6 Inspirational Hacks that Make IKEA’s $10 LACK Table Look Like a Million Bucks

published Mar 24, 2020
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IKEA LACK side table in black
Credit: IKEA

IKEA lack tables are amazing for several reasons. First of all, they’re extremely affordable, retailing for just $9.99 each; and second, they’re super versatile. The sleek, simple design means that they can be adapted to suit a bunch of different decor styles, and they’re the perfect size to serve as side table coffee table, TV stand, and more. But the third—and most important—reason why we love these tables so much is because the hacking possibilities are endless. No matter your level of DIY experience or your personal style, there are plenty of ways that you can transform these plain tables into the luxe-looking piece of furniture you’ve always wanted. Check out the seven projects below to get inspired.

Add overlay to the edges

If you’re a fan of traditional design and love a classic Greek key trim, blogger Tiffany Olson’s project is the one for you. The textured overlay makes plain white LACK tables look extra luxe. Cut glass on top will help preserve the tables over time and make it easy to wipe off cup rings and other stains.

Credit: Paul Tran

Revamp the top with an Art Deco pattern

Blogger Paul Tran kept the sides and legs of his LACK table as-is, choosing to embellish the top with an Art Deco pattern. This revamped table looks like something you might spot in a high-end furniture store, but really the project can be replicated using super cheap wood lath. It’s proof that a little money spent on extra details can go a long way.

Upholster the top to create a footstool

The wide, flat top of the LACK table makes it a versatile piece of furniture. Blogger Monica Mangin turned hers into a cute footstool by covering it with quilt batting and fabric.

Credit: Anam

Create a colorful, intricate pattern with stencils

If you’re a fan of some good stencil art, you may want to copy blogger Anam of Delicious and DIY. She first painted her LACK tables blue before selecting a stencil pattern and filling it in with poppy colors.

Make a pair of matching ottomans

Blogger Genevieve Chambliss also thought outside the box and turned her set of LACK tables into ottomans. Lined up side by side, they work as a large coffee table; they can also be separated to use as side tables with a small tray set atop the fabric. LACK tables work great for this kind of versatile setup since they’re light enough to easily be moved around from room to room as often ass extra surface area is needed.

Credit: Mark Montano

Embellish the corners

Blogger Mark Montano added details to an unexpected part of his LACK table, and we’re blown away by the results. The intricate sides were constructed out of plywood and then painted in modern, glossy hues for a cool Art Deco vibe.