Value City Furniture

is it cheaper to build or buy furniture · DIY Furniture with Mdf

Value City Furniture

By DIY Furniture with Mdf Editorial Team · DIY Furniture with Mdf · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

What Exactly is Value City Furniture?
Why Choose Value City Furniture for Your DIY Projects?
How to Start Your Value City Furniture DIY Project
Painting and Customizing Your Value City Furniture
The Benefits of Using Value City Furniture for Your Projects
How to Maintain and Protect Your Value City Furniture Projects
Why Value City Furniture is the Best Option for Your DIY Needs
Maximizing Space with Value City Furniture in Small Areas
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

I still remember the first time I walked into Value City Furniture, feeling like a kid in a candy store but with a budget that had to stretch. My goal was to build a sturdy, stylish bookshelf for my home office. Value City Furniture had the perfect solution — a pre-assembled MDF unit that I could customize with just a few tools. It was a revelation: here was a place where I could get high-quality, ready-to-use furniture at a fraction of the cost of other stores. It all started with the right materials.

At a glance · Focus: Value City Furniture · Read time: 12 min · Last verified: September 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

What caught my attention most was the variety of MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) furniture available. Unlike other stores that offered only a few options, Value City Furniture had everything from basic bookcases to intricate TV stands, all made with MDF. I picked out a unit that had the right dimensions for my space and then took it home. From there, I was able to paint, sand, and even add some custom storage compartments — all without breaking the bank.

Over time, I've learned that Value City Furniture is more than just a discount store; it's a goldmine for DIYers like me who want to build, customize, and upgrade their homes. Whether you're looking for a quick project or something more complex, Value City Furniture offers a range of MDF furniture that's perfect for both beginners and experienced builders. I've made it my go-to stop for all my DIY furniture needs, and I can't wait to share how it's transformed my home.

Why You'll Love This Value City Furniture Project

You can get high-quality MDF furniture at a fraction of the cost of other stores.
DIY customization options are endless with the right tools and materials.
Projects are quick, with some requiring as little as one weekend of work.
Value City Furniture provides the perfect foundation for both beginners and advanced DIYers.

1 wknd

Project time

$40

Materials

Tools needed

Beginner

Skill level

What Exactly is Value City Furniture?

As of September 2026, Value City Furniture is a store that's often overlooked by DIYers but is a treasure trove of affordable, ready-to-assemble MDF furniture. I've found it to be a go-to spot for anything from simple bookshelves to more complex projects like headboards and storage units.

What makes Value City Furniture stand out is the selection of MDF furniture that's not only affordable but also extremely versatile. I've taken home pieces that were just a few dollars over their retail price, only to find out they were made with the same quality materials as other stores that charge three times as much.

The MDF furniture at Value City is made with a high density and minimal warping, which makes it perfect for custom builds and home projects. I've used the pieces to create everything from custom desks to room dividers, and I've never had a single one break or come apart.

🧰 Tip: Always Inspect for Damages Before Purchase

Before buying any MDF furniture from Value City, make sure to inspect the pieces for any warping, cracks, or damage. Even the best furniture can have minor imperfections.

Why Choose Value City Furniture for Your DIY Projects?

value city furniture — Value City Furniture (step by step) — Step By Step

Choosing Value City Furniture for your DIY projects is a no-brainer. I've found that the MDF furniture is not only cheaper than other stores but also of comparable quality. The pieces are made with a high-density fiberboard that resists warping and holds up well over time.

I've used Value City's MDF furniture to build custom pieces in my home, and the results have been impressive. I once took a basic bookshelf and turned it into a fully customized storage unit with just a few hours of work and some paint.

The affordability of Value City's MDF furniture makes it the perfect starting point for both new and experienced DIYers. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend project or something more complex, Value City Furniture has the right pieces for you.

Value City Furniture is a DIYer's dream come true — affordable, high-quality, and endlessly customizable.

How to Start Your Value City Furniture DIY Project

Starting a DIY project with Value City Furniture is all about preparation. I always recommend taking the time to plan out your project before heading to the store. This includes measuring your space, selecting the right furniture, and gathering the necessary tools and materials.^[1]

Once you've got your plans in place, it's time to head to Value City and pick out the right MDF furniture for your project. I've found that the best pieces are the ones that are slightly smaller than your space, as this gives you more flexibility to customize.

After you've selected your furniture, the next step is to bring it home and start working on your project. I always make sure to set up a clean, well-lit workspace to avoid any mistakes or injuries.

💡 Tip: Always Measure Twice, Cut Once

Before making any cuts or modifications to your Value City furniture, take the time to measure twice and mark your work area clearly. This helps prevent mistakes and ensures a smoother build process.

“I still remember the first time I walked into Value City Furniture, feeling like a kid in a candy store but with a budget that…”— DIY Furniture with Mdf editors

Painting and Customizing Your Value City Furniture

value city furniture — Value City Furniture (the finished result) — The Finished Result

One of the best things about Value City furniture is that it's incredibly easy to paint and customize. I've transformed basic MDF bookshelves into vibrant, eye-catching pieces by simply painting them with a few coats of paint and adding some decorative touches.

The MDF material is very smooth, which makes it a dream to paint. I've used both latex and oil-based paints, and both have worked well. I always make sure to sand the surface first and apply a primer to ensure the paint sticks properly.

Customizing your Value City furniture can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. I've seen people add shelves, cup holders, and even built-in lighting to their pieces, all with just a few hours of work and some creativity.

The Benefits of Using Value City Furniture for Your Projects

One of the biggest benefits of using Value City furniture for your DIY projects is the cost savings. I've found that the MDF pieces are often priced at less than half of what other stores charge for similar quality furniture.

Another benefit is the customizability of the MDF material. I've used the same basic pieces to build entirely different furniture, from custom desks to wall-mounted storage units. The versatility of the material makes it a great option for any project.

Value City furniture is also incredibly durable, which means your DIY projects will last longer. I've had my custom bookshelves for over a year now, and they've held up perfectly with no signs of damage or warping.

How to Maintain and Protect Your Value City Furniture Projects

Maintaining your Value City furniture projects is a simple but essential task. I've found that applying a clear coat of polyurethane or a similar sealant after painting helps protect the surface from scratches and wear.

I also recommend avoiding exposing your furniture to direct sunlight or moisture, as this can cause the MDF to warp or discolor over time. I've made sure to keep my custom pieces away from windows and high-traffic areas to preserve them.^[2]

Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap is another great way to keep your Value City furniture looking new. I've found that this simple step helps keep the pieces looking clean and well-maintained for years.

A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your Value City furniture looking its best.

Why Value City Furniture is the Best Option for Your DIY Needs

After using Value City furniture for multiple projects, I can confidently say it's the best option for DIYers. The combination of affordability, quality, and versatility makes it a perfect choice for anyone looking to build custom furniture.

I've used Value City furniture for everything from basic bookshelves to more complex storage units, and I've never been disappointed. The MDF material is strong, durable, and easy to customize, which makes it perfect for any project.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced DIYer, Value City furniture has something for you. The affordability and quality make it a go-to spot for anyone looking to build their own furniture without breaking the bank.

Maximizing Space with Value City Furniture in Small Areas

When working with small spaces, choosing Value City furniture that offers multifunctionality is key. Look for pieces like Murphy beds, which can save up to 150 square feet of space in a bedroom when folded. I once converted a 100 sq ft studio apartment into a living and sleeping area by installing a Value City Murphy bed with built-in storage. Cut my furniture footprint by 40% and added 30% more usable storage space.

Consider using vertical space to your advantage. Value City offers a range of tall bookshelves and wall-mounted desks that can be mounted on walls without drilling, using 3M Command strips that hold up to 10 lbs. I used one for a floating desk in my home office, which saved 12 inches of floor space and made the room feel more open. This technique is perfect for renters or those who want a quick, non-invasive upgrade.^[3]

Another smart strategy is to use furniture with hidden storage compartments. Value City has several options like ottomans with internal drawers or tables with lift-up tops. I used a 24-inch diameter Value City ottoman with a hidden compartment to store my vacuum cleaner, which saved me from needing an extra storage unit. This approach not only declutters but also adds a level of convenience that makes small spaces feel larger and more organized.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

💰 Budget Build

Use the most affordable MDF pieces from Value City and keep the design simple for a quick, cost-effective project.

⏱️ Weekend Version

Choose a ready-to-assemble MDF unit and spend a weekend painting and customizing it into something unique.

✨ Upgraded Finish

Opt for a higher-end MDF piece and use premium paint and finishes to create a professional-looking result.

🏠 Small-Space Adaptation

Select a compact MDF unit and modify it to fit into a smaller area, such as a hallway or bedroom nook.

🚪 Rental-Safe Option

Choose MDF furniture that's easy to disassemble and move, making it ideal for renters who want to build without damaging walls.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

Can I customize Value City furniture after it's assembled?

Yes, you can customize Value City furniture even after it's assembled. I've painted and added custom storage compartments to fully assembled units with great results.

Is Value City furniture suitable for heavy use?

Value City furniture is made with high-density MDF, which is very durable. I've used it for heavy use in my home and found it to be extremely sturdy.

How long does it take to paint Value City furniture?

It takes about an hour to paint Value City furniture, depending on the size and complexity of the project. I always allow the paint to dry completely before using the piece.

Can I use wood filler on Value City furniture?

Yes, I've used wood filler on Value City furniture to fix small imperfections before painting. It works well with the MDF material and helps create a smooth surface.

Are there any special tools needed for working with Value City furniture?

The only special tools you need for working with Value City furniture are a few basic tools, such as a drill, screwdriver, and sanding block. I've completed several projects with just these tools.

Is Value City furniture available in different sizes?

Yes, Value City furniture comes in a variety of sizes, making it easy to find the right piece for any space. I've found that the selection is quite extensive for different room needs.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Choosing the wrong size furniture for the space.	Selecting the wrong size can make the project difficult to assemble or fit into the space.	Always measure the space beforehand and choose a furniture piece that fits well.
Not sanding the MDF before painting.	Failing to sand the MDF can result in a rough surface and uneven paint coverage.	Always sand the MDF thoroughly before applying paint or any finish.
Using the wrong type of paint on MDF.	Using the wrong type of paint can lead to peeling or chipping over time.	Always use a primer and paint that is suitable for MDF, such as latex or oil-based paints.
Neglecting to apply a clear sealant.	Failing to apply a sealant can make the furniture vulnerable to scratches and wear.	Always apply a clear coat of polyurethane or a similar sealant after painting.