How to Attach Closet Shelves to a Corner

As a Chicago woodworker and DIY expert, I’m frequently asked how to make the most of small spaces. One common challenge is maximizing closet storage, especially using that often overlooked corner area. Installing custom shelves is a great way to add functional storage, but attaching brackets properly in a corner can take a bit of know-how.

In this post, I’ll follow a step-by-step guide to attaching closet shelves to a corner. With my 15+ years of woodworking experience, I’ve tackled my share of closet remodels and learned the ins and outs of securing shelves for maximum strength and stability. I aim to share practical tips and techniques to help you get sturdy, customized storage for your space and needs. Let’s get started!

Understanding Your Space Before You Start

Whenever I take on a new project, the first step is constantly thoroughly assessing the space I’m working with. Understanding your closet corner’s exact dimensions and construction will ensure you choose the proper shelving and hardware for a secure installation.

Measuring the Corner Dimensions

Grab your tape measure and head to the closet! Measure the height from floor to ceiling and the width across the corner space. Account for any obstructions like pipes or existing shelves you’ll need to work around.

Jot down these measurements or even sketch a quick corner layout – this will be useful later when planning the shelf design. Small spaces like closets can be tricky, so accurate measurements are crucial.

Identifying the Wall Construction

In addition to the physical dimensions, it’s essential to identify what material your closet walls and ceiling are made of. This will determine the type of hardware and installation method required to attach shelves properly.

In most modern homes, closet walls are drywall over wood studs. Drywall is relatively simple to work with, but it’s weaker than wood, so you need to make sure to hit the studs with your screws. Older homes may have wood-paneled or plaster walls, which take more finesse and specialty fasteners.

So inspect your corners closely and give the walls a few knocks to determine what you’re working with before you design your shelving layout.

Planning Your Corner Shelf Design

Once you understand the exact space you’re dealing with, it’s time for the fun part – mapping out your ideal shelving plan! Here are some key factors to consider during the design process:

Visualizing the Final Layout

Grab some graph paper and sketch out a basic layout of your closet corner. Use the measurements you took earlier to make it as accurate as possible. Cut out some paper or cardboard templates for your shelves and move them around to experiment with different configurations.

Think about shelf spacing, keeping in mind the heights of items you want to store. I like to tape my shelf templates on the wall to visualize their appearance once installed. Getting the layout right from the start will make the installation go smoother.

Choosing Fixed or Adjustable Shelving

Are you looking for a more permanent system, or do you want the flexibility to rearrange shelves over time?

Fixed shelving gives a clean, seamless look but doesn’t allow adjustments. Adjustable shelves using metal standards will enable you to shift frames up and down as needed. Consider which option best suits your needs.

Selecting Materials for Durability and Style

Wood is a popular choice for its warmth and easy workability. But metal, glass, and even salvaged barnwood can provide a unique, custom look. Choose a material that fits within your budget and matches your desired aesthetic.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s sturdy enough to handle the weight of everything you’ll store. I’m also a big fan of mixing materials – wood shelves with sleek metal brackets or supports, for example.

Custom Cut or Corner Shelf Kits?

Pre-cut corner shelf kits for basic square corners can be found at home improvement stores. These kits come with brackets and can be installed as-is.

I recommend custom-cutting shelves from standard boards for more unique spaces or a truly built-in look. This gives you total control over the exact dimensions and design.

Gathering the Necessary Tools and Supplies

With the design settled, it’s time to make sure you have all the equipment and materials you’ll need for installation day:

Essential Tools

• Power drill and driver bits
• Stud finder
• Level
• Tape measure
• Pry bar
• Safety gear like gloves and eye protection

Hardware and Materials

• Shelves with required length and depth
• Shelf brackets suitable for the shelving material
• Wall anchors (for drywall)
• Wood screws, bolts, and washers
• Wood filler, primer, sandpaper

Having everything prepped beforehand will make the installation process go smoothly and efficiently. Once you’re equipped with the right supplies, it’s gone time!

Pre-Installation Steps

Before you break out the power tools, taking a few preparatory steps will set you up for success:

Safety First!

Working overhead on a ladder while handling power tools requires extra caution. Be sure to wear protective eye gear and gloves during installation. Make your safety a top priority throughout this project.

Do a Dry Run

Hold shelves and brackets up to the corner before screwing anything in to ensure everything aligns properly. Check for level and stability. A test run can help identify any potential issues before they become problems.

Find the Studs

Use a stud finder to locate studs in the walls and mark their positions with painter’s tape. You’ll want to anchor shelves directly into studs for maximum strength whenever possible.

Use hollow drywall anchors if studs aren’t precisely where you need them. But try to hit as many studs as you can for the sturdiest results.

Step-By-Step Installation

Now comes the fun part! You can install your custom corner shelves hands-on with the proper prep work.

Step 1: Mark Shelf Positions

Refer back to your shelf layout plan and use a level to mark the positions of all shelf brackets on the wall. Double-check the spacing and height of each before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Mount Brackets

Hold each bracket in position and drill pilot holes for screws. If hitting a stud, use wood screws directly into the stud. If not, use hollow drywall anchors. Secure all brackets, but don’t attach shelves yet.

Step 3: Attach Shelves to Brackets

Rest the shelving atop the brackets. From underneath, drill pilot holes and screw into the bottom of each shelf from the bracket. Tighten the screws until snug but don’t over-tighten.

Step 4: Test for Stability

Before loading up shelves, test their stability by applying gentle pressure along the edges and corners. Add additional brackets or supports if they wobble or are unstable.

Once everything feels solid, your shelving is ready for use! Start carefully loading items, beginning with the bottom shelves.

Alternative Solutions for Corner Shelving

Standard bracket shelving isn’t the only option for using a closet corner. Depending on your needs and style, consider these alternative solutions:

Floating Corner Shelves

For a clean, modern look, floating shelves attached directly to the wall can be a great option. Choose thick, sturdy boards and mount them using decorative wall anchors. The floating aesthetic hides all hardware.

Tension Rod Shelving

Tension rod systems utilize spring-loaded rods adjustable to the exact width of the closet. Shelves simply rest on the rods, so no wall damage is required. This system is excellent for rental spaces or easy rearranging.

DIY Built-In Shelving

Build and install shelving using the closet’s dimensions for a fully customized look. Cut boards, nail them together, and secure them directly to wall studs. Finish with trim for a built-in style.

Finishing Touches

Once your shelves are installed, add some decorative touches to polish off the look:

Stain or Paint to Match

Use a wood stain or paint on shelves to match the closet’s existing color scheme and décor. Proper prep and primer will ensure maximum adhesion and durability.

Add Moulding for a Built-In Look

Install trim pieces or crown molding at the top of the shelving unit to make it look professionally built into the space. This is great for a cohesive, seamless aesthetic.

Maintaining Your New Shelves

Once installed, be sure to properly care for your new shelving to keep it looking great for years:

• Dust regularly and wipe down with a damp cloth to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
• Check all screws and supports annually to make sure everything remains secure and stable. Tighten anything that may have loosened over time.
• If the existing finish looks worn or faded, re-stain or paint it. Proper maintenance will extend the life of your shelves.
• Avoid overloading shelves to prevent sagging, warping, or detachment from the wall. Distribute weight evenly.

With the proper care and maintenance, your custom corner shelves will serve you well for many years!

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Corner shelves bring unique challenges. Here are some common issues and ways to resolve them:

Problem: Shelf sagging or pulling away from the wall

Solution: Add additional support brackets underneath. You can also install shelf angle braces or corbels for support.

Problem: Uneven walls make getting flush fit tricky

Solution: Use shims to create a level surface and scribe shelves for custom contouring.

Problem: Shelves slipping on brackets

Solution: Make sure the bracket joints are tight. Consider adding shelf pins or extra brackets for stability.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with solutions for any issues! The proper fix will make your shelves look great and function just how you need them to.

Getting The Most Out of Your New Corner Storage Space

After putting in all that work installing your shelves, be sure to make the most of the new storage space:

Maximize Use of Vertical Space

Take advantage of the height of your corner space by installing shelves from floor to ceiling. Place tall items like brooms and vacuums on the bottom, medium-height items in the middle, and small boxes or baskets on top.

Use Bins for Better Organization

Clear plastic bins allow you to see their contents easily while keeping items corralled. Label bins or shelves for intuitive, categorized storage.

Incorporate Decorative Touches

Pretty bookends or woven baskets decorate shelves and keep items upright and tidy. Consider lighting or art above shelves, too.

Adjust and Improve Over Time

Don’t be afraid to change your storage system if it needs to evolve. Adjustable shelves make rearranging and improving your organization easy.

With some planning and effort, you can transform an empty corner into a storage space uniquely suited to your life and style. Have fun getting creative!

This guide gives you the confidence and know-how to tackle closet shelf installation in your home. Check out my website and YouTube channel for more step-by-step DIY project tutorials! I’m always happy to answer any questions you have, too.

Now grab your tools, put on some good music, and work building and installing your dream closet storage setup!