These easy-to-follow instructions will help you transform your ordinary IKEA Billy bookcases into beautiful built-in shelves.
If you're looking to add both style and storage to your living room, built-in bookcases are the perfect solution. However, traditional built-ins can be quite expensive. That's where IKEA Billy bookcases come in. With a little creativity and some simple modifications, you can create stunning built-ins that look like they cost a fortune.
The Journey to Beautiful Built-Ins
This project has been a long time coming for me. Back in 2012, I had the idea to create a wall of built-in bookcases in my living room. While I initially used IKEA Billy bookcases and added some trim to give them a built-in look, it still didn't quite meet my expectations.
Over the years, I tried different techniques like stenciling the bookcase backs and removing the cardboard backing, but none of them gave me the desired result. I longed for true custom built-ins that would be the centerpiece of my living room.
Fast forward to today, and I finally turned those basic IKEA bookcases into the built-ins of my dreams. And the best part is, you would never guess that they started as affordable laminate furniture.
The Transformation Process
If you're interested in creating your own IKEA Billy built-ins, let me guide you through the process. Keep in mind that I'm not a professional carpenter, but this method has worked beautifully for me.
Step 1: Remove the Bookcase Backing
To achieve a seamless built-in look, remove the backs of the bookcases. For previously assembled bookcases, use a hammer and needle-nose pliers to pry off the backing. If you're starting with new bookcases, you can skip this step.
Step 2: Prepare the Wall
Before placing the bookcases, paint the wall behind them to match the desired color of your built-ins. If you're aiming for a classic white look like mine, choose a paint that matches IKEA white. Removing the baseboards from the wall behind the bookcases can make installation easier and allow you to reuse them on the front.
Step 3: Determine the Placement
Position the bookcases exactly where you want them to be. Take into account any outlets or other elements that need to remain accessible. Secure the bookcases to the wall using the hardware provided.
Step 4: Connect the Bookcases with Trim
Nail a 1"x4" board to the bottom shelf of all the bookcases to create a level surface for attaching base molding later on. Use 1"x2" pine boards vertically between each bookcase to connect them. This will give the illusion of one continuous unit.
Step 5: Encase the Bookcases with Wood
Measure the space between the ends of the bookcases and the walls, as well as the height from the floor to the lower edge of the top. Cut plywood or MDF to fit these areas and attach them to the vertical supports and the tops of the bookcases. Add wood supports to the ceiling to provide stability.
Step 6: Add Molding and Finishing Touches
Finally, add base molding along the bottom and crown molding along the top to give your built-ins a polished look. Caulk all the seams and fill any nail holes with wood filler. Sand the surface smooth and apply paint to match the bookcases. Finish by arranging your shelves and filling any spare shelf holes with spackling.
Conclusion
With a little creativity, determination, and some basic tools, you can transform ordinary IKEA Billy bookcases into stunning custom built-ins. Now you can display your favorite books and belongings in style, without breaking the bank.
Remember, this tutorial is meant to be helpful and detailed, even for those without extensive DIY experience. Embrace the challenge, unleash your inner carpenter, and watch as your living room is elevated with beautiful built-in bookcases.
Article Source: How to Build Easy Built-Ins from IKEA Billy Bookcases