Floating book shelves are a stylish and space-saving way to display your favorite reads or home décor. Unlike traditional shelves with visible supports, floating shelves appear to “float” on the wall, giving your room a clean, minimalist look. The best part? You can make your own at home with just a few tools, some high-quality materials—and a bit of creativity.
Whether you’re upgrading your reading nook or maximizing vertical space in a small room, this DIY floating book shelf project is beginner-friendly and budget-conscious.
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Before we dive into the steps, gather these Amazon-recommended items, each chosen for their quality and ease of use:
TOGGLER Toggle TB Residential Drywall Anchors with Screws
Perfect for securing shelves into drywall, these high-strength anchors ensure your shelf stays put—even with a full stack of hardcovers.
uxcell #2 x 9/16″ Phillips Pan Head Self-Tapping Screws
Ideal for attaching brackets to wood and brackets to the wall. These black, stainless steel screws are both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Stud Finder Wall Scanner by Canary
A multifunctional stud finder that helps you detect wood studs, metal, pipes, and AC wires to ensure safe and secure installation.
Walnut Hollow Rustic Basswood Plank 23″ (Pack of 6)
These live-edge wood planks bring rustic charm to your shelves. Each piece is unique, perfect for farmhouse or natural-style décor.
6 Pack Rustic Style Weathered Reclaimed Wood Bundle
If you prefer a more weathered, antique look, this bundle is great for creating shelves with character and texture.
LEOPO 12 inch Shelf Brackets for DIY Floating Shelf (6 Pack)
These heavy-duty brackets are built for stability and come in a modern matte black finish that complements any room.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Choose & Prep Your Shelf Wood
Pick either the Walnut Hollow live edge planks for a rustic vibe or the weathered reclaimed wood for a vintage touch. Lightly sand the wood to remove splinters or rough edges and finish with your choice of stain or clear sealer if desired.
Step 2: Locate the Studs
Use the Canary Stud Finder Wall Scanner to locate the studs in your wall. Mark them with a pencil. Studs provide the most secure hold, but if your placement doesn’t align with a stud, don’t worry—the TOGGLER Drywall Anchors are more than up for the task.
Step 3: Install Shelf Brackets
Measure and level where each LEOPO 12-inch bracket will go. If installing into drywall (not into studs), drill holes and insert TOGGLER drywall anchors. Then, secure the brackets using either the provided screws or the uxcell self-tapping screws for a better fit and cleaner finish.
Step 4: Attach the Wood Shelf
Place your wood plank onto the brackets and secure from underneath using the uxcell screws. Ensure the shelf is centered and level before fully tightening.
Step 5: Style and Admire
Let your shelf dry fully if you used wood finish, then style it with your favorite books, small plants, picture frames, or trinkets.
Pro Tips
- Always use a level when installing shelves to prevent leaning.
- Pre-drill holes in the wood to prevent cracking when securing the brackets.
- Want a cleaner “floating” look? Use deeper shelves and mount brackets inside hollowed-out grooves.
Final Thoughts
DIY floating book shelves aren’t just functional—they’re also a fun weekend project that lets you personalize your space. With the right tools and Amazon-quality materials, you’ll end up with sturdy, beautiful shelves that look like they came straight from a designer magazine. Whether you’re outfitting your living room, bedroom, or home office, floating shelves bring an element of style, simplicity, and practicality.
Now, grab your tools, hit play on your favorite playlist, and let’s get building!
Ready to start? Click the product links below to order your materials and make your DIY floating shelves a reality.
TOGGLER Toggle TB Residential Drywall Anchors with Screws
Perfect for securing shelves into drywall, these high-strength anchors ensure your shelf stays put—even with a full stack of hardcovers.
uxcell #2 x 9/16″ Phillips Pan Head Self-Tapping Screws
Ideal for attaching brackets to wood and brackets to the wall. These black, stainless steel screws are both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
Stud Finder Wall Scanner by Canary
A multifunctional stud finder that helps you detect wood studs, metal, pipes, and AC wires to ensure safe and secure installation.
Walnut Hollow Rustic Basswood Plank 23″ (Pack of 6)
These live-edge wood planks bring rustic charm to your shelves. Each piece is unique, perfect for farmhouse or natural-style décor.
6 Pack Rustic Style Weathered Reclaimed Wood Bundle
If you prefer a more weathered, antique look, this bundle is great for creating shelves with character and texture.
LEOPO 12 inch Shelf Brackets for DIY Floating Shelf (6 Pack)
These heavy-duty brackets are built for stability and come in a modern matte black finish that complements any room.
