Decided to build your own furniture? Here's a step by step guide to avoid unnecessary issues!
Step 1, when ordering your items, check reviews of the product online, anything under 4 out of 5 stars and you could be ordering a substandard product, or something that is unnecessarily difficult to assemble.
Step 2, measure to make sure that the item you're ordering will fit in the space you have, especially if you need to lie it down to assemble it (more on this later)
Step 3, when it arrives, if possible ask for the delivery company to deliver it to the room where it is being assembled (easier with 2 people as some items can be extremely heavy).
Step 4, ensure you have the right tools, a good quality set of screwdrivers can make all the difference between a well constructed item and lots of threaded screws.
Step 5, make sure you have plenty of room to assemble the item. In the case of wardrobes, most will need to be built face down on the floor. We can move beds etc of the way if needed, but this can add to time and cost involved. There are exceptions, such as IKEA pax wardrobes which can be built upright, make sure you have a stepladder to hand if you are building them upright, especially the extra tall versions.
Step 6, unpack all items to make sure nothing is missing, or damaged. There's nothing worse than getting half way through a build to find a huge crack down one of the items. When opening the boxes be careful not to mark any items, especially if using a knife.
Step 7, read the instructions before assembly (not just step 1, read it all the way through, you'll thank me later). Sometimes the instructions, may not match the items you have, so it's worth reading through twice to make sure it looks and functions as it should.
Step 8, assemble your item! Follow the instructions, make sure you are using the correct screws, and don't over tighten anything until you complete each section.
Make sure backs to wardrobes are well attached (careful not to damage the sides when hammering in the tacks!) Adjust your wardrobe doors according to instructions (not an easy job but practice makes perfect).
Step 9, move your item into position, being extremely careful not to damage any parts, especially feet, this can be extra difficult on thick carpets, be careful!
Step 10, you're all finished! Take a photo, and brag to your friends about your success. You're now on your way to starting a flat pack furniture assembly business 😁