If you’re as addicted to vintage and quirky glassware and crockery as I am, then chances are you’ll need somewhere to store it.
But instead of burying your collection in the cupboard, make a bespoke display shelf that turns your glassware into art.
Gather your supplies
- Timber cut to the following sizes using a drop or circular saw:
- 4 pieces of 30 x 30mm timber at 2180mm (long vertical uprights)
- 18 pieces of 30 x 30mm timber at 200mm (short horizontal supports)
- 9 boards of 19 x 140mm timber at 900mm (shelves)
- Timber screws
- Wood stain
- Sandpaper: 120-grit and 180-grit sheets for smoothing boards and pegs
You’ll also need
- Hand saw
- Drill
- Level
- Hand mitt (for staining)
- Tape measure
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Safety gear (goggles, gloves, dust mask)
Safety notes
- Cutting wood: Always clamp the board securely before cutting, and keep hands clear of the blade. Wear safety glasses when sawing.
- Handling tools: Keep your fingers behind the drill bit and saw blade at all times.
- Wear a mask while sanding: Fine particles can irritate your lungs – a basic dust mask will help protect you.
How to build your own glassware display shelf
Step 1
Sand all cut edges smooth to remove splinters and give a neat finish.
Step 2
On each of the short 30 x 30mm pieces, drill pilot holes through the ends. This prevents the wood from splitting when screws are inserted.
Step 3
Position the short 30 x 30mm pieces onto the long uprights, spacing them evenly at 242mm. Fix in place with wood screws through the pilot holes, so you make two tall ladder-style side frames. These will hold the shelves securely.
Step 4
Apply wood stain to the frames and shelves, working with the grain for an even look. Wipe away excess and allow to dry fully before moving on.
Step 5
Place the 900mm shelf boards across the supports, ensuring they’re flush and level. Secure each shelf by driving screws upwards through the support pieces into the underside of the shelf. This keeps fixings hidden and gives a clean look.
Step 6
Move the rack into position against the wall. For stability and safety, especially if storing heavy glassware, fix the rack to the wall. Drive screws through the uprights into wall studs or use suitable wall anchors.
Step 7
Once secure, arrange your glassware and crockery collection on the shelves. Mix shapes and heights for visual interest, or group by type for an organised display.
