If you’ve ever been to Ikea, you know that you can’t rush through Ikea, or go in for just one thing. Ikea includes a restaurant on premises because, truly, shopping there can be an all-day adventure. It can be overwhelming, but we were prepared and we did the conquering!
I will share the entire project (basement bathroom wardrobe / big closet re-set) once it is all done, but we went to Ikea to purchase a wardrobe / standing cabinet for our bathroom.
Have I mentioned? I LOVE assembling furniture. It’s gratifying, and because I have an amazing job, I get called upon to assemble furniture quite often! Particularly gratifying is assembling my own furniture, which is how I spent the afternoon. Since I have assembled so many of these furniture pieces, from Ikea and elsewhere, I thought I would share my wisdom to help you on your next project whether simple book shelves or something more complicated like our wardrobe!
- This should go without saying, but I will say it anyway: Read the directions. Read them ALL THE WAY TO THE END, before you do anything. I realize that we can’t actually read Ikea instructions because, oh right, there are no words. But you can still look at EVERY PICTURE in the provided booklet before you take anything else out of the box. Trust me on this one, and you can thank me later.
- Collect Your Tools. The instruction booklet suggested only a hammer and Philips
head screwdriver were needed for assembly of our particular unit, but my new power screwdriver could make the job go much easier. Also, grab a cold beverage and put on some music (again, trust me on this one). 
Lay out all the hardware, sort it all into little piles, and count everything to make sure you have what you need. I’ve had good experiences with Ikea kits, with the necessary pieces all intact. This is really good news since their customer service line left a bit to be desired when I actually had to call about something. Reviewing everything first is better than having to call and wait on hold halfway through.- Lay out all the big pieces, match them up with the instructions. Imagine all the pieces fitting together in the finished projects. Make sure the unfinished surfaces are the hidden sides of your item!
- Do Not Rush. Let me say it again. DO NOT RUSH. Review the directions, check your tools and supplies, turn on your tunes. Estimate how long the assembly should take, then double it. Take your time, check your directions, tighten down your screws and connections.
- Once your item is assembled, take a moment and appreciate your success. Raise your right
hand, reach around and pat yourself on the back. Then … clean up your mess and put your tools away!
Appreciate your successes and clean up your messes.Yep, sounds like sound advice for life, not just for furniture assembling! Happy Building!