How to Convert Shelves to Free Standing Closet Shelving

This article will help you convert the shelves in your room to free standing closet shelving. Shelves can be very handy in organizing yourself. You can store almost everything in them to make your room look neat. Free standing closet shelving has an added advantage because it can be moved around in case the room needs to be re-arranged.

When you are looking to convert the shelves to free standing closet shelving, you will first have to disassemble the shelf unit to put into the new unit. The reason for this is that shelves are usually attached to the wall while a free standing closet gets it support from a strong cubicle frame that supports its standing. Once you have disassembled, you will already have a major part of the raw materials needed to make the freestanding closet.

The Additional Materials And Tools You’ll Need Are As Follows:

• Wood Studs Of 2-By-4-Inch
• Wood To Build A Stronger Cubical Frame
• 2 ½ Inch Nails And Pneumatic Air Nailer
• Miter Compound Saw
• Drill
• 2 ½ Inches
• Masonry Screws
• Paint
• Plaster Of Paris

Step 1: A Strong Outer Frame

You need to first measure the desired length and width of the outer frame. Keep in mind that the width of the frame should be in accordance to the length of the shelves since you need to slide them in once the frame is made. Also note that the frame should be exactly as deep as the width of the shelf base so that once the closet shelving is complete, a series of symmetrical shelves are formed from top to bottom.

Once you are sure of the dimensions, use your compound miter saw to cut all four sides of the frame. The opposite sides will be of the same dimensions when making a rectangular standing closet. Next, you need to use the drill machine and masonry screws to bolt the structure together. For a stronger frame, use the 2-by-4-inch-wood stud in every corner by screwing theses stud into the corners.

Step 2: Installing Shelves

Once the frame is made, you need to install the wood studs on the side walls of the frame. Before you do this, use a marker and mark the exact position depending on where you want your shelves to be. Remember, the shelves will rest on the studs so you need to decide accordingly. Carefully mark one side-wall while the other side wall should be its exact replica. Install the wood studs on each side wall and then slide the shelves on the studs. Use an air nailer and 2 ½ inch nails to bolt the each side of the shelf to the studs.

Step 3: The Final Touches

The structure is now complete. Now all you need to do is to paint it so that the standing closet looks more appealing. Use plaster to fill in the marks created by bolted nails. A little wood putty works well with larger fissures. After it has dried, you can paint it. Let it dry for at least 24 hours before you use it.