Step 1: Watch an Overview Video

Step 2: Use Uprights for the Back

Start by cutting two uprights for the back. They’ll need 1/2-inch clearance on the top and bottom. The diagonal of the uprights must be less than the width of the cabinet opening. Stain or paint the wood on both sides before you assemble the shelf. Never use treated lumber around food.

Step 3: Assemble the Shelves

You can customize the shelf height to fit pantry items. The shorter side of the shelf goes at the back of the cabinet. Use 45-degree cuts across the front corners to get rid of sharp angles (Image 1).

To keep items from falling off the shelves, nail molding along the front (Image 2). To allow for molding, trim the shelves so they are 1/2- inch narrower on each side than the uprights. Cut the molding to fit the front sides of each shelf, mitering the corners at 22-1/2 degrees and nail it in place with finish nails. Molding will keep items from falling off the shelves. Get a partner to hold the shelf in place while you attach a piano hinge (Image 3).

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    Image 1

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    Image 2

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    Image 3