Easy Wall Mail or Magazine Bin Shelf
How to build a wall shelf for magazines or mail. Bins are sized perfect for mail. Make out of 1x2s and 1/4" plywood! Super inexpensive and easy to build!
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
What you need
- 1 - 1x2 @ 10 feet long
- 24"x48" piece of 1/4" plywood, MDF or other hardboard (available off the shelf at the Home Depot in this size)
- 2 - 1x2 @ 27-3/4"
- 4 - 1x2 @ 11"
- 6 - 1/4" plywood @ 7-1/4" x 4-1/8" (cut back to 3/4") (tip: cut a piece of plywood 7-1/4" wide x at least 16" long, then set saw to 25 degree angle and cross cut to size, leaving 3/4" on short end)
- 3 - 1/4" plywood @ 11" x 8" (tip: Rip into 11" or 8" strip first, then cut into the individual pieces next)
- measuring tape
- square
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- drill
- compound miter saw
- table saw
- nailer
Step by step
Step 1
Build the frame with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. You can use the sides of the mail bins as spacers so you don't have to measure out the spacing of the middle 1x2 rails.
Step 2
Glue and nail with the 3/4" or 1" staples or nails the sides of the mail bins, so they are flush to the back.
Glue the fronts on the bins with Krazy glue. Allow to fully dry before moving project.
You can use scrap 1/4" plywood to add a back to the project as well. Just glue and nail on with 1" or shorter nails (or staples).
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
