Easy DIY Corbels

Updated 4.2.21

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These corbels are much easier to make than I thought they would be. I was a bit intimidated, but hubby helping me eased my fears. He's such a great teacher and encourager!

So, if I can do it... then so can you!

We are almost done with our church bathroom makeover. If you want to see all the different projects, you can check these links out!

1980s Pepto Pink Bathroom Beginnings
Easy Faux Granite Countertop
Cabinet Update
How To Frame A Mirror w/o Miter Cuts
Flooring Complete

The first thing you need to do to make your corbels, is to decide the design or shape of it. I wanted something simple, but classic. I worked up a few ideas on paper until I found the one I liked.

Next, trace the pattern onto a piece of cardboard and cut it out.

That will make it more sturdy when you trace it on wood.

The size of the corbel is determined by how big your shelves are. Mine are only about 6 inches deep and they aren't going to hold anything heavy, so 3 1/2" will be just fine. I had some scrap 2X4s left over from another project.

It will be easier to cut the shape of the corbel on the bandsaw without the excess wood, so I cut off the excess with the miter saw.

Then I cut some more off...

I'm going to cut these corbels out with our bandsaw. I think they would be easier to cut out if you had a jigsaw. That's next on my list to get! 😁

First, I cut the corner out.

Nice! That came out pretty good!

The curve is the toughest part...

I tried cutting it out in sections, but made the curve more choppy than smooth... see the difference?

With a little practice they all ended up coming out pretty good!

Now, I need to drill a Kreg Jig pocket hole in the top of each corbel to attach it to the wall. I had to get a bit creative with clamping it down.

Drilling a pocket hole to attach corbel to wall

Finished, now ready for primer and paint!

It's time to get these shelves installed!!

We ended up using drywall anchors (these are my favorite!), because we all know studs are never where you need them to be... It's fine, these shelves also won't be holding heavy items.