Learning how to hang a shelf is one of the easiest and most rewarding DIY projects a new homeowner can take on. Whether you’re adding storage, decorating a blank wall, or just trying to make your place look a little more put-together, this is a perfect starter project.
If you’ve never touched a drill, don’t worry. This step-by-step tutorial will walk you through exactly how to hang a shelf like a pro, with tips I wish I knew before I punched extra holes in my wall.
How to Hang a Shelf, Step-by-Step
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Before we dive in, here are the tools and supplies you’ll want nearby:
- Stud finder
- 24-inch level
- Cordless drill or screwdriver
- Screws and anchors (usually included with shelf kits)
- Drill bits
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Painter’s tape (optional)
Step 1: Choose the Right Shelf Location
Start by measuring where the shelf will go. Think about function and form:
- Will it hold heavy items?
- Is it centered on the wall or furniture?
- Will you be able to reach it easily?
Once you’ve found the right spot, use a pencil to mark:
- Left and right shelf ends
- Midpoint
- Estimated bracket or mounting points
Step 2: Use a Stud Finder (or Plan for Anchors)
Use your stud finder to scan the wall and locate studs behind the drywall. Shelves are strongest when mounted into studs.
- ✅ Stud found? Great — drill into it.
- ❌ No stud? Use wall anchors to ensure the screws don’t pull out.
📌 Not sure which anchors to use? This guide from The Spruce breaks it down clearly.
Step 3: Mark Your Mounting Points & Level It
Hold the shelf or bracket up against the wall. Place your level on top of the shelf to ensure it’s even.
- Adjust until the bubble is centered
- Lightly mark the screw holes or bracket locations
This is where attention to detail pays off. An unlevel shelf is a surefire way to make even good work look amateur.
Step 4: Drill Pilot Holes
Now that your mounting points are marked:
- Use a drill bit slightly smaller than your screws
- Drill pilot holes through the drywall (or into studs)
- Insert wall anchors if you’re not drilling into studs
Pilot holes prevent the wall from cracking and keep your screws straight.
Step 5: Mount the Shelf
With the anchors or studs ready:
- Hold the shelf or bracket in position
- Use your cordless drill to secure the screws
- Double-check with your level once everything is mounted
If you’re using L-brackets or keyhole mounts, tighten everything securely but don’t overdo it, you don’t want to warp the bracket or crush the anchor.
Step 6: Test and Adjust
Once mounted, give your shelf a light tug. Place a few light objects on it and make sure it doesn’t shift or sag.
Common issues:
- Wobble = missed stud or loose anchor
- Tilting = bracket not fully level
- Pulling out = anchors not secure or shelf overloaded
Bonus Tips for First-Time DIYers
- Use painter’s tape as a guideline for height and spacing
- Double-check stud finder readings by scanning in both directions
- If you’re installing multiple shelves, use a spacer or template
- Don’t panic if it’s not perfect, patching small holes is easy (and common)
Why Learning How to Hang a Shelf Matters
Knowing how to hang a shelf is about more than wall décor. It’s about learning confidence with tools, understanding how your walls work, and solving real home problems with your own two hands.
You’ll reuse these same basic skills for dozens of other projects, from hanging curtain rods and TV mounts to installing garage storage or fixing door hardware.
Related Posts
- Top 3 Tools for New Homeowners
- 10 DIY Projects Any Homeowner Can Handle
- How to Patch a Wall With Ease
Final Thought
DIY doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a little prep and the right tools, you just hung your first shelf like a pro.
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