Build a picture ledge - oasis style

A simple shelf decorated with moulding is the perfect way to display favourite photos and makes a stylish wall feature. Choose frames of varying sizes and styles and arrange them to create either a contrasting or a matching look. This project, which takes just a few hours to complete, allows you to update your decor by renewing the memories as time goes by.

Attractive and easy to build, this picture ledge measures 86" long by 2 ½" wide. Its 1 ¼" groove will hold most types of frames. The detail that makes the difference: the finishing moulding installed just underneath the shelf


Level 1, less than one hour
Paint calculator
Moulding calculator
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List of tools
List of materials
Cutting list
Step-by-step instructions

List of tools

  • Table saw or circular saw with cutting guide
  • Driver drill
  • Router
  • Countersink drill bit
  • Pneumatic nailer
  • Clamp
  • Level
  • Pencil
  • Measuring tape

List of materials

  • 1 sheet MDF, 5/8" x 48" x 96"
  • Chair rail, 1 ¼" x 96"
  • Finishing moulding, 1 ½" x 96"
  • 2 ½" screws
  • 18-gauge 1 ½" finishing nails, for nailer
  • RONA carpenter’s glue
  • Paint

Cutting list

Sand the edges smooth as needed.
PartsQuantityDimensions
A - Back13 ¼" x 86"
B - Shelf11 ¼" x 86"
C - Front11 1/8" x 86"

Step-by-step instructions

All the parts must be glued. Some also need to be nailed.
  1. Round off one of the long edges of front C with the router.

  2. Fasten shelf B to the bottom of back A, nailing through the back of A.

  3. Fasten front C onto shelf B, nailing through the front of C. The rounded edge of C should be facing inwards.

  4. Glue the chair rail to front C and clamp in place.

  5. Drill pilot holes in back A every 16" using the countersink bit.

  6. Paint the ledge assembly and the finishing moulding.

  7. Draw a level line along the wall and fasten the ledge to the wall studs using 2 1/2" screws.

  8. Glue and nail the finishing moulding directly to the wall, immediately below the ledge.



Stand photo frames of varying sizes along the ledge and complete the display by hanging a few on the wall just above. For a completely different look, use frames of the same size.
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