Some of you may remember the pipe shelf I built in the OPC workshop several months back. In the original article, I mentioned replacing the pine shelf with a piece of reclaimed wood. Well I inherited a few items from my grandfather, and I decided it was time to upgrade the shelf and show them off. I’m really pleased with the look and functionality of the pipe shelf so I wanted to share the update with all of you. Plus, these new pictures are much better.

Because I’m sure somebody will point it out, I’m aware that the flag is not folded properly. I wanted some stars and stripes in the picture so don’t think I’m un-American.

Pipe shelves are great because they are completely customizable to fit whatever shape and storage space you need. You can set up one or more shelves in any orientation. Plus, DIY centers will cut and thread pipe for you so you don’t even need any specialty tools. If you’re following along, here are the materials I purchased:

• 1/2″ x 5′ black iron pipe
• (4) 1/2″ elbows
• (2) 1/2″ couplers
• (2) 1/2″ floor flanges
• Various length pipe nipples
• 2 x 8 board

Jocie discovered a nonprofit in downtown Baltimore called Second Chance ^[1]. It’s like a Habitat for Humanity ReStore with a lot more selection, and I love checking out all the reclaimed products. I purchased a “new” 2 x 8 from Second Chance to use for the shelf.

Pipe shelves are easy to make, and anyone can do it. I anchored my shelf to the wall with the floor flanges and dry-wall anchors. The actual shelf is sandwiched between a coupler and an elbow, locking it in place.

After I mapped out the location of the shelf, I drilled holes through the board with a 1″ spade bit.

Next, I put all the fittings together and finagled the shelf into place.

Here’s the shelf with a Westinghouse radio. In the background you can see a brace, square and a brick hammer.

I’m really pleased with how everything turned out. The shelf is strong, and the reclaimed wood provides some great character.