How to Build a Slot Wall Panel System

If you have ever been to a major department store, then you are familiar with the concept of a slot wall panel system. A wall is divided up with wither line or “T” shaped breaks for the insertion of hooks or shelf supports. A simple concept and amazingly convenient for storage and display, the slot wall is an easy do-it-yourself project for your business or even or garage. Please note, this article is based on my own experiences and projects.

First, you have to determine what you need the slot wall system for. A friend of mine used his for displaying action figures he had collected, another used his for holding fishing gear. Determining its usage will help to determine what it should be made out of, where it’s going (presumably the garage) and how large it will need to be.

We will assume we are building a wall for storage and that we will need several shelves that are roughly 2’x6′. My first choice for placement would be a basement or garage, but you can build as you like. Now, what should the shelves be made out of? Wood is the easiest, but keep in mind the thickness of the shelves and what to make them out of? I would advise against using cheap plywood, as this will be a shelf that may hold large and heavy items for long periods of time. Go with something sturdy and preferably treated, and it never hurts to make sure your edges are sanded to avoid scraping or tearing.

Now, building the wall. A flat surface is needed and you will need to know the location of studs ahead of time. While not 100% necessary, I placed a sheet of flat board material where my wall would go and attached it the posts with 2 Ã?½” screws at every 1 foot interval. This guards against scraping or damaging your wall with the hooks.

Next, I attached through screws (and the optional industrial glue) several rows of wooden beams going across horizontally. The beams were several inches thick and spaced out with a small gap (only about two inches or so) in-between. Now the catch- each of the boards rested on a smaller board (only about Ã?½” to 1″ thick) that ran the length of the larger board, creating a slight step between the board and the wall. This gave my hooks a place to catch and rest.

Finally, insert your hooks at the intervals you want for your shelves. The supports are typically T-shaped with a J-shaped catch off either end of the T to fit into the wall. The size of the hook and what they are made out of (usually metal) will also determine the load you can place on the shelf.

I haven’t tested mine past 200 pounds, so I really couldn’t tell you a solid cut-off, but use common sense when placing items. Remember, this is my own how-to. Yours may vary depending on your situation and needs.

A couple of quick tips:

Don’t be afraid to use finished paneling behind your shelves for a nice, professional look. Also, keep in mind that shelves don’t have to run the length of the wall; you can vary and space them as needed for storing larger items. Finally, this is great for storing items, but do not climb on or let your children climb on the slot wall.

For examples of slot wall panel systems, check out www.shoplet.com. They have some nice ready-made small models for displaying items at events like conventions and science fairs.