How to Build Open Kitchen Shelves | eHow

Long screws (and anchors for attaching to drywall only)

Power drill

Measure the length of the kitchen walls that will hold the open shelving. Decide whether to purchase "floating" shelves or shelves with visible support brackets.

Use a stud finder to locate the position of studs along the walls where the shelves will go. Use a pencil to mark these locations with an "X."

Buy the material for your shelving as well as decorative support brackets. Wood is popular choice for shelves; you can finish it in a variety of ways, and it's durable.

Use a power drill and screws to Install the brackets at the "X" marks you made in Step 2. After installing the first bracket, use a 4-foot level to ensure the next bracket is level with it. If you are installing a bracket into drywall, first insert a drywall anchor, then a screw. Tug on the bracket to make sure it feels solid and secure before installing the next one.

Lay a shelf on top of the brackets, adjusting its position until you are satisfied. Make sure the shelf is level, then use the power drill and screws to attach the shelf to the bracket (there will be a hole in the bracket for the screw). Measure the thickness of the shelf to ensure the screw isn't visible from the top of the shelf.

Repeat until all the kitchen shelves are installed properly, then stack your dishes and glassware on them.