ᐅ What should I consider when building Ikea Pax wardrobes myself?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to build Ikea Pax wardrobes myself and want to prepare as thoroughly as possible to avoid mistakes or unpleasant surprises. My specific question is: What should I definitely keep in mind when assembling Ikea Pax wardrobes, especially regarding material choices, stability, accessory compatibility, and installation? Are there common pitfalls to watch out for, and what is the best approach if I want to customize the dimensions?

I look forward to your helpful tips and experiences!

Hello Wulfila,

Your question is very well formulated and can be answered based on my experience. When building Pax-style shelves yourself, the most important points are:

- Accurate measurement of the space, including consideration of baseboards or sloping ceilings.
- Material quality: Use MDF or plywood boards whenever possible, as these are more stable than simple particleboard.
- Pay attention to suitable connectors and screws – Ikea uses special fastening systems that are difficult to purchase separately.
- For accessories: Doors and drawers must fit the frame precisely, otherwise you’ll have issues with closing mechanisms later on.

Common pitfalls include incorrect drill holes, which are specified for Ikea original parts, and problems when gluing or screwing the large panels together. I recommend testing everything first with sample pieces.

It is also important not to neglect the back panel, as it significantly contributes to overall stability.

If you want to customize your measurements, planning with CAD software or at least using millimeter paper can be helpful to have all parts cut accurately. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!

Hello Wulfila,

here is a brief guide that might help you:

1. Planning: First, create an accurate sketch with all dimensions. Take into account the room height and width as well as the thickness of your materials.

2. Material selection: Ideally, use boards at least 18 mm (0.7 inches) thick to ensure stability. Avoid boards that are too thin, as they will be too flexible.

3. Cutting: Use a carpenter or a professional workshop for cutting. Inaccurate cuts often cause fitting problems.

4. Joining technique: The original Pax systems use dowels, cam locks, and knock-in nuts. If you cannot replicate this, use sturdy connectors and screws.

5. Assembly: Start with assembling the frame, then add shelves and back panels. Do not omit the back panel, as it prevents warping.

6. Doors and accessories: There are special fittings for doors; make sure they are compatible. Drawers should run smoothly and the slides must be stable.

Common mistakes are incorrect drilling and non-square joints. Check each step with a carpenter’s square and a spirit level.

Good luck!

It is important not to neglect the back panel, as it provides stability. You should also pay close attention to the exact dimensions of the doors to ensure they fit correctly later. It is better to purchase screws and connectors that match those from Ikea to avoid any issues.

In addition to the previous advice: pay special attention to the installation of the top cover. This is often underestimated, even though it significantly reinforces the structure. I also recommend not forgetting the anchoring to the wall. Especially with taller models, this can greatly improve safety and prevent tipping.

Kinbu schrieb:
Pay attention to suitable connectors and screws – Ikea uses special fastening systems that are hard to find elsewhere.

Could you or someone else explain specifically which connectors Ikea uses and whether there are recommended alternatives? I would prefer not to rely solely on original parts in case they become unavailable.

Furthermore, I am interested in how the load-bearing capacity changes when using screws and wall plugs chosen independently.