So the idea of making triangle shaped shelves seemed amazing but trying to actually, physically make them without any particularly fabulous math skills proved to be a bit difficult! Wanting 3 equilateral triangle shelves we had to put on our thinking caps to make things work. Once we figured out the math things came together quite well. 

To form each of our triangle shelves we cut 3 pieces of 2x4 pine boards into 11 5/8", 12" and 13 1/8". If you have a simpler way to form the triangles we'd love to hear about it in the comments!

To make 3 shelves the same size as ours you'll need to grab 2- 2x4x8 wood studs. The cost should run around $2.50 a board.

To achieve the proper shape you'll want to cut each board as Rob has above. Each end is a 30 degree angle. We used a power mitre saw but you can easily use a hand saw and a mitre box to keep this project incredibly budget friendly.

Once your boards are cut they should piece together to make a triangle. If you find that one side is a bit too long to fit, simply use a sander to take off a small amount of wood at a time until the pieces sit fairly flush.

If making multiple shelves it's a good idea to mark the backside of each set with the same number, letter or symbol to keep each set together. Piecing the shelves perfectly might be difficult if you have to keep grabbing piece after piece trying to make it work like a puzzle!

This is a decorative metal sheet purchased at Hobby Lobby using a half off coupon. There is enough metal here to back 3 shelves and will cost around $7.20 with a 40% off coupon. They also sell these sheets at the hardware store but they are sturdier and more difficult to cut and much more expensive.

Trace the outside shape of your shelf onto the metal.

Using metal snips (these are from the craft store) cut out the shape of your metal backing. Cut just inside the mark you made so that the triangle will fit on the back without overlapping the sides.

FYI - this metal is sharp and will cut you. It is advisable to wear protective gloves and eye-ware.

Press your metal onto the glue and use weight to help hold into place. Allow the glue to dry a few hours. 

If using heavy items on your shelves it is a good idea to further attach the metal using a staple gun tapped in each of the corners.