Miniature IKEA Kallax Bookcase (Tutorial + SVG/Template)

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 sheet
  • I recommend MidWest Products basswood sheets in 8″ wide if you can find them, or at least 6″ wide (on eBay)
• 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 (don’t forget the purple StrongGrip mat and Knife Blade). Not only it does the cutting for you, it also cuts more accurately than a human can with a craft knife and a ruler. With this machine, all of your cuts will be straight, and in the right measurements.

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:

• 1:12 scale
  • 4×4 cube
  • 2×4 cube
  • 1×4 cube
• 1:16 scale
  • 4×4 cube
  • 2×4 cube
  • 1×4 cube

Additionally, you can access the SVG cut files from my resource library.

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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.

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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.

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Don’t forget to make boxes that fit into these bookcases!

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Made your own? I’d love to know!

What motivates me the most is seeing you use my tutorials to make your own minis! There are many ways you can share your projects:

• comment below to let me know (or if you have any questions about it–for the benefit of others also!)
• link back to my site or this tutorial,
• tag me on Facebook or Instagram,
• share your version on my Facebook group!

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