DIY Folding Shelf

Who here buys what they need for DIY projects and then lets them sit for years?  *raises hand*  I saw the idea for this years ago and wanted to use it in our limited sized patio.  I got super pumped, ordered the right brackets,  (affiliate link) stained and waterproofed a piece of wood and then it sat in the garage for two years.  #DIYfail

After working our butts off on the patio for the past two weeks, it was time for this project to finally come to fruition!

As you can see our patio gate looked like your run of the mill gate.  Nothing special.

Well, I wanted to transform it into a functional space that could be used as a serving area whether it's just us or when we have company.  Here's what you'll need:

When you're lining up the bracket, make sure that this little gap by the hinge lines up with the top of the shelf so that it will close properly.

We measured in 6 1/2" from the sides, marked the holes and pre-drilled.

We used 3/4" stainless steel wood screws so they wouldn't rust.

The end hole is not a problem but because of the bracket being upside down, I'll warn you that it will continually collapse on you as you're trying to screw the other two screws closer to the hinge.  Tag in a friend to hold it in the halfway closed position as you tighten with a screwdriver.  (A large drill won't fit in that area.)

All screwed in and ready to mount.  (That's what she said.)

We used the middle brace on the gate and two of the three 1 1/2" wood screws drilled in the 2x4 and we lucked out having the right side of the bottom screw into the cross brace.  So it was gonna be sturdy, yo!

Now it's time to grab your level because no sense in mounting it all wonky.

Mark the holes and pre-drill.

Time to screw!  (Too easy.)

Before we knew it, the shelf was up and functioning like a champ!  A perfect little sideboard for our outdoor space and when we don't want it in the way, just fold it down!

If you have a Cricut or Silhouette, you can get all fancy and stencil a saying or something on it so it looks like art.  I don't own either and was happy to finally get it hung!

Time for tea!

I can't wait to have people over and you can bet if I can find a place to stick another one, I'm gonna...the Mr already said I could!

After this, renovating the bathroom and painting everything that isn't moving...I'm ready to do more! Just try and stop me!  (No seriously, my body is broken...try to stop me! - Love, My Knees)



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