Wood Bracket Shelf Installation Instructions

These instructions cover our solid wood shelves with oak or mahogany brackets, and the wood brackets sold on their own. The brackets screw to the wall first, then the shelf screws down onto the brackets.

Prefer a printout? Download the PDF version of these instructions.

What is in the box

Position the first bracket. Hold one bracket against the wall where you want it. Brackets usually look best 2 to 3 inches in from each end of the shelf, but place them wherever you like. We like the bracket's grain running perpendicular to the wall, though that is your call.
Mark the bracket placement. Push the wire poker through the two wall-facing holes in the bracket to score the wall.
Secure the first bracket. Screw into a wall stud if you can. On drywall, drill pilot holes with the 9/32 inch bit and push the drywall anchors in until flush with the wall. Attach the bracket with the 3 inch screws. Do not overtighten.
Position and install the second bracket. Use a level to line the second bracket up with the first so the shelf will sit even, then repeat step 3.
Prepare the shelf. Set the shelf on the brackets and score the underside of the shelf through the bracket holes with the wire poker.
Drill pilot holes in the shelf. Lift the shelf off and drill 1/8 inch pilot holes where you scored it.
Secure the shelf. Set the shelf back on the brackets and attach it with the 2 inch screws. Do not overtighten.
Finish. Your shelf is ready. For a cleaner look, press the wood buttons into the screw holes on the brackets with a tiny dab of putty to hold them. A little putty goes a long way.