IKEA Hack: Kid's Art Center

I got the idea for the table from shisomama's blog. Since I usually work from home, I needed a place for Cole to be able to draw, color, use playdoh, etc. all within arm's reach. I set up this art center right next to my desk so that he can work right along side me. All of the items were purchased rather inexpensively from our local IKEA. For this project I used the LATT Children's Table with 2 Chairs, INDEX Curtain Rod, INDEX Curtain Hardware, SPONTAN Magnetic Bar, MALA Drawing Paper, GRUNDTAL Rail, BYGEL Container, RATIONELL Spice Rack and KALAS Tumblers.

























I assembled the LATT Table and Chairs as directed and then added the INDEX Curtain Hardware on the underneath of the longer side of the table. Note that the hardware has to be installed upside down. You'll think that the curtain rod will not hold, but once you tighten the included screws it will stay just fine. After you have installed the hardware, take the INDEX Curtain Rod apart and only use half of it. Thread the rod through the MALA Drawing Paper and attach the rod to the curtain hardware. Be sure to tighten the screws at tight as possible to secure the paper.

















The next step is to attach the SPONTAN Magnetic Rail to the side of the table. This keeps the paper from unraveling and gives you a nice edge to tear the paper on. Be sure not to screw in the middle hole and don't tighten the screws too tight or you won't be able to thread the paper under it.

















If I know we won't be using the paper roll for a while I fold it over and use the magnets to secure the paper. This keeps it from slipping down and it keeps curious hands from picking at the torn paper edge.

















Right above the table I hung the RATIONELL Spice Rack. That's where we keep coloring books and small note books and the KALAS Tumblers filled with crayons.















Higher up on the wall I hung the GRUNDTAL Rail with 3 BYGEL Containers. In these I store Markers, Colored Pencils and other items I don't want little hands to have easy access to.








































Cole loves using his table for all sorts of arts and craft projects.