A while back we read an article where an expert suggested many items you shouldn’t buy at IKEA, leaving only decorative accessories as worthwhile purchases. But for DIY enthusiasts, IKEA can be a treasure trove—if you’re willing to add a bit of elbow grease and creativity.
To show IKEA in a more positive light, here’s a practical list of simple IKEA hacks anyone can try. These ideas can expand what you consider a worthwhile purchase from your favorite flat-pack store and help you turn basic pieces into unique, stylish items for your home.
Swap the Feet
We bought two Ektorp sofas from the As-Is section (always worth checking for bargains) and repaired them ourselves. We discovered the stock plastic cone-shaped feet screw in like any standard furniture leg. A quick trip to a hardware store produced several unfinished wooden furniture feet, and after a coat of paint we replaced the originals with turned bun-style legs. The result: sofas that look more custom and less mass-produced for very little cost.
Add Trim
Whether you own several Malm dressers or picked up a few Rast chests on clearance, adding simple trim can transform a minimalist piece. Quarter-round molding and a strong adhesive like construction glue can create dramatic effects. Popular hacks include Greek key motifs or Dorothy Draper–inspired chest makeovers. With just a bit of trim and paint you can turn a basic dresser into a one-of-a-kind focal point that suits your taste.
Use Upholstery Tacks
The Lack series is inexpensive, lightweight, and available in many colors, but it can look distinctly flat-pack. Outlining the edges of a table or shelf with upholstery tacks instantly adds character. In a pinch, brads or thumb tacks work, too. For more flair, stencil a pattern and accentuate it with tacks. It’s a fast, inexpensive way to make an iconic IKEA piece feel distinctive and upscale.
Mod Podge for Custom Surfaces
If a surface can be decorated, Mod Podge can do it. From lamp shades to tabletops, Mod Podge lets you add texture, collage, or layered finishes. IKEA’s affordable posters and prints are perfect for this: adhere them to inexpensive canvases to create polished artwork without resorting to standard store frames. The technique is versatile and affordable, producing polished results that look custom-made.
Repurpose Parts from the As-Is Section
The As-Is area at IKEA is a haven for DIY projects. Beyond discounted furniture, you’ll often find spare slipcovers, cabinet doors, rods, dishware, lighting components, and individual chairs. Those odd parts can become the starting point for a creative project. For example, a cheap Komplement garment bar can be repurposed for shelving, towel racks, or a custom hanging system—even if you don’t own a Pax wardrobe. Look closely and imagine new uses for inexpensive components.
These simple hacks demonstrate how small changes—new feet, added trim, decorative tacks, Mod Podge applications, or repurposed parts—can elevate common IKEA pieces into personalized home furnishings. With a few basic tools and some imagination, you can make everyday items look custom and unique.
What simple IKEA hacks have you tried? Share your discoveries and favorite transformations in the comments below.
Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/kazamatsuri/135319048/