ᐅ How can I cover Ikea BESTA units with glossy or matte vinyl wraps?

Created on: 19 Jul 2016 08:37
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gaumu1
Hello everyone, I want to redesign my Ikea Besta furniture and am considering covering it with glossy or matte vinyl wraps. My specific question is: How can I best apply such vinyl to an Ikea BESTA so that it adheres well, doesn’t form bubbles, and remains durable? Are there any special surface preparations, tips for choosing the right vinyl, or application techniques that I should definitely keep in mind? Also, what are the differences in working with glossy versus matte vinyl? I appreciate any advice, as I want to execute the project as cleanly as possible.
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FIKAPU
20 Jul 2016 11:44
I recommend cleaning with a silicone-free cleaner before applying the adhesive. There are special felt squeegees for the film to prevent scratching the surface. For glossy films, finish with a hairdryer, as this helps the edges adhere better. Matte films don’t necessarily require this.
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buEspen
21 Jul 2016 09:28
GALEO4 schrieb:
BESTA is quite simple and minimalist – especially the matte finish is actually quite eye-catching.

I agree, but sometimes you want to add a bit more flair. It’s important to carefully plan everything before starting the work: where the cut edges should be, which surfaces you really want to cover (just the fronts or the entire carcass), and whether you use films with UV protection. Film tends to fade quickly in spots exposed to a lot of sunlight, which can be frustrating later.

I used matte vinyl films myself; they are easy to work with and hold up well even after years. If you want, it’s worth testing the application on a scrap piece beforehand.
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barge
21 Jul 2016 11:16
A little fun is essential, even when applying vinyl to your Besta!

My tip: Take your time and don’t rush. Sometimes small tricks help, like using a shower squeegee cable (great for pulling out tiny bubbles).

Also: Matte films are more forgiving with mistakes, but you can usually fix glossy ones quite well by gently reheating them. And hey, if it’s not perfect the first time – you can usually reapply it!

So: Be bold, and don’t forget, the process should be enjoyable and the result a real eye-catcher!