How to Build an A-Frame Ladder Shelf for Stylish DIY Storage

Follow our simple instructions to learn how to make this A-frame ladder shelf in just one day.

and

Updated on May 9, 2023

Working Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 1 day
Skill Level: Intermediate

With its A-frame shape, this DIY ladder shelf provides a modern alternative to a traditional bookcase. The A-frame bookshelf is both decorative and utilitarian, and it's perfect for flanking a sofa or tucking into an empty corner. Style the shelving unit with books, decor, artwork, houseplants, and other accessories. If you need to move the shelf or pack it up for storage, it's as simple as removing the shelves and folding it up like a traditional ladder.

The project comes together using wood boards in various lengths, wood glue, nails, and hinges, and it takes about a day to complete, including drying time. You can customize your ladder shelf with paint for a colorful accent or highlight the wood's texture with a stained finish. Learn how to make this DIY A-frame ladder shelf using our step-by-step instructions below.

gray ladder shelf with plants and books in living room — Carson Downing

What You'll Need

Equipment / Tools

Pencil
Measuring tape
Saw
-20 sandpaper
Sanding block and/or pad sander
Hammer or power nailer
Paint brush

Materials

1x2-inch boards
1x10-inch boards
3/4-inch square dowel
Wood glue
2 hinges
Primer and paint or sealer

Instructions

Make Cuts

Cut your wood to the below dimensions.

Cuts
Piece	Dimensions	Quantity
A-frame structure	1x2x69-inch boards	4
Bottom shelf (shelf #5)	1x10x37-inch board	1
Shelf #4	1x10x31-inch board	1
Shelf #3	1x10x25-inch board	1
Shelf #2	1x10x20-inch board	1
Top shelf #1	1x10x13-inch board	1
Ladder rungs	1x2x9-1/2-inch boards	6 per ladder; 12 total
Cleats on bottom shelf	3/4x3/4x9-1/2-inch square dowels	2

Prepare the Wood

Measure and cut the wood as specified in the cut list. Lightly sand the pieces to smooth rough edges. On a flat surface, arrange two of the 1×2×69-inch pieces parallel to each other, with the narrow sides facing up. Mark ladder posts, starting at the top:
- 3/4”
- 12 3/4”
- 13 1/2”
- 24 3/4”
- 25 1/2”
- 36 3/4”
- 37 1/2”
- 48 3/4”
- 49 1/2”
- 60 3/4”
- 61 1/2”
PHOTO: Dera Burreson

PHOTO: Dera Burreson

Attach the Rungs

Start by nailing the first rung flush at the top between two long side pieces. Position remaining rungs between markings using an L-square and a nailer. Glue and pin-nail the rungs between the two lengths. Allow the glue to dry. Repeat with the remaining lengths and rungs to create the second ladder.
Dera Burreson

Connect the Ladders

Stack the ladders on top of each other horizontally. Attach two hinges to connect the two ladders at the top to form the A-frame. Set the shelf up vertically and slide the two ladders slightly apart.
Dera Burreson

Attach Cleats to Bottom Shelf

Put the bottom shelf on a flat surface and arrange the two cleats parallel to each other, 1 inch from either end. Secure using glue and pin nails. These will help keep the ladder from sliding open too far. Allow the glue to dry.
Dera Burreson

Finish A-Frame Ladder Shelf

With the ladder shelf standing upright, lay the bottom shelf on the bottom rungs with the cleats resting outside the rungs. Set all of the other shelves in place. If desired, cover nail holes with wood filler and paint, stain, or simply seal your A-frame ladder shelf.