Pantry Upgrade

Difficulty Level - Intermediate

Pantry Upgrade

Transform your old pantry into a modern masterpiece with this step-by-step DIY Pantry Upgrade!

  • Step 1

    Step 1

    Take note of the current position of the shelves in your pantry if you want to place the new shelves in the same location. Remove current shelving and patch any holes/paint wall as needed.

  • Step 2

    Step 2

    Measure the width of your pantry to determine the materials needed. Multiply that by the number of shelves being installed.

  • Step 3

    Sand down your boards so the paint or stain goes on evenly. Paint or stain shelving boards, wall supports, and trim boards.

  • Step 4

    Step 4

    Measure the width of the pantry at the location the shelf is to be installed. Dimensions may vary, so measure for each shelf location. Use the following steps for shelf location.

  • Step 5

    Step 5

    Cut 1" x 2" wall support boards to length. Locate studs and mount boards to back wall using brad nails. To secure, pre-drill holes for screws using a 7/64" drill bit, then countersink each hole for a screw head. Screw in using 2-1/2" screws.

  • Step 6

    Step 6

    Measure the pantry sides to cut the side shelf supports. Repeat step 5 to attach 1" x 2" supports on both sides. Align the boards with the back supports and keep them level.

  • Step 7

    Step 7

    Measure the distances on each side of the door. Repeat step 5 to attach the 1" x 2" supports. Attaching to each stud may leave support board longer than the depth of the side board. You can also use drywall anchors as an option.

  • Step 8

    Step 8

    Double check measurements before cutting the back shelves. Then, cut the shelves.

  • Step 9

    Step 9

    After cutting the back shelves, lay them upside down. Place 6" plates across half of the board and leave 3/4" off the edge. Attach with 5/8" wood screws.

  • Step 10

    Step 10

    Place back shelf on top of wall supports. Attach using 1-1/2" brad nails along the perimeter into the support boards. Do the same for each shelf.

  • Step 11

    Step 11

    Measure the length of your side shelves from the wall inside the doorway to the front of the back shelf. Cut your shelves to the correct size.

  • Step 12

    Step 12

    Place the side shelves on top of the wall supports. Attach using 1-1/2" brad nails along the perimeter into the support boards. Do the same for each shelf.

  • Step 13

    Step 13

    On the underside of the shelves, finish attaching the plates with 5/8" wood screws.

  • Step 14

    Step 14

    Measure the distance between shelves. Cut Trim board to length. Attach with 1-1/2" brad nails.

  • Step 15

    Step 15

    Measure the distance between the shelf and the wall. Cut 1" x 2" trim board to length. Attach with 1-1/2" brad nails. Do the same for all shelves. Touch up with paint as needed.