When you have too many collectibles and all of the china cabinets are full, then it is time to create a Collectibles Shelf. With our odd wall configuration along with the vaulted ceiling, it doesn’t take long for me to see where the ideal location is for my future shelf. I consider paintings in the spot, but it is just too high for my taste. I have an article here about how I start collecting, and there is a showcased item to share, plus there will be more in the future!:
I browse several home improvement box stores in our area to get ideas, which provide several samples of shelf brackets. I google shelf brackets too and find what really pushes my buttons. These shelf brackets have two depths, and I choose the 12″ depth over the 10″ depth. The more of my collectibles I can put on the shelf the better. These are steel and semi-industrial and extremely efficient to handle anything heavy. The brackets are from Home Depot. These are the 2 inch x 7 inch x 12 inch unfinished steel hanging Shelf Bracket by Ekena Millwork.
- Internet # 309733141
- Model # BKTM02X12X07HSCRS
- UPC Code # 192770458386
- The Store SKU #1004384561
I did choose two mahogany shelves that come in a set. This is a mistake, but since I stain them dark, it isn’t important. Seriously, two pine boards will work as long as they are dry and flat with the same dark stain. A lot of money will be saved with this choice. But, we have a beautiful collectibles shelf now!
Ready to Start
I order the mahogany boards online along with the brackets. The boards are a disappointment as I mention and the brackets are perfect. I figure out the configuration I want for the brackets and get an inexpensive 48″ sheetrock Level to help mark the locations of the bracket screws. I use painter’s masking tape on the level where I need to make the wall measurements. No measuring on the wall while I’m on a ladder!
Of course there is always a surprise, and mine is that the beam is not the expected wood, so back to the store I go to get self tapping metal screws. I do question the ability for these to work, but the sales person assures me they will work. I try to get my first one in and it just is spinning. I tap it a few times with a hammer and bingo, it goes in perfect. Production starts and in no time all 7 brackets are up.
I live with these for a few days while I am working on the shelves with urethane; unfortunately, I love the brackets but not the location. I raise them up about 5″ and use the same screws. Easy-Peasy. I live with this location for a few more days while the shelves cure, just to make sure I will be happy with this overall project.
One Man Job, O.K., One Person Job!
Ladies, some of you will understand my point; the job is simple with the input of one, as in yourself. With the brackets up, it’s pretty easy to just put the two shelves up and then anchor them to the shelf units. There is a single screw hole in the center of each bracket that goes into the shelf itself. This is great to make these rock solid. I also have two flat steel connections (long rectangle) to hook the two shelves to each other. Nothing is about to even slightly move!
A few days before this project is to be completed, I set aside the collectibles to go on this shelf. It doesn’t take me long to get everything up once the shelf is ready to go. I do warn my husband that I will drive him and myself crazy while I do slight adjustments to the arrangement. I just need a kitchen stool to do the job, so at least I don’t need to keep going out to the garage to get our 6′ ladder.
I love ‘Justification”
Now that I have a shelf with a little room on it, I can now go to the Goodwill in town, and have the room for more purchases for the collectibles shelf! My purchase policy is to only buy my goodies if I know where I will put them. I don’t put my collectibles into boxes for safe keeping. These sentimental purchases are to be seen. I love looking at the shelf, but I am basically O.C.D. when it comes to looking at my china cabinets and collectibles shelf. I restrain myself from moving things around, but the joy I get from looking at them is ‘everyday’!!!
Response Magic