How to Convert an IKEA Armchair into a Nursery Rocker: Easy DIY Guide

In the corner of a nursery, an armchair to nursery rocker conversion.

When we were setting up the nursery before Eleanor was born, people kept telling us how we needed a rocking chair. As first-time parents, we weren’t sure if it was truly essential—especially since the ones from Buy Buy Baby or Pottery Barn were hundreds of dollars. It felt like one of those items we could put off until we absolutely had to (kind of like the car seat Alex installed in the hospital parking lot the day after Eleanor was born).

But then inspiration struck—what if we could do a DIY nursery rocker conversion with the old IKEA armchair we already had? It was comfortable, matched the nursery’s color scheme, and didn’t have a proper home in our new place. It seemed like the perfect budget-friendly nursery idea.

Alex wasn’t sold at first, imagining a disaster where the rocker parts would detach mid-soothing session, leaving me and the baby in a heap on the floor. But after some convincing, we gave it a shot. Fast forward to the last weeks of pregnancy: we had our converted armchair nursery rocker, and it worked beautifully. This nursery rocker DIY project took less than an hour, cost just $60, and provided the perfect spot for reading stories and bonding with our baby.

On This Page

Tools and Materials Needed for Your DIY Rocker

Here’s everything you’ll need for this home DIY project:

IKEA Strandmon wing chair (or another armchair with similar legs)
Rocker runners
1” spade bit
Four 2.5-inch screws
Measuring tape
Drill with standard bits

(Make sure you already have the basics from our DIY toolbox checklist!)

Step-by-Step Guide: Converting an Armchair into a Rocker

We were kind of worried we might need to know anything about physics to figure out how to attach these runners. Alex was going full Zach-Galifianakis-doing-math meme trying to figure it out and I just kind of held the runners up next to the legs and was like, welp, that seems about right.

Plan Your Rocker Placement: First, orient the rocker runners correctly. The more curved part faces the back, while the stubby end points toward the front.
Measure and Drill Holes for the Front Legs: Measure 3.5 inches from the front of the runner and drill a hole using the 1” spade bit. This hole should create a snug pocket for the chair’s front feet. Pro tip: Drill straight down toward the ground, not at an angle. Having someone hold the runners steady while drilling can make this step easier.
Drill Holes for the Back Legs: Using your front leg placement as a guide, measure 21.25 inches back (straight across, not along the curve of the rocker) to determine where the back legs will sit. Drill the holes for the back legs the same way, ensuring precision for a secure fit.
Secure the Chair to the Rocker Runners: Once all four feet fit snugly into the holes, drill a pilot hole through each runner and attach the feet using 2.5-inch screws. This will keep everything secure and stable.
Optional Finishing Touches: If the runners don’t match your chair’s color, you can stain or paint them for a seamless look. The unfinished runners are easy to customize to fit any baby nursery ideas you have in mind.

Tips for a Safe and Successful Rocker Conversion

We (cautiously) tested out our DIY armchair to nursery rocker conversion and are glad to report, it’s been several months and nobody has fallen to their death in the night. Our favorite house project helper even approves now she’s out in the world.

Test the Fit: Make sure the feet sit tightly in the drilled holes before securing them with screws.
Drill Carefully: Avoid drilling through the runners entirely. You only need a shallow pocket for the feet.
Check Stability: Once assembled, gently rock the chair to ensure it feels secure before regular use.
Consider Alternative Chairs: If you don’t have an IKEA Strandmon, look for other armchairs with sturdy, straight legs for your IKEA chair conversion project.

FAQs About DIY Nursery Rocker Conversions

Can any armchair be converted into a rocker?
Yes, as long as the legs are compatible with rocker runners and the chair is sturdy. Avoid chairs with uneven or overly delicate legs.

How much does it cost to DIY a nursery rocker?
Typically, $50–$100, depending on what materials you already have. This project cost us $60, including the runners and drill bit.

Is this project safe for daily use?
When done correctly, the chair is as safe as any standard nursery rocker. Secure fittings and careful assembly are key.

How long does it take to convert an armchair into a nursery rocker?
This project takes about an hour, making it an easy weekend or evening DIY home project.

DIY Armchair to Nursery Rocker Conversion

Why a DIY Nursery Rocker is Worth It

This budget-friendly nursery furniture project saved us hundreds of dollars compared to buying a brand-new rocker. Plus, repurposing our old IKEA chair was a sustainable choice that added a personal touch to the nursery. Several months in, the chair remains sturdy and comfortable—a true win for baby nursery ideas that combine creativity and practicality.

If you enjoyed this DIY armchair to nursery rocker conversion, sign up to our newsletter where we share all of our favorite DIY updates and follow along on Instagram.