Introduction: GORM Ikea Coffee Table
After seeing randofo's GORM bench / bookshelf project I thought a coffee table would be quite possible and look pretty good with a few slight modifications. I had recently assembled a GORM bookshelf so I thought a GORM coffee table would watch nicely and at a very reasonable price.
Step 1: Bill of Materials
Go to IKEA and get the following.
1) 2 sets of GORM posts. Select the 43 1/3 length. (4 posts total)
2) 4 GORM shelfs. Select the 19 5/8 width (4 total). You can select any 4 GORM shelves for this project, but this size worked well for my needs. Make sure they all are the same size.
3) Optonal: 2 Behandla containers of paint (12 oz) each. You may only need one, depending on how big or small your shelves and how many coats you desire.
4) Optional: 2 pieces of 1/4 inch plexi glass at 19 1/2 by 12 1/8 inches.
* The tools needed for this project are a handsaw or table saw, sandpaper, paint, and a wrench. Thats it.
1) 2 sets of GORM posts. Select the 43 1/3 length. (4 posts total)
2) 4 GORM shelfs. Select the 19 5/8 width (4 total). You can select any 4 GORM shelves for this project, but this size worked well for my needs. Make sure they all are the same size.
3) Optonal: 2 Behandla containers of paint (12 oz) each. You may only need one, depending on how big or small your shelves and how many coats you desire.
4) Optional: 2 pieces of 1/4 inch plexi glass at 19 1/2 by 12 1/8 inches.
* The tools needed for this project are a handsaw or table saw, sandpaper, paint, and a wrench. Thats it.
Step 2: Cuts and Prep Work
1) Take 3 of the Gorm posts and cut 6 pieces each to a height of 17 3/4 inches. This allows for the 1/4 inch plexi-glass to fit pretty flush with with some felt pieces underneath so the glass isn't sitting directly on top of the wood. If you don't plan to use a glass top, adjust the height accordingly down to 17 1/2.
2) Sand all the posts after cutting looking for jagged edges. Sand shelves too if you notice any jagged or rough areas.
2) Sand all the posts after cutting looking for jagged edges. Sand shelves too if you notice any jagged or rough areas.
Step 3: Assembly
Assemble the posts and shelves with the IKEA supplied wood screws. Paint all surfaces if so desired. I recommend two coats using the Black IKEA Behandla glazing paint.
Step 4: Adding Glass Top
Add the pre cut pieces of plex-glass if using this option. Try and use some small felt pieces underneath the glass.
Step 5: Enjoy
Place your new coffee table as needed. I've attached a photo of our painted GORM bookshelf that now matches the coffee table. I may be adding an end table too in the near future.