How to Build a DIY Cottage Style Kitchen Pantry (Free Plans)

Creating a well-organized, walk-in pantry can transform your kitchen, and a DIY Cottage Style Kitchen Pantry is the perfect blend of charm and functionality. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to build a kitchen pantry with a vintage-inspired look. Whether the size of your pantry is small or you’re adding extra storage space to a larger kitchen, these instructions can be adapted to fit your needs.

Last week I shared all my pantry inspiration so check that out before diving into this tutorial. My plan is to have lots of shallow open shelving for staple pantry items, and deeper bottom shelves for easy access. I wish I had more space to add a broom storage area or even a pocket door but maybe in my next house! Another option would have been to install slide-out drawer inserts or adding a base cabinet but I personally think they waste more space and I like this look more. 

Shop my
pantry favorites

Shop my list of pantry favorites.

Kitchen

Food Storage Containers

Kitchen

Label Maker

Kitchen

6 Piece Canister Set

Kitchen

Refrigerator Bin

Kitchen

Lazy Susan Organizers

Kitchen

Wicker Basket

Before You Begin

Plan Your Pantry Layout

Before you run to home depot and start your DIY pantry build, it’s a good idea to take inventory of your pantry staples. Think about what you need to store—dry goods, small appliances, or grocery list essentials—and how best to arrange your pantry shelves. You might want to get a temporary freestanding pantry to store everything while you work. I just put everything in my dining room and kitchen cabinets and it was a huge mess!

I had deep shelves and a lot of dead space in the blind corners and I wasn’t happy with the height of the shelves either. I decided to go shallow for all my upper shelves and make deeper bottom shelves. 

I designed my build for a 4×4′ corner pantry, but this method works for various pantry sizes. Just be sure to measure carefully and adjust your cuts accordingly. Taking this first step ensures you’ll have enough storage space while still achieving that custom finished look.

Electrical

After doing the demo I called in my electrician and had him wire the pantry for a pendant light and one electrical outlet. I’ve always wanted to add a power strip in there if needed and this was my chance to do so!

Materials Needed

• 3/4″ Plywood (cabinet grade plywood for durability)
• 1×2″ Select Pine
• 2.5″ Wood Screws
• 1.5″ Wood Screws
• 2″ Brad Nails
• Wood Dowel Shelf Pins
• Wood Brackets 
• Scalloped Trim 
• 3/4″ Edge Banding
• Wood Filler
• Caulk

Tools Required

• Brad Nailer
• Miter Saw
• Table Saw
• Long Level
• Impact Drill
• Drill/Driver
• Wood Glue
• Dowel Jig Set (great option for strong joints)
• Tape Measure
• Pry Bar
• Hammer
• Caulking Gun

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Pantry Storage

Step 1: Demo Your Existing Pantry

The first step is clearing out your pantry. Remove any old pantry shelving, cabinet doors, or hardware. Use a pry bar and hammer to carefully remove shelves and wood frame. Removing the pantry doors makes it easier to work in a small pantry.

Step 2: Mark the Location of the Studs

Use a stud finder to mark the location of the studs along the back side of the pantry. Mark these points on the baseboard using pencil marks or painters tape so you can still locate them after installing the vertical shiplap.

Step 3: Install Vertical Paneling or Shiplap

To create that cozy cottage style aesthetic, install vertical paneling or shiplap where your pantry shelves will go. Use a level to ensure everything is straight. This step instantly gives your pantry that charming, custom pantry feel. I used my 2″ brad nails to secure them and a good tip is to angle in your brad nails for a stronger hold. Try hitting the nails into studs wherever possible. 

Step 4: Install Shelf Supports Using 1×2’s

Cut your 1×2″ pine boards to size and secure them to the marked studs using 2.5″ wood screws. These supports will hold your pantry shelves, so ensure they are sturdy and level.  I was able to hit 2 studs with screws and then I added some brad nails for extra support. Also add additional support pieces to the sides of the wall space for each shelf. 

Step 5: Cut Plywood for Shelves

The next step is to cut your 3/4″ plywood to size for all shelves. For best results, use a table saw to ensure clean cuts. Be sure to label your pieces to keep track of which board fits where. I used 2 full plywood sheets for my shelves and instead of adding a face frame I went with edge banding for the look I wanted. If you want the look of a thicker shelf you can add a face frame with 1x2s. 

Step 6: Join Shelves Using Dowel Joints or Pocket Holes

For this build, I used a dowel jig set to create strong and seamless joints where the shelves meet in the corner. This method is surprisingly simple with the right tools! Alternatively, you can use pocket holes with a pocket hole jig as another sturdy option for connecting the shelves. Both methods are great options for achieving a secure and polished finish. I personally don’t love making pocket holes so this was a great option for me – plus it’s a stronger hold for all your heavy items.

Step 7: Dry Fit Shelves and Secure

Before securing, do a dry fit to ensure everything aligns properly. Fit each shelf onto the back supports and connect the dowel joints or pocket-hole joint with the corresponding shelf. Once everything fits perfectly, secure each shelf to the supports with 1.5″ wood screws.

Step 8: Add Edge Banding for a Finished Look

To achieve a professional finished look, apply 3/4″ edge banding to the exposed edges of your plywood shelves. Use an iron to attach the banding and trim any excess for a clean result.

Step 9: Install Decorative Brackets

For added charm, attach decorative wood brackets at the points where your shelves meet the walls. This step isn’t necessary for support but creates that distinct cottage style look. Secure them with brad nails for easy installation.

Step 10: Install Scalloped Trim

For an extra decorative touch, add scalloped trim along the front of the second shelf from the bottom. This detail brings warmth and vintage charm to your kitchen pantry closet. Secure with a brad nailer for a secure hold. Now you’re making kitchen designers jealous!

Step 11: Fill Holes and Caulk Seams

Fill all nail holes and caulk the seams where your pantry shelves meet the walls. This ensures a clean, professional finish before painting. If you want you can also install a new pair of custom doors to completely transform the outside of the pantry. I’ll talk about my pantry doors in another post.

Step 12: Paint Your Pantry

I used Rojo Dust by Sherwin Williams for a warm terracotta pink color that brightens the space and complements my home’s aesthetic. The result is a cheerful and inviting pantry space that feels both practical and stylish. Adding a whiteboard panel for writing down your grocery list or recipes is also a fun and functional design element to consider. You could also add a peg rail for hanging baskets and bags if your space allows for it. 

Final Touches: Cafe Curtains & More

My next project is adding cafe curtains behind the scalloped trim to hide some of the everyday pantry essentials and not-so-pretty food items. It’s a great way to combine style and practicality! Stay tuned for that update.

Building a DIY cottage style kitchen pantry is a rewarding project that not only enhances your kitchen’s functionality but also adds charm and personality. With the right materials like cabinet grade plywood, pine boards, and thoughtful accents like wood brackets and scalloped trim, you can create a beautiful and well-organized pantry that meets your everyday items needs.

Have questions or ready to get started? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to check out my printable plans for this build to guide you step-by-step.

Need More Pantry Inspiration?

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Shop this Project

1. Pantry Pendant Light
2. 6 Inch Wooden Shelf Brackets
3. Dowel Jig Set
4. Scalloped Trim