Are you tired of the same old kitchen routine? Craving a touch of cafe charm in your home? Then let me introduce you to your next DIY obsession: a charming wall-mounted floating breakfast bar. This project is easier than you think, especially with the help of the National Hardware Floating Shelf Kit. Trust me, I, Robert Kline, am speaking from experience!
This step-by-step guide will take you from basic kitchen to breakfast bar bliss. And the best part? You can customize it to match your unique style. Let’s get crafting!
Gathering Your Tools and Materials:
Before we begin, let’s gather our DIY arsenal:
You’ll Need:
- National Hardware Floating Shelf Kit: This handy kit includes 4 shelf brackets, 8 wall anchors, and 16 flat-head screws – everything you need for a sturdy and secure installation.
- Live Edge Wood: Choose a piece that speaks to your style and complements your kitchen’s aesthetic. I recommend a 12-inch board for the perfect fit.
- Drill: Your trusty sidekick for creating pilot holes and attaching the brackets.
- Level: A level ensures your breakfast bar is perfectly straight and avoids any unwanted spills.
- Stud Finder: This tool helps you locate the studs in your wall for maximum support (unless you’re using anchors).
- Pencil: For marking those crucial measurements and bracket placements.
- Tape Measure: Accurate measurements are key to a successful and satisfying DIY project.
- Optional: A multi-tool can come in handy for notching out the live edge wood to fit the brackets.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Locating and Marking:
- Find your studs: Use the stud finder to locate and mark the studs on your wall where you’ll be installing your breakfast bar. If you prefer to use anchors, National Hardware provides excellent instructions on their website.
- Determine the height: Hold up your live edge wood and imagine yourself enjoying your morning coffee. Find a comfortable height for everyone in your household. Remember, you’re aiming for a breakfast bar feel.
2. Installing the Brackets:
- Mark the bracket positions: Using your level and pencil, carefully mark the location of the bottom bracket hole on the wall. Then, use the level again to mark the top hole. Precision is key here!
- Drill pilot holes: Drill pilot holes at the marked locations. This step makes it easier to install the screws.
- Secure the brackets: Align the brackets with the pilot holes and use the longer screws provided in the kit to attach them securely to the wall.
3. Preparing the Live Edge Wood:
- Create notches (if needed): If you’re using live edge wood, you might need to use a multi-tool to notch out a section on the underside of the wood so it fits snugly around the brackets.
- Drill pilot holes: Drill pilot holes upward through the underside of the live edge wood, ensuring they align with the holes on the brackets.
4. Securing the Breakfast Bar:
- Align and attach: Carefully lift the live edge wood and align the pilot holes with the brackets.
- Secure with screws: Use the shorter screws provided in the kit to firmly attach the live edge wood to the brackets.
Congratulations! You’ve Done It!
Step back and admire your handiwork! You’ve transformed your kitchen with a beautiful and functional DIY floating breakfast bar.
Tips From Robert Kline:
- Safety First: Always wear safety glasses when operating power tools, and be mindful of your surroundings.
- Placement is Key: Choose a location for your breakfast bar that is easily accessible and won’t obstruct any walkways.
- Get Creative with Styling: Add your personal touch with decorative plants, pendant lights, or stylish bar stools.
- Durability Matters: The National Hardware Floating Shelf Kit’s industry-grade steel brackets provide excellent support. Did you know each bracket can hold up to 50 pounds? That’s a lot of coffee and croissants!
Share Your Creations!
I’d love to see your finished floating breakfast bars! Share photos of your creations in the comments below or tag #RobertKlineArt on social media. Happy crafting!