ᐅ Are there any tips for modifying Ikea Hemnes dressers?

Created on: 4 Oct 2021 08:37
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mayk_me39
Hello everyone, I am currently planning to modify my Ikea Hemnes dressers and wanted to ask if anyone has tips or proven methods, especially regarding stability and aesthetics.

I want to keep the basic frame but change some elements, for example, replacing the fronts, possibly installing drawer dividers, and maybe upgrading the handles and surface finish. It is important to me that the dresser not only looks good afterward but is also stable enough for daily use.

Does anyone have experience with this and can offer advice on material selection, suitable tools, or potential pitfalls? I would really appreciate if you could share your recommendations!
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Mekau
4 Oct 2021 12:30
Also, make sure to consider that the back wall may need to be adjusted if you change the front. The standard back wall significantly contributes to structural stability.
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mayk_me39
4 Oct 2021 13:07
Ramon4 schrieb:
To increase stability, make sure not to overlook the back panel – it often provides a lot of support, and if you remove it, you’ll need to reinforce the structure elsewhere.

That’s a great tip, thanks! I was considering replacing the back panel of a dresser with a thinner one to save weight and possibly adding reinforcement strips. Do you think that makes sense?
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jeff65
4 Oct 2021 14:55
A thinner back panel is usually counterproductive unless you ensure stability through other means.

My advice: use plywood instead of particleboard, as it provides more strength with a similar weight.

When replacing the back panel, install cross battens and fasten them securely; this significantly improves overall stability.
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Declan55
4 Oct 2021 15:03
I completely repainted my Hemnes dressers and replaced the handles with great leather ones – they look fantastic and feel really high-quality! The stability of the dresser was not affected. But be careful: When painting, allow plenty of time for sanding and priming; otherwise, you won’t get a smooth finish. Good luck! 🙂
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RICCARDO
4 Oct 2021 16:13
When building drawer dividers, cut the wooden strips to fit precisely and glue them in place. Screws are usually unnecessary and can be problematic later on.
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mayk_me39
4 Oct 2021 19:42
DECLAN55 schrieb:
I completely refinished my Hemnes dressers with new paint and replaced the handles with beautiful leather ones – it looks great and feels very upscale! The stability of the dresser was not affected.

Thanks for the tip! Leather handles also seem very interesting to me, especially as a combination of sturdy and elegant. How did you attach the leather handles? Did you use the existing holes or drill new ones?