ᐅ How can I set up an Ikea BESTA as a DIY workstation?

Hello everyone,

I’m planning to set up my Ikea Besta shelving unit as a crafting station and want to make the most of its existing features and possibilities. My goal is to create a multifunctional yet organized workspace that provides enough storage for various materials like paper, fabrics, paints, and tools, without looking cluttered.

For example, I’m considering adding drawers or compartments with dividers to keep small items and crafting supplies separated and easy to find. A cover surface that can be quickly wiped clean when needed would also be useful.

Does anyone have experience or specific tips on how to best customize the BESTA system modularly, perhaps with additional inserts or fittings, to turn it into an efficient crafting station? Maybe you also know clever solutions for managing cables, lighting, or tools in combination with BESTA?

I appreciate any advice, whether on DIY modifications or purchasable product solutions that integrate well.

Auroralu schrieb:
Does anyone have experience or specific tips on how to best customize the BESTA system modularly, possibly with additional inserts or attachments, to turn it into an efficient crafting station?

For setting up an Ikea BESTA crafting station, I recommend the following structured approach:

- Use the available width and height options of the BESTA system to configure storage individually. A combination of drawers and doors helps keep things organized and protects materials from dust.
- For small items, small insert boxes or flexible organizing systems (e.g., made of plastic or wood) that fit into the drawers work well.
- A sturdy worktop can be placed on the BESTA unit; ideal surfaces are those resistant to scratches and paint, such as laminate or clear plexiglass sheets.
- Cable management can be done with cable grommets in the worktop or cable channels mounted on the sides. LED strips are excellent for lighting and are usually easy to install.
- Attachment options include hook-and-loop fasteners, magnetic strips, or screw-in hooks to keep tools within easy reach.

Together, these components create a functional and durable crafting station without heavily modifying the base system.

I would especially recommend organizing the drawers well. This saves a lot of time searching.

Additionally:
- Use boxes or small dividers for pens, brushes, and small items.
- A solid work surface is important, preferably one that is easy to clean.
- Secure cables with clips on the side to keep them out of the way.

Don’t forget lighting; an LED strip mounted on top is helpful.

liste schrieb:
I would especially recommend dividing the drawers well. It saves a lot of time searching.

I agree with that, because when working on crafts, things can quickly get chaotic and then you lose motivation.

From my own experience, I would add: Make sure to plan enough space for unplanned small parts that you add spontaneously. Sometimes you simply need more space than expected.

Also, I personally find it very helpful to organize colors and materials by color and label them clearly – this makes it much easier to find things again and also makes the craft station look more attractive.

Regarding lighting: A combination of daylight lamps and warm LEDs makes the workspace more comfortable and reduces eye strain during longer sessions.

It’s also worth planning a small storage area on top of the shelf for projects currently in use, so you don’t have to put them away constantly.