Hello everyone,
I recently moved and inherited many Hemnes furniture pieces from Ikea. I generally like them, but I find them a bit plain and would like to refresh their look without buying everything new.
Specifically, I’m interested in tips on how to make Hemnes furniture appear more unique and modern with simple methods. I am considering adding fresh color through paint or adhesive films, but also practical changes like new handles or decorative elements.
Has anyone had experience with these kinds of upgrades? What has worked well, and what hasn’t? I’m looking forward to suggestions, including advice on material quality, effort, or costs. Thanks in advance!
I recently moved and inherited many Hemnes furniture pieces from Ikea. I generally like them, but I find them a bit plain and would like to refresh their look without buying everything new.
Specifically, I’m interested in tips on how to make Hemnes furniture appear more unique and modern with simple methods. I am considering adding fresh color through paint or adhesive films, but also practical changes like new handles or decorative elements.
Has anyone had experience with these kinds of upgrades? What has worked well, and what hasn’t? I’m looking forward to suggestions, including advice on material quality, effort, or costs. Thanks in advance!
The easiest way is with new handles. Replace the original handles with metal or leather ones; this immediately changes the overall look.
Color is also an option, but you should use suitable paint to ensure a good finish.
I use films less often, as they are usually not as durable.
Color is also an option, but you should use suitable paint to ensure a good finish.
I use films less often, as they are usually not as durable.
I can understand the feeling if the Hemnes furniture seems a bit monotonous. I experienced something similar myself.
What worked well for me was not repainting the entire furniture, but instead highlighting specific surfaces or drawers with color. This creates a small focal point that feels fresh without requiring too much effort.
I also found adding decorative elements like cords or molding interesting – it gives the furniture a nice personal touch. Sometimes it’s these small details that really bring joy.
What kind of tools do you have available? That makes a big difference in projects like this.
What worked well for me was not repainting the entire furniture, but instead highlighting specific surfaces or drawers with color. This creates a small focal point that feels fresh without requiring too much effort.
I also found adding decorative elements like cords or molding interesting – it gives the furniture a nice personal touch. Sometimes it’s these small details that really bring joy.
What kind of tools do you have available? That makes a big difference in projects like this.
I would like to provide a more detailed contribution since I have personally "upgraded" Hemnes furniture multiple times and have had both positive and less positive experiences.
If you want to refresh the look of Hemnes furniture, it’s best to approach the process systematically:
- Preparation: First, lightly sand the surface to help paint or adhesive foil stick better. Fine sandpaper with a grit of 180–220 is sufficient.
- Color design: Hemnes furniture is usually white or natural-colored, which makes a good base for new color accents. You can paint individual drawers or doors. There are many water-based acrylic or chalk paints that are easy to work with.
- Changing handles: This is a quick way to catch the eye. You can find a wide variety of handles at hardware stores or online, ranging from simple to rustic styles.
- Foils and decals: Self-adhesive foils work well for corners or backsplashes, but for large surfaces, I recommend using paint instead. Foils tend to peel off easily.
- Additional decoration: Small decorative moldings or handle plates can be attached with wood glue and a few screws. Fabric inserts or glass elements are also possible – but you should be confident with your DIY skills.
- Sealing: After painting, applying a matte clear coat (e.g., furniture-grade) is recommended to preserve the finish over time.
Overall, upgrading Hemnes furniture is not complicated, but it’s worth proceeding step-by-step and making small changes rather than trying too much at once. If possible, try your ideas on a less visible part first.
If you have any questions, I’m happy to help!
If you want to refresh the look of Hemnes furniture, it’s best to approach the process systematically:
- Preparation: First, lightly sand the surface to help paint or adhesive foil stick better. Fine sandpaper with a grit of 180–220 is sufficient.
- Color design: Hemnes furniture is usually white or natural-colored, which makes a good base for new color accents. You can paint individual drawers or doors. There are many water-based acrylic or chalk paints that are easy to work with.
- Changing handles: This is a quick way to catch the eye. You can find a wide variety of handles at hardware stores or online, ranging from simple to rustic styles.
- Foils and decals: Self-adhesive foils work well for corners or backsplashes, but for large surfaces, I recommend using paint instead. Foils tend to peel off easily.
- Additional decoration: Small decorative moldings or handle plates can be attached with wood glue and a few screws. Fabric inserts or glass elements are also possible – but you should be confident with your DIY skills.
- Sealing: After painting, applying a matte clear coat (e.g., furniture-grade) is recommended to preserve the finish over time.
Overall, upgrading Hemnes furniture is not complicated, but it’s worth proceeding step-by-step and making small changes rather than trying too much at once. If possible, try your ideas on a less visible part first.
If you have any questions, I’m happy to help!
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