First time shelf builder

[moosesmom]

Hello, im attemping to build shelves in an alcove. I live in a victorian end of terrace and I *think* im drilling into plasterboard directly onto masonry - i cant detect any studs. Whats the best way to make a
sure the shelf battons (3cm thick) attach securely to the wall - would red plugs with long nails do the trick? Should I be drilling into the brick behind the plaster? Any help appreviated before i make a complete mess of the wall...!

 

[Scally-Ho]

If that was my project, I'd use Hammer-in Fixings to affix batons to the plasterboard facing. The hammer-ins need to be long enough to go into the brickwork to a depth of at least 45mm to give a good weight bearing strength.