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Floating Shelf with 1/4" Plywood Covering

Easy to make modern floating shelf out of 1x3s and 1/4" plywood. Customize to any length! This floating shelf design features an internal frame of 1x2 or 1x3 boards. The external covering is smooth 1/4" plywood - lightweight and inexpensive. This is great for getting a floating shelf with a hardwood texture (oak, maple etc) or a smooth painted finish. You can build this design in any length. from Ana

Floating Shelf with 1/4" Plywood Covering

Specifications

Project typeshelves
RoomBathroom
StyleModern Style Furniture Plans
DifficultyIntermediate

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Floating Shelf with 1/4" Plywood Covering dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 1 - 1/4" thick 24" x 48" project panel
  • 2 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long Long wood screws for hanging (at least 2-1/2")

Cut List

  • 2 - 1x3 @ 48"
  • 5 - 1x3 @ 6-1/2"
  • 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 48" x 8" (cut to fit)
  • 1 - 1/4" plywood @ 48" x 3" (cut to fit)
  • 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 8-1/4" x 3" (cut to fit)

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • kreg-jig
  • drill
  • table saw
  • nailer
  • sander
  • countersink drill bit

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Build the basic frame for the shelf.

Floating Shelf with 1/4" Plywood Covering — step 1
2

Step 2

Attach 1/4" plywood or MDF to the bottom of the shelf with 3/4" finish nails and glue (can use 1" nails too).

Floating Shelf with 1/4" Plywood Covering — step 2
3

Step 3

Cut to fit the plywood strips for the sides. Attach front plywood strip with 3/4" nails and glue.

Floating Shelf with 1/4" Plywood Covering — step 3
4

Step 4

Attach side plywood pieces.

Floating Shelf with 1/4" Plywood Covering — step 4
5

Step 5

Floating Shelf with 1/4" Plywood Covering — step 5
6

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.

Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/floating-shelf-14-plywood-covering