The Fixwal 5x5 set is specifically designed for small-scale displays, such as succulents, small collectibles, or spice jars. The shelves are made from Paulownia wood, which has been torch-charred to create a textured, "rustic" look. This process avoids the use of heavy chemical stains, which is a nice feature for homes sensitive to VOCs. Because the wood is naturally very light, these shelves put almost no "dead load" on your walls.
With a 5-inch depth and width, these are compact units. While the manufacturer rates them for up to 40 lbs for the whole set, the small size of the boards means they are best suited for items weighing under 5 lbs each. The U-bracket system is easy to install, but because Paulownia is a soft wood, it is important to be gentle when driving screws into the boards to avoid stripping the wood fibers.
- The 5x5 dimensions are ideal for creating symmetrical patterns or "gallery" walls.
- The torched finish provides a high-contrast look that works well against light-colored walls.
- Lightweight material makes them safe for older plaster walls that might not handle heavy loads well.
For a more secure installation that won't sag, practical experience suggests swapping the provided plastic anchors for zinc self-drilling toggles if you aren't mounting directly into a stud. This will keep the small shelves perfectly level even if they are bumped.
If you need more surface area for larger items like books or 6-inch planters, you may find that standard 16-inch floating shelves offer more utility.
Explore our full range of decorative display options in the floating wall shelves category.
