Floating corner shelves are more than just a clever storage solution — they’re a simple yet stunning way to transform underutilized corners into eye-catching displays. Whether you’re going for a rustic vibe with natural wood (like the handcrafted beauties from DTWood Decor), or you prefer a sleek, minimalist look, floating corner shelves bring both form and function to your walls.
But how do you install floating corner shelves the right way — safely, securely, and beautifully? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step.
Why Floating Corner Shelves?
Before diving into installation, let’s talk about why these shelves are worth the effort:
- Space-saving: Perfect for small rooms or awkward corners.
- Decor-friendly: Showcase your favorite plants, books, or decor without bulky furniture.
- Aesthetic boost: Custom wooden shelves (like the live edge ones pictured above) add warmth, texture, and natural beauty.
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get into the how-to!
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these essentials:
- Your floating corner shelves (pre-purchased or DIY)
- Wall anchors and brackets (if not built-in)
- Drill
- Level
- Stud finder
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Screws
- Optional: Wood glue (for added stability)
Step 1: Measure and Plan
Use a measuring tape to decide exactly where you want your corner shelf to sit. Pay attention to symmetry if you’re installing multiple shelves.
Pro Tip: Use painter’s tape to mark out the shelf position visually on the wall. This helps you envision the finished look before drilling any holes.
Step 2: Locate the Studs
Using a stud finder, locate the studs behind your wall. Mounting shelves into studs provides the most secure hold — especially important for heavier wooden shelves or if you plan to store books or ceramics.
If you can’t find studs where you need them, use heavy-duty wall anchors to ensure stability.
Step 3: Mark the Bracket Placement
With a pencil and level, mark the placement for each bracket. Double-check that everything is even — uneven shelves can throw off the entire look and compromise safety.
Tip: If your shelves come with built-in hidden brackets, mark the holes according to the shelf design.
Step 4: Drill Holes and Insert Anchors
Drill pilot holes into the wall at your marked spots. If you’re using anchors, insert them now and tap them flush with a hammer.
Then, attach your brackets to the wall using screws. Make sure each bracket is level and firmly secured.
Step 5: Mount the Shelves
Now for the fun part — placing the shelves! Slide your floating shelf onto the bracket or screw it directly into place (depending on your design). Some shelves also allow you to secure them with small screws from the bottom.
If using wood glue for extra strength, apply a thin line along the contact edge before mounting.
Step 6: Style and Enjoy
Once your shelves are secure, it’s time to decorate! Add plants, framed art, candles, or any decorative accents that reflect your personality. For a cozy natural aesthetic, try mixing in ceramics or small woven baskets.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the level: This is the most common DIY misstep. Always double-check!
- Using weak anchors: If you’re not drilling into a stud, opt for high-quality wall anchors.
- Overloading: Even strong shelves have limits. Know your weight capacity.
- Uneven spacing: If installing multiple shelves, measure spacing precisely for a balanced look.
Read more: DIY Floating Corner Shelves
Floating Corner Shelf Ideas
Need inspiration? Here are some creative ways to use your new shelves:
- 🌿 Display trailing plants or succulents
- 📚 Store a small collection of books
- 🕯 Create a cozy candle nook
- 🖼 Frame and feature mini art pieces
- 🍶 Show off ceramic or wooden handcrafted items from DTWood Decor – Corner Floating Shelves Collection
Final Thoughts
Installing floating corner shelves is a beginner-friendly project that makes a big visual impact. With a few tools and a little patience, you can elevate any corner of your home — and make it uniquely yours. Whether you’re working with natural live edge wood or modern minimalist cuts, these shelves create functional beauty.
Thinking of upgrading with custom wooden shelves? At DTWood Decor, we specialize in handcrafted floating shelves made from solid natural wood — each piece designed to tell its own story. Browse our shop or request a custom order today!
