ArcaMax

Designers tell us that an attractive way to showcase a collection is by grouping them together on a wall shelf to call attention to the display. A wall shelf is an attractive way to show off a prized collection of vintage books or used as a ledge to show off a larger single piece of artwork. That versatility is why you’ll find a variety of wall shelf styles and sizes, from country to contemporary, and in painted, natural and wood finishes. You’ll find wall shelves and brackets sold separately and as kits, which include the fasteners, at home centers, home furnishing retailers and online.

You can buy a kit containing a painted 36-inch-long wall shelf with brackets and hardware for $50 and install it yourself. You’ll pay a handyman to do the job for $300, which includes the labor and the wall shelf kit.

If you’re new to doing it yourself, this is a good beginner project because the installation is straightforward and doesn’t require many tools. To do the job you’ll need a measuring tape, a carpenter’s or laser level and a power drill. Take your time in deciding the location for the shelf, and mark the location for the fasteners on the wall with light pencil marks. Use plastic wall anchors for plaster or drywall, unless you plan to store heavy objects on the shelf. Toggle-type hangers are best for supporting heavier loads. If you have brick or cinderblock walls, you’ll need a masonry drill bit to make the hole for the anchor.

Pro Cost: $300 — DIY Cost: $50 — Pro time: 3.0
DIY Time: 3.8 — DIY Savings: $250 — Percent Saved: 83%

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

©2026 Gene and Katie Hamilton. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.