How to make a simple potted plant shelf

Novice woodworking websites typically include instructions to make basic wood shelves. The concept of creating a shelf may seem exciting at first, but the process may become boring after some time. After all, how many plain wood shelves can one person make and display? To improve a shelf or make it more functional, consider creating a slot for a potted plant.

Display a real or artificial plant on a potted plant shelf. Since live plants require soil, which can become heavy, consider anchoring a potted plant shelf to a wall with screws. Otherwise, Command strips may be used to secure the shelf to the wall.

Materials
- 4-foot-long, 13-inch-wide and 1-inch-deep pine board
- Table saw
- Clamp
- Drill
- 3 1/2 inch hole saw bit
- 3/32 drill bit
- 4 2-inch screws
- Sander
- 120 sandpaper
- Sanding block
- Oil-based finish
- Clean cloths
- Command strips
- Level
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Instructions
1. Set the rip fence on the table saw to 4 1/2 inches. Rip the board to 4 1/2 inches.

2. Adjust the saw. Set the rip fence to 3 inches, then rip the board to 3 inches.

3. Mark each board at 24 inches, then crosscut to the line.

4. Mark the larger board 4 1/2 inches from the end and 2 1/4 inches from the edge, then secure the board with clamps.

5. Attach a hole saw bit to the drill. Drill a hole approximately 2 inches from the right side of the board.

6. Clamp the smaller board to the larger board at the edge of the table. Make sure the edges are flush.

7. Pre-drill four 2-inch-deep holes across the board with a 3/32 drill bit.

8. Countersink four screws into the holes made in step 7.

9. Sand the the surface of the shelf with the sander.

10. Use a sanding block to ease the edges of the wood.

11. Apply oil-based finish with a clean cloth; wipe off any excess oil.

12. Allow the shelf to dry, then hang with Command strips.

13. Use a level to ensure the shelf is straight.

13. Place a potted plant in the designated hole on the shelf.