ᐅ How do I build IKEA Metod cabinets with double drawers?

Hello everyone, I am planning to modify or rebuild IKEA Metod kitchen cabinets with double drawers. My goal is to install two smaller drawers stacked vertically instead of one large drawer, in order to better customize the layout to my needs. I want to do this as professionally and securely as possible, using the existing IKEA fittings.

My questions are: What is the exact procedure for assembling them? Are there any specific brackets or dowels I need to consider when using double drawer fronts? Additionally, I am curious whether the standard side Metod drill holes can be used for a double drawer system, or if it’s better to drill additional holes. I have already studied the instructions for the single drawers, but the assembly with double drawer fronts does not seem straightforward to me.

I look forward to your tips and experiences regarding this particular modification of the Metod cabinets!

You can use IKEA’s standard drill holes to install two smaller drawers stacked on top of each other. It is important to have the middle rails inside the cabinet to keep the drawers properly aligned at the front. Otherwise, you will need additional strips. For the fronts, you must order or cut separate panels.

The topic of double drawers in Metod cabinets truly requires careful planning. It is important to first consider the carcass width and height. Most Metod carcasses are designed to be used with multiple drawers, supported by standardized drilling patterns—such as the 37-mm (1.46 inch) hole spacing on the sides. You can actually use these for more than one drawer by adjusting the inner side panels of the drawers accordingly. However, you definitely need the middle uprights as guides, since they increase stability and prevent the small top drawer from sagging too deeply. When installing, it is recommended to: - Complete the carcass assembly with the uprights fully installed, then adjust the drawer boxes. - Purchase or customize separate panels for the fronts; these should be cut to fit the double drawers appropriately. - Use templates and drilling patterns precisely, as the holes must align exactly with the drawer slides. A common challenge is maintaining an even gap between the drawer fronts; here, I use small spacers to keep the appearance neat. By the way, do you have specific module depths or heights? That would help assess the situation more accurately.

When installing double drawers in IKEA Metod cabinets, the following should be considered: The Metod carcasses are standardized and feature vertical rows of holes spaced 37 millimeters (1.5 inches) apart, which can be used for different drawer depths. If you want to stack two drawers within the same cabinet width, the total height of the cabinet module must be planned according to the combined drawer heights plus the space in between. The front panels for the upper and lower drawers need to be mounted separately. Since IKEA does not offer dedicated double drawer bottoms, two separate drawer boxes must be installed, each requiring its own slides and side fixings. Often, some carcasses lack a horizontal crossbar in the middle for additional stability; in such cases, center rails should be installed to better support the movement and weight. Make sure to align the slides precisely, as the small drawer fronts will not sit flush otherwise. Side panels and small trim pieces are usually added to the fronts to ensure no gaps are visible.

I also tried working with Metod cabinets featuring double drawers and can confirm that it’s not entirely straightforward. The main challenge for me was ensuring the front panel fit perfectly without any drawer sticking or feeling too loose.

Alina67 schrieb:
The fronts for the upper and lower drawers need to be installed separately.

I wasn’t aware of this beforehand and initially tried it differently. Another challenge was inserting the drawers smoothly because the runners flexed without a center support beam.

Later, I installed small wooden supports made from strips and calibrated everything, which made a significant improvement. The effort is definitely worth it and really improves functionality. If anyone’s worried about lacking DIY skills: with patience and good measuring tools, it’s definitely achievable!

One more thing I’d like to add: If you build two drawers stacked on top of each other, make sure the lower drawer slides are perfectly aligned and operate smoothly. Otherwise, pulling the upper drawer can become quite difficult.

A tip: When screwing in the drawer slides, start by applying gentle force and first test how the drawers move. Often, loosening the screws slightly and then realigning helps.

JAFUHAU schrieb:
I later installed small wooden supports made from wooden strips and calibrated everything, which made a significant improvement.

I highly recommend this step, as the double load on the Metod side panels can quickly cause slight deformations.