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Behind Closet Door Storage

behind closet door storage closet storage
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Intermediate
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Claim two extra square feet in your closet with this amazing easy plan!

Guess  what goes on behind closet doors in the Knock-Off Wood house?
Scary, eh?  What could be behind Grace's closet doors . . . .
I'll give you a sec to put junior football helmet on . . .
What can you expect out of a preschooler's closet?

It's taken me weeks to get the courage to share the closet of a three year old with the world, but it's taken me months to take what was just a clever idea and turn it into . . .

A closet with even more storage

Here's the bottom.  You can see how I simply built bookshelves, attached them to the inside of existing closet doors, put the doors on hinges, and added a couple extra square feet of storage to a tiny closet.  Oh, those hooks are Command hooks from 3M - So easy to use, I love them!

When open, the doors opens completely flush, giving you the most room to access the inside of the closet (as long as there is not a wall or something in the way).  No those are not my bookcases (the saggy white ones), they are the last of the flat pack particle board furniture that I have in my home. When closed, the bookshelves sit in the door frame, taking up what used to be completely wasted space.  And in a house the size of mine, with exactly three closets, every square inch of a closet is prime real estate.

These are super easy to install.  Simply remove the bifold door hardware and attach the bifold doors with standard hinges as shown in the photo

The weight of the doors rests on wheels, so you can load the doors up.  In one closet door, I was able to store ALL of Grace's books.

That's alot of books!

Think of the possibilities - pantry items, toiletries, towels, accessories, and did anyone mention shoes?

And best of all?  I can close the doors live my dream of a simple, bare home, free of clutter.  No one (besides you, my friends) would ever know what's behind my closet doors.  All for around twenty bucks a door!

So wanna make your own?  Here's how I did.  You will need to alter your shelves to your own closet specifications.  So get your measuring tape out!

Pin For Later!

Behind Closed Door Storage

Measure to fit your closet doors.

Preparation

Shopping List

1x6 Boards Heavy duty hinges four caster wheels 1x2 Boards Anchoring bolts for hollow core doors Screws

Common Materials
Elmer's Wood Glue
Elmer's Wood Filler
120 grit sandpaper
primer
wood conditioner
paint
paint brush
Cut List

Cut your boards to fit your closet and closet doors.

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw
Power Sander
Level
Drill Bit Set
General Instructions

The success of this project greatly depends on building square, and installing level and square with a square closet opening.

Instructions

Step 1

First, measure your closet doors. If they are a standard 24″ wide, you will need to subtract 5 1/2″ to get a total door shelf of 18 1/2″ wide. That means all of the shelves will need to be cut at 17″ wide.

Measure the overall height of the doors and subtract two inches. Cut two 1x6s to this length. You will also need to cut as many shelves as desired to the shelf width (in my example, 17″ wide). Also cut 1×2 shelf trim to the shelf width, one more than the number you cut for shelves.

Step 2

Basically, you just build a shelf, as shown above, out of 1x6s. You have to make the shelf 5 1/2″ narrower than the closet door so that it has room to swing when opening and closing.

Step 3

Then you attach the 1x2s as shelf trim and supports. I used my Kreg Jig™ to build Grace’s closet doors, but you could also simply use 2″ wood screws countersunk. Don’t forget the glue.

Step 4

Then you attach the caster wheels to the bottom. You only need two caster wheels per door. I use 1 1/4″ caster wheels. Those are the pocket holes I used to build the shelf with.

Project Type
Bookshelf and Bookcase Plans
Room
Closets
Style
Children's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans

Comments

Tracy (not verified)

Mon, 08/23/2010 - 20:53

LOVE this!! It is something I have been struggling with in my home. Lack of storage and messy kids closets!

It is now on the honey do list!! :)

Paula (not verified)

Mon, 08/23/2010 - 20:58

I LOVE it. Her closet looks so great! I don't even have closet doors and now I want some, just for this... maybe in our next home.

southies (not verified)

Mon, 08/23/2010 - 21:29

OMG.... you are amazing!!!!!
Do you come in a bottle??!!

Suzan (not verified)

Mon, 08/23/2010 - 23:02

I have you beat! I have exactly ONE real closet in my house!! (This is what happens when you buy a renovated home built in 1898 and the renovator was a man!) This is a fabulous way to make my large closet more storage effective. Thanks so much for the post!

diycat (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 00:27

I love this idea! Could I attach it to a hollow core door though? Does that matter? Thx!

Teresa Pomerantz (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 02:09

hahaha clutter free home :) I have 4 children 7 and under, I only see the carpet every couple of weeks when they are looking for a specific toy :)
That being said, that is an awesome idea- my boys room could use something like that.

momsmess (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 02:12

Love this! We have those obnoxious sliding doors that never seem to open enough to be able to get anything in or out of the closet. I am definately going to change out our closet doors and add this amazing storage (shoes, anyone!)!

The Willits Family (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 02:30

Now you need to do plans for a walk in closet. I really want to build something inside ours. All the premade stuff is expensive and not what I want..PLEEEEEEASE!

The Cozy Cape (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 02:31

Are those bifold doors? It looks like it from the seem down each door? If, so did the wood just hold it so they don't fold? We have 2 bi fold doors on our TINY closets in our room and we could really use some more shoe space!!

Wendy (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 02:33

I love this idea! One question- we have carpet. Would the casters work on carpet, or does anyone have any ideas to make it work in a carpeted room?

Tara (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 02:53

I seriously love you. I just swapped the downstairs pantry and toy closet and added new shelves. I could totally use these shelves on both sets of bifolds. Did you just remove the hardware on top of the door to get them out of the track?

amycornwell (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 02:56

I love this and have already sent it to my hubby for his weekend project :) We'll see if my hint works. Great post. Thank you!

LoriD (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:08

Amazing! I've been planning a renovation to my closet at the front entrance and this just might be the thing! There's only 1 bifold door there and I was thinking of removing the hinge hardware in the middle to make two narrow, hinged doors.

KariBou (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:10

I'm in love! This is ingenious! Thank you for sharing the plans, too!

Suzanne (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:10

I love it, I have to do this to ours, it would be fabulous for a craft/sewing room also, just think of the possibilities.

babeigotanidea.com

Kim (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:12

Can you hear me squealing with delight all the way from Indiana. I love this. I hate the bi-fold doors. This is so awesome! I love you, I love you, I love you!!

Amanda@The Han… (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:15

This is amazing, Anna! What a great idea -- and I LOOOOOOVE all that pink! :) What a gorgeous closet Grace has!

Ty & Andi (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:23

ok, I realize I may be really slow, but how do you open the doors, do you stick your hand in the crack to pull them open? do they need any hardware?
I really love this idea. My son has the exact same type of closet!

Michelle (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:24

Now if you could help me remedy the situation of floor to ceiling height sliding doors (which I despise), I could do something awesome like this. I desperately need better organized storage spaces like this with 2 kids and way too many toys and books.

Tricia (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:31

I don't even know what to say. This is life-changing!! Seriously. Does it hurt, Ana? Having all of this genius inside your head? ;) I can't imagine that it doesn't. Um, double negative. You know what I mean. lol!

famr_4evr (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 03:47

Oh, holy cow!! That is the most amazing closet makeover I have ever seen!! Such a great use of space. I'm thinking of trying this in the boys' closet. It may help them fit everything. And find everything. thanks for sharing.

Heather (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 04:08

Uh-Mazing. Love it. Love it. Love it! ...especially the "de-cluttering" aspect...so genius.

Leslie (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 04:34

Um, that is amazing! I wish I had a closet like that to transform. I've got an old farmhouse with tiny closets but, with a little planning, maybe I can work with one of THEM. Thanks for sharing this great idea. Yours is always the first blog I read every day!

Julie (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 04:40

At first glance I thought, "I wish my daughter's closet had real doors instead of bifolds so I could do that!" WOW - I can't believe that transformation. This is definitely getting bookmarked for a future project, thanks!

Summer (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 04:40

Ana you are an ABSOLUTE GENIUS!! I just got a brand new closet in my playroom and have been wracking my brain about how to maximize the toy storage possiblities for our 4 kids 5, 5, 3, and 1. Thank you for sharing your brilliant ideas!! Will this work if you have hollow core doors? Mine already swing out, but they are not real wood.

Laura (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 04:41

OMG, that's amazing! And exactly what I need for my sewing room closet! You rock, thank you!

(I haven't commented before, but I've been following forever. I'm a "tool chick" too! Luv ya!)

Tim & Katie (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 05:32

Once again, Ana, you have amazed me! I have been struggling with my middle daughters room for weeks, because of the storage issue. I think this may have answered ALL of my questions. You rock!

DIY Girl (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 05:42

Every time I visit your site, I find something else to add to my ever growing to do list. You are amazing!

Janey (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 06:22

I am soooo doing this. I need space to store the extra toiletries I get with coupons. This is perfect for the inside of my linen closet! I'm considering it for my pantry too, but I'm concerned that I still need the bi-fold doors to...um...bifold because of the limited space they have to open.

Cat (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 06:31

this will be great in my teeny pantry - I have some shallow shelves hanging on the door but they can't hold much. If I put the shelf on wheels so it's supported I could put all my canned goods in it!

Christine (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 07:30

Thanks so much for sharing this! I am going to try it out first in my pantry for a spice/can shelf! Then it will be on through the rest of the house! :0)

Thanks so much for all you do!!

Christine (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 07:37

Ana, I have a question for you. Is it necessary to use screws as opposed to gluing the edges together and using a nailer gun? I guess I'm wondering what the rules are for using a nailer/brad nail versus screws?

Thanks! :0)

manielynn (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 07:41

I seriously need a t-shirt that says "Ana is my hero!" I detest the bifold door in my bathroom! The people who put it in totally messed it up and it doesn't stay closed, but this might help. I love to bargain shop...never pay more than $1 for shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, etc. Consequently, we have a lot sitting around and it's always hard to find a place to put it. This is going to be perfect for that! Eventually when we get our laundry in there, it will be able to hold laundry stuff too. Ana you really are my hero!!!!

sheabella (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 07:53

What a superb solution. Very Clever!! Did you use plastic caster wheels? I am wondering if the casters would wear a path on the hardwood after a while. Would it even help if they were plastic?
Again. good for you. I think it is a very well planned project and brilliant that there is a bookshelf.
;-)

tau (not verified)

Tue, 08/24/2010 - 08:02

Brilliant! Except we've got all pocket doors on the closets. I'll just have to consider how to use the bookcase bits.

Southies, I agree. We should each have 16oz of Ana daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!