STEP 1

Locate and mark the studs on the wall. They will be 1.5” wide and 3.5” long (despite being called 2x4s).
The studs will be 16” apart (from center to center). Typically you can find them next to electrical sockets.

STEP 2

Using a bracket, mark two holes on the wall in pencil with the mounting plate facing so it provides more surface area below (see photo). Use a level to ensure your bracket is horizontal.

STEP 3

Pre-drill the holes into the wall before adding a screw.

STEP 4

Hold bracket in place and with your drill add two screws.

STEP 5

For additional strength you can add anchors / plugs / toggle bolts into the other two empty bracket holes. But it’s not necessary.

STEP 6

Take your additional bracket(s) and drop them into the pre-drilled holes in your shelf’s backside. Slide the shelf onto the single wall mounted bracket. Use a pencil mark where the other screw holes land (within the width of your stud).

STEP 7

Repeat the same steps for adding holes and screws. Place a level on the first bracket and the additional bracket to ensure you remain on a horizontal path.

STEP 8

Once you have all brackets added you can then slide the shelf in place. It is held with a friction fit over top the bracket rods. If you find it’s slightly difficult to slide on, loosen the screws in the studs to ease off the tension. If the shelf is too loose on the brackets, you can thicken them up with a thin piece of tape or nail polish.

STEP 9

Time to decorate! The strongest points will be where the brackets are closer to the wall so for a heavy object be sure to use the strength of the stud for support.