You can choose from a wide variety of shelving products, but one of the easiest to use is the standard-and-bracket shelving system, in which brackets fit into slotted metal strips known as standards. Many finishes are available (figure A), and some standards have numbered slots for easier installation (figure B). Materials:
Measuring tape
Standard-and-bracket shelving system
Stud sensor
Phillips- or flat-head screwdriver
Level
Hammer or rubber mallet
- After you determine where you want your shelves, use a stud sensor to locate the studs behind the wall. Place your first standard at the desired height directly in front of a stud. Use a level to make sure the standard is plumb (figure C), then secure it with screws.
- Set one end of a level on top of the standard, and mark the top position for the second standard directly over another wall stud. Place the second standard at the appropriate height over the stud, make sure it's plumb, and secure it with screws.
- Fit the brackets into the slots of the standard at the desired height (figure D). Use a rubber mallet or the butt of a hammer handle to tap the brackets down so they fit securely in the slots -- otherwise they might wobble. Lay shelf boards across the brackets.
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