how to put kallax together

Easy Kallax Assembly: Step-by-Step Guide

By David Williams
AD

Embarking on a furniture assembly journey? Today, we're going to tackle the Kallax, a versatile and stylish storage solution from IKEA. With its modular design, the Kallax offers endless possibilities for organization and decor. Let's dive into a step-by-step guide on how to put your Kallax together, ensuring a smooth and successful assembly.

Before we start, gather your Kallax unit, an Allen key (usually provided), and a Phillips screwdriver. Clear your workspace, and ensure you have enough room to maneuver around the unit. Now, let's break down the assembly process into manageable sections.

Understanding the Kallax Components

The Kallax comes with several components, including shelves, side panels, back panels, and feet. Familiarizing yourself with these parts will help you follow the instructions more efficiently.

AD
IKEA KALLAX shelf insert: Easily divide the cube with these hacks
IKEA KALLAX shelf insert: Easily divide the cube with these hacks
How to Assemble IKEA Kallax Shelf
How to Assemble IKEA Kallax Shelf
How to connect two KALLAX shelving units into one
How to connect two KALLAX shelving units into one

Each Kallax unit has a specific number of shelves and dimensions, so ensure you have the correct model. The most common Kallax sizes are 2x2, 4x4, and 5x5, referring to the number of shelves in each row and column.

Identifying Shelves and Panels

Shelves are the horizontal components that hold your items. They come in various depths, from 12 to 21 inches, depending on your Kallax model. Panels, on the other hand, are the vertical components that provide structure and support for the shelves.

a white bookcase with the words craft room makeover part 2
a white bookcase with the words craft room makeover part 2
12 Easy Ikea Kallax Hacks You Can Do In A Weekend
12 Easy Ikea Kallax Hacks You Can Do In A Weekend
a man standing on top of a white shelf holding a sign
a man standing on top of a white shelf holding a sign

Side panels are the tall, narrow pieces that attach to the sides of your Kallax unit. Back panels are shorter and wider, providing additional support and stability. Some Kallax models may not include back panels, so check your specific unit's instructions.

Locating the Feet and Connectors

The Kallax comes with adjustable feet that help level your unit and protect your floor. These are typically attached to the side panels. Additionally, you'll find connectors or brackets that help secure the shelves to the panels.

AD

Connectors come in various shapes and sizes, depending on your Kallax model. Some may be L-shaped, while others might be straight or have a different design. Always refer to your specific unit's instructions for accurate information.

How to connect bookcases or shelves together securely
How to connect bookcases or shelves together securely
Ikea Kallax Ideas For Stylish Storage Solutions
Ikea Kallax Ideas For Stylish Storage Solutions
IKEA Kallax Makeover Ideas That Will Make You Fall in Love With Your Shelves Again
IKEA Kallax Makeover Ideas That Will Make You Fall in Love With Your Shelves Again
an old dresser with several drawers and the words 3 stunning ikea kallax hacks
an old dresser with several drawers and the words 3 stunning ikea kallax hacks
We built in the KALLAX for a totally new look
We built in the KALLAX for a totally new look
DIY Mum Builds Massive IKEA KALLAX Wardrobe for Just $300
DIY Mum Builds Massive IKEA KALLAX Wardrobe for Just $300

Assembling the Kallax Frame

With the components identified, let's start building the Kallax frame. This will serve as the foundation for your unit.

Begin by attaching the side panels to the back panels. Use the provided screws and a Phillips screwdriver to secure them together. Ensure the panels are flush with each other and the screw holes align correctly.

AD

Attaching the Side Panels

Start by placing the back panel on a flat surface. Position a side panel against it, ensuring the edges are flush. Align the screw holes and insert a screw into the first hole. Tighten it gently using the Phillips screwdriver, then repeat the process for the remaining holes.

IKEA KALLAX Hack for Small Space Storage That Looks Built-In
IKEA KALLAX Hack for Small Space Storage That Looks Built-In
Cover up the KALLAX bookcase in 3 easy steps
Cover up the KALLAX bookcase in 3 easy steps
25 Ikea Kallax Hacks - How to Customize Plain Storage Cubes
25 Ikea Kallax Hacks - How to Customize Plain Storage Cubes
Trick Your Kallax: 8 Feet of Floor to Ceiling Storage
Trick Your Kallax: 8 Feet of Floor to Ceiling Storage
Kallax Ikea Hack 🛠
Kallax Ikea Hack 🛠
How to add legs to an IKEA KALLAX shelf
How to add legs to an IKEA KALLAX shelf
5 Minute Kallax Door Hack - NO Cutting, NO Sanding, NO Painting!
5 Minute Kallax Door Hack - NO Cutting, NO Sanding, NO Painting!
46 Ikea Kallax Hacks and Ideas in 2026
46 Ikea Kallax Hacks and Ideas in 2026
Under 50$ DIY doors for cube storages! #budgetfriendly #cabinet 🪵🏡 #diy
Under 50$ DIY doors for cube storages! #budgetfriendly #cabinet 🪵🏡 #diy
the top shelf is painted white and has red trim on it, with an arrow pointing to
the top shelf is painted white and has red trim on it, with an arrow pointing to
Looking to separate a room on a budget? Then this IKEA KALLAX hack is for you ❤️
Looking to separate a room on a budget? Then this IKEA KALLAX hack is for you ❤️
IKEA Hack - Mounting KALLAX on the Wall
IKEA Hack - Mounting KALLAX on the Wall

Once both side panels are securely attached to the back panel, your Kallax frame should start taking shape. Double-check that all panels are firmly attached and the frame is square. If necessary, use a measuring tape to ensure the diagonals are equal, indicating a square shape.

Securing the Back Panels (if applicable)

If your Kallax unit includes back panels, attach them now. Position the back panel against the frame, ensuring it's flush with the back edges of the side panels. Align the screw holes and secure the back panel using the provided screws and a Phillips screwdriver.

AD

Some Kallax models may not have back panels. In this case, you can skip this step and proceed to the next section. Always refer to your specific unit's instructions for accurate guidance.

Installing the Shelves

Now that the Kallax frame is assembled, it's time to install the shelves. This will provide the storage space you need and complete the look of your unit.

Before installing the shelves, ensure you have the correct connectors or brackets. These will help secure the shelves to the panels and provide additional support.

Attaching the Connectors

Locate the connectors or brackets that came with your Kallax unit. These are typically L-shaped or have a specific design that fits into the shelf's edge and the panel's groove.

Position a connector into the groove on the inside of a side panel. Align it with the corresponding hole on the shelf, then insert a screw through the connector and into the shelf. Tighten the screw gently using the Phillips screwdriver. Repeat this process for all shelves and panels.

Some Kallax models may have shelves that slide into place without connectors. In this case, simply position the shelf into the groove on the side panels and ensure it's level. Skip the connector installation step and proceed to the next subheading.

Placing the Shelves onto the Connectors

With the connectors securely attached to the side panels, it's time to place the shelves onto them. Start by positioning the bottom shelf onto the connectors. Ensure it's level and flush with the bottom of the side panels.

Use the provided Allen key to tighten the screws on the connectors. This will secure the shelf to the panels and provide additional stability. Repeat this process for each shelf, working your way up the Kallax unit.

Attaching the Feet

The final step in assembling your Kallax unit is attaching the feet. These will help level your unit and protect your floor from scratches.

Locate the feet that came with your Kallax unit. These are typically attached to the bottom of the side panels or the back panel, depending on your specific model.

Securing the Feet

Position a foot onto the bottom of a side panel or back panel, ensuring it's flush with the edge. Align the screw holes and secure the foot using the provided screws and a Phillips screwdriver. Repeat this process for all feet, ensuring they're evenly spaced and level.

Once all feet are securely attached, your Kallax unit is complete! Give it a gentle shake to ensure everything is securely attached. If necessary, tighten any screws that may have loosened during assembly.

Congratulations on successfully assembling your Kallax unit! Now that you have a stylish and functional storage solution, it's time to fill it with your favorite books, decor, or essentials. Enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done and the endless possibilities that come with your new Kallax.

AD