Building Shelves for Kids' Sports Trophies

Measure the wall space for your shelf. Cut two boards to this length. Cut two more boards, each 12 inches long, for the ends of the shelves. Most kids’ trophies will fit into this space. If your child has taller trophies, adjust the height accordingly. Sand the rough edges of the boards with sandpaper.

Form a rectangular box with the boards. Align the edges of one end piece with the ends of the two long boards. Glue the pieces together with wood glue. Clamp the boards together until the glue dries. Repeat with the opposite end of the shelves.

Drill pilot holes with a power drill into the end boards where they are attached to the shelf boards. Hammer finishing nails into the holes to secure the boards. Use a nail set to sink the nails slightly beneath the surface. Fill the nail holes with wood filler for a smooth surface.

Sand the entire shelf lightly. Wipe sanding dust off with a tack cloth. Paint the box shelf with latex primer and allow the primer to dry. Paint the shelves with semi-gloss paint in a color that complements your child’s bedroom decor.

Attach sawtooth picture hangers to the back of the top shelf for hanging.