(Photography: Alan Jensen, Tim Roberts; styling Kate Walsh; project Karenza Jewell)
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as upcycling a boring, bland cabinet into something that radiates character. IKEA is known for easy-to-transform cabinetry, and this IVAR cabinet hack makeover is one that will bring a touch of fairy floss to your entertaining space, whether in a delicious martini or through the fun colours of the cabinet.
Add some old-fashioned glam with gold handles and legs, then fill it with your favourite tipples and glassware ready for the soirée season. It’s easy, fun and inexpensive, and will be ready in two shakes of a martini!
We’ll show you how to sweeten up your IKEA IVAR cabinet with bold printed fabrics and a lick of paint.
How to upcycle an IKEA IVAR cabinet
Step 1
With a small paint brush, apply 2 coats of gold paint to the door trims, edges and timber strips. Allow to dry after each coat.
Step 2
Cut your fabric to size and apply a generous layer of Mod Podge to both door fronts, then stick the fabric to the doors. Smooth out any wrinkles and allow to dry.
Step 3
Apply Mod Podge to the fabric to seal it and apply to the perimeter of the doors. Stick down the tape strips.
Step 4
Cover internal shelves using the same process. Use PVA glue to stick the timber strips onto the cabinet door. Use painter’s tape to hold timber strips in place and allow to dry.
Step 5
Attach handles and legs to the cabinet. With a nap roller, apply furniture paint to the sides, top and front edges of the cabinet carcass, and allow to dry after each coat. To seal the paint, apply water-based varnish and allow to dry.
