In an antique store I saw a two or three shelf hanging "whatsits". The shelves appeared to be from a crate, they were about 1/4 or 3/8 inches thick. Holes were drilled through the four corners of each shelf and a knotted cord passed through the four holes. Spools were then threaded on the cords equally and the four cords passed through the holes on the second shelf. Again the spools were threaded on the cord. Another shelf on top for stability. The four cords were brought together and knotted at the top with a loop for hanging.
I think it might be an improvement to use dowels instead of cord and perhaps glue spools on the bottom for feet. I hope this is clearer than mud. If the shelf is still in the shop I'll try for a picture.