ᐅ Are there any upcycling ideas for old Ikea HEMNES shelves?

Created on: 21 Jan 2017 08:13
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Gateo
Hello everyone,

I have some old Ikea Hemnes shelving units that I no longer want to use in their original condition. Since I really appreciate sustainability and creativity in living spaces, I’m especially interested in upcycling as an alternative to disposal or simply reusing them in their standard form.

Are there any practical, creative, or even unusual upcycling ideas for HEMNES shelves here in the forum? I’m particularly looking for suggestions on how to redesign the shelves so that they’re not only decorative but also functional, possibly involving a bit of DIY skills.

How do you usually handle old furniture like this? Thanks in advance!
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Henry
22 Jan 2017 07:29
I once worked on a similar project.

It’s always nice to see furniture get a second life. At the beginning, I didn’t realize how time-consuming some of the treatments could be.

For outdoor use, I would definitely recommend weather-resistant stains or varnishes, otherwise the wood will deteriorate quickly.

Sanding helped me smooth the surface, especially when you want to apply paint or stains that need to adhere well.

Some parts aren’t perfect, but that makes the piece personal and unique.
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piBenedi41
22 Jan 2017 08:06
I am also interested to know if anyone has experience with combinations of Hemnes shelves and other materials, such as metal or glass, to give the shelf a more modern look.

Maybe upcycling can be even more effective if the piece of furniture is partially redefined.
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enrique7
22 Jan 2017 15:42
Regarding the question of weather protection and material combinations:

The wood used in the HEMNES shelves is not treated, so proper protection with varnishes or oils against moisture is absolutely necessary if you place the shelves outdoors.
Gateo schrieb:
Are there any tips for weather protection or which paints/oils are suitable?

PU varnishes or special outdoor wood oils are recommended.

Regarding material combinations: metal fittings or frames can modernize the design, but correct fastening and structural stability must be ensured. A secure connection is essential.
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BOSUDA
22 Jan 2017 16:16
You can easily turn HEMNES shelves into room dividers with simple methods.

Just arrange the shelving units without the back panel and combine them with curtains or other materials.
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Daledra
23 Jan 2017 09:22
I removed the drawers from old HEMNES dressers and repurposed them into small sideboards.

Very practical and decorative.
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Gateo
23 Jan 2017 10:43
Henry schrieb:
Some work isn’t perfect, but that’s what makes the furniture personal and unique.

Exactly, I have skills across different groups and want the result to be primarily individual. It’s great to see various suggestions here.
enrique7 schrieb:
A secure joint is essential.

That makes me curious for more tips, perhaps about joints with wooden dowels or clamps for modifications?

Thanks to everyone so far!