IKEA Hacks (Using Cut-to-Size Materials)

IKEA hacks have become one of the most popular ways to create a bespoke look on a budget, and we love seeing how our customers transform flat-pack furniture into something completely unique. With a few smart tweaks like adding cut-to-size MDF, trims, tops or side panels - simple IKEA units can look fully built-in and custom-made.

This page is a growing collection of the IKEA hack projects we’ve worked on, featuring real customer transformations and the materials we supplied to help bring their ideas to life. Whether you’re planning a full built-in, upgrading a cabinet, or exploring your first DIY project, these examples are a great source of inspiration for what’s possible with the right cut-to-size pieces.

Check back as we add more projects over time!

Transforming IKEA furniture into bespoke built-ins is one of the most popular DIY projects right now, and this IKEA Besta hack is a perfect example of how cut-to-size MDF can completely elevate flat-pack pieces. @edwardian_property_parade wanted fitted storage in the dining room alcoves, but without the high cost of fully bespoke joinery. By combining affordable IKEA Besta units with made-to-measure MDF panels, she created beautiful alcove built-ins that look seamless and custom-made.

Once the Besta cabinets were assembled, she used our cut-to-size MDF sheets to box in the sides, add a top panel, and create clean infills for that fitted, wall-to-wall look. After sanding, filling and caulking the MDF, the whole unit was primed and finished in Benjamin Moore’s Colour of the Year 2025 – Cinnamon Slate, a warm blend of heathered plum and velvety brown that ties the space together perfectly. The end result is a budget-friendly built-in that looks completely bespoke.

What We Supplied:

• Cut-to-size MDF panels for both sides of the Besta units
• A made-to-measure MDF top panel
• MDF infill pieces to achieve the built-in look
• Accurate sizing based on the alcove measurements provided
• Smooth MDF ideal for priming and painting (Perfect for any IKEA Besta built-in hack)

Want to try your own IKEA hack? We can cut wood sheets such as MDF and Plywood to your measurements.