Wood French Cleats: Strong, Simple Mounting

Wood french cleats represent a versatile and robust solution for wall-mounting needs across various applications. Wood french cleats, typically crafted from materials like plywood, serves as an alternative to traditional methods like screws and nails. Wood french cleats, acting as a secure interlocking mechanism, are employed in spaces such as workshops for tool organization and homes for shelving. Wood french cleats is a type of hardware that is capable of handling substantial weight while providing a clean, almost floating appearance.

Ever looked at a perfectly organized workshop or a flawlessly hung set of kitchen cabinets and wondered, “How did they do that?” Chances are, the secret weapon behind that feat of engineering is something wonderfully simple yet incredibly effective: the French cleat. Think of it as the ultimate interlocking system, a dynamic duo of beveled wood that comes together to create a super strong, super versatile mounting solution.

So, what exactly is a French cleat? Imagine taking a single piece of wood and slicing it at a 45-degree angle. Now you have two pieces, each with a beveled edge that perfectly matches the other. One piece gets mounted to the wall, and the other to whatever you want to hang—shelves, cabinets, your prized collection of rubber chickens—and then they just slot together. It’s like a secret handshake for your walls and your stuff.

Now, about the history, it is a little foggy. While the exact origin of the French cleat is a bit of a mystery, its principles have likely been around for ages in woodworking. The concept is so intuitive; you can imagine some savvy craftsman stumbling upon it centuries ago. Regardless of its precise origins, the popularity of French cleats has exploded in recent years, and for good reason.

What makes French cleats so darn appealing? Well, for starters, they’re incredibly versatile. You can use them to hang just about anything, from lightweight picture frames to heavy-duty shelving units. They’re also surprisingly strong, capable of supporting a significant amount of weight when properly installed. And perhaps best of all, they’re incredibly easy to use. Forget complicated hardware and finicky measurements – with French cleats, you can achieve a professional-looking installation in no time.

From organizing your cluttered garage to creating a stylish display in your living room, French cleats offer a world of possibilities. They’re the unsung heroes of home organization and DIY projects, and once you discover their potential, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Contents

Materials Matter: Picking the Perfect Wood for Your French Cleats

So, you’re diving into the world of French cleats, huh? Awesome choice! But before you start slinging sawdust, let’s talk about the star of the show: the wood itself! Seriously, the type of wood you choose can make or break your project, both literally and figuratively. Think of it this way: you wouldn’t build a skyscraper out of toothpicks, would you? (Okay, maybe you would, but I wouldn’t want to be standing next to it when the wind picks up!).

Wood selection is super important! It’s all about finding that sweet spot between strength, durability, and, let’s be honest, what your wallet can handle. You want your French cleat system to hold up whatever you’re hanging, whether it’s a feather duster or your prized collection of vintage bowling balls. Let’s dive in!

Plywood: The Budget-Friendly Backbone

Ah, plywood – the unsung hero of many a DIY project. It’s cost-effective and relatively stable, meaning it’s less likely to warp or twist on you. But (there’s always a “but,” isn’t there?), plywood can have some weaker edges, especially if you’re using a lower grade.

Grades Matter: Not all plywood is created equal! You’ve got your basic construction-grade (skip this for cleats), and then you’ve got your cabinet-grade plywood. Cabinet-grade is your best bet for French cleats. It has fewer voids, a smoother surface, and is generally stronger. Think of it as the difference between a cardboard box and a fancy shipping crate.

Hardwood: The Heavy-Duty Champion

If you’re planning on hanging some serious weight – like, say, a fully loaded bookshelf or a small car engine (don’t do that!) – then hardwood is your friend. This stuff is strong, durable, and built to last. But, as you might have guessed, it’s also the most expensive option.

Hardwood Heroes: Oak, maple, and birch are popular choices.
- Oak is a classic, known for its strength and distinct grain pattern.
- Maple is another super-strong contender, with a smooth, clean look.
- Birch offers a good balance of strength and affordability and is known for its light color.

Keep in mind that different hardwoods have different strengths, so a little research goes a long way.

Softwood: The Lightweight Contender

Softwood is your go-to if you are hanging something fairly light and you want a great price point. Think picture frames, small shelves with light items, or maybe just a funky art piece you just finished. But don’t expect it to hold your toolbox filled with lead bricks, if you overload it, it will probably fail on you.

Softwood Heroes: Pine and Fir are the most popular
- Pine Easy to work with and more affordable
- Fir More affordable suitable for lighter loads

Thickness Matters, Too!

Don’t just focus on the type of wood. The thickness of your French cleat material also plays a HUGE role in how much weight it can handle. Think of it like this: a thin piece of hardwood might still be weaker than a thicker piece of plywood.

Generally, for lighter duty applications, 3/4″ is a good starting point. But if you’re dealing with heavier loads, you might want to bump that up to 1″ or even thicker. The best way to figure out the right thickness is to do a little research and calculate the load capacity based on the type of wood you’re using. It may sound like math class all over again, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind!

So, there you have it! A crash course in choosing the right wood for your French cleats. Now go forth and build something awesome (and safe!).

Tool Up: Essential Tools and Materials for French Cleat Construction

Alright, so you’re ready to dive into the world of French cleats! Before you start slapping wood together, let’s make sure you’ve got the right arsenal. Having the correct tools not only makes the job easier but also safer and a whole lot more fun! Trust me, there’s nothing worse than realizing halfway through a project that you’re missing something crucial. It’s like trying to bake a cake without sugar – just…wrong.

Essential Tools: Your Workshop Companions

Saws: Let’s talk saws! A table saw is your best friend for accuracy and repeatability. If you’re cranking out a bunch of cleats, this is the way to go. But if you need something portable, a circular saw will do the trick. Important note: A sharp blade is key for clean cuts and avoiding splintering. Dull blades are dangerous and lead to frustration.
Levels: No one wants a crooked shelf, right? Levels are essential for proper installation. A good old spirit level works wonders, but if you want to get fancy (and accurate), consider a laser level.
Measuring Tools: As they say, “Measure twice, cut once!” A reliable tape measure, square, and marking gauge are non-negotiable. Accuracy is the name of the game here; otherwise, your cleats won’t line up correctly.
Drills: Time to make some holes! A good drill is needed for pilot holes (to prevent splitting the wood) and fastening screws. Go corded for consistent power or cordless for freedom of movement – your call!
Fastening Tools: You’ll need something to drive those screws in! A set of screwdrivers (various types and sizes) is a must. An impact driver is optional but can be a lifesaver when dealing with tougher woods or longer screws.
Safety Glasses: I feel this needs to be bolded. You only get one set of eyes, so *protect them*! Always wear safety glasses when cutting, drilling, or sanding. Seriously, it’s not worth the risk.

Essential Materials: The Building Blocks of Success

Wood Glue: Don’t skimp on the wood glue! A high-quality wood glue will bond those cleat pieces together like they’re meant to be. Think of it as the glue to your project.
Fasteners: Screws are your friends! Have a variety of screws (various lengths and types) on hand. Nails can be useful for temporary fastening while the glue dries. Pay attention to screw sizing and head types to ensure they’re appropriate for the thickness of your wood.
Adhesive: For extra holding power during wall mounting, consider using construction adhesive (optional). This stuff is like super glue for construction – just be careful, it’s messy!

Design and Construction: Crafting Your French Cleats

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks and actually make these French cleats. This is where the magic happens, and it’s easier than you might think. It all starts with a little bit of geometry and a dash of DIY spirit.

Finding Your Angle: Why 45 Degrees is Your Best Bet

You might be wondering, “Why 45 degrees?” Well, it’s the sweet spot. A 45-degree angle on your French cleat provides a strong, reliable interlocking mechanism without being too shallow (which could slip) or too steep (which would waste material and might be harder to cut). It’s also a standard, making it easy to find jigs and guides if you want a little extra help. Think of it like the Goldilocks of angles – just right!

Design Decisions: Size Matters

Before you start cutting, let’s talk dimensions. You wouldn’t wear shoes three sizes too big, and the same principle applies here.

Length: This one’s a no-brainer. The length of your cleat depends entirely on what you’re hanging. Got a small picture frame? A shorter cleat will do. Hanging a massive cabinet? You’ll need something that spans nearly the whole width. Match the cleat to the object!
Width: The wider the cleat, the more stable it will be, and the better it will distribute the load. A wider cleat also provides more surface area for screws, increasing its overall strength.
Thickness: Here’s where you need to consider weight. A thin cleat might be fine for lightweight items, but for anything substantial, you’ll want something thicker to prevent flexing or even breaking. A thicker cleat also gives your screws more to bite into.

Cut and Prepare: From Wood to Wonder

Now for the fun part – making sawdust!

Measure Twice, Cut Once (Seriously!): This old saying is gold. Accurate measurements are crucial for a perfect fit. Use a sharp pencil and a reliable measuring tape to mark your cuts.
Table Saw Time (Safety First!): A table saw is your best friend for this task. Set the blade to 45 degrees. Now, slowly and carefully guide the wood through the blade, keeping it flush against the fence. If you’re using a circular saw, make sure you have a steady hand and use a guide for accuracy. Always wear safety glasses! No one wants to explain to their doctor what they were doing when they lost an eye.
Smooth Operator: Sanding for Success: Once cut, take some sandpaper and ease those sharp edges. A smooth cleat not only looks better but also prevents splinters and allows for a better finish down the road.

With these steps, you’ll have a strong and reliable French cleat ready to hang just about anything you want!

Installation Guide: Mounting French Cleats Securely

Okay, so you’ve got your French cleats built and ready to roll. Now comes the fun part: getting them securely attached to the wall. This is where the magic happens, where your creation becomes a super-useful mounting system. But before we start slinging screws, let’s talk about how to make sure your cleats are rock-solid and can handle whatever you’re planning to hang.

Finding Those Hidden Gems: Locating Wall Studs

First things first: let’s find those elusive wall studs. These are the vertical wooden beams inside your walls, and they’re your best friends when it comes to hanging anything heavy. A stud finder is your go-to gadget here. They’re relatively cheap and simple to use. Just run it along the wall, and it’ll beep or light up when it detects a stud. If you don’t have a stud finder, don’t fret! You can try the old-fashioned “knock and listen” method. Knock gently on the wall, and a solid sound usually indicates a stud, while a hollow sound means you’re between studs. Another clue? Look for outlets or switches; they’re usually attached to studs. Once you think you’ve found a stud, confirm it with a small nail. If it goes in easily, you’re likely between studs; if it hits something solid, you’ve found your mark. Mark the stud locations clearly with a pencil. You’ll thank yourself later.

Anchors Away! Dealing with the Stud-less Void

Alright, so what if you can’t hit a stud? Don’t despair! That’s what wall anchors are for. These little gizmos provide extra support in drywall or plaster. There are a bunch of different types, each with its own load rating:

Drywall Anchors: These are good for lighter loads, like picture frames or small shelves. They expand inside the wall to grip the drywall.
Toggle Bolts: These are beefier and can handle heavier loads. They have “wings” that spread out behind the wall, providing a super-secure hold.
Self-Drilling Anchors: These screw directly into the drywall.

Always check the load rating on the anchor packaging and make sure it’s sufficient for the weight you plan to hang. It’s better to overestimate than underestimate! Pro-tip: Always drill a pilot hole that is smaller than the size of the anchor. This will ensure that the anchor grips the wall tightly.

Level Up: Ensuring a Straight Shot

Now, before you start drilling, grab your level. There’s nothing worse than hanging something and realizing it’s all crooked. Place the level on the cleat and adjust until the bubble is centered. Then, mark the cleat’s position with a pencil. This will ensure that your cleat is perfectly level. For long cleats, a laser level can be a real lifesaver. They project a straight line across the wall, making it easy to align the cleat.

Top and Bottom: The Dynamic Duo of Cleat Alignment

Okay, so you’ve got your first cleat up. Now it’s time for its partner. Proper alignment between the top and bottom cleats is essential for a secure and stable system. If they’re misaligned, your objects won’t sit flush against the wall. Use a long level or a straight edge to ensure that the bottom cleat is directly below the top cleat. If you’re hanging a large object, consider using multiple cleats for added support. Space the cleats evenly apart to distribute the weight. This will prevent any one cleat from bearing too much load.

Spacing Out: Leaving Room to Breathe

When hanging larger objects, leave some space between the cleats. This allows you to easily slide the object onto the cleats without any snagging. A general rule of thumb is to leave about 1/4 inch of space between the top of the object and the bottom of the cleat above it.

Pre-Drill Like a Pro: Preventing Wood Split Disasters

Always, always, always pre-drill pilot holes before driving screws into the cleats or the wall. This is especially important when working with hardwoods. Pre-drilling prevents the wood from splitting, which can weaken the cleat. Use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw. This will ensure that the screw grips the wood tightly.

Weighty Matters: Calculating Load Capacity

Now for the serious stuff: weight distribution and load capacity. You need to know how much weight your French cleat system can handle before you start loading it up. Consider:

The type of wood you used.
The size and number of fasteners.
The type of wall anchors (if used).
The spacing between the cleats.

Distribute the weight evenly across the cleat. Avoid concentrating the weight in one area. If you’re hanging something particularly heavy, consider reinforcing the cleat with additional supports. This could involve adding a second layer of wood to the cleat or attaching it to a wider piece of backing.

Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure about the load capacity of your system, consult with a professional. With a little planning and careful installation, your French cleats will provide a super-strong and versatile mounting solution for years to come.

Applications: Unleashing the Potential of French Cleats

Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we’re about to dive headfirst into the wildly versatile world of French cleats! Forget those boring old nails and screws; we’re talking about a system that’s as adaptable as a chameleon at a rainbow convention. Think of French cleats as the Swiss Army knife of your workshop, home, or even your slightly obsessive organizational dreams. Get ready to see how these ingenious little contraptions can revolutionize everything from your tool storage to your gallery wall.

Shop Organization: Tame the Tool Tornado!

Ever feel like your workshop is less a haven for creativity and more a black hole where tools go to disappear? French cleats to the rescue! Imagine a world where every wrench, saw, and drill has its designated spot, proudly displayed on a French cleat wall. We’re talking a glorious display of order, where you can actually find what you need when you need it. Hang your tools, jigs, and even those oddball shop accessories with ease. Pro-Tip: Use different lengths of cleats to accommodate tools of various sizes and weights. Snap some before and after photos – the transformation is seriously satisfying!

Shelving: Adjustable, Sturdy, and Oh-So-Stylish!

Say goodbye to fixed shelves and hello to maximum flexibility! French cleats make creating adjustable shelving systems a breeze. Need to move a shelf up or down to accommodate a taller vase or a growing stack of books? No problem! Simply lift and reposition. Plus, these shelves are rock-solid. You can use various materials for the shelves themselves. Opt for solid wood for a rustic touch, or try plywood for a budget-friendly and durable option. Remember: the thicker and denser the shelf material, the more weight it can handle!

Kitchen Cabinets: Level Up Your Culinary Kingdom

Installing kitchen cabinets can be a real headache, right? Getting them perfectly level and aligned is often a recipe for frustration (pun intended!). French cleats offer a simpler, more forgiving approach. Attach one cleat to the wall, and the other to the back of the cabinet. Then, just lift and slide the cabinet into place. The adjustability of the French cleat system allows you to fine-tune the position of each cabinet, ensuring a seamless and professional-looking installation.

Picture Hanging: No More Crooked Canvases!

Are you tired of battling wonky picture frames and frustrating nail holes? French cleats offer a secure and level way to display your artwork. Attach one cleat to the wall and another to the back of the picture frame. Voila! You can easily slide the picture into place, making adjustments as needed to achieve that perfect gallery-worthy arrangement. Plus, if you decide to rearrange your art, moving pieces around is a cinch. No more patching up holes and starting from scratch!

DIY Projects: Unleash Your Inner Maker!

The possibilities are truly endless! Feeling adventurous? Use French cleats to mount a monitor to the wall, creating a sleek and space-saving workstation. Build a movable workbench that can be easily relocated around your shop. The only limit is your imagination. The beauty of French cleats lies in their adaptability. They can be incorporated into almost any project that requires a secure and adjustable mounting solution.

Safety First: Keeping All Your Fingers While Embracing the French Cleat Life

Alright, let’s talk safety, because nobody wants a trip to the ER interrupting their DIY dreams! Building and installing French cleats is generally straightforward, but like any project involving power tools and gravity, a little forethought goes a long way. Think of this section as your friendly neighborhood safety briefing. We’re not trying to scare you, just equip you with the knowledge to keep all ten fingers (and toes!) intact.

Safety Dance: Cutting and Installation Edition

First up, let’s address the elephant in the room – power tools. These are your friends, but they can also be a bit bitey if you’re not careful.

Safety glasses aren’t just a fashion statement (though they can be). They’re your first line of defense against flying debris. Wear ’em!
Always, always, always use the appropriate safety guards on your power tools. They’re there for a reason. Don’t be tempted to remove them for “easier” access. That’s a recipe for disaster.
Clamping is your best friend. It holds your workpiece securely while you’re sawing, routing, or drilling. Trying to hold a piece of wood steady with one hand while operating a power tool with the other is a definite no-no.

Structural Shenanigans: Making Sure It Doesn’t Fall Down

Okay, so you’ve managed to cut and install your French cleats without incident. High five! But the safety journey doesn’t end there. You want to make sure your shelves (or cabinets, or whatever you’re hanging) stay put.

Quality materials matter. We talked about wood selection earlier, and it’s important here too. Don’t skimp on cheap wood or fasteners if you’re planning on hanging something heavy.
Fastener spacing is crucial. Follow guidelines (or even over-engineer a bit) to ensure adequate holding power. Think of it like this: more screws = more secure.
And finally, the golden rule: avoid overloading the system. Just because you can technically hang a grand piano on your French cleats doesn’t mean you should. Know your weight limits and stay within them.

The Periodic Checkup: Keeping Things Shipshape

Even with the best planning and execution, things can sometimes go awry over time. That’s why it’s a good idea to inspect your French cleat system periodically.

Look for any signs of wear or damage, such as loose screws, cracks in the wood, or bowing in the cleat itself.
If you spot any problems, address them immediately. A loose screw is a quick fix; a cracked cleat might require replacement.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the versatility and convenience of French cleats with peace of mind. Now go forth and build… safely!

Alternatives and Comparisons: Weighing Your Options

Alright, so you’re digging the French cleat vibe, but you’re a savvy shopper, right? You want to know what else is out there. Let’s face it, sometimes a French cleat is like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut. While I think you would be better off sticking with your new French Cleats, it is important to see if French Cleats are for you.

Here’s the lowdown on a few other hanging options and how they stack up:

Screws and Nails: The OG Hanging Crew

Ah, the classics! Screws and nails, straight into the wall. Simple, right? And cheap! Perfect for hanging that motivational cat poster in your home office.

Pros: Inexpensive, readily available, minimal effort for a single item.
Cons: Limited weight capacity, can damage walls easily (especially if you miss the stud!), not adjustable, and definitely not the most secure option for anything valuable or heavy. Plus, let’s be honest, one wrong move and you’ve got a crooked picture and a hole in your drywall.

Traditional Brackets: The Supportive Squad

Think shelves, closet organizers, the usual suspects. Brackets come in all shapes and sizes, ready to lend a helping hand to your storage needs.

Pros: Good for supporting shelves and heavier items, relatively easy to install.
Cons: Can be bulky and visually obtrusive, often require precise measuring and drilling, not easily adjustable once installed, and may still rely on screws into studs (or questionable wall anchors).

Wire Hanging Systems: The Gallery Guru

Ever seen those fancy art galleries where everything seems to float effortlessly? That’s probably wire hanging systems. Tracks are mounted on the wall, and wires with hooks hang down to support artwork.

Pros: Adjustable and flexible, great for displaying artwork or photos, can support a decent amount of weight depending on the system.
Cons: Can be more expensive than other options, requires careful installation of the track, and might not be suitable for all types of items (think bulky power tools). Plus, it has a specific look – if you are not hanging art it will look out of place!

French Cleats vs. The World: A Showdown

So, why go French cleat when you’ve got all these other options? Here’s the skinny:

French Cleat Pros:
- Unmatched versatility: Hang almost anything!
- Impressive strength: Safely supports heavy items.
- Effortless adjustability: Move things around with ease.
- Simple to use: Once installed, hanging and rearranging is a breeze.
French Cleat Cons:
- A bit more initial effort: Requires some building and installation.
- Can be slightly more expensive: Especially if you’re using premium wood.

The Verdict: When to Choose What

Go French Cleat When: You need a versatile, strong, and adjustable system for organizing your shop, hanging cabinets, or creating a flexible shelving system. French cleats are your best bet when you value flexibility and the ability to easily rearrange things.
Opt for Alternatives When: You just need to hang a lightweight picture, or you’re looking for the absolute cheapest and fastest solution. A nail or screw might do the trick. If you are hanging just a few pictures, a wire hanging system is ideal. For the more demanding situations such as shelving where you are expecting to put heavy objects on the shelf the Traditional Brackets are the only way to go.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and the scope of your project. But if you’re looking for a durable, adaptable, and satisfying hanging solution, French cleats are definitely worth considering!

Finishing Touches: Because Even French Cleats Deserve to Look Good!

Alright, you’ve built your French cleats, they’re sturdy, they’re strong, and they’re ready to conquer the world of organization! But hold on a sec – before you go hanging everything from your toolbox to your prized rubber ducky collection, let’s talk about making those cleats look as good as they perform. Think of it as giving your cleats a well-deserved spa day. Nobody wants a boring, unfinished cleat staring back at them, do they?

Time to make your French cleats, well, French chic! Let’s dive into the world of finishes, where we’ll transform those functional pieces of wood into eye-catching accents that complement your space.

Paint It Up: Add a Pop of Color!

Thinking about giving your cleats a vibrant makeover? Painting is your go-to option for adding a splash of color that complements your workshop, garage, or living space. Remember, a little color can go a long way!

Choosing Your Color: Think about the vibe you’re going for. Want to keep it clean and modern? A crisp white or light gray might be the ticket. Feeling bold? Go for a vibrant blue, red, or even a sunny yellow! Just make sure it doesn’t clash too horribly with everything else (unless you’re into that sort of thing).
The Primer Power-Up: Don’t skip the primer! Seriously, this stuff is like the superhero of painting. It creates a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to, prevents the wood from soaking up too much paint, and helps your chosen color truly pop. Think of it as the foundation for a flawless finish.

Stain It to Impress: Let the Wood Grain Shine!

If you’re a fan of the natural beauty of wood, staining is the way to go. Staining enhances the wood grain, giving your cleats a warm, rich, and sophisticated look. It’s like putting a tuxedo on your cleats.

Conditioning is Key: Before you even think about applying stain, grab a wood conditioner. This pre-stain treatment helps the wood absorb the stain evenly, preventing blotches and ensuring a consistent color. Trust me, your future self will thank you.
Choosing Your Stain: From light and airy to dark and dramatic, there’s a stain color for every taste. Consider the type of wood you’re using and the overall look you’re trying to achieve. Oak looks amazing with a classic walnut stain, while pine can be beautifully enhanced with a lighter, honey-toned stain.

Seal the Deal: Protection is Paramount!

Once you’ve painted or stained your cleats to perfection, it’s time to seal the deal with a protective finish. Sealing safeguards the wood from moisture, scratches, and everyday wear and tear, ensuring that your cleats stay looking great for years to come.

Polyurethane Power: Polyurethane is a popular choice for sealing wood because it’s durable, water-resistant, and available in various sheens, from matte to glossy. It’s like a suit of armor for your cleats.
Varnish Virtues: Varnish is another excellent option for sealing wood. It provides a tough, protective layer that resists scratches and chemicals. It’s a great choice for cleats that will be exposed to heavy use.

Pro Tips for a Picture-Perfect Finish:

Alright, listen up, because I’m about to drop some knowledge bombs that will take your finishing game to the next level.

Sanding is Your Best Friend: Before you apply any finish, sand the wood smooth with fine-grit sandpaper. This removes any imperfections and creates a smooth, even surface for the finish to adhere to. It’s like giving your cleats a mini-massage.
Thin Coats are the Way to Go: Resist the urge to slather on thick coats of finish. Multiple thin coats are much better, as they dry more evenly and prevent drips and runs. It requires a little patience but pays off in the long run.
Patience, Young Padawan: Allow each coat of finish to dry completely before applying the next. Rushing the drying process can lead to a gummy, uneven finish. So, kick back, relax, and let the finish do its thing.

So there you have it – a crash course in finishing French cleats. With a little effort and the right techniques, you can transform those functional pieces of wood into stunning accents that enhance your space and protect your investment. Now go forth and make those cleats shine!

So, there you have it! French cleats: simple, strong, and surprisingly versatile. Give it a shot, and get your stuff organized. Happy building!