Custom Floating Shelves: A Step-By-Step Guide

Skill Level: Beginner

Overview:

We’re not just making another set of floating shelves, we're creating something that stands out. These custom shelves are designed to change with the seasons so you can decorate them for every holiday or occasion. With built in lighting and a clear middle shelf, they don’t just hold your decor, they elevate it. Simple, clean, and eye catching, they’ll have everyone asking where you got them.

Choosing Your Materials:

You can build these shelves with almost any type of wood color to match your space. The size is fully customizable depending on the wall you’re working with and the look you want. For this build, I used poplar because it’s durable, smooth, and easy to work with. If you’re looking for a more budget friendly option, pine or cedar will also look equally as good.

Materials List:

1. Poplar

2. Thin Poplar

3. Acrylic

4. Cabinet Light

5. Shelf Brackets

6. Screws

7. Wood Glue

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Step 1: Cutting Your Boards

Start by cutting your wood to the correct dimensions. For this build, the shelves are joined using 45 degree angles for a clean, seamless look, but you can skip the angles if you prefer straight cuts. Cut two pieces at 16.5 inches in length with 45s on each end, then cut two more boards at 10 inches with 45s.

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Step 2: Routing the Center Groove

Measure and mark the exact center on the inside of each 16.5 inch board. Using a router fitted with a 1/4 inch bit, start from the back and route toward the front, stopping about half an inch before reaching the edge. This creates a clean channel for the clear shelf to slide into later while keeping the front face intact for a seamless look.

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Step 3: Creating the Light Recess

On the inside of the top 10 inch board, route a channel about 5/8 inches deep and 1.75 inches wide across the center. This recess will hold the cabinet light so it sits flush with the wood, giving the shelf a clean, professional finish once installed.

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Step 4: Assembling the Shelf Frame

Now it’s time to put the frame together. Position the routed top and bottom boards with the two 16.5 inch side pieces to form a box. Apply wood glue at each joint for strength, then secure everything with brad nails or screws.

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Step 5: Installing the Acrylic Shelf

Cut your acrylic sheet to size using a multi tool or a sharp utility knife. Once trimmed, slide it carefully into the routed grooves you made earlier.

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Step 6: Building the Back Panel

You can close the back with a single solid piece or create a custom design. For this build, I used 1/4 inch poplar ripped into 2 inch wide strips to form five planks across the back, secured with a brad nailer. You can also leave the back open for a lighter look. This step is where you can get creative and make the shelves match your own style.

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Step 7: Add the Light

Place the cabinet light into the recessed groove on the top board and secure it according to the manufacturer’s directions. Once the light is in place, test it out with the remote.

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Step 8: Mounting the Shelves

Mount your shelves using floating shelf brackets. Make sure the brackets are level along the bottom before tightening. Test the light, step back, and admire your new custom shelves.

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Final Thoughts:

Before mounting, decide whether you want to leave the wood natural or apply a finish. I prefer to age the poplar and seal it with a coat of polyurethane for protection and a richer look, but this step is optional. You can also swap out the clear acrylic for another material, though the acrylic helps the light shine through to the lower shelf. However you finish them, make it your own and enjoy your custom floating shelves that combine function, creativity, and style.