DIY Network

Family Room: Shelf Construction How to install shelving into an island counter From "Home Transformations" episode DHTR-202

Host Michael Ray Wisely helps the Horton family kick off their family room project by installing shelving into an existing island counter. A jab saw is used to remove the drywall and shelving is constructed using birch plywood.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Materials:

birch shop plywood 3/4"
cordless drill
table saw
#2 Phillips hex bit
1-5/8" wood screws
carpenter's wood glue
stud finder
jab saw
level
reciprocating saw
flashlight
carpenter's square
level
pine trim molding stock
shim material
primer sealer
paintbrush

Shelf Construction

1. First, using a stud finder, search for the studs in the wall (figure A).

2. Using a jab saw, cut away the dry wall to find the support beams (figure B) and see if there are any pipes lurking behind the wall.

3. Measure and mark the opening for the storage cabinets (figure C) and take out the existing drywall (figure D).

4. Using the same dimensions, start to make the two shelf units (figure E). Each unit consists of four sides, a back and shelf made of 3.4-inch birch plywood. For the shelf back, since strength is not an issue, use 3/8's inch plywood.

5. Assemble the shelf together with carpenter's wood glue and secure with nails (figure F).

Figure E

Figure F

6. Once the shelf frame is assembled, slide the shelf in place and secure with screws (figure G).

7. To finish the boxes, cut trim from pine molding stock and secure to the shelf with finishing nails (figure H).

Figure G

Figure H

8. Slide the boxes into place. To be certain that they are square and level, use shims (figure I).

9. Secure the shelf boxes with nails.

10. Trim the faces of the cabinets and paint (figure J).

Figure I

Figure J