Looking for an affordable way to create custom storage? The IKEA Billy bookcase offers endless possibilities for DIY enthusiasts. With a bit of creativity, this budget-friendly piece can transform into a stylish, personalised solution for any room.
Take inspiration from real projects, like Mandi Johnson’s monochrome library, which cost under £700. Or Carried Affair Designs’ European-inspired office unit, priced at just £682. Even renters can join in—one clever hack cost only £74 and required no permanent changes.
Whether adding trim, painting, or structural tweaks, the Billy adapts effortlessly. This guide covers key steps—from assembly to styling—to help you achieve a high-end look without the bespoke price tag.
Key Takeaways
- The Billy is a versatile base for custom storage solutions.
- Real projects prove its affordability, with costs under £700.
- Paint and trim can elevate its appearance significantly.
- Rental-friendly options exist for temporary modifications.
- Strategic styling enhances the finished look.
Why Choose an IKEA Billy Bookcase Hack?
Transform your space with a clever DIY solution. The IKEA Billy bookcase is a favourite for its modular design, making it perfect for bespoke storage. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned DIYer, its adaptability shines in any house.
Take Mandi Johnson’s project: she crafted built-ins around windows using seven units. Carried Affair Designs covered a 135” wall with just four. Both achieved high-end looks for a fraction of professional quotes.
| Option | Cost | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Joinery | £3,000+ | Weeks |
| Billy Hack | Under £700 | Days |
Renters love it too. One hack used non-permanent tweaks to preserve deposits. The composite structure handles arches, doors, or paint with ease.
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Planning Your Billy Bookcase Transformation
Ready to give your room a bespoke storage upgrade? Start by mapping your space and selecting the right model. A little prep work ensures a seamless fit and professional finish.
Measuring Your Space
Make sure to measure your wall length and ceiling height first. Mandi Johnson used 15¾” wide units to frame her windows symmetrically. A carpenter’s square kept everything aligned.
For larger walls, try Carried Affair’s formula: subtract the total width of your units from the wall length. Divide the remaining gap evenly for a balanced look.
- Critical measurements: Allow 16½” for arches or moulding.
- Check skirting board depth and electrical outlets.
- Renters: Opt for mm-perfect units to avoid alterations.
Choosing the Right Model
The IKEA Billy range offers versatile options. Narrow 15¾” bookcases suit tight corners, while Oxberg doors hide clutter elegantly.
| Model | Best For | Rental-Friendly? |
|---|---|---|
| Oxberg | Concealed storage | Yes (with handles) |
| Narrow 15¾” | Small spaces | Yes (no modifications) |
Make sure to pick glass-door units if you’re renting. They’re easy to personalise without permanent changes.
Materials You’ll Need for the Hack
Gathering the right materials is the first step to a flawless DIY upgrade. Whether you’re framing a wall or adding arches, precise quantities ensure efficiency. Let’s break down what you’ll need, inspired by real projects.
Structural Essentials
For sturdy frames, Mandi Johnson used 12 poplar boards and lauan plywood. Carried Affair Designs opted for birch plywood sheets to create elegant arches. Here’s a quick reference:
- Base frames: 2x4s (Mandi’s choice) or 1×10 poplar for face frames.
- Surface gaps: Lauan plywood works well, while birch plywood adds rigidity.
- Quantities: Allow 1x2x8 poplar boards per linear foot of shelving.
Painting Must-Haves
A professional finish hinges on quality paint and prep. Mandi’s monochrome library used shellac-based primer for adhesion. The rental-friendly hack featured Valspar V700 emulsion—ideal for temporary changes.
| Material | Use Case | Budget Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Shellac primer | Laminate surfaces | 1L covers 3 units |
| Valspar emulsion | Rental projects | No sanding needed |
Don’t forget grit sandpaper for smoothing surfaces. A 220-grit sheet ensures a silky base for paint.
Budget-Friendly Options
Second-hand units slash costs dramatically. Carried Affair sourced a £20 unit on eBay, proving creativity beats price tags. Leftover project wood can also trim expenses.
“Using reclaimed materials not only saves money but adds character to your design.”
Essential Tools for the Project
Equipping yourself with the right tools makes all the difference in your DIY project. Whether you’re cutting trim or assembling frames, having the correct equipment ensures a polished finish. Let’s explore options for every skill level and budget.
For precise straight cuts, Mandi Johnson used a circular saw with a clamped guide. This method guarantees clean edges when trimming shelves or framing. Carried Affair Designs opted for a jigsaw with a 12 TPI blade to craft elegant arches—ideal for curved designs.
Fastening pieces using the right method is equally crucial. A DeWalt 20V nail gun speeds up assembly, while a manual hammer works for rental-friendly tweaks. If you’re sanding surfaces, an orbital sander with 80-220 grit progression delivers a silky base for paint.
Measuring accurately is the first step to avoiding mistakes. A laser level ensures multi-unit alignment, while a contour gauge helps with uneven walls. For those on a budget, consider renting a mitre saw or using IKEA’s free in-store planning services.
The final step involves surface prep. Hand-sanding blocks are perfect for small areas, but an orbital sander saves time on larger projects. Remember: quality tools don’t just simplify the process—they elevate your results.
Step-by-Step Billy Bookcase Hack
Ready to bring your DIY vision to life? Follow these steps to transform basic shelves into a seamless, built-in feature. From sturdy bases to polished trim, each phase ensures a professional finish.
Building the Base Frame
The first step involves crafting a solid foundation. Mandi Johnson’s project used 2×4 timber with 16-inch stud spacing for stability. Exterior deck screws add racking resistance—ideal for heavy loads.
For renters, Carried Affair’s ceiling anchor method avoids floor modifications. Simply secure a horizontal 2×4 to joists, then attach units vertically. Pro tip: Pre-drill screw holes to prevent wood splitting.
| Method | Best For | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 2×4 Base Frame | Permanent installations | Circular saw, deck screws |
| Ceiling Anchor | Rental-friendly | Stud finder, L-brackets |
Assembling and Securing the Bookcases
Next, anchor your units to the wall for safety. Hide brackets behind crown moulding for a seamless look, or use discrete L-brackets if renting. Ensure the bottom frame is level before securing.
Gaps? Mandi filled hers with 1×6 ripped boards, while Carried Affair used ¾-inch filler blocks. Measure twice—this step prevents uneven shelves.
Adding Custom Framing and Trim
Elevate the look with face frames. Mandi’s design paired 1×4 top rails with 1×2 verticals for a shaker-style effect. Join pieces using wood glue and 2-inch nails for durability.
- Rental hack: Doorstop wedges stabilise units without drilling.
- Pro tip: Sand trim edges lightly for a flush fit.
Painting and Finishing Your Bookcase
A flawless finish transforms basic shelves into a polished feature. Proper preparation and technique ensure professional results, whether you’re working with laminate or solid wood. Avoid common pitfalls like Mandi’s shelf-insert mishap by following these proven methods.
Sanding and Priming Laminate Surfaces
Start with thorough surface prep. Mandi used 320-grit sandpaper to roughen the laminate gently. This creates a textured surface for better primer adhesion. Always wipe down with a tack cloth afterwards—dust particles ruin smooth finishes.
For laminate, Zinsser BIN shellac-based primer works best. It bonds securely without peeling. Carried Affair Designs allowed 24 hours drying time between coats for durability. Renters opting for Valspar emulsion skipped sanding but still achieved great coverage.
| Step | Product | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Sanding | 320-grit paper | 30 mins/unit |
| Priming | Zinsser BIN | 24hr dry time |
Applying the Perfect Paint Finish
Quality tools make all the difference. Carried Affair used foam rollers for streak-free coats, paired with an angled sash brush for edges. Their two-coat Magnolia Home finish delivered rich colour without drips.
Wait for the first coat to dry completely before adding another. Mandi learned this the hard way after rushing her shelf installation. Benjamin Moore Advance needs a week to cure fully, while water-based options set in 48 hours.
- Pro tip: Install shelves before painting to avoid visible gaps.
- Use light, even strokes to prevent brush marks.
- Ventilate the area well during application.
“Thin coats beat thick layers every time—patience pays off in the finish.”
Styling Your Hacked Billy Bookcase
Styling transforms a basic unit into a statement piece for any home. Take cues from Mandi Johnson’s DIY sliding boxes—perfect for toy storage—or Carried Affair’s moody vases for a curated look. Even renters can elevate their space with removable LED strips.
Functional storage meets flair with clever solutions. Mandi’s sliding boxes maximise toy storage, while Carried Affair used cabinet doors to conceal office supplies. For a rental-friendly way to organise, try woven baskets or acrylic dividers.
Display techniques add personality. Group books by colour for impact, or layer art and plants for depth. As Carried Affair notes: “Vignettes should tell a story—mix heights and textures.”
| Element | Inspiration | Budget Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Lighting | IKEA Jansjö LED strips | Use adhesive clips for easy removal |
| Hardware | Anthropologie knobs | Zara Home offers similar styles for less |
At the end, lighting seals the look. The rental hack’s LED strips add warmth, while Carried Affair’s pendant anchors the room. For seasonal updates, swap decor or adjust shelf heights—no tools needed.
“Hardware is jewellery for furniture. A £5 knob can make a £20 unit look designer.”
Troubleshooting Common Challenges
Facing hurdles during your DIY project? Don’t worry—common issues have simple fixes. From uneven gaps to paint mishaps, here’s how to tackle them like a pro.
Gap solutions depend on size. For spaces under 3mm, painter’s caulk blends seamlessly. Larger voids? Carried Affair Designs used 1×2 wood strips, sanded flush for invisible joins.
| Issue | Fix | Tools Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Small gaps ( | Painter’s caulk | Caulk gun, damp cloth |
| Large gaps | 1×2 filler strips | Sandpaper, wood glue |
Paint touch-ups are easier if you keep leftover paint. Mandi Johnson stored her Benjamin Moore Oil Cloth for quick fixes. For rental-friendly projects, Valspar’s emulsion requires no sanding.
- Structural fixes: Doorstop wedges stabilise leaning units (rental hack). For permanent setups, 2×4 ceiling anchors add stability.
- Shelf holes: Fill with DAP Plastic Wood or colour-matched wax sticks.
- Laminate bubbles: Iron-on veneer patches or Bondo wood filler repairs edges.
Pro tip: Make sure to test caulk or filler on a hidden spot first. This saves time and avoids mismatched finishes.
“A little prep prevents headaches later—always sand and prime for lasting results.”
Conclusion
Your DIY project proves that stylish storage doesn’t need a hefty price tag. With solutions from £70 to £700, there’s an option for every budget and skill level. Whether you’re renting or renovating, this bookcase hack adapts effortlessly.
Keep your creation looking fresh with simple maintenance. Tighten shelves quarterly and use felt pads under decor to prevent scratches. Share your results—tag @apartmenttherapyUK or join the IKEA Hackers Facebook group for inspiration.
Ready to level up? Add LED lighting or integrate a desk unit, like Carried Affair’s upcoming tutorial demonstrates. Follow Instagram @acarriedaffairdesigns for more ideas.
Let’s get creative—your dream built-ins are just a weekend away! For detailed guides, check Mandi’s renovation blog or the TIDE blog’s rental-friendly tips.
FAQ
What’s the best way to customise an IKEA Billy bookcase?
Start by planning your design, measuring your space, and gathering the right materials. Sanding, priming, and painting the laminate surfaces will give a professional finish. Adding trim or extending shelves can enhance the look.
Why should I consider modifying a Billy bookcase?
It’s a budget-friendly way to create bespoke storage that fits your space perfectly. With a few adjustments, you can achieve a high-end look without the cost of custom cabinetry.
How do I prepare the surface before painting?
Lightly sand with medium-grit sandpaper, wipe away dust, and apply a primer designed for laminate. This helps the paint adhere better and ensures a smooth, long-lasting finish.
What tools are essential for this project?
A circular saw, drill, sandpaper, measuring tape, and paintbrushes are key. If adding trim, a mitre saw helps achieve clean cuts for a polished look.
How can I make my bookcase look built-in?
Secure it to the wall, add a base frame for height, and use trim to fill gaps. Painting the unit the same colour as the walls blends it seamlessly into the room.
How long should I wait between paint coats?
Let the first coat dry completely—usually 2–4 hours—before applying the second. For best results, allow overnight drying before reassembling or styling.
Can I add doors to a Billy bookcase later?
Yes! The Billy range offers compatible doors. Measure carefully and follow the assembly instructions to attach them securely.
What’s the best paint for laminate surfaces?
Use a durable, water-based eggshell or satin paint. Chalk paint also works well but requires sealing with wax or varnish for protection.
