How to Install and Design Floating Shelves?

1. Floating shelf of choice + brackets

2. Cable finder and stud finder

3. Fixture company. Original plug (if not included on floating shelf)

4.Level

5. Tape measure

6. Pencil and tape

7. Electric drill/driver, such as BLACK+DECKER 20-Volt Cordless 3/8 in Drill/Driver

8. Drill bit

9. Pliers (if necessary to tighten the stand)

10. Hammer

11. Dust cloth, goggles and dust mask

Just like hanging shelves with brackets, you need to check the structure of the wall first, as this will determine what type of fixtures you need to use and ultimately affect which shelf you choose to buy. For solid brick or masonry walls, you will need wall plugs. Drywall or drywall work best with worm-style fasteners/drywall anchors. The following are the specific steps to install floating shelves:

1. Select Floating Shelf

There are many styles of floating shelves. When choosing floating shelves, make sure you have the right brackets and wall plugs. WEKIS has all the accessories and instructions on the shelf, so it's very useful.

If you are using drywall, you should always find and use studs to secure your shelves as this is the safest method, however, if your shelves are very shallow and only display lighter items then you may be able to accept fixtures that fit your wall type.

2. Make Sure the Walls Are Clear of Cables and Pipes

Before drilling, run a digital finder across the area, check for any pipes and cables, and mark all studs with a pencil. This may mean you have to choose a different wall, but it's important not to skip this step for safety reasons.

3. Measure and Mark Your Fixture

Fix the shelf bracket to the wall at the desired height. Use a level to make sure it's straight. Then, mark the fixing hole locations with a pencil.

Triple check that your pencil marks are straight, level and aligned with the mounting holes on the shelf.

If not already done, now is the time to prep the area with a dust cloth. Wear goggles and a dust mask, especially when drilling in brick.

Use a kickback/screwdriver and hammer to make a small indent in the center of each mark to be drilled. This will help prevent the drill or screwdriver from slipping.

4. Drilling

This step may vary depending on the shelf you are using and the wall material you are installing it on. Drills and wall plugs can generally be used to install the shelves, if you have the same setup you will need to mark on the drill the length required for each wall anchor. This will prevent you from drilling too deep.

Then drill a hole in the center of each pencil mark. It will take a while with the bricks, but be steady and keep the drill straight.

Note: If you're using drywall anchors, cover the marks with tape to keep the plaster from cracking, then tighten the anchors.

5. Fix the Bracket to the Wall

It all depends on your shelf. Once you've drilled all the holes in the wall, you can hammer in the wall plugs. You can then screw on the bracket.

You can also screw the rod into the threaded part of the plug with a washer.

Please use a drill or a screwdriver to insert the screws into the desired position, make sure the bracket fits snugly against the wall.

6. Attach the Shelf to the Bracket

Next, you can place the shelf in place and secure it to the brackets. You'll usually find that the shelf has fasteners on the underside where you can insert screws to make sure the shelf doesn't slip off the bracket.

Now, the most important part: decorating your floating shelves. Add fun prints, cute houseplants and your favorite candles for a simple but stylish decor. Here are tips for styling tips for floating shelves:

Create Visual Balance: While symmetry works well, it's also important to create visual balance by combining different heights, shapes and textures. Mix tall and low items, combine round and angular shapes, and balance different textures, such as smooth ceramics with textured fabrics.This adds visual interest and prevents the shelves from looking too uniform.

Mix and Match Decorative Items: To create a visually appealing display, mix and match decorative items that complement each other. For example, pair a small sculpture with a stack of books, or combine a statement piece with a smaller decorative piece. Experiment with different combinations until you achieve a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing arrangement.

Incorporate Greenery and Natural Elements: Introducing plants and natural elements into floating shelves can bring life and freshness to a space. Add a touch of greenery by placing small potted plants, succulents, or air plants on the shelves. You can also incorporate natural materials such as driftwood, shells or stones for a more organic feel.

Add Artwork and Wall Decor: Floating shelves provide a great opportunity to display artwork and wall decor. Place framed artwork or photos against the wall behind the shelf, or hang them directly above the shelf for a layered effect. This will create a gallery-like display and add a personal touch to your space.

1. How Does the Floating Shelf Work?

Floating shelves use hidden supports that give the shelf the effect of floating yet stay securely in place. There are different methods available, the most common being a sturdy metal pole that inserts into the wall and shelf to provide a secure platform, or a mounting bracket that holds flush with the wall and has a pole that inserts into the shelf itself. The longer the shelf, the more rods you will need.

These units are also available in various finishes. Narrow easels have the effect of floating and are secured to the wall using wall anchors and screws, these generally hold less weight than a "proper" floating shelf as they are designed for displaying pictures.

2. Is It Difficult to Install the Floating Shelf?

Installing floating shelves can be an easy DIY, but if you're new to these projects, choose your shelves accordingly, and know that drilling holes in masonry is not for the faint of heart. If you're not too confident, consider a lighter shelf that you can place on a drywall wall, as it should be easier to drill into. Then, choose a floating shelf with brackets that span the rods so you don't need to mount them separately, which will take a little stress off when measuring.

3. Can Floating Shelves Be Built Without Drilling Holes?

Any type of shelf can be placed without drilling, but these shelves can only hold very light items. This is even more difficult with floating shelves, because if the internal supports are not stable, they tend to tip or tilt. Proper brackets and fixtures are essential to having a sturdy shelf.

Established in 2005, WEKIS has nearly twenty years of experience in manufacturing sliding door hardware and furniture hardware. We keep an eye on the pulse of the market and release new products regularly. Our style changes with the times, but we never forget the classics. From traditional to modern, transitional or rustic, we have hardware to suit every style. We focus on the value behind those inconspicuous "little things", and improve the functional design and quality for many different industries. This is the original intention of WEKIS and the principle that WEKIS has always adhered to. If you want to buy furniture hardware or sliding door hardware, please contact us.