We know better than most that DIY fitted wardrobes are a brilliant option if you want to add bespoke storage to your bedroom.
But if you haven’t done much DIY before, how easy is it to build your own fitted wardrobes? And what skills and tools do you need to ensure you get a professional finish?
We’re going to talk you through the tools you’ll need to assemble one of our made to measure wardrobes, as well as share the recommended skills for this task.
The good news is that our wardrobes are designed to be simple to install, but we always recommend that you hire a carpenter if you’re unsure of your abilities or simply for additional peace of mind that your wardrobes will be safely installed in your home.
What tools do you need to install DIY fitted wardrobes?
There are several tools you’ll need to properly install our DIY fitted wardrobes. They are:
- Spirit level
- Screwdriver
- Mallet
- Compass and pencil
- Jigsaw
The spirit level is essential to ensure that you get all the components, well, level. This piece of equipment will show you whether you have your shelves in straight and whether your vertical elements like doors are hanging correctly.
Screwdrivers are basic pieces of DIY kit and we’re sure you have one lying around. You’ll need this to affix the flatpack components together to build your wardrobe.
Similarly, the mallet is there to help you attach the feet of your wardrobe and make sure they are fitted securely.
The compass, pencil and jigsaw, meanwhile, are required for you to fit the wardrobe to your room. This is how you give your furniture a bespoke finish.
The compass and its pencil are the drawing tool that will mark where you need to cut the side panel to ensure it fits flush to your wall and goes smoothly around any skirting boards.
Once you’ve marked the line where you need to cut the panel, you can use your jigsaw to trim the panel that’s provided to fit your space.
What DIY skills do I need to have to install a fitted wardrobe?
The main skill you will need is being able to use a jigsaw safely and accurately. Always remember these are cutting tools with a sharp blade and if you are in any doubt about your abilities, seek professional support instead.
If you’ve never used a jigsaw before, you may want to find some scrap wood to practise on before you attempt to trim down the side panels of your fitted wardrobe.
The key when you’re using a jigsaw is to take the process slowly. While you need to move the blade forward as you cut, you don’t need to apply too much pressure. Let the tool do its work.
Otherwise you need basic skills with a screwdriver and mallet. All of our fitted wardrobes come with pre-drilled holes to make assembly as quick and easy as possible once your wardrobe arrives at your home.
Can I install a fitted wardrobe on my own?
Because of the size of a wardrobe, we recommend getting a second person to help you when you install your fitted wardrobe.
This will mean you’ve got an extra pair of hands to not only lift the wardrobe up and move it into place when it’s finished, but also to hold components like sides, shelves and doors steady as you’re screwing them together.
Ultimately this makes the whole process a lot easier and also a bit more fun! It is also important for your safety, as some of the components can be challenging to move around on your own, not to mention heavy if you drop them.
What tools do I need to measure for a fitted wardrobe?
Before you order your DIY fitted wardrobe from us, you’ll need to measure your space as this will dictate the components we produce for you.
All you need to do so is a tape measure, and a pencil and piece of paper to note down the relevant measurements.
Using a tape measure, you can easily do this on your own – just make sure you follow our guides for how to measure different areas, because the measurements we need for a wardrobe that will be installed in an alcove will be slightly different to the ones we need for a wall-to-wall fitted wardrobe.
Depending on the size of the space you are measuring, you may find it useful to have a second person to help you.
Our top tip here is to double check your measurements before placing your order. It’s far better to realise any mistakes before you start designing as this will save you ordering a wardrobe that doesn’t quite fit.
We’ll prompt you to review your measurements and confirm their accuracy before you submit your final order. So, if you are unsure, please do get a second opinion or support from a friend or family member.
What should I do if I don’t feel comfortable building my own fitted wardrobe?
If, after reading this, you don’t feel confident in your DIY skills and want some support with installing your own fitted wardrobe, we recommend reaching out to a local carpenter for some help.
You certainly won’t be alone given that only 54 per cent of Brits describe themselves as capable of DIY.
Not only will these professionals have all the tools required (and plenty more) to install a wardrobe, they will also have the skills to ensure a polished finish, which is what you want from your new bedroom furniture.
After all, one of the main reasons to invest in fitted wardrobes is to make your bedroom feel more cohesive and tidier. So, if you are not sure whether you are up to the task, we suggest getting a professional to help out.
If you know you’re going to want a professional carpenter to support you with the installation, you could always ask them to measure up for your wardrobes as part of the service.
That way you will have complete peace of mind that your fitted wardrobes will be manufactured to the correct specifications and that you’ve got someone on hand to ensure the finish once they’re installed is perfect.
