Hello everyone,
I’m considering upgrading my classic IKEA Billy bookshelf with new legs to give it a more modern and sturdy look. The bookshelf currently stands directly on the floor, but I think adding legs not only makes the piece look lighter visually but also improves cleaning and ventilation. Now I’m wondering: what type of legs would be the best fit technically and aesthetically for a BILLY bookshelf?
Specifically, I’m interested if you have experience with certain materials (e.g., metal, wood, plastic) that are stable enough for this relatively lightweight bookshelf but don’t look too bulky. Also, what height would you recommend without compromising stability?
I would appreciate any advice on attachment methods as well – are screws, adhesives, or plug-in systems more suitable? Thanks in advance for your tips!
I’m considering upgrading my classic IKEA Billy bookshelf with new legs to give it a more modern and sturdy look. The bookshelf currently stands directly on the floor, but I think adding legs not only makes the piece look lighter visually but also improves cleaning and ventilation. Now I’m wondering: what type of legs would be the best fit technically and aesthetically for a BILLY bookshelf?
Specifically, I’m interested if you have experience with certain materials (e.g., metal, wood, plastic) that are stable enough for this relatively lightweight bookshelf but don’t look too bulky. Also, what height would you recommend without compromising stability?
I would appreciate any advice on attachment methods as well – are screws, adhesives, or plug-in systems more suitable? Thanks in advance for your tips!
The topic of feet for the BILLY shelf is more interesting than it initially seems.
Basically, you should consider the load on the shelf – the BILLY is relatively light and designed for books, so feet made of plastic or lightweight metal are usually sufficient. What’s important is that the attachment is stable: in the original condition, there are no pre-installed threaded inserts on the underside of the BILLY, so most people either use small metal brackets screwed inside, or carefully drill a hole in the shelf board for screws with wall plugs. Gluing is theoretically possible but does not hold long-term and offers less load-bearing capacity.
A height of 6 cm (2.4 inches) is a good compromise because it allows easy vacuuming underneath and does not disrupt the appearance. Wooden feet can look nice, but they should be properly treated to prevent shrinking or absorbing moisture. Something often overlooked is that rubber feet on the bottom protect the floor from scratches and provide slip resistance.
What kind of floor do you have? Carpet, hardwood, tiles? This can strongly influence the choice of suitable feet.
Basically, you should consider the load on the shelf – the BILLY is relatively light and designed for books, so feet made of plastic or lightweight metal are usually sufficient. What’s important is that the attachment is stable: in the original condition, there are no pre-installed threaded inserts on the underside of the BILLY, so most people either use small metal brackets screwed inside, or carefully drill a hole in the shelf board for screws with wall plugs. Gluing is theoretically possible but does not hold long-term and offers less load-bearing capacity.
A height of 6 cm (2.4 inches) is a good compromise because it allows easy vacuuming underneath and does not disrupt the appearance. Wooden feet can look nice, but they should be properly treated to prevent shrinking or absorbing moisture. Something often overlooked is that rubber feet on the bottom protect the floor from scratches and provide slip resistance.
What kind of floor do you have? Carpet, hardwood, tiles? This can strongly influence the choice of suitable feet.
Parbo schrieb:
What type of flooring do you have? Carpet, hardwood, tiles? That can greatly influence the choice of appropriate feet.Thanks for the detailed advice! My floors are laminate, so quite smooth. I think non-slip feet are definitely a good idea because of that.
minjan schrieb:
Metal feet are sturdy and give the BILLY shelf a modern look.Could you maybe recommend a specific type or brand? I’m concerned whether the feet will fit the hole spacing or the width of the shelf. There are many different designs out there.
Parbo schrieb:
You could theoretically use adhesive feet, but they don’t hold up long-term and have less load capacity.That’s reassuring, as I was considering adhesive feet since I don’t want to damage the shelf. Seems like that’s not ideal after all.
Thanks in advance!
Hello dolugla,
I completely understand your concern – having a sturdy, visually appealing BILLY shelf is a great thing.
From my own experience: metal feet with screw fasteners are strong and durable. There are special furniture feet with screws that have a threaded part, which you can screw directly into the bottom panel. It’s best to pre-drill with a small drill bit to prevent the MDF of the shelf from splitting. For the look, I recommend round or slightly tapered feet about 5-7 cm (2-3 inches) high.
For laminate floors, I suggest feet with plastic or felt gliders on the bottom to avoid scratches. In general, feet should be evenly spaced—at least four per shelf—to ensure stability.
If the shelf is heavily loaded, you can also add small brackets inside the shelf to keep everything nice and stable.
I hope this helps – feel free to ask if you have any questions!
I completely understand your concern – having a sturdy, visually appealing BILLY shelf is a great thing.
From my own experience: metal feet with screw fasteners are strong and durable. There are special furniture feet with screws that have a threaded part, which you can screw directly into the bottom panel. It’s best to pre-drill with a small drill bit to prevent the MDF of the shelf from splitting. For the look, I recommend round or slightly tapered feet about 5-7 cm (2-3 inches) high.
For laminate floors, I suggest feet with plastic or felt gliders on the bottom to avoid scratches. In general, feet should be evenly spaced—at least four per shelf—to ensure stability.
If the shelf is heavily loaded, you can also add small brackets inside the shelf to keep everything nice and stable.
I hope this helps – feel free to ask if you have any questions!
Hi dolugla,
I updated a BILLY shelf with new feet some time ago and can say: don’t make them too tall! Something between 5 and 6 cm (2 and 2.4 inches) is ideal – otherwise it quickly becomes an unstable situation.
True, that’s actually the best option if you want stability. Wooden feet look nicer but are often harder to install and need more maintenance.
By the way, I used plastic feet with rubber pads underneath – very sturdy, affordable, and low maintenance. Also great for laminate flooring because nothing slips.
Good luck, and remember: feet are not just functional, they’re stylish too. 😉
I updated a BILLY shelf with new feet some time ago and can say: don’t make them too tall! Something between 5 and 6 cm (2 and 2.4 inches) is ideal – otherwise it quickly becomes an unstable situation.
RON57 schrieb:
Metal feet with screw fastenings are sturdy and durable.
True, that’s actually the best option if you want stability. Wooden feet look nicer but are often harder to install and need more maintenance.
By the way, I used plastic feet with rubber pads underneath – very sturdy, affordable, and low maintenance. Also great for laminate flooring because nothing slips.
Good luck, and remember: feet are not just functional, they’re stylish too. 😉
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