IKEA Hack: turn a basic table into a country-chic bedside table

Fancy a softly charming bedside table without blowing the budget? This IKEA hack, highlighted by a decorating tutorial, shows how to transform a basic module into a chic country piece in just a few steps. In this way, it responds to the constraints of a small space, while respecting style and practicality.

A simple, neat and accessible project

The tutorial describes a practical, jargon-free method. First, choose a stable wood or panel base, then prepare the surfaces. In this way, paint and finishes will grip better right from the first coat.

Budget-wise, supplies remain flexible. Depending on the choice, the cost is often under €80, as many accessories can be recycled. What’s more, the tools required often boil down to a fine sander, a roller and a miter saw for moldings.

The aim is to achieve a chic country silhouette: linen hues, softened edges, metal or porcelain handles. Next, mouldings or cleats are added to create elegant frames. As a result, the table gains relief without weighing down the room.

“A room breathes better when every piece of furniture tells a personal story.”

Key steps in the IKEA hack

Step 1: preparation. First, degrease, finely sand and then dust. In this way, this IKEA hack follows a 3-step logic, which reduces oversights.

Steps 2 and 3: undercoat, color and finish. Next, we apply a primer suited to the wood, followed by two thin coats of a soft color. Handles and feet are attached, and mouldings are glued on with a special wood glue.

• Measure twice, cut once, to avoid gaps.
• Test the color on a scrap before attacking the furniture.
• Ventilate the room; wear a mask when sanding.
• Allow 24 h drying time before intensive use.
• Check wall anchorage if children are present.

Materials, finishes and maintenance

For mouldings, pine or mediumwood cleats do the trick. They cut quickly and paint effortlessly. A brushed brass or ceramic knob adds a retro touch.

As for paint, a powder-coated matte finish works well. Lightly patinating the edges adds character, making the room appear older. In this way, this IKEA hack gains in relief with warm colors, such as beige grège or light taupe.

For durability, a coat of matt varnish protects against shocks. Regular maintenance with a microfiber cloth is also sufficient. In short, patina improves over time, if persistent humidity is avoided.

IKEA – MALM 2-drawer chest, bleached oak veneer, 40×55 cm. Chest of drawers; bleached oak veneer; €49.99.

Sustainable variants and options

Worktop scraps can be recycled for the top. The result is more solid and authentic. On the other hand, keep the weight to a minimum, so as not to overload the fixings.

For a healthier approach, choose low-VOC paints. Nowadays, washable options are available that resist everyday stains. What’s more, a more sustainable IKEA hack relies on repair rather than replacement.

Trends, budget and completion times

On the networks, the IKEA hack wave is settling into weekend decorating routines. Because the result is stylish and measured, shares are multiplying. What’s more, the country-chic aesthetic reassures those who want a calm bedroom.

In terms of timing, allow between 2 and 4 hours for the workshop, followed by 24 hours for drying. Books, lamps and alarm clocks are then put back in place. As a result, the table is ready for use the very next day.

Depending on the quality of the accessories, the budget varies. However, you can stay under the €100 mark by choosing simple handles and off-cuts. In this context, the IKEA hack offers a stress-free custom-made piece of furniture.

• hack IKEA