DIY IKEA Rustic Wooden Crate

Today I have an easy DIY IKEA tutorial for you. I’m upgrading my KNAGGLIG box to a rustic wood box that looks expensive and chic. Let’s get started.

Materials

IKEA KNAGGLIG Wood Crate
Screwdriver
Wood Stains in Special Walnut & Classic Gray (8 fl. oz each)
Sand Paper (80 to 320 grit)
Sanding Sponge (optional)
Mixing Container
Foam Brush

Process

STEP 1

Gather your materials. Be sure to select a wood crate that isn’t too yellow or glossy. Your mixing container can be anything; I made mine out of the bottom of an old plastic bottle. I used a sanding sponge for an even sand on each side but it’s optional. I recommend using a foam brush over a staining brush for a fool proof way to avoid streaks.

STEP 2

For a weathered wood look, mix your stains at a 1:1 ratio. Remember always stir the stain, never shake. If you want a more walnut or more grey look, adjust the ratio a little at at time but always test out the color on scrap wood.

STEP 3

It’s time to sand, sand, sand! Give every surface a good sand to remove any gloss, previous stain or sealer. Also, cover your mouth and nose while you sand. It’s not healthy to inhale the dust. When you’re done sanding, make sure you wipe down the sanded pieces with a wet cloth or paper towel. Let every piece dry completely.

STEP 4

Set up your work space with thick paper or cardboard. Don’t work over a surface that you don’t want to accidentally stain because the stain can leak through if you’re not careful. Stir your stain and start brushing the stain onto the wood. Less is more and you can always add more stain to areas that absorbed the stain too quickly. Make sure to avoid any streaks. If you do put too much stain, ring out your brush and try to absorb the excess.

Stain one side of all the panels first and let them all dry for one day. The next day flip them over and stain the other side. Staining the edges and corners is more tricky, so use less stain and avoid any dripping on the opposite side. A wet towel is handy for lightly wiping off any excess. When the second side is dry and everything looks like the color you want. You’re done staining.

STEP 5

Assemble your box with the tools required in the IKEA manual. Normally you only need a screwdriver, but I also used a power drill to speed the process. Only use a power drill if you feel comfortable with it or have the help of an experienced user.

That’s it. Use the #DLHMakes to share your IKEA rustic boxes because I’d love to see them!

Here’s my complete video tutorial too.

‘Til next time.