DIY Closet Organizer (2024)

1

Measure the Closet Space

Crafting your own DIY closet organizer is simple. You just need enough time and a little know-how. Start by measuring accurately. Accurate measurements are the secret to making any size closet more functional.

You will install your finished DIY closet system on shelf supports.

• Measure the back wall and two side walls of your closet space.
• Use these measurements to determine the length of the shelf supports.

Tip: Deduct 1 1/2 inches from the length of the back wall shelf support measurement to account for the 3/4-inch thickness of each side wall support.

2

Measure Pieces for Closet Organizer

You'll use 3/4-inch plywood to make this closet organizer. Measure out:

• Six 1-inch x 3-inch boards. The lengths will be based on the back and side wall measurements in Step 1.
• Two 11 7/8-inch wide long closet shelves. Use the length that fits the width of your closet in Step 1.
• Six 11 7 /8-inch square shelves for the central unit.
• Two 11 7 /8-inch side pieces for the central shelf unit.

3

Cut Shelf Supports

4

Cut the Shelves

Use a circular saw to cut the following pieces you measured out in Step 2.

• Six 11 7/ 8-inch square shelves for the central unit.
• Six 1-inch x 3-inch boards with lengths based on the back and side wall measurements in Step 1.
• Two 11 7 /8-inch wide closet shelves with lengths based on the closet width measurement in Step 1.

5

Attach Shelf Support to Wall

Your shelf support pieces will bear most of the weight of the central shelf unit. It's important to attach them to the studs. Use a stud finder to find the studs in the back wall and the two side walls of your closet space.

• Attach the supports for the top shelf to the walls with their top edges 84 inches above the floor using wood screws.
• Attach the supports for the bottom shelf to the wall with their top edges 76 inches above the floor using wood screws.

6

Assemble the Central Unit

• Use wood screws or finishing nails to put the center of the organizer together.
• Space the shelves evenly. Or choose spacing based on the height of the items you plan to store.
• Leave the top and bottom of the unit open.

7

Position the Central Unit in the Closet

• Position the central shelf unit to be the middle of the DIY closet system.
• Cut excess wood out with a hand saw so the unit fits into the support board. Take your time here and avoid removing too much wood.

8

Install Long Shelves

• Lay one of the long shelves on the lower shelf supports. It will be on top of the central shelf unit.
• Attach each long shelf with wood screws or 6d finishing nails.

Tip: Add metal shelving brackets in the corners of the long shelves for extra support.

9

Alternatives to Screw-In Closet Shelving

Freestanding closet shelving comes in a wide range of designs and styles. Simply measure your available space and look for a unit that will fit. Choose from basic wire storage systems to high-end wood organizers perfect for upscale master bedrooms. Ready-made and ready-to-assemble closet organizers are also available.

• Freestanding wire organizers come with one or more shelves.
• Freestanding organizers in wood looks come with shelves. They can also have a combination of shelves and drawers.
• Freestanding plastic closet systems may have a hanging rod and shelves and storage baskets.
• Wire storage organizers can have drawers and baskets. Some are freestanding. Others hang over a door.

Tip: Large organizers may need to be assembled. Make sure they are anchored to a wall for safety and stability. Read the instructions that come with your unit for details.