Turn Basic IKEA Frames Into High-End Storage: Here’s the Quick, Easy Hack

What if I told you that one of IKEA’s most unassuming frames could double as high-end storage? No power tools, no pricey supplies, just a little creative thinking.

That’s what Sabrina @interior.with.sabi pulled off with two SANNAHED frames. By reimagining it as a custom magazine rack, she created a piece that looks like it came straight out of a high-end home decor shop. 

Inspired by E. Stübing @herzenstimme, who turned a picture frame into a shelf, Sabrina took the same concept and created a larger shelf unit that looks luxe and sophisticated.

What You’ll Need

• 2 IKEA SANNAHED frames (19¾” x 19¾”)
• Small screws
• Pliers
• Basics — Tape measure, pencil, screw gun, saw

Turn SANNAHED Frames Into a Custom Wall Magazine Rack

1. Take Apart the Frames

Remove the inner frames, matting, and fronts from both of the SANNAHED pieces. You’ll need the inner frame to create the brackets, but you can put the other stuff aside for a future project.

2. Create the Brackets

Mark the position of the bracket on the frame by putting the inner frame in place vertically. Draw a line on the inner frame where you need to cut, then cut and sand the edge smooth if necessary. Attach the brackets to the frames using small screws.

3. Attach the Two Frames and Hang

Place the SANNAHED frames together, and attach them using four small screws. Use pliers to remove the metal pins (brackets) from the frame so you get a nice, clean look. Hang the shelf on your wall using the hardware of your choice.

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You Can Try So Many Shapes and Sizes With This Wall Shelf Hack

This hack looks stunning, but if you need something a little different, you have options!

Depending on the look you’re going for and the available wall space, you could make this hack horizontally. Simply place the frames side by side and attach them.

You could also use four frames and make one giant square rack, or do a taller shelf using three frames in a column.

Or get a little funky and do an L-shape or a T-shape. What other configurations can you think of?

How Much Does This Hack Cost?

Since all you really need are the frames, which are $24.99 each, you could make this rack for $50. If you need to get screws, add another few bucks to the total.

More Than Just Magazines!

This is a versatile hack because it doesn’t need to be just for magazines.

You could hang kitchen towels over the bottom bar and place your favorite cookbook on top.

Display a small collection of decorative bottles, use it as a spice rack, or, as @_keniii suggested, this hack could also work for extra-large children’s books.

If you need a little more wiggle room for the things you want to display, cut the sides of the brackets a bit longer. This makes them stick out a bit from the frame instead of sitting flush.

What do you think? What would you use this DIY shelf for if you decide to recreate it in your home? Would you keep the light wood, or would you try one of the other options, like black or a vibrant red? Share your hack with us!

Watch how these IKEA frames become a magazine rack that looks sleek and custom, and follow Sabrina @interior.with.sabi for more interior design inspiration and DIY ideas.

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