiator by building a shelf to go over it.

birch plywood
decorative molding
paint
paintbrush
1" x 8" wood pieces
screws
drill
router with pointed bit
clamps
wood glue
finish nails
hammer

Steps:

1. Cut the plywood to size for the top and attach trim to the edges for a finished look.

2. Glue and clamp two 1" x 8" pieces together for each side. Once dry, cut the pieces so that they are 15 inches wide.

3. Draw desired side support design on paper to create a template for the shape of the sides and trace it on the boards. Draw the interior design to be carved freehand . Don't worry if they're not identical--being different adds interest. Use a router with a pointed bit to cut the design in the wood. If a router isn't available, use wood carving tools or paint the design.

4. To install it, screw a cleat into the wall and set the shelf in place on top of it. Screw the shelf from the top into the cleat with a couple screws as the side supports carry all the weight.