ᐅ How can I convert Ikea Besta into an organized storage solution for craft supplies?

Hello everyone,

I have an Ikea Besta cabinet and want to create a well-organized storage solution for my craft supplies. Since I have a variety of small items like beads, threads, glue, scissors, paints, and paper punches, I’m looking for a method or setup to keep everything clear and easily accessible. I am considering using drawer inserts or perhaps adding extra shelves and small boxes that can be easily removed. It’s important for me to have a mix of storage space for bulkier items as well as compartments for tiny pieces.

Does anyone have experience or suggestions on how to best modify or improve an Ikea Besta specifically for craft materials? Which inserts, organizers, or tricks have proven effective? Any tips on compartment sizes or materials for the boxes would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Hello aberlindi,

I think your question is very well formulated because you’ve clearly stated that it’s about a combination of large and small compartments. Here is a three-step suggestion that you can implement depending on your needs:

- 1. Basic structure: Use the shelves from Besta as the base levels, and equip them with transparent plastic boxes. This way, you can keep an overview even with closed doors.

- 2. Small compartments inside: Get insert containers or bento-style boxes with multiple small sections, ideal for beads and small items. Usually, dividers with a depth of 3–5 cm (1–2 inches) work well.

- 3. Flexible layout: If you frequently change things, removable boxes with handles are helpful. This way, you can easily take your materials to another location.

Common mistakes: Shelves that are too deep make access difficult, and you should also choose lightweight materials so the unit doesn’t become too heavy. I also recommend labeling directly on the boxes or compartments to keep everything organized.

Additionally, you can find inserts for hanging file systems at Ikea that can be modified, or attach tools to the inside of the doors with small hooks. In summary: use a mix of boxes in different sizes, clear labeling, and mobility through removable containers. If you want, I can provide some measurements and product suggestions.

Small plastic boxes with lids are suitable for craft materials and can be placed on the Besta shelving unit. If you have many small parts, organizer boxes with dividers are recommended. Use storage boxes with transparent lids.

Hey! What worked really well for me with my craft supplies was using colorful stickers to label the boxes. They make everything much more cheerful, and even in chaos, you can quickly find what you’re looking for! And if something falls out, containers with lids are invaluable – nothing flies around the room, and you don’t have to spend ages searching.

I also recommend experimenting with compartments of different sizes depending on the size of the craft materials. Not everything has to be the same size; it adds some variety and liveliness. 🙂

LOJOPAR schrieb:
Typical mistakes: Shelves that are too deep make access difficult, and you should also choose lightweight materials so the shelf doesn’t become too heavy.

That’s a very good tip, I hadn’t thought of that at all.

Regarding the shelf heights: How deep are the shelves of Ikea Besta by default, and which box sizes would you recommend? Are there any recommendations for boxes that stack well but are still easy to take out?

pautanner schrieb:
Boxes with lids are worth their weight in gold – nothing flies around the room, and you don’t have to search forever.

That sounds convincing too, thanks! I often have boxes but without lids. I’ll keep that in mind.

I’m also interested if there are smart solutions for the inside of the doors – maybe small hooks, magnetic strips, or something similar to hang scissors or adhesive products. Do those hold well on a Besta cabinet?

Thanks in advance to everyone for the input!

aberlindi schrieb:
What is the standard depth of Ikea Besta shelves, and which box sizes would you recommend?

The Besta unit typically has a depth of 40 cm (16 inches), with standard shelf height around 38 cm (15 inches). For craft supplies, boxes about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) high and up to 35 cm (14 inches) deep work best, leaving space on top and making access easier.

aberlindi schrieb:
I’m also interested if there are clever solutions for the inside of the doors

Yes, small hooks or self-adhesive magnetic strips work well if the doors are magnetic; otherwise, clamp frames or narrow fabric pockets with hangers are recommended. Important: avoid attaching heavy items, as the door can get stuck when closing.

Another idea: zipper pouches for brushes or pens that you hang inside. This combination of boxes and door attachments creates a lot of extra storage and keeps things organized.