Look, we’ve all been there – staring at that blank wall, wondering how to display our ever-growing collection of art prints, family photos, and seasonal decor without putting approximately 47 holes in the wall.

That’s where picture ledges come in! 

But today, we’re not just making any old picture ledge. Nope, we’re creating something special: a customizable picture ledge system with removable round shelf attachments that let you mix 2D and 3D pieces like the decor genius you are!

Before we dive into the how-to, let me tell you why this project is different from your standard picture ledge:

• Versatility: It’s a great way to add in 3D home decor pieces with your flat art whenever and wherever the mood strikes
• Seasonal-friendly: Pop in those round shelves for holiday decorations, then easily remove them for a sleeker look
• They are the perfect solution for making a big impact! They unify a variety of smaller pieces in a truly beautiful way
• Budget-friendly: Way cheaper than buying pre-made picture ledges 
• Rental-friendly: Minimal wall damage (your landlord will thank you!)
• They are an EASY project!

This is where painters tape is your best friend! Play around with the length and placement of your dream shelves. 

Get it where it feels right with your current furniture layout and then invite your real best friend over for feedback. Don’t rush this process!

I’m embarrassed to admit how long these frog tapes lines were on that wall! Our friends just came to expect them there. SIGH!

​Try to factor in any potential furniture moves and possible seasonal adjustments.

Space multiple ledges about 12-18″ apart vertically for the most versatile display options

PRO TIP: Install picture ledges at eye level for maximum impact

Now find your studs! (The wall studs, not the good-looking neighbor kind 😉) and mark the placement on the painters tape. 

You want to be sure that each picture shelf attaches into at least one wall stud and a long picture ledge should attach into at least two studs.

PRO TIP: Tape your boards tightly together with painters tape, mark cut line on the tape, cut as one for the easiest way to assure identical board length.

1. Cut your boards to desired length 
2. Sand all pieces until smooth (nobody likes splinters in their art!)
3. If you are staining, now is the time to break out the wood stain. Usually, for painting projects, I save the painting for last so I can caulk the joints for a polished look. But with this project there aren’t any joints that are really seen much, so feel free to paint now if you prefer.
4. Let your boards thoroughly dry before proceeding to the next step.

1. Attach the front 1×2 lip to the bottom piece of wood.
   • Align so the bottom of the front lip lines up with the bottom of the main board, smear wood glue on both sides. With corner clamps hold in place while you secure with brad nails. 
2. Attach the back 1×4 back piece of the picture ledge, creating your basic “J” shape.
   • Align the back board, the mounting board, along the bottom of the main board just as you did before with the lip board.
   • Smear wood glue on both boards, hold with corner clamps while you secure with brad nails.

PRO TIP: Be sure to wipe off any excess glue as soon as the boards are secured.

Here’s where the magic happens! We’re creating removable round shelves that can slip right onto your picture ledge:

• I used a pair of Ikea shelves that have been discontinued. I found this pair, and this set of three, and these that don’t have a lip, on Amazon that are very similar, or you can make your own by cutting multiple rounds and gluing together for the thickness you want.
• The trick is to cut a groove in the bottom of the shelf to fit over the lip of your picture ledge. Measure carefully, to start the groove so your shelf lines up with the distance between the lip and the mounting board. I used dado blades like these on a table saw.
• Sand your cut edges to smooth.
• Paint or stain your round shelf add-on’s.

This is easiest done with a second set of hands.

Use appropriate wall anchors where you can’t hit a stud.

Install the anchor-requiring points first, then the points the that align with studs.

Make sure your ledge is level (nothing worse than off-kilter artwork!)

PRO TIP: Do NOT tighten the first screw! Level and level again then add the second screw, check and add a third screw. Once perfectly level, then you can tighten them.

• Paint your ledge the same color as your wall for a floating effect
• Vary the length of multiple shelves to truly customize your display for your home
• When a picture might need a bit more height, set it on top of the back mounting board (see the black framed photograph next to the “S”)

Pin this so you can find it again when your time comes to elevate your picture ledges

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Because we’re friends, I’ll tell you what might go wrong (and how to fix it):

• Wobbly shelf? Double-check those wall anchors
• Sliding artwork? Add small dots of museum putty
• Uneven edges? Sand, sand, and sand some more!

This isn’t just a picture ledge – it’s a game-changer for your walls!

The ability to swap between flat art and 3D decor means your walls can evolve with your style, seasons, and mood.

Plus, you just learned how to make a picture ledge that’s cooler than anything you can buy in stores.

High five, friend!