How to DIY Closets and Closet Shelves

Published December 26, 2024
Closet organization helps you streamline your morning routine. Ready-made units are good choices. More budget-friendly options are DIY closets or DIY closet shelves. Read on to learn about DIY closet organization accessories and storage options. Plus, get step-by-step directions for building DIY closet shelves to fit your exact needs.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Duration:
Over 1 day
Table of Contents
Measure DIY Closet Space
Measure Pieces for DIY Closet Shelves
Cut Shelf Supports
Cut the Shelves
Attach Shelf Support to Wall
Assemble Central Unit
Measure DIY Closet Space

Crafting your own DIY closet organizer is simple. You just need enough time and a little know-how. Start by measuring accurately. Accurate measurements are the secret to building a closet organizer that works best for your space.
- Measure the back wall and two side walls of your closet space. (You’ll use these measurements to determine the length of the shelf supports.)
- Deduct 1 1/2 inches from the length of the back wall shelf support measurement. This will account for the 3/4-inch thickness of each side wall support.
Measure Pieces for DIY Closet Shelves

You'll use 3/4-inch plywood to make this closet organizer. Measure out:
- Six 1-inch x 3-inch boards. The lengths will be based on the back and side wall measurements in Step 1.
- Two boards that are 11 7/8 inches wide. Use the length that fits the width of your closet in Step 1.
- Six 11 7 /8-inch square shelves for the central unit.
- Two 11 7 /8-inch side pieces for the central shelf unit.
Cut Shelf Supports

You will install your finished DIY closet organization system on shelf supports. Cut the six 1-inch x 3-inch shelf supports you measured out of the plywood in Step 2. These pieces are for the top and bottom of the closet walls.
Cut the Shelves

Next, measure and use a circular saw to cut the following plywood pieces for your DIY closet shelves.
- Six 11 7/ 8-inch square shelves for the central unit.
- Six 1-inch x 3-inch boards with lengths based on the back and side wall measurements in Step 1.
- Two 11 7 /8-inch wide closet shelves with lengths based on the closet width measurement in Step 1.
Attach Shelf Support to Wall

Your shelf support pieces will bear most of the weight of the central shelf unit. It's important to attach them to the studs.
- Use a stud finder to find the studs in the back wall and the two side walls of your closet space.
- Attach the supports for the top shelf to the walls with their top edges 84 inches above the floor using wood screws.
- Attach the supports for the bottom shelf to the wall with their top edges 76 inches above the floor using wood screws.
Assemble Central Unit

- Use wood screws or finishing nails to put the center of your DIY closet organization system together.
- Space the shelves evenly. Or choose spacing based on the height of the items you plan to store.
- Leave the top and bottom of the unit open.
Place Central Unit in Closet

- Position the central shelf unit to be the middle of the DIY closet system.
- Cut any excess wood out with a hand saw so the unit fits into the support board.
- Take your time here and avoid removing too much wood.
Install Long Shelves

- Lay one of the long DIY closet shelves on the lower shelf supports. It will be on top of the central shelf unit.
- Attach each long shelf with wood screws or 6d finishing nails.
Tip: Add metal shelving brackets in the corners of the long shelves for extra support.
Screw-In Closet Shelving Alternatives

One of the most popular DIY closet organization options are freestanding closet shelving. It comes in a wide range of designs and styles. Simply measure your available space and look for a unit that will fit.
- Freestanding wire organizers come with one or more shelves.
- Freestanding organizers in wood have a combination of shelves and drawers. These customizable closet systems have the look of built-in luxury.
- A freestanding plastic closet system may have a hanging rod and shelves and storage baskets.
- Wire storage organizers can have drawers and baskets. Some are freestanding. Others hang over a door.
Choose from basic wire storage systems to high-end wood organizers that are perfect for upscale bedrooms. Ready-made and ready-to-assemble closet organizers are also available.
Tip: Large organizers may need to be assembled. Make sure they are anchored to a wall for safety and stability. Read the instructions that come with your unit for details.
Turn your closet into a better functioning space with a DIY closet organization system or DIY closet shelves. A closet organizer is something you can build for bedroom closets and more. Plus, building a closet system is the perfect solution for uniquely shaped closets or other odd spaces.
Building a DIY closet organization system or looking for a ready-to-assemble closet organizer? Use The Home Depot Mobile App to locate products and check inventory. We'll take you to the exact aisle and bay.