How to Build Custom Wardrobe Shelving for Your Closet

Making your own custom wardrobe shelving for your closet is a game-changer when it comes to functionality and organization. Not only does it give you the ability to maximize your space, but it also gives you the potential to design something that works for your style and storage requirements. Whether you're wanting to take advantage of a small closet or build a lavish walk-in closet, making your own wardrobe shelving is an excellent DIY project. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to build custom wardrobe shelving from start to finish. From choosing materials to installation tips, we’ve got you covered! Step 1: Plan Your Closet Layout Before you dive into the nitty-gritty of construction, you need to plan your closet organization. Spend a few minutes considering your storage requirements. Do you require additional hanging room for long garments, or do you need additional shelving space for folded goods such as sweaters? Is there a requirement for compartments to house shoes or accessories? Following are some points to keep in mind while planning: Vertical vs. Horizontal Space: Opting for a maximum use of vertical space using ceiling-high shelves can be a good solution for adding storage without consuming additional space on the floor. Hanging Space: Be mindful of how much height you will require for long pieces of clothing such as dresses, suits, or coats. Shelf Depth: Basic shelves are about 12 to 14 inches deep, but if you expect to put big items in storage, you may need to tweak the depth. Compartments or Drawers: If you have accessories, shoes, or bags that are small, incorporating compartments or drawers will keep them in order. Draw your design, and make sure it is compatible with the size of your closet space. Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools Having your design planned out, it's now time to collect the materials and tools you will be using. Here's a list of what you will need to begin: Materials: Wood (Hardwood, MDF, or Plywood): Select a material based on your design and budget. MDF is cheap and convenient to use, while hardwood provides a higher-end appearance. Brackets or Shelf Supports: They are necessary to support the shelves. Ensure that you use heavy-duty brackets in case you have heavy materials like books or shoes. Screws and Anchors: Secure the brackets and shelves to the wall. Use wall anchors if you’re installing on drywall without studs. Paint or Stain: Finish your shelves with a wood stain or paint to match your decor. Tools: Measuring Tape: Accurate measurements are key to building shelves that fit your space. Circular Saw or Miter Saw: For cutting wood to the desired dimensions. Power Drill: To drill pilot holes and attach brackets and shelves with screws. Level: To make sure your shelves are even. Screwdriver: To tighten screws into wood and brackets. Sandpaper: To soften rough edges on wood. Step 3: Measure and Cut the Wood The second step is to cut and measure the wood to the proper dimensions. Measure the width in which your closet is where you will be placing the shelves. If you will be installing more than one shelf, consider how much room you have available between them. Here's a rough outline: Measure the depth and width of where you will be placing the shelves. Cut wood to the width of the closet and the depth you want each shelf to be. You may adjust the shelf length according to your particular closet setup. Should you desire adjustable shelves, you can make the shelves slightly longer and employ shelf brackets that support movement up and down. Tip: If you don't feel like sawing, most home improvement centers have cutting services for a minimal charge. Step 4: Install the Shelf Brackets Now that your wood is cut to the correct size, it's time to put in the shelf brackets. These will be the support system of your shelving, so it's crucial to get them in correctly. Mark the wall: Mark where you intend to install your brackets using a measuring tape. Make sure that the marks are level so that your shelves are not uneven. Drill pilot holes: Drill pilot holes into the wall for the brackets. If you are drilling into drywall, you should use wall anchors to hold the brackets in place. If you are drilling into studs, you can drive screws directly into the wood. Mount the brackets: Secure the brackets onto the wall with screws and ensure they're level. Test them with a level to double-check they are even horizontally. Double-check position: If installing several brackets, double-check the placement is consistent to ensure evenness for support. Step 5: Set the Shelves After your brackets are securely mounted, it's time to install the shelves on top. Slide the shelves onto the brackets carefully, making sure they fit tightly. If your design requires adjustable shelves, you can alter the brackets to various heights depending on your requirements. Test the shelves for stability: Push on the shelves lightly to ensure they're firmly installed. If you're concerned about stability, you can secure the shelves to the brackets using screws. Adjust shelf height: If you prefer adjustable shelves, you can simply move the brackets to a higher or lower position based on what you intend to store. Step 6: Add Finishing Touches In finishing your bespoke wardrobe shelving, place the finishing touches that will assist your new shelves in melding perfectly well with the balance of your remaining area. Paint or stain the shelves: Sand the wood along the edges to round them out, and then stain or paint them to coordinate with your room's color scheme. A stain will bring out the grain of the wood, while paint can add a smooth, contemporary finish. Add extra storage features: If there is available space, you can install hooks, drawer units, or dividers for added organization. You can install a hanging rod or a pull-out basket to access shoes or accessories quickly. Organize your closet: Finally, it's time to bring in all the goodies! Group the similar things together and utilize bins, baskets, or drawer inserts for the smaller items to keep them in order and within reach. Step 7: Relish Your New Custom Wardrobe Shelving! Now that your custom wardrobe shelving is installed, it's time to reap the rewards of an organized, functional closet. Whether you've had it designed for hanging clothes, folded items, shoes, or accessories, your new shelves will keep everything in its place while making your closet feel roomier and more accessible. Final Thoughts Constructing personal closet shelving of your own design is an immensely satisfying undertaking that not only enhances the efficiency of your area but also introduces an element of uniqueness to your own home. Through careful preplanning, a selection of suitable materials, and meticulous adherence to the above guidelines, you will be able to produce a functional yet stunningly attractive system. So, pick up your tools, get creative, and begin building your dream wardrobe! Happy DIY-ing!