Do it yourself shelving

Are you limited on your ability to organize because your closets do not have adequate shelving? If you can you read a tape measure and use a screw gun, then why not do it yourself! You don't know where to start? Then check this out.

• You will need a tape measure, drill and drill bit slightly smaller in diameter than the drywall screws or 1 1/2" deck screws you will be using, a small level, and a pencil, and of course the shelving and cleats
• Clear the area to be shelved
• Decide how far apart in height you want your shelves to be (essentially how many shelves you will put up)
• Measure and mark the wall where you want your shelves located.
• Measure the width and the depth of the area and write it down
• Take the measurements to Home Depot and have them cut your cleats and shelves for you (use prelaminated or finished shelving, it's easier) Or you can cut your materials yourself. (My husband is a carpenter so I had all the tools I needed)
• Drill two holes in each end of each cleat
• Screw the cleats onto the wall (make sure to use the level)
• Put the shelves on and you are done!

I measured the back of the wall, which was 25 1/2" wide, and the depth of the shelves had to be 11". I built four shelves, so I needed two cleats per shelf making a total of 88" linear board I would need for cleats. I cut the cleats myself, but Home Depot would be happy to do it for you. I bought 12" wide prelaminated shelving 10' long and cut it myself. I pre-drilled the holes in the cleats, two holes on each end. Then using a small level I drew a line on the wall where the cleats would be located. I screwed the cleats onto the wall and put the shelves in. As you can see, I used some silver screws I found in the garage. That's it. Easy huh? For a more permanent shelf use wood glue and glue the shelf onto the cleats then caulk around the edges of the shelf.

Ladies, if you don't have a tool box, get one. You need the basics in your tool box to begin with. A hammer, a cordless drill and bits (make sure it comes with a flat head screw driver bit and a Phillips bit), a tape measure, a small level, screws (drywall screws and 2" deck screws will fix just about any home project you can fix.) and a pair of pliers. You can add stuff later as you find it on sale, or at garage sales (but don't buy used power tools unless they show you they work). I love the cordless tool kits that include a small circular saw and drill with rechargeable batteries, they are woman sized, and easy to use. Ryobi and Dewalt are both good brands but almost any brand will do for your home tool kit.

So get your organizing in gear and go for it! You can do it yourself!

For more info: www.homedepot.com