Sturdy wall shelving can be installed quickly using slotted metal standards and arm brackets. Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs, and attach the shelving standards directly to the studs for the greatest strength. Long wall shelves should be supported by standards every 48 inches.

For more decorative shelving, mortise the metal standards into strips of hardwood. Use an electric router to cut grooves into the hardwood strips, then insert the metal standards inside the grooves and attach them to the wall. A router can also be used to mold a decorative edge on the shelves.