ᐅ How can I enhance Malm furniture with minimal effort and cost?

Created on: 27 Aug 2022 09:18
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Solire
Hello everyone,

I’m currently considering how to upgrade IKEA Malm furniture with minimal effort and resources. My goal is to break away from the typical standard look and make the pieces visually more interesting without significant investment or professional craftsmanship skills. Are there simple but effective methods or tricks to personalize the Malm series? Perhaps you have ideas regarding colors, materials, or small modifications that can make a big impact?

Looking forward to your suggestions!
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barEsperan
28 Aug 2022 11:42
Changing handles, painting with primer, self-adhesive foil, or vinyl stickers.

The order depends on the effort involved: change the handle > apply the foil > paint with primer.
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SETHBLA
29 Aug 2022 08:53
Additionally, with Malm drawers, you can customize them by lining the inside sidewalls with wallpaper. This enhances the visual appeal significantly without much effort or cost.

Even small wooden strips used as a baseboard or edge trim add more depth to the design.
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eldubi
29 Aug 2022 10:31
SETHBLA schrieb:
Small wooden strips used as baseboards or edging add more depth to the design

I completely agree. Additionally, with a few wooden dowels and wood glue, you can modify shelving units or headboard structures to create functional highlights.
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Dirkmin
29 Aug 2022 11:48
Josefane schrieb:
What experiences do you have with painting or staining Malm furniture?

Regarding staining: It is questionable whether you can stain chipboard furniture since the surface does not have a real wood grain. Staining generally does not work on Malm furniture with a foil finish. Painting with proper surface preparation is usually more effective.

I recommend using a matte acrylic or polyurethane paint after thorough sanding and applying a suitable primer.

Another option is to add fabrics or lighting, such as LED strips, which can give the furniture a modern look.