My Experience With Making Billy Bookcase Look Built In
My Experience With Making Billy Bookcase Look Built In
When I moved into my new apartment, I knew I wanted to create a cozy reading nook. I had my eyes set on the Billy bookcase from IKEA, but I didn’t want it to look like a standard freestanding piece of furniture. I wanted it to look like it was built into the wall. After some research and some trial and error, I finally achieved the look I was going for. In this article, I will share with you my step-by-step guide, top 10 tips and ideas, pros and cons, and my personal review and suggestion on how to make your Billy bookcase look built in.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Billy Bookcase Look Built In
Step 1: Measure Your Space
The first step is to measure the space where you want to place your Billy bookcase. Make sure to measure the height, width, and depth of the space. This will help you determine the size of the bookcase you need to purchase.
Step 2: Purchase the Billy Bookcase
Once you have your measurements, head to your local IKEA store or their website and purchase the Billy bookcase in the size that fits your space.
Step 3: Assemble the Bookcase
Follow the instructions provided by IKEA to assemble the bookcase. Make sure to not attach the back panel of the bookcase yet.
Step 4: Paint or Wallpaper the Back Panel
This step is optional, but it will make your bookcase look more customized. Paint or wallpaper the back panel of the bookcase in a color or pattern that complements your room’s decor.
Step 5: Attach the Bookcase to the Wall
Using a level, attach the bookcase to the wall with L brackets. Make sure the bookcase is level before securing it to the wall.
Step 6: Install Crown Molding
To make your bookcase look more built-in, install crown molding at the top of the bookcase. This will give it a more finished look.
Step 7: Caulk the Gaps
Apply caulk to the gaps between the bookcase and the wall to make it look seamless.
Step 8: Style Your Bookcase
Now that your bookcase looks like it’s built in, it’s time to style it with your favorite books, decor, and accessories.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas on How to Make Billy Bookcase Look Built In
- Choose a paint color or wallpaper pattern that complements your room’s decor.
- Add lighting to your bookcase to make it look more custom.
- Use decorative molding around the bookcase to make it look more built-in.
- Place a rug in front of the bookcase to create a cozy reading nook.
- Use the Billy bookcase as a room divider to create separate spaces in a studio apartment.
- Install glass doors on your bookcase to display your favorite items.
- Use the bookcase as a built-in desk by adding a countertop and a chair.
- Paint the crown molding the same color as the bookcase to create a seamless look.
- Use a bookcase with adjustable shelves to customize the size of the shelves to fit your items.
- Add decorative hardware to your bookcase to make it look more custom.
Pros and Cons of Making Billy Bookcase Look Built In
Pros
- Customizes your space to fit your style and needs.
- Makes a standard IKEA bookcase look more high-end and custom.
- Can be done on a budget.
- Easy to change if you want to update your decor.
Cons
- Requires some DIY skills and tools.
- May not be suitable for renters who cannot attach bookcase to the wall.
- May not be as sturdy as a built-in bookcase.
- May take some time and effort to achieve the desired look.
My Personal Review and Suggestion on How to Make Billy Bookcase Look Built In
Making my Billy bookcase look built in was definitely a DIY project that required some time and effort, but it was worth it in the end. The bookcase looks like it was custom made for my space, and it adds a cozy and personalized touch to my apartment. My suggestion would be to take your time and measure everything carefully to ensure a seamless and professional-looking end result. Overall, making my Billy bookcase look built in was a fun and rewarding project that I would recommend to anyone looking to customize their space on a budget.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I make any IKEA bookcase look built in?
A: Yes, you can apply the same steps to any IKEA bookcase to make it look built in. However, the Billy bookcase is the most popular choice due to its affordability and versatility.
Q: Can I use wood glue instead of L brackets to attach the bookcase to the wall?
A: No, it’s not recommended to use wood glue as the sole method of attaching the bookcase to the wall. L brackets provide more stability and support.
Q: Can I remove the bookcase from the wall once it’s attached with L brackets?
A: Yes, you can remove the bookcase from the wall, but it may damage the wall or the bookcase. It’s best to leave it in place unless you need to move it for a renovation or a move.