Revolutionize Your Diecast Collection with This DIY Toy Car Display Shelf

Are you a diecast car enthusiast looking to showcase your collection in a unique and stylish way? Look no further!

In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a DIY display shelf that will truly revolutionize the way you exhibit your favorite toy cars.

From gathering materials to assembling and decorating your shelf, we’ll provide you with all the steps you need to take your collection to the next level.

Get ready to wow your fellow collectors with a display that’s as impressive as the cars themselves!

Gather Your Materials

First, gather your materials for this project. You will need:

MDF board 9 mm (122 x 61 cm)
Wood rectangle sticks ( 4,5 x 1 cm)
Hand Saw and miter box
sandpaper
Paint
Foam roller
Screws 2/3 in. (16 mm)
Wood glue
Drill
Screwdriver
Level
Measuring tape
2 Wall plugs with screws and washers

Once you have all your materials assembled, you will be ready to move on to the fun part of designing your display shelf.

Design Your Display Shelf

Now that you have all your materials ready, it’s time to start designing your display shelf. Think about the overall look you want to achieve and consider factors such as color, style, and size.

You can get creative with the design by adding unique details like decals, stripes, or even a racing theme.

Customizing the diecast shelf to resemble a parking lot is a fun idea. I created printable files for the parking signs, level numbers, and other signaletics. If you like to customize your DIY diecast shelf on the same theme you can get the free download in my resource library.

>>>> Download the Parking Signaletics Printable

Building the DIY Toy Car Display Shelf

Once you have a clear vision in mind, you can move on to the next step and bring your design to life by building the toy car display shelf.

As back panel for the toy car display I used a standard MDF 9mm sheet, you can find it already cut at 122x61cm in your hardware store.

To make the frame and the shelves, I used wood rectangle sticks 45mm x 10mm x 2,4m.

Start by measuring the wood and cut 4 pieces to make a frame. If you use the same MDF Panel as I did, cut 2 pieces of 61 cm for the sides and 2 pieces of 120 cm for top and bottom.

organize the dowel to create the toy car display shelf

Cut more wood trim piece to make the shelves. Leave a space of 5 cm between each shelf. So I had to cut 9 pieces of 120 cm length to make the shelves.

You can place them on the back panel to check that everything fit.

Sand all the pieces.

To know where to fix the shelves on the back board, measure and draw the emplacement of the shelves. Remember to leave a distance of -/+ 5 cm between each shelf.

Drill holes where you will put a screw to fix the shelves with the back panel.

Plan at least 3 screws for each shelf and 3 screws for each side of the outer frame. Sand to have a smooth and flat panel.

Paint the Toy Car display shelf

To paint the toy car display shelf, remove all the dust with a wet cloth to have a clean base for the paint to adhere to.

Choose a color that complements your room decor or opt for a bold color to make the shelf stand out.

As I wanted a parking lot inspired shelf display, I went for a white background and grey shelves.

Apply multiple thin coats of paint, allowing each layer to dry completely before adding the next. Once the paint is dry, consider adding a clear coat for extra protection and a glossy finish. This will not only enhance the appearance of your display shelf but also ensure its durability over time.

Next, it’s time to assemble the shelf for showcasing your diecast collection.,

Assemble the Shelf

Now that you have painted your toy car display shelf pieces to perfection, it’s time to assemble it for showcasing your diecast collection. This step is crucial in ensuring that your shelf is sturdy and ready to hold all your beloved toy cars.

Let’s bring all the pieces together and get ready to decorate your new display shelf in the next step.

Start by fixing the outer frame. Apply wood glue all around the edges of the back panel.

Using the holes you previously drill as guide, screw the frame on the panel.

One by one, glue and screw each shelf in place. Check that they are level and at a distance of 5 cm between each other.

The holes in the panel you previously made will help you screw each shelf in place in a breeze.

Decorate

When it comes to decorating your toy car display shelf, the options are endless. Consider adding a pop of color with some decorative accents or decals that reflect your personality and style.

You could also get creative with themed decorations to complement your diecast collection, such as miniature road signs, trees, or even a tiny garage.

>>>> Download the Parking Signaletics Printable

print the parking lot decals free printable

The key is to make your display shelf unique and eye-catching to showcase your toy cars in the best possible way.

This personalized touch will not only make your collection stand out but also create a visually appealing focal point in any room.

So, let your creativity run wild as you decorate your toy car display shelf to make it truly one-of-a-kind. With the right decorations, your diecast collection will be displayed in a way that reflects your passion for collecting toy cars.

I choose to customizing the diecast display to resemble a parking lot. If you like the idea, you can download and print the PDF.

Cut the shapes and glue them where ever you like on the display to create the parking decor.

Hanging the Toy Car display shelf

Time to hang the Toy Car shelf on the wall. Choose your favorite spot…or a space available for more car display :).

Drill two small holes on the back of your shelf, one on the left and one on the right.

Ask for someone help to hold the shelf, check with a level that it’s straight and mark to emplacement of the two holes.

Drill 2 holes on the wall and place wall plugs.

With some one help hold the shelf in place and drill it on the wall using washers and screws.

Display Your Collection

Time to display your diecast collection, the key is to make it unique and eye-catching.

Showcase your toy cars in the best possible way.

This not only makes your collection stand out but also creates a visually appealing focal point in any room.

display your diecast collection in the toy car display shelf

I choose to display the cars by colors…my son told me that it’s much better to organize the cars by brands and models. He will therefore take care of reorganizing everything in his own way.

If you like the wall shelves that I built to display his 1/18 scale car collection, you can have a look at the DIY Box shelf.

The crate storage is also a DIY. I made it to organize books and toys…but with time and my son´s car collection growing it turns into a toy car storage too.

Watch the DIY Toy Car Display Shelf step-by-step on video

In conclusion, by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can transform your diecast collection from ordinary to extraordinary.

Showcasing your favorite toy cars on a DIY display shelf will not only impress other collectors but also bring a new level of satisfaction to your hobby.

So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your own unique display shelf today and revolutionize the way you exhibit your collectible.

Make your collection shine with a display shelf that is as unique and special as the cars it holds.

Want to remember it? Save this toy car display shelf on your favorite Pinterest board.

Amaryllis