IKEA hack: how to turn a Kallax unit into a bespoke sideboard with hairpin legs

Here's how to turn an affordable IKEA Kallax unit into a stylish, Scandi-style sideboard

IKEA hack: how to turn a Kallax unit into a bespoke sideboard with hairpin legs

Published: February 25, 2022 at 9:08 am

If your dream home is full of one-of-a-kind, bespoke furniture but your budget won't stretch quite that far, we've got you covered.

This #IKEAhack uses an affordable Kallax unit, some IKEA handles and hairpin legs to totally transform a bog standard cabinet into a stylish Scandi-style unit that you can use to display your favourite decor accessories, as well as keeping clutter at bay.

To create your very own upcycled unit, you will need:

  • IKEA Kallax unit
  • IKEA Kallax insert with door
  • IKEA Begripa handles
  • Four individual Rothley Hairpin Legs - we used 100mm in Matt Black
  • Woodpress White Oak Real Oak Iron-On Edging
  • A wooden worktop - we’ve used one from an old desk
  • Tape Measure
  • Pencil
  • Drill
  • Screws
  • Iron
  • Sander / Sandpaper
  • Glue

Step 1

Assemble the IKEA Kallax unit following step-by-step instructions included with the item.

Step 2

Once you have decided on how you want the unit to stand, using a pencil and tape measure, mark where the hairpin legs will sit.

Step 3

Attach the Rothley hairpin legs using a drill and screws to secure them in place.

Step 4

Take two Kallax door inserts and using Woodpress White Oak 22mm x 7.5mm Real Oak Iron-On Edging, cut to size and iron on in chosen design.

Step 5

Attach IKEA Begripa handles to each door.

Step 6

Sand down the worktop.

Step 7

Using strong glue, place the worktop on the top of the cabinet and leave to dry.

Step 8

The next part is the fun part – the decorating! You can either keep your unit as it is, or further personalise it with some chalk paint (here’s how to make your own chalk paint and our guide on how to use Frenchic paint). Then, accessorise the top with houseplants, statement vases and trinkets from your travels. If you want to take it one step further and add an even more personalised touch, you can make your own terrazzo print vase or your own marble effect vase and display it with some fresh seasonal blooms!

 

Feeling inspired? Why not check out some more of our favourite DIY tutorials! Here’s how to make your own console table, how to install a floating shelf and how to make a glamorous bar cart from an old side table! 

Tutorial by Kate @our_bears_home.

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