How to Cover Shelves with Fabric

PDF download Download Article
Simple ways to cover or disguise your shelves with beautiful, stylish fabric
PDF download Download Article

Shelves are really useful for storing clutter, but they can be a bit of an eyesore in the middle of your living room, dining room, or bedroom. If you want to decorate your shelves, you can wrap them in fabric to give them a cute pattern. Or, if you want to hide them completely, you can hang some fabric in front of them. Try using fabric that matches the color scheme of your room to make your shelves an eye-catching statement piece.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Wrapping Shelves in Fabric

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0c\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0c\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-1.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Measure your shelf to find the length and width of both sides, then measure the front edge of the shelf as well. Cut out a piece of fabric that can fold over both sides and the front edge of your shelf. [1] Cotton fabric works the best for this project, since it is thick and sticks well to glue. [2]
    • If you are using light colored fabric, paint your shelf the same color as your fabric so that it doesn’t show through.
    • You can use patterned fabric for a fun accent piece, or solid-colored fabric for a more neutral shelf.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c8\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c8\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-2.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Spread a thin layer of Modge Podge glue on top of the shelf. Make sure to cover the entire side so that your fabric sticks to it evenly. [3]
    • You can find Modge Podge at most craft supply stores.
    • Modge Podge is a liquid glue, finisher, and sealer product that is usually used for decoupage projects.
    • You can also spray the shelf with a low-tack adhesive so you're able to reposition the fabric. [4]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-3.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Line up the edges of the fabric with the edges of the shelf. Leave the end of the fabric hanging off the front of the shelf so you can wrap it around and underneath. [5]
    • Make sure you smooth down the fabric well with your hands after you place it on top of the Modge Podge.
    • If your shelves are lined with a wooden rim or you don’t mind leaving the bottom part uncovered, you can trim your fabric so it only fits on the top part of the shelf.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/60\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/60\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-4.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use your paint brush to add a thin layer of Modge Podge across the thin edge of the shelf. Try to paint it as evenly as possible so your fabric lays flat. [6]
    • Push your fabric up so it’s not hanging down on the side you are trying to Modge Podge.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a5\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a5\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-5.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Take the hanging part of the fabric and push it down onto your layer of Modge Podge. Use your hands to smooth out any lumps or bumps in the fabric so that it lays flat. [7]

    Tip: If you need to get a stubborn lump or crease out, try using a credit card or ID to push the fabric flat.

  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/42\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/42\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-6.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Flip your shelf over and cover the other side with a thin layer of Modge Podge. You only need a thin layer to make your shelf sticky, so you don’t need to add a lot. [8]
    • If your shelf is attached to the wall or a cabinet, carefully paint glue on the underside of the shelf without flipping it over.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0d\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0d\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-7.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Grab the rest of the fabric and pull it onto the side of your shelf that you just put Modge Podge on. Smooth it down with your hands to get rid of any creases or bumps. [9]
    • The bottom of your shelf will probably be the most visible when you hang it up, so make sure this side looks really good.
  8. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-8.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a small paint brush or roller brush to apply Modge Podge on top of all the fabric you just glued down. Make sure there aren’t any puddles or pools of the glue so that it all dries evenly. [10] [11]
    • If you’d like more protection for your shelves, you can add a thin layer of Modge Podge Hard Coat on top of the regular Modge Podge.
  9. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8d\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8d\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-9.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Since your shelves have a lot of Modge Podge on them, they will need a while to dry. Leave them in a cool, dry place in your home to set before you hang them up or put books and knick knacks on them. [12]
    • Make sure the uncovered side of your shelves faces the wall when you hang them up so that you can’t see it.
    10. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Hiding Shelves with Fabric

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/80\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/80\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-10.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Cut a piece of fabric so that it spans the height and width of your shelves. Attach 2 to 3 adhesive strips across the top of your shelves, then stick the top of your fabric onto them. Push the fabric to the side whenever you want to get something off the shelves. [13]

    Tip: You can use a small ribbon to tie the fabric to the side if you need to uncover your shelves for a long period of time.

  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/b9\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-11.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Find some curtains that are as tall as your shelves and then attach a tension rod to the very top. Thread your curtains over the tension rod and then slide them back and forth to cover and uncover your shelves. [14]
    • This is a great way to cover floor-to-ceiling shelves that are built into the wall.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-12.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Find a table skirt that is the same height as your shelves. Slide the top of the skirt onto the top of the shelves and let the excess fabric hang down over them. Adjust the table skirt so that it hangs evenly on all sides. Lift up the table skirt whenever you need to grab something off the shelves. [15]
    • Table skirts look great on TV stands and small dressers.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f9\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f9\/Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-13.jpg\/aid11872016-v4-728px-Cover-Shelves-with-Fabric-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a drill to attach the 2 shade mounts to either side of your closet. Hook the top part of the shades into the mounts with the shades facing outward, then let them unfold to hide your closet. If you need to, add a second shade to span the entire width of your closet. [16]
    • You can find roller shades at most home improvement stores.
    • Roller shades work well for closets since you don’t have to worry about bulky doors getting in your way.
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What's the best glue for gluing fabric to wood?
    Tanglewood Sue
    DIY & Upcycling Specialist
    Tanglewood Sue is a DIY and Upcycling Specialist and the Owner of Tanglewood Works out of Hyattsville, Maryland. With over nine years of experience, Sue specializes in upcycled painted furniture and other handmade, personalized, and sustainable goods. With her passion for art and reinvention, marketing experience, and Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcast Media, Sue has been able to create a business that not only provides quality pieces but empowers customers to create their works through her library of DIY tutorials and live demos as well as DIY supplies.
    Tanglewood Sue
    DIY & Upcycling Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Using a low-tack adhesive works perfectly if you want to be able to reposition the fabric before setting it.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 2
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Choose a fabric that goes with the color and style of the room for a more cohesive look.
        Thanks
        Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Things You’ll Need

      Decorating Shelves with Fabric

      • Fabric
      • Modge Podge
      • Paint brush
      • Scissors
      • Measuring tape
      • Paint (optional)

      Hanging Fabric over Shelves

      • Adhesive strips
      • Fabric
      • Curtains
      • Tension rod
      • Roller shades
      • Table skirt

      You Might Also Like

      The 3 Best Ways to Hang Shelves without Studs
      How to
      Hang Shelves Without Nails
      How to
      Build Adjustable Pantry Shelves
      How to
      Hang Floating Shelves
      How to
      Reinforce a Sagging Shelf
      How to
      Hang a Heavy Shelf
      How to
      Set Up Cat Shelves
      How to
      Paint Bookshelves
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ Tanglewood Sue. DIY & Upcycling Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 March 2021
      2. ↑ https://www.handsoccupied.com/how-to-fabric-covered-shelves/
      3. ↑ https://averageinspired.com/2015/04/how-to-apply-fabric-to-furniture.html
      4. ↑ Tanglewood Sue. DIY & Upcycling Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 March 2021
      5. ↑ https://averageinspired.com/2015/04/how-to-apply-fabric-to-furniture.html
      6. ↑ https://averageinspired.com/2015/04/how-to-apply-fabric-to-furniture.html
      7. ↑ https://www.handsoccupied.com/how-to-fabric-covered-shelves/
      8. ↑ https://www.handsoccupied.com/how-to-fabric-covered-shelves/
      9. ↑ https://www.handsoccupied.com/how-to-fabric-covered-shelves/
      1. ↑ Tanglewood Sue. DIY & Upcycling Specialist. Expert Interview. 24 March 2021
      2. ↑ https://www.handsoccupied.com/how-to-fabric-covered-shelves/
      3. ↑ https://www.handsoccupied.com/how-to-fabric-covered-shelves/
      4. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/project-ideas-for-hiding-clutter-with-curtains-amp-shades-238979
      5. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/project-ideas-for-hiding-clutter-with-curtains-amp-shades-238979
      6. ↑ http://www.nicolegibbonsstyle.com/2010/06/haute-obsession-skirted-tables.html
      7. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/project-ideas-for-hiding-clutter-with-curtains-amp-shades-238979

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 44,913 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement