Do you have a vintage bar cart that you love, but it's no longer practical now that you have a little one running around? Or maybe you're just looking for a fresh and creative way to display your favorite beverages and glassware? Well, we have the perfect solution for you - an Ikea IVAR cabinet hack that will turn it into a stylish bar cabinet!
A Perfect Solution for Your Changing Needs
In our pre-baby life, we had a vintage bar cart that served us well for years. However, once our little one came along, we realized we needed to make a change. A bar cart with glass bottles and delicate glassware within reach of an 11-month-old is not the safest option. So, we set out to find a solution that would meet our new requirements.
We wanted a cabinet with doors that we could secure with magnetic locks. Additionally, having a taller cabinet would allow us to display items on top while still maintaining the traditional bar cart feel. After some research, we discovered the perfect starting point - a plain cabinet from Ikea that fit our dimensions. With a little creativity and DIY magic, we transformed it into a stunning bar cabinet!
Materials and Step-by-Step Guide
To achieve this transformation, you will need the following supplies:
- Ikea IVAR cabinet (we used the smaller 30' x 12' x 33" size)
- Legs (such as these pretty legs)
- White semi-gloss paint
- 1 1/2" boards to create the top tray
- 3/32" x 2" x 36" basswood sheet to close the door gap
- Wood glue and clamps
- X-acto knife
- Cabinet pulls
- Wooden monstera leaves
- Miter saw or jig saw
Now, let's walk through the process step-by-step:
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Assemble the cabinet according to the instructions provided.
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Attach the legs to the bottom of the cabinet. We recommend using legs that come with plates for a more stable attachment.
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Create a lip around the top of the cabinet to prevent items from falling off. Cut the 1 1/2" board into four pieces that fit around the top of the cabinet. If you have a miter saw, cut the boards at 45° angles to create a seamless fit. Alternatively, you can ask the hardware store to cut the wood for you.
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Attach the frame to the top of the cabinet using wood glue and nails or screws.
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Close the 1/2" gap in the middle of the doors by gluing a thin piece of basswood. Cut the basswood to size using an X-acto knife and attach it to one of the doors.
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Paint the cabinet white. For an extra touch, you can paint the backboard a different color to add a pop of color when the cabinet is open.
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Place the monstera leaves on top of the cabinet and arrange them to your liking. If needed, cut the leaves using a miter saw or jig saw. Paint the leaves in your desired colors and then glue and nail them in place.
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Fill any nail holes with wood filler, sand lightly, and touch up the paint.
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Attach the cabinet pulls and, if necessary, add magnetic locks for added safety.
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Finally, we recommend mounting the cabinet to the wall to prevent it from tipping over, especially if you have little ones around.
And voila! Your new bar cabinet is ready to impress!
The Perfect Blend of Functionality and Style
With our newly transformed bar cabinet, we can now enjoy a safe and stylish way to store and display our favorite beverages. The added top edge gives it a traditional bar cart feel, while the monstera leaf pattern adds a touch of pattern and color without being overwhelming.
The process is simple and customizable, allowing you to create a bar cabinet that matches your personal taste and decor. Whether you're hosting a cocktail party or simply enjoying a quiet drink, this cabinet will undoubtedly impress your guests and elevate your home bar experience.
About the Author
This incredible Ikea IVAR cabinet hack was brought to you by Laura Gummerman, an expert in creative DIY projects. Laura's passion for transforming everyday items into beautiful and functional pieces shines through in this project. With her guidance, you can easily recreate this transformation in your own home.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your supplies, put on some music, and let your creativity flow as you embark on this exciting Ikea IVAR cabinet hack. Cheers to a beautiful and functional bar cabinet that will make you the envy of your friends!
P.S. If you loved this project, don't forget to check out Laura's other amazing furniture hacks for more inspiration!
Article Credits: Author and Photography: Laura Gummerman. Project Assistant: Collin DuPree. Photos edited with A Color Story Desktop.