top of page

Mug Holder Shelf

Looking for a fast-selling item that’s quick and easy to make? You just found it ! Here’s an elegant and practical item that looks great in any kitchen, whether its décor is Early American or more traditional. For a more contemporary look, replace the arched top with a straight one and the shaker style pegs with straight, 1/2″ diameter dowel rods glued into position at a slight angle.


For our example, we used red oak with oak shaker pegs…but you could just as easily make the Holder from a light-colored wood such as maple, birch or pine with birch shaker pegs…or, for a higher priced model, choose cherry or walnut with matching pegs you turn yourself on a lathe.


To build the project, you’ll need a table saw with dado attachment, a disc sander and a drill press. As an option, a shaper or router set-up could be used to shape the edges of the project for added value.


If you’re making our arch-topped model shown here, you’ll also need a bandsaw or scroll saw. To save time when cutting the tops on the curved versions, you can stack four or five blanks together with double-sided tape and “pad saw” them all at once using your bandsaw.

Helpful Items

s-2244991-4a42jv07agabc0dq.jpg

Shaping Package (for MARK 7/MARK V 520, 510, 505)

s-2244991-4a42jv07agabc0dq.jpg

3/16 Inch Bead & Cove Shaper Cutter

s-2244991-4a42jv07agabc0dq.jpg

6. Lay out and use your drill press to bore the 1/2″ dia. holes in the back for the pegs. Test fit one of the pegs to check for the proper hole depth.


7. Finish sand the shelf and back with 100-grit sandpaper.


8. Glue and clamp the shelf to the back. Glue the pegs into their holes.


9. For wall mounting, attac