As an artist who works with my hands, my studio is my sanctuary. But even I have to admit, a messy floor is a creativity killer. One of the biggest culprits? Shoes. They seem to multiply overnight! Sound familiar? That’s why I decided to create a DIY hanging shoe organizer. It’s a simple, stylish, and affordable solution that keeps shoes off the floor and my creative juices flowing.
Why a Hanging Shoe Organizer?
Let’s be honest, traditional shoe racks can take up valuable floor space. And let’s not even talk about the jumbled mess they can become. A DIY hanging shoe organizer, on the other hand, utilizes vertical space, making it perfect for small rooms, closets, or even entryways.
What You’ll Need:
Tools:
- Compound saw
- Cordless drill
- Crown staple gun
- Measuring tape
- Speed square
- Putty knife
- Small paintbrush
- Sandpaper (120 grit)
- Tack cloth
Materials:
- Lumber (I used pine):
- 3 pieces – 1″x4″x8′ (front and backs)
- 1 piece – 1″x3″x48″
- 2 pieces – 1″x3″x12″ (ends)
- 1 piece – 1″x1.5″x48″ (upper front)
- Wood glue
- Fasteners:
- 1-inch staples OR 1.25-inch trim screws OR finish nails
- 2.5-inch screws (for mounting to the wall)
- Wood filler
- Polycrylic finish (or your preferred paint/stain)
Building Your DIY Hanging Shoe Organizer:
Step 1: Measure and Cut
The beauty of this project is its customizability. Determine the length of your front and back boards based on how many pairs of shoes you want to store. Remember, the length of the end boards will dictate the size of shoes each shelf can accommodate.
- For shoe size 9 and up, make the ends 12 inches.
- For shoe size 8 and below, make the ends 10 inches.
basket full of shoes
Step 2: Assemble the Frame
- Sand all your wood pieces before assembly to ensure a smooth finish.
- Attach the bottom board to the end boards using wood glue and your chosen fasteners.
- Attach the bottom front board flush with the bottom front edge using glue and fasteners.
- Attach the top and bottom of the backboard to the end pieces using glue and fasteners.
- Align the top backboard with the top of the end pieces and secure it with fasteners.
DIY Hanging Shoe Organizer
Step 3: Add the Shoe Support
- Attach the 1.5-inch front board approximately 6 inches up from the bottom using glue and fasteners. You can adjust this height based on your shoe size preference.
- For a shorter rack, attach this board directly above the front bottom board.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Fill all fastener holes with wood filler using a putty knife. Allow it to dry completely.
- Sand the entire organizer to remove any rough edges and excess wood filler.
- Wipe down the organizer with a tack cloth to remove dust.
- Apply your chosen finish. I prefer a clear polycrylic for a natural look, but you can stain or paint your organizer to match your decor.
Step 5: Hang Your Organizer
- Locate the wall studs using a stud finder. Mark their location with painter’s tape for easy reference.
- Predrill holes through the backboard of your organizer at the stud locations.
- Using 2.5-inch screws, securely attach your hanging shoe organizer to the wall.
hemming edges – fold and press at 1/4 inch
Tips and Variations:
- Add personality: Get creative and customize your organizer with paint, stencils, or decorative hooks.
- Maximize storage: Build multiple organizers to accommodate your entire shoe collection.
- Create a family hub: Assign each family member their own shelf for ultimate organization.
Conclusion:
There you have it! A simple and stylish solution to conquer shoe clutter. This DIY hanging shoe organizer is a project you can complete in an afternoon, leaving your floors cleaner and your mind clearer. Now that’s what I call art imitating life.
Ready to tackle more fun and creative DIY projects? Explore Robert Kline Art for more inspiration and unique handmade gifts.