DIY Network

Creating a Shelf on a Dutch Door DIY to the Rescue creates a safe solution to a climbing problem. From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-705

Julia finds that working with power tools can be fun!

With the bedroom transformation almost completed, Karl Champley shows Julia Schrecker how to create a shelf for Will’s dutch door. This will be helpful in preventing Will from climbing over the door. But not before Nathan Haun adds a few power tools to Julia's repertoire.

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Materials:

lumber
circular saw
jig saw
chop saw
router
wood glue
drill
screws
wood brackets
molding trim

Steps:

1. Use a circular saw to cut a piece of lumber to the desired size of the shelf (Figure A & B). Also, you might want to cut a base for added height and support to your shelf.

2. Next use a jig saw to cut out any notches on the shelf to make it fit flush to the door (Figure C).

Figure A

Figure B

Figure C

3. Use a chop saw to cut the shelf’s sides at an angel (Figure D).

4. Put a smooth edge on the shelf using a router (Figure E).

Figure D

Figure E

5. For added support and height, we chose to install a base first to the top of the Dutch door using wood glue and screws (Figure F & G).

Figure F

Figure G

Then, add the shelf to the top of the Dutch door also using some wood glue (Figure H). Pre-drill holes for the screws and then countersink them into the wood (Figure I).

Figure H

Figure I

6. Install wood brackets using wood glue and screws under the overhang for any weight that may be put on the shelf (Figures J & K).

Figure J

Figure K

Figure L

7. The final touch is to add some molding trim to make the project look complete (Figure L).

8. For a more finished look, sand and paint if desired.