Introduction: Angled, Overhead, Wall Mounted Pot Rack for $20 and Under 2 Hours

About: Laziness is the mother of invention. Invention is the mother of necessity.

What makes this method unique from other 'Ibles on this subject is the ability to maximize the space by hanging the pots and pans at an angle which allows for overlap without a cluttered look of cookware pushing against itself. This was part of a project to open up cabinet and counter top space as we undergo a remodel.

I had to find a quick solution and didn't want to make the drive to our Ikea or walk their mouse maze for my piece of cheese. Instead, I went to our local hardware store. I went the the "L" store this time. I usually go the the "H-D", but the other is closer. Here I found the Single Prong Robe Hook which proved to be perfect for my needs. I found it in the Hardware aisle along sides hinges, door stops, and other cool stuff.

What You'll Need.

  1. 1 ea. 1 x 4 board. You can get varying types of wood. I went with simple pine. The length can also vary, I picked up an 8' board and used 80" of it.
  2. Hanging hooks. I found the Single Prong Robe Hook in the hardware isle. They came with screws. I picked up 10 and used 9. See image.
  3. Pliers, two pair. Alternate option is a vise. You need something to hold the hook in place and something to bend it.
  4. Drill with a small bit (1/8" is what I used).
  5. Screwdriver or driver bit for the drill.
  6. Level.

Step 1: Mount Your Board

I mounted the board 1" above the edge and fastened it this 2 1/2" deck screws. The board is 1" thick, the drywall 1/2". Mount into the studs. Do not mount into just the drywall. You will be putting weight on this and moving things off and on. You need a secure mount. Use your level to ensure the board is straight. You will be best off if you have a person assist you in holding the board.

Step 2: Bend the Prong of the Hook

This is where you pliers come in. You are going to bend the prong at about a 40 to 45 degree angle. This bend is what allows the cookware to hang at an angle. Use one pair of pliers to hold the mount plate and the other to bend the prong. It doesn't matter what side you bend towards so long as all the hooks are bent to the same side.

You also want to bend it inward just a little. It helps with the angle of the pots and pans. Do not bend it too much inward or you will make the opening to small to hang things on.

When I first did this, I bent them after they were mounted. But I found pre-bending them made mounting them easier as the prong did not get in the way and it was easier to screw in straight.

Step 3: Mount the First Hook

This should be pretty straightforward. I always recommend pre-tapping the wood by first marking the position of the mounting holes on the wood and then drilling with a small bit. It takes longer, but is so much better when securing the screws.

Position the hook where you find it it optimal. Be wary of cabinet doors. Make sure you can open them and access what you need.

Step 4: Measure and Mount the Remaining Hooks

I measured my first distance by putting my largest pan on the first hook and then my other large pan near it for an overlap of 2". This resulted in a 6" gap between hooks if you measure from the center top of one to the other. Your measurements may need adjusting if you pans are different in size. I found the 2" overhang optimal for the angle of the hang.

You will also notice I staggered my mounts to alternate between top and bottom flush. This is not required, but I felt it gave me more space.

Step 5: Hang the Pots and Pans

Once finished, hang the pots and pans. The first thing you notice is that you want to scrub them real good. They do become display items. However, they are so much easier to put away and to find the right one. This vastly improved not only the space, but the kitchen economics as well. No more shuffling through pans in a deep corner cabinet.

I should also mention that after this, I removed about 15 old pots and pans and sent them to storage. Once I could access these, I didn't need the rest as I can always find them now. This seriously reduced the dishes in our home.