My Experience Building A Drop Down Shelf

Recently, I decided to take on the challenge of building a drop down shelf for my kitchen. I had seen them in magazines and online and loved the idea of having extra counter space when I needed it. Plus, it would be a great way to add more storage to my small kitchen.

How to Build a Drop Down Shelf

Building a drop down shelf can seem daunting, but with the right tools and materials, it’s actually a fairly simple project. Here are the basic steps:

Step 1: Measure and Cut

The first step is to measure the space where you want your shelf to go. Make sure to measure the depth, width, and height so you know what size shelf to build. Cut your wood to the desired size using a saw.

Step 2: Sand and Paint

Once you have your wood cut, sand it down to make sure it’s smooth. Then, paint or stain it to match your kitchen decor.

Step 3: Install Hinges

Attach hinges to the bottom of your shelf and to the wall where you want it to hang. Make sure they are securely attached so the shelf won’t fall off the wall.

Step 4: Add Support

Depending on the weight of your shelf, you may need to add additional support. You can do this by attaching brackets to the wall or adding additional hinges.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Building a Drop Down Shelf

Here are some tips and ideas to help you with your drop down shelf project:

Choose a sturdy wood like oak or maple for your shelf.
Make sure your shelf is level before attaching hinges.
Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs for added support.
Consider adding a small lip to the front of your shelf to prevent items from falling off.
Install a small light underneath your shelf for added functionality.
Use decorative brackets to add a unique touch to your shelf.
If you have a small kitchen, consider building multiple drop down shelves for added counter space.
Paint or stain your shelf to match your kitchen decor.
Attach a small hook to the bottom of your shelf for hanging measuring cups or utensils.
Make sure to use strong hinges to support the weight of your shelf.

Pros and Cons of Building a Drop Down Shelf

Like any project, there are pros and cons to building a drop down shelf. Here are a few:

Pros:

Extra counter space when you need it.
Added storage in a small kitchen.
A unique and functional addition to your kitchen.

Cons:

May not be suitable for heavy items.
Takes up wall space when not in use.
May require additional support for heavier shelves.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I am very happy with my drop down shelf. It has been a great addition to my kitchen and has given me the extra counter space I needed. I would suggest using strong hinges and adding additional support if you plan on using your shelf for heavier items. Additionally, consider adding a small lip to the front of your shelf to prevent items from falling off.