Projects

Building a Closet Organizer

Project Overview

You've cleared out the space, written down all your measurements, and now you're ready to go out and buy that long-overdue closet-organizing system. Okay, but prepare yourself for some sticker shock. Depending on the off-the-shelf system you choose, a single closet's worth can end up costing hundreds of dollars. Our easy-to-build organizer will set you back just the cost of a single sheet of plywood (plus a couple of clothes poles and some 1x3 lumber). And guess what – it will function just the same as the high-priced spread.

Cut the Shelves for the Central Unit
Assemble the Central Shelf Unit
Position the Central Shelf Unit
Mark Notched on the Central Shelf Unit
Attach the Shelves

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Step 1

Measure the Walls

Measure the back and side walls to determine the length of the shelf supports. Be sure to deduct 1-1/2 inches from the length of the back-wall shelf-support measurement (the 3/4-inch thickness of each end support).

Step 2

Cut Shelf Supports for Back & Side Walls

Cut 1x3 shelf supports to fit the back and side walls of the closet. Attach the supports for the top shelf to the walls with their top edges 84-inches above the floor using 8d finish nails driven into the wall studs.

Step 3

Cut Shelf Supports the Bottom Shelf

Cut the supports for the bottom shelf, and attach them to the wall with their top edges 76-inches above the floor, again using 8d finish nails driven directly into the wall studs.

Step 4

Cut the Two Long Pieces

Cut the two long 11 7/8-inch wide shelves from 3/4-inch plywood. Then cut them to length to fit the width of your closet.

Step 5

Cut the Two Side Pieces

Measure and cut the two 11-7/8x76-inch side pieces for the central shelf unit from 3/4-inch plywood.

Step 6

Cut the Shelves for the Central Unit

Measure and cut the six 11 7/8-inch-square shelves for the central unit from 3/4-inch plywood.

Step 7

Assemble the Central Shelf Unit

Assemble the central shelf unit using 6d finish nails. Space the shelves evenly or according to the height of the items you plan to store. Leave the top and bottom of the unit open.

Step 8

Position the Central Shelf Unit

Position the central shelf unit in the middle of the closet.

Step 9

Mark Notched on the Central Shelf Unit

Mark notches on the sides of the central shelf unit to fit around the lower shelf's back support, and cut them out with a hand saw.

Step 10

Attach the Shelves

Lay one of the long shelves on the lower shelf supports and on top of the central shelf unit. Attach the shelf with 6d finish nails.

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Project Details

Skill Level: Beginner

Time: 4 hours

Before you start, read this »

Due to differing conditions, tools, and individual skills, The Home Depot® assumes no responsibility for any damages, injuries suffered, or losses incurred as a result of attempting to replicate any of the home improvement ideas portrayed in this website Before beginning any home improvement project, review it thoroughly to ensure you or your contractor can finish the project and if any doubts or questions remain, consult local experts or authorities. Because codes and regulations vary greatly, you always should check with authorities to ensure that your project complies with all applicable local codes and regulations. Always read and observe all of the safety precautions provided by any tool or equipment manufacturer, and follow all accepted safety procedures.

Materials