How to Make an Angled Shelf Towel Rack
Bathrooms are prime real estate, but that doesn’t mean storage has to be hard to come by. Use wall space wisely and create this vertical towel rack to add function and style.
How to Make a Towel Rack Shelf 00:53
Use bathroom wall space wisely and create this vertical towel rack to add function and style.
Gary Payne
Tools and Materials
- miter saw
- drill
- (1) 1x12 x 8' pine
- (1) 1x6 x 8' pine
- wood glue
- 1-1/2” screws
- primer
- paint
- paintbrush
- towel hook
- wall anchors
- (2) D-rings
- sandpaper (optional)
- tape measure
- nail gun
- finish nails
- air compressor
Step 1: Determine Size
Gary Payne
The 1x12 will be the backboard of the towel rack and the 1x6 will be used to make the shelves. Measure the area where the towel rack will go to determine the length of the backboard and then cut the 1x12 to fit. For our rack, we incorporated five shelves so we cut our 1x12 to 38”. We also left some extra space at the bottom for a towel hook.
Step 2: Cut Shelves to Length
Gary Payne
Determine how many shelves will work for the length of your backboard. Cut the 1x6 to 11-1/4” for each shelf.
Step 3: Cut Angle on Shelves
Gary Payne
Gary Payne
Gary Payne
Each shelf is slightly angled backward to keep the towels from rolling off. To make this angle, set the miter saw at 10 degrees and cut one side of each shelf on the 11-1/4” side to that angle. Sand the edges of each shelf if necessary.
Step 4: Attach Shelves
Gary Payne
Gary Payne
Gary Payne
Gary Payne
Gary Payne
Measure and mark the spacing between each shelf. To give the towels a snug fit, we spaced our shelves 6-1/4” apart. Apply a bead of wood glue to the angled edge of the shelf and put it in place against the backboard. When you've got it positioned correctly, hold it in place with a couple of finish nails. Then secure the shelf tightly by inserting two screws.
Step 5: Finish As Desired
Gary Payne
Apply a coat of primer and let it dry. If necessary, lightly sand the rack to smooth any bumps or rough spots. Paint the towel rack: Choose a contrasting color for a pop of personality or a coordinating color for a calmer aesthetic.
Step 6: Add Hook
Gary Payne
Mark the center point at the bottom of the backboard to determine the placement of the hook. Use the manufacturer’s instructions and hardware to fasten the hook to the backboard.
Step 7: Attach Hanging Hardware
Gary Payne
Add two large D-rings to the back of the towel rack for hanging. Attach them 2” down from the top and about 1” in from each side.
Step 8: Hang and Stack Towels
Gary Payne
Unless drilling directly into a stud, install drywall anchors in the wall then hang your new towel rack.
Gary Payne
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