ᐅ How can I make an IKEA Hemnes DIY project more sustainable?

Created on: 18 Sep 2021 09:12
T
Toleke
Hello everyone,

I’m currently exploring ways to make my IKEA Hemnes furniture more sustainable as part of a DIY project. I’m especially interested in options to enhance the durability, resource efficiency, and ideally the environmental friendliness of the furniture.

My goal is not only to improve the appearance but also to enhance the material quality through additional measures or to use natural wood protection methods.

How do you approach this? Do you have any tips on which products work best for treating the Hemnes series, or suggestions for replacing individual parts with more sustainable materials?

Thank you in advance for your ideas and experiences!
T
Toleke
19 Sep 2021 09:42
rebufar schrieb:
If you really want to be more sustainable, you should consider upcycling old furniture or buying locally sourced solid wood furniture instead of spending hours modifying IKEA pieces.

Thank you for the critical input. I have thought about that as well. However, the IKEA Hemnes is often an affordable base that I want to upgrade using sustainable methods because I aim to extend the life of a functional piece rather than buying something completely new.

I appreciate any tips that support this approach.

What are your thoughts on sustainable adhesive alternatives for repairs? Traditional glues often contain solvents, which I prefer to avoid.
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pakokla
19 Sep 2021 10:15
For sustainable adhesives, I recommend hard glue based on wood or plant-based glues (e.g., soy). They are completely solvent-free and still very durable when applied correctly.
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elgla
19 Sep 2021 11:08
Toleke schrieb:
I appreciate any tip that supports this philosophy.

I really like your approach – preserving furniture instead of discarding it is, to me, the foundation of sustainable action.

Regarding adhesives, I have some experience with potato starch–based glue, which is not suitable for all stresses but works great for small repairs and is completely non-toxic.

Although natural products often require a bit more patience, they are worth it because the furniture lasts longer and does not emit harmful substances.