When it comes to transforming your space with IKEA hacks, designer Emily Henderson is a fan. Even if she doesn’t consider herself a pro. In fact, Henderson loves clever IKEA hacks that bring style and warmth to a room without heavy lifting.

From reimagining a simple wood bed frame to playing with creative upholstery, her favorite projects show that even a small effort can bring big results. So, if you are into fresh ideas but prefer low-lift solutions, these hacks will make you fall for DIY.

Why IKEA Hacks Are Perfect for Simple, Stylish Upgrades?

Let’s face it: IKEA furniture is known for its practicality and affordability, but sometimes it needs a bit of character to blend into a unique home. IKEA hacks are all about customizing those basics to create something more personal - without investing in expensive designer furniture.

Emily / IG / For Emily Henderson, the charm of an IKEA hack lies in its accessibility. She may not consider herself a master DIYer! But she is passionate about design that is easy to achieve, even for beginners.

Henderson’s approach to IKEA hacks is all about making a high-impact change with minimal effort. Her go-to projects take standard IKEA pieces and add just enough personality to elevate them, proving that a simple hack can turn budget-friendly furniture into a cozy, stylish piece.

So, if you love the look of custom interiors but want something approachable, her recommendations are spot-on.

The Tarva Bed Frame Makeover is Emily’s Top Pick

For those not eager to jump into full-blown furniture construction, Emily’s Tarva bed frame hack is a brilliant introduction to IKEA hacks. The Tarva is a basic wooden bed frame, but its simplicity offers a blank slate for customization.

Henderson’s favorite approach? Upholstering the headboard. It is an easy upgrade that transforms the bed from ordinary to a unique focal point in the room.

Henderson worked on this hack for her son’s bedroom, choosing a vintage fabric and soft batting to give the bed a cozy, layered look. She added two sheets of batting for extra comfort, then topped it off with a fabric she loved. By securing everything with a staple gun, she turned a basic bed frame into a one-of-a-kind piece.

The best part is that you don’t need advanced skills to make this hack work. It is perfect for anyone wanting a fresh, comfortable headboard without too much fuss.

Painting and Cushioning the Headboard

Emily’s team alumna, Julie Rose, took this IKEA hack in a different direction with paint and cushions. For a more modern look, Julie painted the Tarva frame black, giving it a sleek, timeless appeal. But she didn’t stop there. Julie added a large, cushioned panel draped over the headboard.

Designer's Corner / If you are a little creative with IKEA furniture, you can turn the simple wooden frame into a statement piece that is both chic and comfortable.

With just some fabric, paint, and a little sewing, you can create a bed that looks high-end but feels incredibly inviting. You bet! It is ideal for anyone hesitant about complicated DIY.

Pick the Perfect Fabric for Your Upholstery Hack

Choosing the right fabric is crucial to making an upholstered IKEA hack look incredible. Emily recommends going for a material that complements the room’s color scheme while adding a touch of personality. Vintage fabrics are her favorites. They add unique textures to any piece and give it a lived-in feel.

When choosing fabric, consider its durability - especially if it is for a bed frame that will get a lot of use.

While upholstery might seem challenging, this hack doesn’t require perfect skills. Just lay out the batting and fabric, use a staple gun to secure it, and smooth out any creases.