Easy Shelving

I had a few questions about this shelving so I thought I'd write a post about it. It's super easy to do and looks fabulous. For this particular shelf I got a 2x8. I have other places in my home that I've used a 2x10 and even a 2x12 depending on the location of the shelf and the use. I bought the corbels at Home Depot, and have also used the basic black shelf brackets as well for a cheaper/more industrial appearance.
Home Depot will cut your boards to length if you need them to, for free! I always make my husband do it, but hey, it's an option.
Sand your board down enough that it doesn't have slivers, and stain it to the color of your choice. I use Minwax stain, this particular shelf is Espresso.
Make sure to hang your shelves using studs because they are definitely heavy.

SPACING:
I always space mine a few inches above the tallest picture I want. Honestly I just eye ball it, but that is my general advice. The same with the top shelf. We have a vaulted ceiling here so it's a bit different, but in our last house I spaced it about 4 inches below the top of my ceiling (because it was low). Don't be afraid to make them long and fill them up with treasures!