SEND this one to your partner & save it for your next weekend project.
Here is the nitty gritty: it doesn’t have to take weeks or $$$!!
Here is my standard cut & material list for ANY closet I do.
- 12” MDF bull nosed shelving: I always use this for my top across shelf, it is more shallow than what I use on lower shelving because you need access to the space above.
- 15 MDF bull nosed shelving: this is the material I use for any middle shelving, like the cubbies and lower shelf seen here. It is also what I use for the long, vertical shelving or the “walls.”
- 2 1/4 primed cleat/trim material: this is nailed into the studs/wall to support the mdf shelving.
- I cut the mdf sheets based on the length of shelving I want (the material is bought in the width I need already). For this closet, the back cleat was 14”, the side cleat was 10.” This allowed my shelving to be 14” wide and 15” deep.
- The cleat for the additional shelving was cut custom to fit the width of the closet at 33”.
Fill nail holes with wood filler & caulk the edges. Always prime MDF & then paint 1-2 coats of the color of your choice !
If you made it this far, send me a pic when your closet is done 💁🏻♀️😍
If you're looking to refresh your closet space without investing a fortune or spending weeks on the project, this DIY closet makeover approach is a game-changer. From my own experience, using MDF bull nosed shelving combined with primed cleats nailed directly into your studs is a sturdy, affordable, and straightforward way to create functional storage. One tip I found invaluable is carefully measuring and cutting the MDF to match the desired shelving widths and depths. For example, in the project shared here, 12-inch deep shelving was used at the top to give easy access to items, while 15-inch shelves were placed in the middle and lower sections for cubbies and general storage. The cleats serve as a hidden support system, giving the shelves solid backing without bulky brackets. Another key detail is the finishing process. Filling nail holes with wood filler and caulking where the wood meets the wall ensures a seamless look. Always prime MDF before painting, since MDF is porous and can absorb moisture if left unfinished. Applying one to two coats of your chosen paint color completes a professional finish and protects your shelves from wear. From removal of old carpet and hardware to the final paint touch, this approach keeps your timeline tight—under 4 hours in many cases—which is perfect for a weekend project. Using an 18-gauge nail gun helps speed up the installation and achieves a clean fastening that's easy to disguise. If you want to customize further, consider adding adjustable shelving brackets inside the framework so you can modify shelf heights over time. Incorporate baskets or storage bins in your cubbies for better organization and a streamlined look. Overall, this closet makeover method gives you the freedom to create storage tailored exactly to your needs, without paying premium prices for custom closets. It’s a satisfying project that upgrades your home and builds your confidence in DIY furniture work. Be sure to take progress photos and share your finished closet creation—it’s always rewarding to see your hard work come together beautifully!
