7 Easy DIY Closet Bookshelf Hacks [That Are Cheap & Easy!]
7 DIY Closet Bookshelf Hacks [Cheap and Easy DIY Closet Shelves!]
Are you looking for an easy and inexpensive way to add storage space to your closet? DIY closet bookshelf hacks are the perfect solution!
Whether you have a small, cramped closet or a larger space, these seven clever and affordable closet shelf hacks can help you maximize your area’s potential. These hacks offer increased storage, more organization options, and customizable looks that blend with your home’s décor.
Whether you prefer an industrial look or something more modern, these 7 DIY Closet Bookshelf Hacks have something for everyone.
Ready? Let’s jump in!
Hack 1: Make DIY Closet Shelves with a Ready Made Bookshelf (Like IKEA Billy Bookcases)
Making DIY closet shelves with a ready-made bookcase like IKEA Billy Bookcases can be a great way to create custom shelving units for your space. I personally love the Billy bookcase because it’s a simple closet hack that looks amazing and can revamp your whole closet.
With a step-by-step tutorial, you can easily construct your own shelving solution tailored to your closet’s needs. You can find many easy DIY tutorials on Pinterest for a custom-built look on a budget.
How do you turn a billy bookcase from IKEA into a custom DIY closet bookshelf?
This is a pretty easy DIY project. Here’s how:
- First, you will need to choose the size of the Billy bookcase that best fits your space.
- Once you have chosen your bookcase, measure the width, height, and depth of your space so the bookcase can fit smoothly against the wall.
- After cutting any necessary wood pieces for support, use wood glue or screws to secure the bookcase to its space in your master bedroom or hall closet.
- Finish it with trim work and paint to match your existing décor. Make sure to use primer appropriate for glossy MDF furniture.
With just a few simple steps, you can easily transform an IKEA Billy bookcase into a custom built-in look that adds style and function to any room. I love this hack because you can customize the size and shape of the shelves. Because it uses an existing piece of furniture as the base, you don’t have to worry about building from scratch – bonus!
This hack is fast and easy, making it ideal for those looking for an efficient way to get organized and make their closets look better.
Hack 2: Build Closet Shelves Yourself with an Easy DIY Tutorial
Creating custom closet shelves is an easy and effective way to maximize storage space. You don’t need special tools or skills to build shelving units for your closet. These shelves would be an excellent project for a woodworking beginner.
You can customize the shelves to fit your exact needs. For example, you can choose exactly how many shelves you need and how deep they should be.
You’ll need to get started with basic supplies like wood boards, shelf brackets, and screws. With the right materials, you’ll be able to construct durable and attractive closet shelves that will last for years.
How do you build closet shelves from plywood or wood?
Building closet shelves from plywood or wood is simple, although it can take time and effort. Here’s how:
- First, measure the interior dimensions of the closet and determine how many shelves you want to build.
- Cut the plywood or wood to size with a saw and sand down any rough edges.
- Once that’s done, pre-drill holes in the shelf pieces and use a drill bit to countersink them into the wall studs.
- Use lag screws or other fasteners to secure the shelves. You may want to attach cross-braces for extra stability.
- Finally, paint or stain the shelves before adding any decorative elements, such as molding or trim if desired.
With these steps, you’ll be able to create sturdy closet shelves that will last for years to come.
Hack 3: Install a Wall-Mounted Shelf
Installing a wall-mounted shelf is a great way to add storage and display space to any room. The process is relatively straightforward, provided you have the right equipment and supplies.
Here’s how:
- To begin, measure the wall (from side to side of the closet) or the back wall of the closet space where you want to install your shelves. Decide where you want it mounted.
- Next, use a drill to make holes for the mounting screws.
- Once these are in place, attach the shelf with the screws or other fastening hardware.
- Finally, ensure everything is securely attached and level before adding any items to the shelf.
When purchasing ready-made wall shelves, you can choose from various sizes, materials, and colors depending on what looks best in your home. Built-in shelves are generally easy to install with minimal tools and take up less floor space than free-standing shelves.
With some patience and creativity, installing a wall-mounted shelf can greatly improve your home’s organization and style.
Hack 4: Upcycle a Thrifted Bookcase to Level Up a Small Closet
Upcycling a thrifted piece to level up a small closet is an easy way to add extra storage and organization to any room.
How do you do it?
First, select the bookcase that best fits the space available. Make sure you measure the closet beforehand. You can find amazing second-hand pieces at thrift stores or on the Facebook marketplace.
Next, sand down any rough edges or surfaces that may be present. Third, apply primer and paint to give it a new look and feel. I personally love vintage furniture, so I always use stain over paint (yes, stain OVER paint) to give it a weathered, aged look.
Finally, position it in the closet and fill it with items like shoes, clothes, accessories, or whatever else needs organizing!
Hack 5: Hang Floating Shelves on the Walls
Hanging floating shelves on the walls is a great way to save space and add decorative storage to your home. A floating shelf hides the mounting hardware so you don’t see any brackets, unlike traditional wall-mounted shelves.
If you haven’t hung floating shelves before, don’t worry. It’s a really beginner-friendly project. First, measure the area where you want to hang the shelf board. Mark it with a pencil.
Next, use a drill and screwdriver to attach the mounting hardware to the wall. Lastly, place the shelf onto the mounting hardware and secure it. Floating shelves are fabulous because they don’t take up any floor space. Plus, they can be used as a decorative element in your home décor.
They are also easy to install and don’t require any special tools or skills. Because of this, they’re a great option for anyone looking for an affordable and hassle-free way to hang items on their wall.
Hack 6: Use Stacking Crates as Bookshelves
Stacking crates is an easy and cost-effective way to create a stylish and functional storage solution for your home.
To begin, you’ll need some sturdy wooden crates designed to stack. You can find these in various sizes at craft stores or online retailers. I found mine at Michaels and used a coupon to get them cheaply.
Once you have the crates, it’s time to get creative! Paint them in bold colors or stain them for a more rustic look. Place the crates on their sides and start stacking them against a wall, securing each one with screws for added stability.
Once your shelves are ready, fill them with books and other items you want to store!
This hack has many advantages over traditional bookcases. Stacking crates don’t require any tools or complicated assembly, so they’re easy to set up yourself. You can also place this on your bottom shelf to make the most of your available space. Plus, they also provide plenty of flexibility regarding configuration. You can stack them how you like to create your desired look.
In addition, stacking crates offer great value – they tend to be much cheaper than most bookcases!
Hack 7: Install or Build Shelves in Closet Space Corners
Utilizing corner shelves in your closet space is a great way to maximize storage and organization. How can you make the most of this often unused space?
First, measure the corner of your closet and decide what type of shelves you’d like to install. Search Amazon for “corner shelving unit,” and you’ll find many amazing options. Next, install the shelves according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring they are securely fastened against the wall.
Finally, use bins and baskets to store items that may otherwise be difficult to organize.
Why are corner shelves a useful DIY closet hack? Corner shelves use unused space in your closet that might otherwise go to waste! They can provide quick access to items without digging through drawers or boxes.
Additionally, installing corner shelves makes it easy to see your items at once so you can quickly find what you need. Utilizing corner shelves in your closet is an easy way to increase storage and make organizing easier!
Now that we’ve looked at hacks let’s jump into some common questions people have when kicking off this project.
Is it cheaper to build your own shelf?
Building your own shelf can be a great way to save money, as you don’t have to pay for labor or materials. However, it’s essential to consider the cost of all the materials you’ll need to build a shelf and your time and effort.
Depending on what type of shelf you’re building and the quality and quantity of materials used, it could cost more than buying a pre-made shelf from a store. Additionally, if you need the necessary tools or skills needed to build a shelf, it may be cheaper (and easier) to buy one instead.
Ultimately, it depends on how much time and money you are willing to invest in building your own shelf. Be sure to research! With careful planning and budgeting, it is possible to save money by going this route.
How do you make cheap bookshelves look like expensive built-ins?
Making cheap bookcases look like an expensive built-in bookshelf is easy.
Start with a coat of paint, either in a bold color or a neutral shade that will complement the existing decor in your home. Once the paint is dry, add decorative molding around the edges or up and down the shelves. Filling the holes with a caulking gun would give your piece a more finished look.
You can add embellishments like medallions or carved detailing if you feel creative. For an extra touch of luxury, apply gold or silver leaf to the shelves for an elegant finish. You can add wallpaper to the back panel to add extra dimension and a unique look to your bookshelf.
Lastly, make sure to accessorize with items such as candles and plants that will give it a luxurious feel.
You can turn any cheap bookshelf into an expensive built-in bookcase that’s a statement piece with just a few simple steps!
How much does it cost to build your own shelves?
The cost of building your own shelves depends on the materials used and the complexity of the design.
Generally, you can expect to spend between $20 and $100 on basic shelves. However, for more complex designs or higher quality materials such as hardwood, metal, or glass, you could spend much more.
Additionally, if you purchase pre-cut pieces from a hardware store, you will save yourself some time but may pay a premium price.
Building your own shelves is possible with basic tools and can be a great way to customize your storage needs while saving money.
How do you make a plain bookcase look fancy?
Making plain projects fancy is relatively simple and can be done in various ways.
First, consider painting it in an eye-catching color. If you prefer a more subtle approach, consider adding some decals or stencils to the sides for a unique look.
You could also add some decorative molding to the edges of the shelves for an elegant touch. Finally, adding some lighting underneath or inside can make it stand out and draw attention to any books or decorations you place on it.
Your plain jane piece can become truly special with just a few simple touches.
Closet Makeover DIY Guide [How to DIY Closet Makeover…Easy!]
This tutorial is part of our ultimate closet makeover DIY guide! Revamp your closet and give it a stunning makeover with this exciting tutorial collection.
Walk step-by-step through the process of transforming your closet into a stylish and functional space.
From decluttering and organizing to adding personalized touches and clever storage solutions, discover how to create a dream closet that reflects your unique style and maximizes your storage potential.
Let’s Wrap Up
DIY closet bookshelf projects are a perfect choice. You can build custom shelves that perfectly match your current closet and turn it into an orderly storage heaven. Installing bookshelves into your closet is a beautiful way to arrange items for quick access.
Hopefully, you found some great ideas in this article! These tutorials are inexpensive and effortless and can be finished within one afternoon.