Looking for an easy way to update a bookcase? Here’s a step-by-step on how to add bead trim to a bookcase. It’s so simple.
// bead trim //
Can I just tell you how thankful I am for you?
Yes, you.
Thank you for showing up and leaving tips like these, and for celebrating announcements with me and leaving me the sweetest messages of encouragement. I’ve been writing this blog for over 12 years now, and I never get tired of it.
And it’s all because of you.
My brain is still full to the brim of projects, updates, and makeovers. The house is going to be on a Christmas tour, so of course, I’m going room by room with little makeovers and updates (we are about to add a new runner and completely repaint and makeover the back entry).
Stay tuned.
But for today? I have a fun project for you. If you’ve been reading this blog for more than 5 seconds, you know I’m all about an EASY DIY.
And this one took only 7 minutes and 32 seconds.
See this bead trim?
It’s under $10.
And I used it to make over this.
// blue and white rug // white spindle chair (similar)// blue and white curtains (similar) //spool side table //
// blue and white rug // white spindle chair (similar)//spool side table //
Remember when I redid this office?
You can see the before and after here.
I added these wall-to-wall bookcases from IKEA.
They are called Billy bookcases and they come plain or with doors or with glass doors like these.
Here’s a close-up of the doors we added.
Each of the doors has a panel below with an inset.
The doors are fine.
But why have fine when you can make them EVEN CUTER?
// blue european linen popover dress // gold sandals (size up)// bead trim //
I used this white bead trim for this project.
It’s so easy to use. It comes with sticky tape that peels off and then you can adhere it to the cabinet.
Or there’s glue that you can use, too.
But wait. I’m getting ahead of myself.
Here’s the before and after and the step-by-step for the project.
How to Add Bead Trim to a Bookcase
supplies:
glue or sticky tape (comes with the kit)
scissors
1. Measure and cut bead trim
This bead trim is super flexible. It comes in several different sizes so you can adjust how large you want your molding to be. I ordered the 10mm and the roll was under $10.
Measure the top of the inside of the cabinets trim.
Cut the trim to size.
It’s moldable, and it’s so easy to cut—all you need are scissors.
Quick tip: cut it slightly longer than needed because you may need to adjust slightly, and it’s easier to do that if you have extra trim.
2. Cut sticky tape to length of bead trim
The kit comes with a sticky tape.
Don’t worry—the red is just the backing.
The tape itself is clear. Cut the piece of tape to the length of the individual piece of bead trim.
3. Pull off sticky back
Once the piece is cut, it’s time to peel off the sticky back.
Separate the red backing from the clear sticky tape and adhere to the piece of molding.
The tape is SUPER STICKY and kind of stretchy, so it’s a little challenging to maneuver.
The kit also comes with glue if you’d rather use that.
4. Cut molding for the rest of cabinet insert
Now that the top piece is stuck in place, it’s time to add the rest of the molding.
It’s easier if you cut the top and bottom molding first, then the sides last.
Here’s what the corner looks like after it’s finished.
Here’s the before.
Here’s the after.
I only ordered enough molding for one door because I wasn’t sure if this was the right size of flexible bead molding or if I’d want to go larger with the beads. I seriously love it so much that I’m going to finish the rest of the doors now.
I just couldn’t wait to show it to you.
It comes in several different sizes so you can adjust how large you want your molding to be. I ordered the 10mm, and the roll was under $10.
You can see it here.
It’s seriously so flexible and so easy to use.
And now?
7 minutes and 32 seconds later?
These bookcases look so fancy.
PS I know this is COMPLETELY cabinet-unrelated, but I am in the middle of THE BEST BOOK right now. I had to stop listening to finish this post, but I’m about to start listening to the audio book now.
It’s called The Calamity Club by the author of The Help and you can see it here (you can thank me later).
Disclosure: affiliate links are used in this post.
Love it am so into beads right niw and the possibilities are endless. Great job looks amazing xxx
Right back at you. I'm retired now and it's like getting a idea filled email from a friend each morning. Thank you for always sharing your ideas and news with us. I don't want to rush fall, but it's super hot and humid here (Southern California) lately. It's not typical for us so I confess I'm a wimp. 😎 Have a great rest of your week. xx Karen B.
Always enjoy your enthusiasm, love for the hunt , and ur willingness to share. 12 years is a Lo-ong time. Saw a post yesterday on GOODWILL READING(I believe). Wanted to send u a pic. It paper art,inspiration for ur sister. Cant see that I can do that here. Hugs
What an Amazing add on. Im already thinking of all the places I could use this. Thanks again for another great idea!
Had no idea this existed! Thanks so much for sharing .. I have some really plain wardrobes that could use some love!
O M G! I have so many ideas swirling around in my head right now! I can't wait to try this on some less-than-beautiful cabinet doors. Thanks for the tip!
What a great way to enhance a piece of furniture or anything!!! I love it!
So cute!!! I love it!😍
This is such a cute idea, and love your cabinet and I think it will make them look dressed up, lol! You are so sweet to help us and come up with such great ideas, thanks.
The beading looks so nice. What an easy way to upgrade plain furniture. I’m all in for something I can do without asking my husband to get a saw out. Wow so exciting that you’re going to be on the Christmas home tour. I’m sure your mind is buzzing with lots of new decorating ideas! Your home always looks so lovely for Christmas.,
I’m having those exact bookcases installed in the next couple of weeks. I’m installing wallpaper on the back wall of the upper part of the cabinet, so my collections will pop. I’m also changing the knobs to vintage crystal one. I think both updates will give it a more built in look. I love your idea with the beading on the bottom half of the cabinet doors. Could you share how many rolls it took per sets of doors? I would really appreciate that, as I think your idea would take the entire look of the cabinet to the next level.
Love this! I saw that it also comes in a “wood” color. Soooo many uses for this! As always, thank you for all of your ideas!
Congratulations on being selected for the house tour, so exciting! The beadwork looks beautiful, very custom. Impressed with how you think of these ideas! Thank you! Cathy
That looks fantastic. I just love your little "look what I did with this" moments. They always turn out just so cute. Thanks foe sharing. I may add some to my french curio/ puppy cabinet.
This is a great idea! Thank You for another fun idea. Big Hugs
That’s so stinking cute ❣️
KariAnne, I love the bead work on your cabinet door. So crafty!!!! I love touring homes during the holidays! I may have to come to McKinney from Whitehouse in December just to meet you and tour your beautiful home.
Such a great idea I love it
Love this idea! You are extremely creative and I wish I had your energy:)
Oh my goodness, well I never! That is SO freaking clever. It takes those wonderful cabinets to a whole new high end custom level. I LOVE it - be sure to share when you get it all done - it's subtle but soooo well done. Whoo hoo.
I'm immediately going to do my Billy's! Thanks for showing this. I love it!