Way back then, when we put up our Sukkah for the first time, my father-in-law added a shelf along one of the walls. Right away I was struck by how simple and practical this idea was. Years later, people are still commenting about it. So here are the details for the many who have a wood panel Sukkahs. With simple supplies, and minimal “handy man skills” your candlesticks, seforim, bentchers, flowers, etc can “hang around” the entire Yom Tov, and not be moved and removed countless times from being in the way.
Supplies:
Finished piece of wood (pre cut pine shelving) I used 48’x9’x1/2’- the exact exact size will vary based on the size of your Sukkah and on distance between beams you will drill into
Decorative molding (optional) Decorative brackets Wood Stain Standard hardware (All supplies can be purchased in any home improvement store: Home Depot, Lowes, etc)
Directions:
Stain the wood the color of your choice (I used a stain/shellac combo applied with a lint free rag.)
Measure the distance between the beams and attach the brackets to the wood accordingly. Use at least two screws to attach bracket into the beam and at least one screw to hold the shelf to the bracket.
Choose a practical spot (high enough so items will be out of reach of children – about 5’), yet keep in mind that there needs to be a safe distance between the top of the Leichter and the Schach). The wall near the flames should be covered with aluminum foil. Hurricane lanterns are available, but the glass is very fragile.
For best results use a level to ensure the shelf is straight.
(TIP- If you don’t have a level, mark a constant one inch height around the circumference of a clear cup and fill with water to that height. When shelf is level, water should be at the one inch mark all around the cup.)
