Using Wall Anchors With Brackets Hanging Shelves

Most of the hollow wall anchors included with shelves or shelf brackets aren t worth using.

Using wall anchors with brackets hanging shelves.

Place one of the brackets against the wall at the first shelf location. Use a drill bit that s the same size as the dry wall anchor. If you can t attach your shelf to studs and must use hollow wall anchors make sure to choose one that will support your shelf in the long run. For light duty shelves we like the type of anchor shown here.

You need the different sizes since drywall anchors come in all different shapes and sizes. Make absolutely sure you get a drill bit set and not just one or two drill bits. The thought of installing heavy duty shelves using dry wall anchors used to intimidate me. Use a standard level to make sure it s placed in a straight line then lightly mark the wall with a pencil on both ends.

When choosing wood screws for attaching the shelf please keep in mind that the screws must be slightly less thick than that of the shelf. Throw away the free anchors. If you don t have an electric drill press the tip of a philips head screwdriver against the wall and twist it back and forth to create a hole. Then fit a screw into each hole.

Check to make sure the brackets are well secure before continuing. Turn them clockwise with a screwdriver or drill until they are about flush with the anchors. Hold the brackets against the wall aligning the screw holes with the anchors. Position the shelf brackets against the wall along the bottom of the shelf.

But we made some diy rustic shelves a couple of years ago and it honestly wasn t as hard as i thought. To use dry wall anchors start by drilling a hole into the wall you re installing the anchors in at a 90 degree angle. Remove the shelf and the brackets from the wall. You ll find these mollies suitable for hanging coat racks.

These types of anchors are the most common and when you think of drywall anchors you probably think of. With that all out of the way let s get started. The smallest anchors hold up to 18 pounds in 1 2 drywall and the medium size anchors hold up to 25 pounds in 5 8 drywall. Since then i have used dry wall anchors for hanging curtains heavy mirrors wall hooks and large wall art.

Using a screw attach the shelf to the brackets through the mounting hole in the leg of the bracket that is facing away from the wall.