Installing floating shelves may seem a little daunting, but with the right help, the job is a breeze. Floating shelves are wall shelves supported without visible brackets or hooks to rest on. Don't let this lack of visible support intimidate you – this stylish option can be installed by a beginner. Follow these step-by-step instructions to learn how to install floating shelves.

How to Install Floating Shelves

Read the manufacturer's instructions for installation steps specific to your model and to ensure any necessary hardware is included.

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What You Will Need
Step 1: Locate the Studs
Step 2: Determine the Placement
Step 3: Drill the Bracket Holes
Step 4: Install the Brackets
Step 5: Install the Shelf

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What You Will Need

Stud finder
Pencil
Level
Drill and drill bit
Screwdriver

Step 1: Locate the Studs

If your shelf is heavy or you intend it to hold a lot of weight, you will want to install it directly onto wall studs. Use a stud finder in the desired area to locate any studs. With a pencil, lightly mark the location if any studs are found. If no studs are found, you will have to use wall anchors as noted in Step 3.

Step 2: Determine the Placement

Determine where to hang your shelf by lining it up with wall studs for a more secure hold. Hold the shelf up in the desired location and lightly mark its outline with a pencil. Place the shelf to the side. Now hold the bracket up to the outline, and match up the bracket's screw holes with any wall studs (if you were unable to locate studs, continue on to the next step). Use a pencil to mark the bracket's screw holes on the wall studs.

Step 3: Drill the Bracket Holes

Using a drill bit of the same size, drill the screw holes based off of your wall markings. Depending on the wall material, you may need to use wall anchors. For example, when hanging shelves on drywall or plaster, a wall anchor is needed if you are not drilling directly into a wall stud. If a stud is present, no wall anchor is needed for the screw.

Step 4: Install the Brackets

Not sure how to install shelf brackets? Line the bracket up with the new screw holes you created and lightly screw it into the wall (do not screw completely). Grab a level and hold it up against the bracket. If the line is level, fully screw the bracket into the wall. If not, adjust the bracket's placement until it is level.

Step 5: Install the Shelf

Now that the bracket is hanging on the wall, it's time to install the shelf. The bracket is inserted into the back of the shelf, making it appear like the shelf is holding itself up or floating. Line up the holes on the back of the shelf with the bracket extensions, and slide the shelf over them. Some brackets may have an additional screw hole that needs to be screwed in after the shelf is attached. Do this now, if applicable.