My husband and I were recently in the Home Depot aisle, deciding on a rather standard shelf bracket.
As we discussed the merits of white versus black options, some friends approached us.
During our chat, we learned they were also constructing shelves for their residence.
The woman mentioned they were creating a floating shelf using turnbuckle hardware.
I inquired, 'What exactly is a 'Turnbuckle Shelf'?'
A brief internet search provided a helpful image.
I instantly wanted one, abandoning the plain shelf brackets!
We promptly began the Floating Shelves with Turnbuckle Hardware Project, and the results were wonderful! Bildirimlerim shares all the necessary information so you can replicate this.
Creating Floating Shelves with Turnbuckle Hardware
*Note: This article includes affiliate links for your shopping ease.
Assemble these materials for your Turnbuckle Shelf Project:
(*This list is for two shelves.)
- One 2 x 10- Board cut to your required dimension (Ours was an 8 foot piece of Eastern Pine from Eastern Canada, divided into two 4 foot lengths ~ Not the most budget-friendly, but it looks stunning!);)
- U-bolts (4) (measurements 5/16 x 1 3/8 x 2 1/2)
- Turnbuckle eye/ hooks (4) (measurements 5/16 x 9 3/8)
- Wall Hooks (4) (These are similar to the hooks I saw at Canadian Tire in Canada; I opted not to use the ones shown above.)
- (4) small L-brackets to secure the shelf back
- Spray Paint in Oil Rubbed Bronze Color
- Wood Stain in Early American Color
Additional required tools:
- Level
- Drill and assorted drill bits
Locating turnbuckle hardware:
Finding such specialized items can be tricky. We discovered the turnbuckle hardware in our local hardware stores, near cabinet handles and standard shelf brackets. The larger hooks were sometimes shelved differently based on their style. Decorative hooks are usually kept separate from 'industrial looking' hooks.
Should you prefer to order the items listed above, the affiliate links provided can be clicked directly online.
First, determine the dimensions of your area and locate the wall studs:
Before any drilling takes place, map out precisely where you intend to mount your shelves. They absolutely require a secure anchor to the wall, or they risk falling down! To avoid this issue, use a stud finder to pinpoint the studs and mark their locations.
In our setup, the stud placement required positioning the turnbuckle hardware 8 inches away from the board's edge.
Apply stain to the Turnbuckle Shelf Board
Once all the measurements and calculations are complete, you can begin the enjoyable part! I initially treated the board by applying Early American Wood Stain with a cloth, working it in thoroughly, and then wiping off any excess.
Drill openings for the U-bolts
After the stain has fully set on the board, drill two holes corresponding to where the u-bolts will go. (Specifically, these were 8 inches from the side and centered on the board in our instance.)
Spray Paint the Hardware (optional)
Because I wanted the shelf hardware to appear black, I used Oil Rubbed Bronze spray paint and allowed it to dry completely before assembly.
Method for Installing a Floating Turnbuckle Shelf on a Wall
I considered this the most challenging aspect of the entire construction! My husband and I discussed every step and frequently used a level and pencil :)
- Decide on the desired height and spacing for your shelves. We decided the bottom shelf should be 17 1/4 inches above the dresser beneath. Subsequently, the shelf above was set 12 1/2 inches higher than that.
- Position the shelf at the target height, then verify its straightness with a level. Lightly sketch a pencil line along the top edge to serve as a guide.
3. Using the previous stud markings, align the turnbuckle to meet the wall hook attachment point. Mark the necessary hook placement. Next, use the level to mark the position for the second hook, ensuring it remains level.
4. Secure the hooks to the wall and then affix the turnbuckle to them.
5. To stop the shelf from leaning backward, affix the mini L-bracket underneath the shelf. Lightly mark its spot with a pencil, take the shelf off, fasten the back portion to the wall, then reattach the shelf and screw into its underside.
Extra Suggestions:
- To remove the pencil marks from the wall, I employed a bit of Norwex cleaning paste with a spiri sponge, and it vanished perfectly!
- Ensure all hardware is completely dry and clean prior to applying spray paint.
I am thrilled with how these shelves turned out; they provide the ideal storage and display spot for my craft room or office.
These shelves now showcase cherished sentimental pieces (reminders of my mom and grandmas) alongside frequently used craft supply containers.
Grandma’s vintage rolling pin now holds my jute string, offering both utility and a charming rustic farmhouse aesthetic to the area.
Please share any questions regarding building floating shelves with turnbuckle hardware in the comments below.
A special acknowledgment goes to LollyJane blog because their photograph and article provided the complete inspiration for this endeavor. We appreciate LollyJane.
If you are seeking an alternative design for farmhouse shelves, please review this specific article.
