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Wood Slat Low Shelving Unit

Do you need inexpensive shelving to get things put away and off the floor? Our wood slat low shelving unit is very inexpensive to make and easy to build yourself and save. Fill with off the shelf milk crates, baskets or bins and stain up for a beautiful farmhouse style console table. from are easy to modify and build from.

Wood Slat Low Shelving Unit

Specifications

Project typeBookshelf and Bookcase Plans
RoomStorage Solutions
StyleChildren's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans
DifficultyBeginner Projects

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Wood Slat Low Shelving Unit dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 12 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 3 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long
  • 2 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long (optional cross supports, can also use 1x3s)
  • 2" wood screws (you can also use a shorter wood screw like 1-1/4" for screwing down the shelving)

I used all self tapping construction screws (try the SPAX or similar) so I didn't have to predrill any holes and no wood split out on me.

Cut List

  • 8 - 1x3 @ 31-3/4"
  • 12 - 2x4 @ 12-1/2"
  • 9 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long
  • Optional cross supports are cut to fit

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • drill
  • circular saw
  • countersink drill bit

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Build the leg sets by attaching the 1x3 legs to the 2x4 supports with 2" wood screws and glue, two screws per joint.

Wood Slat Low Shelving Unit — step 1
2

Step 2

Attach the shelving boards on the outsides first, to the outside legs. Use a level to make sure your legs are level as you attach shelving.

Wood Slat Low Shelving Unit — step 2
3

Step 3

Attach center boards last, leaving an even gap between the center board and the side board.

Wood Slat Low Shelving Unit — step 3
4

Step 4

Place 1x2s across back and mark. Cut angles (can adjust a miter saw or use a handheld saw to cut) and attach to back. We found we only needed one cross support.

Wood Slat Low Shelving Unit — step 4
5

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/wood-slat-low-shelving-unit