Custom Floating Shelves
This is an excellent beginner-friendly woodworking project that can be customized to fit your space.
Project Overview
Have you ever wanted to build your own floating shelves? In this project, I'll show you how to create a floating shelf inspired by the popular IKEA LACK design using just a few basic woodworking tools. This is an excellent beginner-friendly woodworking project that can be customized to virtually any length, depth, or style to fit your space. Whether you're looking to add storage, display décor, or upgrade a room with a clean modern look, these floating shelves are a practical and rewarding build.
Materials & Supplies
| Material | Qty | Unit Cost | Total | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1/2”x48”x96” Maple Plywood | 1 sheet | $64.64 | $64.64 | Lowes |
1/2”x48”x96” MDF | 1 sheet | $45.00 | $45.00 | Home Depot |
Sheppard Bracket 58 inch | 1 Kit | $116.00 | $116.00 | Sheppard Bracket |
180 Grit Sandpaper | 1 Pack | $14.49 | $14.49 | Amazon |
3/4in 18g brad nails | 1 box | $10.02 | $10.02 | Lowes |
3in Maple edge banding | 1 roll | $31.99 | $31.99 | Amazon |
Edge Banding Cuter | 1 | $19.74 | $19.74 | Amazon |
BOSSDOG Clear Dry Wood Glue | 1 16oz | $13.99 | $13.99 | Amazon |
Polyurethane Satin | 1 Quart | $23.97 | $23.97 | Amazon |
Tools & ROI
These are the tools you'll need to build this project. We show which are truly required, what they cost, and how many builds it takes before each tool has paid for itself in profit.
💡 Value Picks: These tools are selected for being the most affordable options that will get the job done. Consider them "good" tier out of good/better/best—perfect for starting out or keeping costs low.
Kobalt Compact 7-1/4-in 10-Amp Single Bevel Sliding Compound Corded Miter Saw
CRAFTSMAN 10.0-in 15.0 -Amp 120.0 -Volt Portable Jobsite Table Saw with Folding Stand
Metabo HPT MultiVolt 2-in 18 -Gauge Cordless Straight Brad Nailer (Battery Included and Charger Included)
Bosch 18-volt 1/2-in Keyless Brushless Cordless Drill ( 1 -Batteries Included, and Charger Included )
ROI Calculator
Adjust your sell price or build volume to see what this project could do as a real side hustle.
Income Potential
Here's what this project could bring in at different levels of commitment.
Weekend Builder
Build a couple each month as a fun, profitable side project.
Side Hustle
A steady flow of builds that can cover real monthly bills.
Serious Maker
A lean, repeatable product that anchors a small shop business.