How to build a wall shelf for magazines or mail. Bins are sized perfect for mail. Make out of 1x2s and 1/4" plywood! Super inexpensive and easy to build!
Hi everyone!!!
Thanks so much for all the love on the new back2school shelves I made for my kiddos!
So exciting seeing some of you make them already too!!! Thank you so much for sharing your photos - totally made my day!
Here's what our shelves look like this morning - loaded with school supplies, taken over by sister. All ready for school next week! It sure feels good to make something that is loved by my family!
She's even taken over the wall bins that I made! At least the shelves that she can reach!
Yep, those are, of course, DIY too! And in this post, I'm going to share how I made them with you and the detailed plans! Check it out ....
This project is made of 1/4" plywood and 1x2s. The 1x2s are simple enough to cut, but the plywood can be a bit more of a challenge. What I did was cut a piece of plywood 7-1/4" wide by 16" long, and then set my mitersaw at a 25 degree angle, and then made all the angled cuts that way. This saved a ton of time and helped me get nice straight cuts. Be careful making these cuts - might I suggest clamping the plywood to the saw deck - especially when cutting the smaller pieces.
For the frame part, it's just 1x2s. I drilled a single pocket hole with my Kreg Jig on each end of the shorter 1x2 boards.
With the single pocket hole, you have to use glue so the joint won't twist on you.
Then I just clamped and screwed the joints. I then added more of the shorter 1x2s to make up the frame.
I used the side 1/4" plywood pieces as spacers to help guide the placement of the 1x2s. This saved time measuring.
After I made the frame, I flipped it over so the pocket holes are on the back side. Then I glued and nailed (1" brad nails or staples) the side pieces to the insides of the frame.
For the fronts of the mail bin pieces, I used Krazy craft glue to add the front.
That's it!
Very useful and functional, all made for free with scrap wood!
Your turn!
Please pin, share, and build!
PS - This project was very similar (and inspired by) this mail bin chalkboard organizer with pin board I did a little while back -
It follows alot of the same steps - so take a look at this video tutorial too!
Can't wait to see how you build yours!
XO Ana
Preparation
1 - 1x2 @ 10 feet long
24"x48" piece of 1/4" plywood, MDF or other hardboard (available off the shelf at the Home Depot in this size)
2 - 1x2 @ 27-3/4"
4 - 1x2 @ 11"
6 - 1/4" plywood @ 7-1/4" x 4-1/8" (cut back to 3/4") (tip: cut a piece of plywood 7-1/4" wide x at least 16" long, then set saw to 25 degree angle and cross cut to size, leaving 3/4" on short end)
3 - 1/4" plywood @ 11" x 8" (tip: Rip into 11" or 8" strip first, then cut into the individual pieces next)
Be careful when cutting small pieces of 1/4" plywood - clamp to saw top for added security
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1
Build the frame with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. You can use the sides of the mail bins as spacers so you don't have to measure out the spacing of the middle 1x2 rails.
Step 2
Glue and nail with the 3/4" or 1" staples or nails the sides of the mail bins, so they are flush to the back.
Step 3
Glue the fronts on the bins with Krazy glue. Allow to fully dry before moving project.
You can use scrap 1/4" plywood to add a back to the project as well. Just glue and nail on with 1" or shorter nails (or staples).
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.