IKEA Lack : Audiophile Rack

Materials:
– (6) IKEA Lack Side Tables
– (10) Corner Brackets w/Screws
– (12) 2×5/8in Mending Plates w/Screws
– (4) Brass Hooded Ball Casters w/Plate
– (1) Electric Compound Miter Saw
– (1) Electric Screw Driver/Drill
– (1) 1/8in Wood Drill Bit
– (1) #2 Philips Driver Bit

Description: I wanted a sturdy rack on the cheap with modern style and clean lines. The IKEA Lack Side Table provided the look I wanted.

Step One: Measure your audio components height and additional clearance requirements for proper heat dissipation and venting. If needed confer with the manufactures user manuals.

Step Two: For each shelf you will use four legs provided with each IKEA Lack Side Table. Trim all four legs to your desired shelf height paying close attention to making all four legs exactly the same length.

(Tip) Apply Masking Tape around where you intend to cut, also if possible cut 2-4 of the legs at the same time. If you can only cut in pairs, label those front or rear.

Step Three: One of the IKEA Lack tables will not need it’s legs, but save those as extras for bad cuts or when your shelf height needs change, so can your rack. Attach the Ball Casters to the bottom corners or your Lack table top, leaving a 1/4 gap closest to the corners. It’s best to pre-drill these holes and drive the screws with less than half of your drills torque.

Step Four: Assemble the rest of the IKEA Lack Tables as per the instructions, paying mind to which legs present the most accurate, level, and clean cuts facing the front.

Step Four: Stack your tables to form the rack for a dry fit and make overall measurements. These are to make sure the rack doesn’t interfere with other furniture or unforeseen architectural detail of your space. (Adjust Accordingly)

Step Five: Once you’ve confirmed that all components fit the shelves as you have desired and the rack fits your space as required. Unstack and remember the order of shelves, possibly even labeled from top to bottom.

Starting with the base, stack and secure the above shelf by attaching the Corner Brackets to the rear of the front facing legs as pictured below.

Finally attach Mending Plates to the rear of the rack, securing one shelf, to the above shelf’s leg supports.

SUMMARY: This is a very easy and intuitive hack. Hopefully I’ve included enough details to the concept and I can assure you, it’s a sturdy build when done. Remember, measure twice, drill nice (Don’t over torque screws).

~ Eric Franklin Shook, Raleigh, NC