This is the second of a two-part tutorial: Miniature IKEA Kallax Bookcase (part 1 being the boxes). If you are an IKEA fan, this is a must-make!
How do you refer to Kallax sizes? 4×4 or 16 cubes? They’re pretty much the same, but I do the former as it’s easier 🙂
This tutorial includes templates and measurements for 4×4, 2×4, and 1×4 Kallax.
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Materials and Tools
Material options:
The measurements of these bookcases are based on using a 1/16″ (~1.5mm) material. I normally use 1/16″ basswood. You can also use balsa wood or backing board/matboard of the same thickness.
- 1/16″ basswood (my favorite brand is MidWest)
- 1/16″ balsa wood
- 4-ply backing board or matboard (usually used for framing)
Tools to make this project 100000% easier:
I highly recommend Cricut Maker if you use basswood. Not only it does the cutting for you, it also cuts more accurately than a human can with a craft knife. With this machine, all of your cuts will be straight, and in the right measurements.
If it’s not an option for you, a good craft knife that I would use is X-acto light-duty box cutter, plus a non-slip metal ruler to help you get straight cuts.
Templates for Miniature IKEA Kallax Bookcase
I’ve made 3 versions of the cube bookcase: 4×4, 2×4, and 1×4. Each in 1:12 and 1:16 scale. You can download the PDF measurement guide here:
Additionally, you can access the SVG cut files from my resource library.
Importing and Resizing SVG file into Cricut Design Space
This post has the video tutorial on how to import and resize SVG file into Design Space, if you plan to cut using a Cricut Maker.
How to Assemble Miniature IKEA Kallax Bookcase
*** NOTE: If you plan to stain, do it right now, not after glueing/assembly.***
Step 1: Assemble the inner shelves/dividers
For the 2×4 and 4×4 cube, assemble the inner dividers first. The notches are great for making everything square. This was a happy accident, by the way. Originally I cut out the individual dividers, but had a hard time lining them up straight and square. So I redesigned the SVG with notches instead, and it worked out much better!
Step 2: Assemble the outer frame layers
Each outer frame has two layers: the outermost layer and the inner layer that is 1/8″ shorter. Glue them together at the center, with 1/16″ overhang at each end.
The top and bottom outer frames should look like this:
… and the vertical sides should look like this:
You may need to clamp or weigh down the pieces as they dry, to eliminate any gaps.
Step 3: Connect the top outer frame to the vertical frames
Connect the top outer frame to the vertical frame using staggered corner like pictured. The top frame should nestle inside the vertical frame. Repeat on the other side.
Step 4: Insert the inner shelves/dividers into the outer frame
Glue/install the dividers at 1-1/6″ apart (for 1:12 scale) or 13/16″ apart (for 1:16 scale).
1×4 cube dividers will need manual measuring on your part.
2×4 cube dividers are easier, just make sure that the shorter dividers are straight and square.
4×4 cube dividers should need no or very little adjustments.
Step 5: Connect the bottom outer frame
Once the dividers are installed, glue/attach the last part of the outer frame (the bottom) to complete.
Then you can proceed with painting.
Don’t forget to make boxes that fit into these bookcases!
Hi Rita
Wonderful stuff! I’m a newbie to the Cricut Maker and I so appreciate your files and help in making Minis. My attempts to cut by hand aren’t brilliant, I’m one of those people who struggles with straight lines!
As soon as I can, I’m going to make the chair then the Kallax.
Please could I pick your brains about using the Cricut to make carved wood/ false marquetry panels in 1:12 scale for sideboards and bedside cabinets fronts?
I’ve got a few inspiration photos but no clue where to start.
Hi Gill, same reason why I got the Cricut Maker! For false panels, I would probably use cardstock, and if the wood look is important, I would use wood veneer. For designing, I would use Inkscape. This is probably the biggest learning curve, especially if we’ve never used a design app. I’m still going through design process with trial and error 😜