ᐅ How do I assemble an IKEA BRIMNES chest of drawers myself?

Created on: 3 Apr 2019 08:37
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elno36
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elno36
3 Apr 2019 08:37
Good morning everyone, I recently purchased the IKEA Brimnes chest of drawers and now face the task of assembling it myself. Since I am not very experienced with DIY projects, I want to make sure I do everything correctly so that the furniture is stable and properly assembled. I am especially interested in the correct assembly steps, which tools are needed, as well as potential pitfalls to avoid. Is there an efficient sequence to follow that allows assembling the chest of drawers effectively and without unnecessary effort? I look forward to your tips and experiences – also any advice on specific details of the BRIMNES chest of drawers that should be noted. Thanks in advance!
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hauklo
3 Apr 2019 09:12
The assembly of the IKEA BRIMNES chest of drawers can be organized into clear, easy-to-follow steps to save time and avoid mistakes. First, it is recommended to carefully check all parts and the included tools for completeness. Typically, an Allen key and wood screws are provided, which are sufficient for assembly. For added convenience, having a Phillips screwdriver and possibly a hammer on hand is advisable.

Start by assembling the side panels and back panels, as they form the foundation of the unit’s stability. Next, install the drawers along with the runners—accuracy is important here to prevent them from sticking. Finally, properly attaching the back panel for reinforcement is crucial.

I recommend following the instructions step by step and initially tightening each screw only lightly, allowing for adjustments if needed. The BRIMNES chest of drawers is generally straightforward but requires a methodical approach.
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barsar
3 Apr 2019 10:05
I would recommend the following: 1. Unpack all parts and sort them according to the instructions. 2. Pay special attention to the correct orientation of the back panel. If it is installed incorrectly, the structure will be unstable. 3. Check that the drawers have smooth sliding rails; otherwise, they may get stuck. 4. Tighten screws only by hand at first until everything is properly aligned.
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Takutau
3 Apr 2019 11:26
Hello elno36, I’m happy to help you in more detail. It’s important to first create a clean and spacious workspace so you can keep all the parts well organized. The BRIMNES dresser comes in separate pieces, which need to be carefully sorted, especially the side panels, base, top, and drawer fronts. The included Allen key works well, but having an extra screwdriver can make the assembly easier. My tip: only tighten all connections lightly at first, so you can still make adjustments. As mentioned before, the back panel is crucial—make sure it fits fully and flush, as it bears a lot of the load and provides stability. The drawer slides should also be installed precisely, otherwise they might stick. If this is your first time assembling a dresser like this, take your time and go at a slower pace. If you have questions about any of the steps, I’m happy to help you in more detail again.
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elno36
3 Apr 2019 13:03
barsar schrieb:
Pay special attention to the correct alignment of the back panel. If it is positioned incorrectly, it will become unstable.

That makes sense and already explains a lot of the issues I had when test-fitting the parts. Is it true that the back panel is actually screwed on from the outside at the end, rather than being fitted inside the carcass? Also, I plan to install the drawers in parallel to quickly spot any potential mistakes. What are your thoughts on this? What has been your experience with load-bearing capacity when you're unsure about how tightly to fasten the screws? Is it possible to tighten them later, or do the holes get damaged?
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Bautau
3 Apr 2019 14:45
elno36 schrieb:
Is it true that the back panel is actually screwed on from the outside at the end and not fitted into the carcass?

Yes, exactly. The back panel is usually attached to the carcass last and stabilizes the entire structure. It is typically fixed from the outside with small nails or screws. This provides rigidity and prevents the assembly from twisting.

Regarding the screws: Since the material of the BRIMNES dresser is mainly particleboard, you should avoid overtightening to prevent the screw holes from splitting. You can retighten if needed, but if you feel resistance, it’s better to tighten evenly without stripping the screws.

When assembling the drawers, it can be helpful to build both sides in parallel and check that the drawer slides are aligned evenly. This way, you can avoid early jamming.