Floating shelf with a hidden bracket

How to make it

1. 

   1

   Sand and finish the board

   Sand with 80, 120, then 180 grit. Stain and topcoat it now, before it goes on the wall.

2. 

   2

   Mark the studs

   Find and mark the studs where the shelf will go. You want the bracket screwed into at least 2.

3. 

   3

   Mount the bracket

   Hold the bracket level and drive its screws into the studs. Check it again with the level once it's tight.

4. 

   4

   Mark the rod holes

   Hold the shelf's back edge against the rods and mark each rod's position. Center the marks in the board's thickness.

5. 

   5

   Flag your bit

   Wrap tape on the drill bit at the rod length plus 1/4 in. That's your depth stop.

6. 

   6

   Drill straight holes

   Clamp the board and use a drill guide to keep each hole dead straight. Crooked holes make the shelf droop or bind.

7. 

   7

   Slide it on

   Push the shelf onto the rods until it's tight to the wall. It should feel solid when you press down on the front edge.