ᐅ Are there any tips for modifying or customizing Ikea Hemnes furniture?

Created on: 9 Sep 2016 08:17
O
onnilen
Hello everyone,

I am planning to modify and upgrade some of my Ikea Hemnes furniture. My main goal is to give the usually quite classic design a more modern or personalized touch. Does anyone have tips or experience on how to effectively redesign Hemnes pieces? I would appreciate suggestions on suitable materials, colors, techniques, and examples tailored specifically to the processing and styling of the Hemnes series. Maybe someone also has ideas on how to adapt the furniture to different room concepts—whether more Scandinavian, modern, vintage, or shabby chic. Thank you in advance!
O
onnilen
10 Sep 2016 07:33
tralo45 schrieb:
For the redesign, I can recommend the following:

Thank you for the detailed tips, they are very helpful!

Could you specifically recommend how to apply wallpaper or veneers to the fronts? I have little experience with bonding to painted surfaces and would like to know which adhesives work best and how durable the results are.

I’m also interested in whether it’s possible to drill different handle holes on Hemnes, for example if you want to install larger or different handles. Such modifications often make a very big difference.
K
KAMERON
10 Sep 2016 09:48
Regarding the question about wallpaper or veneer on Hemnes fronts:

Since Hemnes is usually painted or coated with melamine, you need to make sure the surface is well sanded or roughened so that the adhesive sticks properly. It is best to use a special contact adhesive or construction adhesive suitable for painted surfaces. Regular wood glue is generally not suitable here.

For veneer, it is recommended to glue thin veneer sheets with contact adhesive and press them firmly using a clamp or weights. If applied correctly, durability is good, but moisture should be avoided.

Regarding the handle holes: Hemnes furniture is usually pre-drilled, but you can easily drill additional holes. Make sure to measure the distances precisely and pre-drill with a wood drill bit to avoid damaging the material.

It is important to check any back panels before redesigning to ensure there is enough space for the new screws.
G
gaubla
10 Sep 2016 10:31
KAMERON schrieb:
For veneer, it is advisable to bond thin veneer sheets with contact adhesive and press them firmly using a press or weights.

I can fully agree with that. Additionally, I recommend sealing the surface with clear lacquer after bonding, as otherwise the veneer can be prone to scratches.
S
Sinzar
10 Sep 2016 11:22
If you want to redesign: new handles are the quickest way. If you are working with paint, use acrylic or chalk paint, as these are the easiest to apply. Use clear varnish to protect your work.
T
tralo45
11 Sep 2016 08:04
onnilen schrieb:
Can you specifically recommend how to apply wallpaper or veneers to fronts? I have little experience bonding on painted surfaces

You can apply wallpaper using spray adhesive or special furniture adhesive designed for smooth surfaces. It’s important to clean and lightly sand the surface thoroughly to ensure optimal adhesion. A clear protective varnish should also be applied at the end.
onnilen schrieb:
whether other handle drillings can be made on Hemnes

Yes, that is possible. It’s best to mark the drill holes using the template of the new handles beforehand, and make sure not to drill into any load-bearing parts.

My advice: for larger modifications, first test on an old or less visible part to avoid disappointment.