Expert: Jamie Yocono - 8/5/2006

Question
Hi Jamie,

We had bought an Ikea queen size bed around 1.5 years back. A few days back the middle plank of the bed was broken.

Inquired at Ikea website and seems that they dont sell individual parts. Now the bed is still like new and we dont want to throw it off.

Please could you let us know where we can get anything similar.

Regards,
Rashmi.

PS .. We are living in Chicago, IL

Answer
Hi Rashmi,

It sounds to me like you're not going to find the replacement part for that Ikea bed, am I correct? What I would try to do is look for a woodworker in your area to make the a piece for you. If it's just a simple bed slat, I don't think it's going to be that difficult.

Here's what I would do- start at your local woodworking store, like WOODCRAFT SUPPLY in Palatine, (847) 776-1184. Or try Rockler Woodworking & Hardware in Schaumburg (847) 310-0447.

Both are national woodworking chains, and they usually have many woodworkers hanging around, especially on a Saturday morning, just browsing or bragging about their woodworking skills. They may even have a bulletin board where people can hand a business card, so you might be able to locate a small woodshop in your area that can help you.

Next, if you don't find someone that way- ask them which high schools in the area have a woodworking program. When I used to take woodshop, we always had people stopping in asking us to make or repair something. So a high school program is your next step.

Third- look for adult education classes in your area. Chicago is a hotbed for woodworking, and there has to be some classes like this. I taught for nearly 10 years with the University of Akron, and I can't tell you how many times people would come by, needing something fixed.

My last suggestion- there is an organization called the Furniture Society (www.furnituresociety.org) that is made up of woodworkers who build great stuff. On the FS website, there is a member list, which is broken down by regions. I would do a search there for a woodshop in your area, and then make a few calls to see who can help you out. I get calls like this from time to time, I know other FS members must get calls like this, too.

OK, I hope this helps. Please feel free to write back if you have any further questions after reading this. Good luck, I'm sure you'll find someone to help you out with this repair, it sounds pretty simple.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com