These hacks using IKEA Billy shelving units look custom-made and elegant. Nobody would ever know you started out with an IKEA Billy unit!
The Billy Bookcase is an IKEA staple, with countless design-minded folks turning their blank slate of a bookcase into a genius Billy Bookcase hack.
The Ikea Billy bookcase is 40 years old and there are so many great hacks out there that celebrate this birthday! We have brought together the best Ikea billy hacks in one place to inspire you to create something amazing. Using an Ikea billy hack is a great way to create a stunning bookcase on a budget.
The Billy Bookcase is an IKEA staple, with countless design-minded folks turning their blank slate of a bookcase into a genius Billy Bookcase hack.
When it comes to hacking beautiful storage, no other IKEA product works a room like the Billy bookcase. Here are some of the best Billy bookcase builds.
The Ikea Billy bookcase is 40 years old and there are so many great hacks out there that celebrate this birthday! We have brought together the best Ikea billy hacks in one place to inspire you to create something amazing. Using an Ikea billy hack is a great way to create a stunning bookcase on a budget.
In case you missed the reveal, you can see that here and here. Laura’s home already had wonderful, historic bones, but the living space could use a bit more character. Laura wanted bookshelves, and while we had talked about something clean and modern, I really encouraged her to stick with the period of the house and create something that looked original. Custom built-ins aren’t cheap, and we knew this would need to be on a budget. Hacking the Ikea Billy has been done before (my friend, Kristin, did a beautiful version) but with this being an older home, we had several obstacles to overcome. One, we didn’t want to have to rip out any of the existing woodwork. Usually you cut away the base trim when you want something flush against a wall, but Laura wanted to keep the over-100-year-old trim in tact, in case the built-in was ever removed. […]
These hacks show that the iconic BILLY bookcase is iconic for a reason.
5+ months in the making, but I did it! I finally finished this blog post! I’m not going to tell you how much I wanted an office that put off European-esque vibes. I am also not going to give you a lengthy story as to why I decided to tackle this project. Instead, let’s just jump into the tutorial. Because let’s be honest. That’s what you are here for. 😉 But first, before pictures. This is what the office looked like in the listing. This is what the office looked like after we moved in. And this is what the office looked like after a fresh coat of paint. From the first time we looked at the house, I had a vision of what this space would be. Given the fact that I was several months pregnant when we moved in, I knew my vision would have to wait so I settled for a fresh coat of paint until I could bring my complete vision to life. To not lose any of the details I sketched out my vision. I highly recommend doing this. By the time I actually started this project, I had sketched this space out at least 6 times. Looking back, I am glad I had all that extra time to perfect this space because it came out better than I ever had anticipated. My final sketch is shown below. Also, the misshaped books on the sketch is the handy work of our 6 year old. I think he did a great job! Now let’s get into the cost breakdown and supply list. Cost breakdownIKEA Billy Bookcases (4) – $196Wood – $269Paint + primer – $95Paint supplies – $37Appliqués – $26Knobs (pack of 8) – $11Inset hinges – $48Total cost: $682 Materials4 – billy bookcases from IkeaPaint & paint suppliesPrimerPaint of choice (I used Lemon Leaves by Magnolia Home)Angled paint brush4” foam rollers (specifically for cabinets and doors)Blue painters tapeTarpPaint stir sticks If you have a paint sprayer, I recommend using that in place of paint brushes and rollers. However, I didn’t have one at the time (I do now) so I tackled it the old fashioned way. AppliquésRose appliqués above archesRose appliqués on center frame pieces Wood4 – 2 x 4 x 12’3 – 1 x 3 x 8’1 – 1 x 10 x 8’ 2 – 1 x 2 x 8’1 – 1 x 4 x 8’ birch plywood sheet For all frame and visible wood pieces (with the exception of the arches) I used poplar wood. Note, I am not going to give you exact measurements since your space will be different than mine. But I did provide the wood dimensions I purchased/used before cutting them to size. ToolsTape measurePencilLevelSafety gogglesN95 maskImpact driverPhillips drill bitCircular sawJigsawMiter sawOrbital sander80 grit sandpaper (optional)120 grit sandpaper220 grit sandpaper220 grit handheld sand blockLint free clothBrad nailer2” finishing nails1” finishing nailsWood glueWood fillerPutty knifeCaulk gunCaulk Step 1: Remove the baseboards and trim then measure your space. Step 2: Build the base for the bookshelves. I used 2 – 2 x 4 x 12’ for the outside base and 12 – 2 x 4 x 8” planks for the crossbars. I secured the base using 3” exterior deck screws. I also secured the base to the back wall using the same 3” deck screws. I personally like using deck screws as they are easy to work with and I’ve never had to deal with the screws stripping. Tip: I cut the planks to 8” because the outside base pieces were 1 1/2” each which made the frame 11” total in width. That is the same width as the bookshelves. Note, there are a couple of height options. Make sure to get the bookcases that fit your space/look you are going for. Our ceilings are 8’ so we purchased the 79 1/2” ones. That left 16 1/2”, which was plenty of room to add arches. Step 3: Assemble the bookshelves if you have not already. Place them on the frame and determine where you want them to be permanently. Then measure the remaining space. You should really do all the math up front to make sure you buy the right amount of bookshelves for your space. For example, our space in total is 135”. The 4 bookcases are 126” total. That left 9” of space. I couldn’t evenly distribute the bookcases, so I spaced them by 1” on the inside which left 3” on the two ends. Note, I knew I wanted cabinets at the bottom, so I measured the tallest item I planned on storing in the cabinet and based the placement of the shelf nearest to the floor on that. Step 4: Add the backboard insert (that came with the bookshelf) or add your own. Then secure the bookcases to the wall. I used 2 – 2 x 3 x 6’ on each end to create the 3” gap and cut 1” pieces for the center. I had to custom cut the 1” pieces using 1 x 3” scrap wood I had on hand since 1” really means 3/4” when using nominal wood. Tip: Make sure to cut out the outlet holes on the backboards before securing the bookcases to the wall. We had two outlets. I used my jigsaw to cut the holes. If you don’t plan to paint the bookcases or fill in the holes then you can completely skip the next step. Step 5: Determine where you want to put the shelves permanently then fill in the remaining holes. I used light weight spackling paste and a putty knife to fill the holes. After the spackling was dry, I used my orbital sander and 120 grit sandpaper to sand all the bookcases. Sanding the bookcases before priming + painting is critical when using these bookshelves. They are crazy inexpensive because they are made out of particle board with a laminate casing. That means no sanding and priming will result in the paint easily scratching and ultimately peeling off. After sanding everything, I wiped the bookcases clean with a damp lint free cloth. Step 6: Make the arch template. I had to make two templates since the 2 arches on the ends had wider outer frames. Actually, I made 5 total. See below. Tip: I used the cardboard boxes the bookcases came in to create a template. I wasn’t 100% sure what I wanted them to look like. After cutting 4 different styles I ultimately went with the classic arch. I cut the cardboard to the size I needed the actual arch. I tied twine to a pencil, found the bottom center of the cardboard, held my finger down on the twine, traced the arch, then used a box cutter to cut out the arch. There are also tools out there designed to give you the perfect arch. I chose to do it the hard way. 😅 Step 7: Cut the arches out using a jigsaw. I used a new wood blade with 12 TPI. I cut the 4 x 8’ birch plywood sheet into 4 sections with my circular saw first. Then used the arch template to trace onto each of the 4 pieces. Note: You should wear safety goggles to prevent debris getting in your eyes. Step 8: Secure a 2 x 4 to the ceiling directly above the bookcases using 3” exterior deck screws. The 2 x 4 is what you will secure the arches to. You’ll want to use a level to make sure the 2 x 4 is flush with the bookcases. Step 9: Sand the arches using an orbital sander and 220 grit sandpaper. If the area where you cut the arches is a little rough, use 80 grit sandpaper to level it out then 220 to give it a smooth finish. Step 11: Cut the frame pieces. Step 10: Secure the arches to the 2 x 4 and bookcases using a brad nailer with 2” finishing nails. I cut the bottom frame piece first to use as a guide for the vertical trim. I sanded it with 220 grit sandpaper, then secure it before measuring and cutting the remaining frame pieces. I used 1 – 1 x 8 x 12’. There was a small gap at the bottom, so I used 1” half moon trim to hide it. I secured the bottom frame piece where it was level with the bottom shelf of the bookcases for a smooth transition. I then cut the remaining frame pieces. I had to custom cut the 2 outer frame pieces to 3 3/4” wide using 1 – 1 x 10 x 8’. I used my circular saw. I used decorative trim I found at Lowe’s for the ends. This is what the bookcases looked like after adding all the trim. If you are adding cabinet doors you’ll need to cut 1 x 2” pieces to size to secure along the lip of the bottom shelf. Because the shelf sits a little more inside the bookcase I had to use paint stir sticks to ensure the 1 x 2” trim pieces sit flush with the rest of the frame. If you do not plan to add doors, you can skip this step. Step 12: Sand all the frame pieces with 120 grit then 220 grit sandpaper for that ultra smooth finish. I secured the frame to the shelves and base using my brad nailer and 2” finishing nails. Step 13: Add wood filler to all cracks, crevices, and nail holes. Allow the wood filler to dry then sand with 220 grit sandpaper. Step 14: Use caulk to seal the space between the ceiling and frame as well as any visible gaps. Step 15: Prime everything and allow the primer to dry overnight. I cannot stress this step enough. Step 16: Paint the bookcases. I applied two coats of paint total. Allowing the first coat to dry before applying the second coat. I went with Lemon Leaves by Magnolia Home in Eggshell finish. Tip: Lightly sand in between paint coats with a handheld 220 grit sand block for that ultra smooth finish. Step 17: (Optional) Prime, paint, and secure the wood appliqués to the bookcases where desired. To secure them you’ll need wood glue and then a brad nailer with 1” finishing nails. I used THESE appliqués above the arches and THESE appliqués on the center frame pieces. Step 18: Style your new shelves! After waiting for 2+ months we finally got an electrician here to install THIS overhead light. Isn’t it a dream? I filled the shelves with things that I love. Old and new books, candles with character, a portrait of a horse, an original painting of flowers, a photo of my dad, Linnea candles, plants, and moody vases. For those wondering, I built the desk. Tutorial coming soon! For video content and BTS on this project visit my Instagram @acarriedaffairdesigns I saved all my stories to my story highlights titled “Office built-ins” For the tutorial on the DIY shaker style cabinet doors click HERE. I linked some of the items I used to style the shelves below + the chair. And that’s a wrap! For those that have been asking for this tutorial, I am sorry it took me 5 months. Hopefully you find this inspiring to create a space that you love. For more DIY follow me on Instagram @acarriedaffairdesigns Until next time friends. Xo Shop This Post
Free tutorial showing how to turn Ikea Billy bookcases into built ins. An easy and cost-effective way to get a high-end, custom look!
These IKEA BILLY bookcase hacks are a testament to the versatility of this piece and how easy it is to DIY it as per your needs
When I was a little girl, I dreamed that one day I would have a house with its very own library. Somewhere I could hide away and go on adventures all over the world without ever leaving my house. Now that I am grown up, I still secretly dream of having a library in my home. Unfortunately, our budget just doesn’t allow for that. Of course, I wasn’t going to let a silly thing like practicality and budgets prevent me from having a small taste of that dream. So today, I am sharing my Ikea Billy Bookcase built-in hack.
De BILLY boekenkast is een populair icoon dat je dankzij het veelzijdige karakter op vele manieren kan gebruiken. Deze oplossing met bovendelen maakt optimaal gebruik van je verticale opbergruimte en voegt een stijlvolle look aan de kamer toe.
This is such an easy way to update your IKEA Billy Bookcases - fill all of those shelf holes and make a huge impact without a lot of work.
These Ikea Billy bookcase hacks are easy, inexpensive, and sure to give you inspiration to create storage and display space for your home.
Eight elevated IKEA Billy Bookcase hacks that aren't just boxy shelving units (and only one is used for a library).
Learn how to transform your space with this clever hack on turning Ikea Billy bookcases into a custom wall of built-ins. Easy and affordable!
Create gorgeous IKEA Billy bookcase built-ins with these step-by-step instructions. These built-in bookcases are inexpensive and doable!
Including some of IKEA’s original designs.
10 best IKEA Billy Bookcase Hacks that'll make your jaw drop! Find out how people are getting the perfect storage on a budget (using an Ikea Billy bookcase)
These hacks show that the iconic BILLY bookcase is iconic for a reason.
Transform your IKEA Billy bookcases on a budget and create bespoke looking cabinets for your living room.
A detailed look at how to create DIY built in Billy bookcases, and how to paint them. Tips for painting bookcases in place!
OUR NARNIA BILLY BOOKCASE HACK BY IDEAL HOME MAGAZINE - OH SO KEL - A genius way to create a hidden coat and shoe storage cupboard
This week I will be sharing how to turn a plain wall into a custom built-in library wall using IKEA Billy bookcase hack. The best part of this DIY project is how unbelievably affordable it is. Having contractors create built-ins […]
IKEA Billy Bookcase hack tutorial. Find step by step directions on how to turn Billy Bookcases into a wall of built-ins.
I love mixing beautiful designer pieces with vintage finds and DIYs. I think that’s how you get the best results without breaking the bank and it really adds some personality and uniqueness to a space. There are dozens of pieces from IKEA that can be hacked or customised but I have 8 favourites!
I am so excited to share our IKEA BILLY bookcase hack. I fell in love with the bookcases The Makerista shared. They were gorgeous! I showed it to my husband and he agreed that they would look great in my soon to be office (although, I am pretty sure he wasn’t even aware at the …
IKEA Billy Bookcase hack tutorial. Find step by step directions on how to turn Billy Bookcases into a wall of built-ins.
[Inspiration Pinterest] Désormais culte, la bibliothèque Billy de Ikea a déjà une histoire à part. Depuis 1979, le célèbre meuble du géant suédois a été adopté par des millions de personnes. À la fois classique et passe-partout, la bibliothèque Billy a aussi l'art d'être personnalisée à souhait. En version basse ou haute, fine ou plus large, en finition chêne ou blanche, chacun adopte l'étagère qui lui plaît ! Les plus aguerris s'amusent même à détourner la fameuse bibliothèque avec des portes stylées, du papier peint ou des poignées inspirées. Parcourez 20 idées afin d'imaginer une alternative déco à la Billy de Ikea pour en faire un meuble pas comme les autres.
Transform your IKEA Billy bookcases on a budget and create bespoke looking cabinets for your living room.
Create gorgeous IKEA Billy bookcase built-ins with these step-by-step instructions. These built-in bookcases are inexpensive and doable!
These Ikea Billy bookcase hacks are easy, inexpensive, and sure to give you inspiration to create storage and display space for your home.
a step-by-step guide to how we made a built in library out of IKEA Billy Book Cases.
These hacks show that the iconic BILLY bookcase is iconic for a reason.
These IKEA BILLY bookcase hacks are a testament to the versatility of this piece and how easy it is to DIY it as per your needs
We made a built-in IKEA BILLY bookcase hack in our boys' playroom, where they could easily find all of their toys, books and watch TV.
In case you missed the reveal, you can see that here and here. Laura’s home already had wonderful, historic bones, but the living space could use a bit more character. Laura wanted bookshelves, and while we had talked about something clean and modern, I really encouraged her to stick with the period of the house and create something that looked original. Custom built-ins aren’t cheap, and we knew this would need to be on a budget. Hacking the Ikea Billy has been done before (my friend, Kristin, did a beautiful version) but with this being an older home, we had several obstacles to overcome. One, we didn’t want to have to rip out any of the existing woodwork. Usually you cut away the base trim when you want something flush against a wall, but Laura wanted to keep the over-100-year-old trim in tact, in case the built-in was ever removed. […]
