by Kristin Gold

Jan 11, 2024

Beloved for their form and function, these top picks for floating shelves on Etsy are seriously stylish storage solutions.

The Best Floating Shelves
Photo by Hofina Shop

We love floating wall shelves for their versatility—from bathrooms and kitchens to living rooms, bedrooms, and even hallways, there’s always something you need a little extra shelf space for. More than just an organizational must-have, floating shelves can also be a beautiful piece of home decor when you shop these picks for the best floating shelves.

“Floating shelves are a popular choice because they’re not simply about storage, they’re a decorative accent in your space, too,” says Lindsay O’Brien, Etsy’s senior merchandiser for home goods.

As you shop for a shelf, Lindsay recommends keeping the shelf’s overall dimensions in mind: “Many Etsy sellers offer custom lengths, but be sure to consider the best floating shelf depth, too. If you’re planning to add vases, baskets, or canisters to the shelf, make sure it’s deep enough to accommodate these pieces.”

Materials matter, too. “Solid wood floating shelves tend to be more supportive. White oak and walnut floating shelves are both great picks for bookshelves or kitchen shelves,” Lindsay advises. “And don’t forget to always hang a floating shelf using the studs behind your wall for maximum sturdiness. If your studs are irregularly placed, ask an Etsy seller for a custom mounting bracket.”

Whether you lean more toward rustic-inspired wood shelves or minimalist and modern metal and glass creations, these floating shelves were chosen as some of the best because they're beloved by buyers, expertly handcrafted by Etsy artisans, and ready to be topped with your treasures.

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In this article:

Floating shelves by price

Shopping for floating shelves with a budget in mind? The cost of a floating shelf can vary based on the materials it's made from and the overall dimensions. Etsy sellers fabricate shelves in a variety of materials and lengths, including custom lengths, and the price for each type of shelf is shown on the listing page. To simplify your search, here's a quick look at our picks for best floating shelves, grouped by price:

Floating shelves starting under $50

Floating shelves starting under $100

Floating shelves over $100

Best overall floating shelf

Wood floating shelves from Hurd & Honey

Walnut floating shelves from Hurd and Honey SHOP: Walnut floating shelves from Hurd & Honey, from $46

This invisible floating shelf gets top honors for its versatility. From kitchens and bathrooms to living rooms and nurseries, this traditional-style floating shelf is beloved by buyers for its craftsmanship and installation ease. Available in four different wood tones (walnut, pine, maple, and white oak) and a range of shelf sizes including multiple combinations of depths and lengths plus custom sizes by request, it's no surprise this floating shelf is an Etsy's Pick. Ready-to-ship floating shelves from the seller's workshop are also available.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "I purchased a pair of shelves for our kitchen. They were beautifully crafted and very easy to install. Perfect!" - SN

Best custom floating shelves

Custom length and depth shelves from Ultra Shelf

Custom length floating shelves from Ultra Shelf SHOP: Custom floating shelves from Ultra Shelf, from $68

These shelves are made to order and include a hidden bracket for invisible mounting. Choose a length between 12 inches and 90 inches and a shelf depth from 6 inches to 12 inches. Available in a range of finishes from natural to rich espresso, these shelves are praised by buyers as being easy to install and quite sturdy.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "These shelves are beautifully made. I was able to customize the stain to match my current cabinet. I love them. Thank you for the quality craftsmanship." - DN

Best affordable floating shelves

Floating shelves with steel brackets from Smokestack Studios

Rustic floating shelves with J bracket SHOP: 2-inch thick shelves from Smokestack Studios, from $60

Instead of traditional shelf brackets which sit under the surface, these natural wood shelves feature steel J-brackets that extend up the wall behind the shelf. You can leave these brackets exposed and embrace the mixed materials vibe they create alongside the untreated wood shelf. Many buyers share that they successfully stained these untreated shelves to match their decor, too.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "This is such a beautiful piece of wood, with a couple gorgeous knots to give it personality. It came securely packaged and was easy to install. Extremely happy!" - KA

Best wood floating shelves

Multi-level floating shelf from Shelf Life LA

Walnut S-shaped floating shelf SHOP: Two-tiered solid walnut shelf from Shelf Life LA, $329

Buyers rave about the traditional craftsmanship of this walnut shelf. The lower half of this S-shaped floating shelf offers a perfect resting spot for nestling tall glassware you’d like to keep on display.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "I chose the S-shaped shelf because of the shape, the natural walnut, and the traditional joinery, and I absolutely made the right choice. You have to see it in person to appreciate how truly fine the craftsmanship is. The shelf is stunning -- heirloom-quality." - JA

Best floating shelves for kitchens

Reclaimed wood floating shelves from Modern Timber Craft

Reclaimed wood floating shelves SHOP: Reclaimed wood shelves from Modern Timber Craft, from $26

Ultra-affordable, these reclaimed wood shelves sit atop heavy duty steel brackets that are hand-pressed in Pennsylvania. Much of the wood for these rustic shelves is sourced from the state as well, with other pieces coming from New York, Maryland, Ohio, and West Virginia. Nail holes, worm holes, and knots make each of these shelves completely unique.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "These shelves were a perfect addition to our home! Great quality, super fast shipping and I appreciated the free shipping! We went with the oiled finish and it matches our other wood very nicely!! Customer service was very quick and helpful in answering my questions." - EJ

Best bathroom floating shelves

Floating shelves with towel rod from Straga Furniture

Bathroom floating shelf with towel rod SHOP: Modern handmade hardwood bathroom shelf from Straga Furniture, from $149

With minimalist and modern lines, this handmade hardwood shelf provides three different storage surfaces plus an ultra-handy towel rod in your choice of finish.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "The quality of this floating bathroom shelf is absolutely amazing. Perfect edition to add to my small restroom. This definitely met my expectations and I highly recommend purchasing it. The price is well worth it since it was made beautifully." - DD

Best corner floating shelves

Quarter round clear floating shelf from X Form 3

Clear acrylic corner shelves from Etsy SHOP: Quarter round corner shelf from X Form 3, from $17

Let your decor be the star of the show with these clear acrylic corner shelves, available in sizes ranging from 6 inches to 14 inches. Designed for a capacity of up to 30 pounds, these shelves can be hung solo or in a stack.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "These shelves are such high quality and look absolutely seamless on the walls. Love them. I bought many sizes (8 pieces in all) and I am happy with all the shelves I received." - SP

Best bar floating shelves

Brass and glass floating shelves from Soil and Oak

Custom brass and glass floating shelves SHOP: Brass-plated French bistro shelves from Soil and Oak, from $675

Choose the number of layers and brass rails you’d like included in your floating shelf unit and get a one-of-a-kind, custom floating shelf bracket created especially for your space. The seller will work directly with a local glass company in your area to provide the glass.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "Soil an Oak were terrific to work with. They answered questions and were extremely detailed for a custom order. I would highly recommend working with them!" - LT

Best floating book shelves

DIY floating shelf brackets from Vault Furniture

Steel floating shelf brackets from Etsy SHOP: Steel floating shelf bracket from Vault Furniture, from $119 for one bracket

If you're trying to fit a growing collection of books, add your own shelf boards to these these steel shelf brackets to create DIY floating shelves. They can be finished with a clear coat to highlight the natural steel tone, or colored black or gold, and can be spaced according to your studs for secure hanging.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "Communication from the seller was clear. Easy to install and very sturdy after properly mounted. Finish was perfect. Everything was wrapped well for shipping." - ST

Best invisible floating shelves

Modern wood invisible floating shelves from Hofina Shop

Invisible floating shelves SHOP: Modern wood floating shelves from Hofina Shop, from $36

Perfectly sized for nestling up in a corner, these wall-mounted floating shelves are available in custom sizes and 20 colors inspired by cities around the globe.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "So happy with these shelves! They are beautiful quality and easy to install. Was extra happy that I could order a custom size, as well." - AM

Best floating shelves set

Wooden pantry pegboard from Cardiff and Clover

Kitchen pegboard shelf SHOP: Wooden pegboard from Cardiff and Clover, $125

Available in either horizontal or vertical orientations, this pegboard setup makes hanging a set of floating shelves super simple. Move the pegs around to support any variety of shelving arrangements, and use the included hooks for small hanging items.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "Exactly what we needed. Attention to detail with the shelves curved for the dowels. The french cleat mounting system was what won over similar products - so easy to install." - JD

Best picture ledge

Reversible hardwood floating shelves from Figure Grain

Hardwood floating shelf picture ledge from Etsy SHOP: Hardwood floating shelf from Figure Grain, from $84

Mid-century modern inspired and reversible, these pieces are the perfect mix of picture ledge and floating shelf. A foreground piece on one side of the shelf holds pictures frames in place, while the reversible design allows you to choose which side this piece sits on. Custom sizes are available, and stock sizes range from 16.25-inches long to 37.25 inches.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "Quality piece. Art and function combined beautifully." - JB

Best glass floating shelves

Window hanging shelves from Indoor Window Gardens

Window hanging shelves SHOP: Window plant shelf from Indoor Window Gardens, from $74

Place your plants in their optimal growing environment with these clear acrylic hanging shelves. Offered with a variety of bracket styles, you can choose the mounting hardware that works best with your window setup.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "They are beautiful, installed without any issues, and hold a lot of weight. The seller is also very responsive to the messages I have sent him. The quality of work is wonderful. Would buy from seller again." - JR

Best small floating shelves

Triangle wall shelf from Offcut Studio

Unique floating shelf - wood wedge shelf SHOP: Triangle floating shelf from Offcut Studio, $55

A simple small floating shelf, this wedge of walnut can also be used as a floating nightstand or a side table in a cozy corner.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "This seller was incredibly helpful and responsive when I asked for a variation of current inventory that would match my bathroom. I got this gorgeous shelf and am so happy with the purchase!" - LA

Best metal floating shelves

Brass floating shelf from Matt Alford Studio

Small brass floating shelf SHOP: Brass floating shelf from Matt Alford Studio, from $83

Aptly named the “Right Shelf” by its maker, this brass wall shelf features a sleek, 90-degree angle design made from solid brass that’s finished with a matte wax to slow oxidation.

Buyer review for this floating shelf: "Just perfect for our bathroom renovation! Feels sturdy and looks awesome! Came in time and with no issues at all. Love it." - KE

What to look for in a floating shelf

How deep should a floating shelf be?

Floating shelves range in depth from shallow picture ledges to deeper shelves designed to hold books and decor. Most floating shelves are between 3 and 12 inches deep, but custom depths are available on Etsy, too. Before you choose a floating shelf, consider what decor you plan to the shelf, then add an inch or so to find the best depth for a floating shelf.

How do you hang a floating shelf?

If you plan to place heavy objects on a floating shelf, it's advisable to mount the shelf into the studs in your wall. Some short floating shelves may not extend far enough to be hung using two studs. In that case, avoid using these shelves for heavy objects as the shelf may not support your items. If your wall studs are irregularly spaced, contact an Etsy seller for a custom solution. Many sellers can offer custom floating shelf brackets to accommodate irregular studs. Use the hanging hardware and instructions provided by the seller.

How do you make a floating shelf?

You can purchase a ready-to-hang floating shelf that includes a shelf, bracket, and hanging hardware like screws and anchors. Alternately, you can purchase floating shelf brackets and add your own boards using lumber from the hardware store or reclaimed wood. Acrylic, glass, and metal sheets can also be used as a shelf.

Discover more handcrafted finds for your home

Meet the expert

Lindsay O'Brien, Senior Category Manager for Home and Living

In her role, Lindsay curates the best of Etsy’s Home & Living category, providing expert shopping tips and inspiration to help buyers discover the perfect home decor, art, and furniture for their spaces. In her downtime, she enjoys exploring new places, making things (all of the things!), photography, writing, collecting seashells, and getting out into nature.

How do we pick the best floating shelves?

As Etsy Journal editors and contributors research and curate shopping guides for some of the best-loved items on Etsy, we thoughtfully consider the creativity, customization, and craftsmanship that go into each product. We also consider buyer reviews, item ratings, and customer service, and tap the expertise of our in-house merchandising and trends experts to uncover high-quality finds for every budget. You can find more information about each item in the seller’s listing details and can take a look at their individual shop policies and reviews, too.