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Modern Platform Bed Frame with Chunky Legs

diy modern platform bed frame
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For about the price of a box spring you can build your own modern platform bed frame.  You'll just need a few basic power tools and off the shelf lumber to build - and our free step by step plans with diagrams and shopping list.  

Reader submitted photo

This bed frame can be paired with this headboard 

modern bed frame platform diy

This bed frame can also be upholstered as done here

diy upholstered bed

Dimensions
diy bed frame dimensions diagram
Sized for queen mattress

Preparation

Shopping List

2 – 1×8 Boards, 8′ Long

1 – 1×8 Board, 12′ Long

2 – 2×2 Boards, 8′ Long

2 – 2×6 Board, 8′ Long or Stud Length

13 – 1×3 Boards 2″ Screws Wood Glue Wood Filler Sand Paper Finishing Supplies

Common Materials
primer
wood conditioner
paint
Cut List

2 – 1×8 @ 60″ (End Rails)

2 – 1×8 @ 81 1/2″ (Side Rails)

4 – 2×6 @ 5 1/2″ cut at 45 degree angles (Corner Supports)

1 – 2×6 @ 80″ (Center Support)

2 – 2×2 @ 80″ (Cleats)

4 – 2×6 @ 5 1/2″ (Leg Bases)

16 – 1×3 @ 6 1/4″ (Leg Trim)

13 – 1×3 @ 60″ (Slats)

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw
Power Sander

Instructions

Step 1

BOX
Build the box out of the 1x8s as shown above.

Step 2

CORNER SUPPORTS
Adjust the bed frame for square and fasten the corner supports in the corners as shown above. Keep the top edges flush. This will be the bottom of your bed frame.

Step 3

CENTER SUPPORT
Mark the end rails 30″ in and fasten the center support to the end rails using 2″ screws and glue or pocket holes from the inside. Keep top edges flush. This will be the bottom of the bed.

Step 4

CLEATS
Flip the bed frame over and mark the side rails down 2 inches on both sides. Attach the cleats with 2″ screws and glue, screwing every 6 to 8 inches.

Step 5

Step 6

ATTACHING THE LEGS
Attaching the legs is easy. Simply line up the legs with the outside corners of the bed frame and screw through the corner supports into the top of the leg blocks. Use at least 2 screws. You could easily attach a different type of foot to the bed in the same manner.

Step 7

SLATS
Lay your slats on top of the cleats and screw down. Also screw to the center support. Space slats approximately 4″ apart.

Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
Fill all holes with wood filler. Let dry completely and sand with coarse sand paper. Refill holes with filler, and let dry completely. Sand again, this time with medium grit sandpaper. Then sand with fine sandpaper. Vacuum with a soft bristled brush to remove any residue. Then wipe clean with a damp cloth. Let dry. Apply primer and paint for a painted finish, wood conditioner and stain for a stained finish. Finish with a clear coat if necessary. Of course you would have skipped all of these steps if you were using fabric.
Project Type
Beds and Bed Frames
King Size Beds and King Bed Frames
Room
Bedroom
Style
Modern Style Furniture Plans

Comments

bookladydavina (not verified)

Wed, 06/23/2010 - 20:08

I have a question regarding weight limits on these type of slat board bed frames. Anyone have any idea what they are? Would a 300+ pound person be in trouble of breaking the boards? We love some of these plans but have some larger relatives who would likely be using them.

Also, love the site! I'm also up here in Alaska and it's great to see some great craft ideas for up here where it's hard to get stuff! :)

Joe (not verified)

Wed, 06/23/2010 - 20:45

Please don't stop with the modern or simple furniture. That's the reason I found, subscribed, and check your site daily!!!

Karen P (not verified)

Wed, 06/23/2010 - 23:34

thank you soo much for posting this bed! while I like your rustic, farmhouse style furniture plans, I love the simple, modern style furniture. I can not wait to make this bed. I showed my husband the plans and he's dubious that I can pull it off on my own.

Beth (not verified)

Thu, 06/24/2010 - 00:41

Question about the modification for a king size. When you say to add a center leg--do you mean one just like the other four chunky ones? Or something else entirely? I need a visual for that one! I love this plan--we have been looking at platform beds for a while now, and this one is almost exactly what we need!

Catherine (not verified)

Thu, 06/24/2010 - 02:48

You read my mind! I was about to try to design something simple like this myself because the "captain's bed" was a little involved for us, & lo & behold, look what I found when I opened my Google Reader!

My own alteration on the plan will be to raise it up twice as high, so I can fit some of those long plastic storage boxes underneath. And there might be a linen dust ruffle with inverted knife pleats to cover it all, so I can have another place to indulge my love of fabric!

Thanks, Ana! This is just what I needed. (Plus, I love the mix of modern & farmhouse. Variety is the spice of life!)

T Ennis (not verified)

Thu, 06/24/2010 - 03:25

This is what I have been dreaming of for a bed and night stands! Thank you so much. There is no way we would be able to afford this suite.

orange sugar (not verified)

Thu, 06/24/2010 - 04:37

I absolutely love the modern furniture you have been posting. I'm hoping you will post a modern dresser to match the nightstands.

Barrette (not verified)

Thu, 06/24/2010 - 05:27

Yahoooo don't stop with the modern furniture. I LOVE this bed and can't wait to make it for myself. I thought I'd go with the farmhouse bed but have held off waiting for time to do it. But now this, this bed!! This is what I've held off for!!! THANK YOU :) Can't wait to post 'done' photos

Suki (not verified)

Fri, 06/25/2010 - 10:09

I LOVE this bed!! Something has been holding me back in making a bed despite loving other styles that have been posted. Hubby and I both love this style.

Mia (not verified)

Fri, 06/25/2010 - 14:13

I'm in love with the modern furniture too, I'm so glad you've shared these ideas too!

Were you ever able to do the plans for that credenza from (I think) last month that you'd shown with the modern desk? If not, I understand- you must be super busy, and I'm definitely willing to wait :)

Ana White (not verified)

Sat, 06/26/2010 - 07:26

Lexsmommy, I would still add the corner bracing because it will keep your bed square and give you a support to screw your legs too. :)

Nancy (not verified)

Mon, 06/28/2010 - 06:22

I need to make a raised dog bed & I'm thinking of using this design.

Currently, my dog's bed sits on top of a large ottoman. He lays on it all day long & stares out the window.

I'm thinking of modifying this design, so it holds a dog bed rather than a mattress.

Do you think there's anything I should specifically consider when modifying this to a dog bed?

Katie (not verified)

Fri, 07/16/2010 - 20:28

Forget Craigslist, I am going to make my girlie a bed! I want to make a full size - can you help me with the dimensions? I am VERY beginner.

Vicky T (not verified)

Fri, 07/23/2010 - 12:30

I would like to make a full size and a twin size. Does anyone know how to adjust the measurements? I recently purchased a home and have never made any furniture or anything for that matter.

jspotts23 (not verified)

Wed, 09/29/2010 - 07:17

I'm thinking of making this, but king size. Has anyone worked out the changes in dimensions yet? The west elm website lists the queen sizw as 62"wx83"dx9.25"h, and the king size as 78"wx83"dx9.25"h.

McKay (not verified)

Fri, 11/19/2010 - 02:50

Thanks so much for these plans! I was totally stalking West Elms site for the narrow leg bed and bedside table. Thanks to the confidence I got doing the storage cubes, I shall now attempt to make my bedroom FAB-ulous with modern-style furniture! (love your simple modern designs!)

My question is about how to make the legs from the narrow leg collection? Should I use 2X4s? or 2X6s? I'm having a hard visualizing their dimensions - is the top 3 1/2"? What do you think? Would love some professional guidance!

http://www.westelm.com/products/narrow-leg-wood-bed-frame-f828/?pkey=ch…

shanestric (not verified)

Mon, 01/10/2011 - 11:25

Hey guys!

I noticed that a lot of you were looking for the dimensions for a full sized bed, and I just made this over the weekend. Here is what I made for a full:

End Rails: 2 1x8 @ 55 1/2"
Side Rails: 2 1x8 @ 76"
Center Support: 1 2x6 @ 78 1/2"
Cleats: 2 2x2 @ 78 1/2"
Slats: 13 1x3 @ 55 1/2"

Kept the same:
Corner Supports: 4 2×6 @ 5 1/2″ cut at 45 degree angles

For the legs, we ended up just getting an extra 4x4 and cutting that @ 5" a piece to give it an extra 2" of height than Ana's plan.

Onto the headboard next weekend! Will post pictures when I'm done. Hopefully this helps!

Thanks for the great plans, Ana! You made this easy!

mamalecia11

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 08:37

Thank you for putting these measurements on. I was trying to figure them out and I just got frustrated until I found your comment. Making this bed this weekend!! Will put on pics when finished. Not sure about what to do for the headboard but would love to see yours if you finished it!

Shana (not verified)

Wed, 02/02/2011 - 10:43

I am a very beginner does anyone have dimensions for the twin size bed plan for this bed?? i want to start on it but worried i will mess up measurements. Thanks!

Sarh (not verified)

Tue, 02/15/2011 - 07:29

Can this bed be torn down for easy moving? I really want to make this design and upholster it but wouldn't know how to make it easy to move. Any ideas?

Teener (not verified)

Tue, 02/15/2011 - 12:52

Ana,
I like everything that you offer on your site, thanks. This perticular bed is the style that I am looking for. However, I would like to make this into a twin size and raise it off the ground. Is there anything wrong with making the legs longer? My intention is to purchase a trundle, or heck make a trundle, that will roll under. Then when I have guests, I have a king for two adults to sleep comfortably. Your response is appriciated.
Thanks, Christine

Tristina (not verified)

Thu, 03/17/2011 - 20:25

Has anyone tried this in a twin size? If so, I would love the modified plans! I really have no idea how to begin to modify them.

Thank you!

jamilwest

Sun, 07/03/2011 - 17:45

Okay, I just looked really closely at the plans and transitioning to king size looks to be REALLY simple.

My mattress measures 76 inches wide, so if I understand correctly, the ONLY measurements I need to change are the end rails and the slats. I ONLY need to change those to 76 inches. I don't need to think about it, they just need to be the width of the mattress, just like the original plans are simply the width of a queen mattress.

Is this correct? It's just too simple and I tend to want to overthink things. I'd like to have some confirmation BEFORE I go buy a ton of wood and commit to having it cut.

Thanks for the plans and the help!

Maureen K

Fri, 07/29/2011 - 09:37

My daughter and I made this bed last weekend and it came out great! It was a great bonding experience for us and very empowering! She loves her new bed! Thanks for the plans and all the encouragement found on your site!

gruurly (not verified)

Mon, 04/23/2012 - 09:22

This will be my first project, and I'm incredibly excited to find a bed style I LOVE meant for a beginner. However, I can't seem to download the plans. I've tried a few ways, but an error comes up. Suggestions?

rick b (not verified)

Wed, 01/02/2013 - 20:03

what is the 12' board intended for? it can't be for the side rails as they are 81.5"each and two of them would be 163" and the 12' board is only 144"

Jeremyallen (not verified)

Wed, 01/02/2013 - 20:47

I think they are for the end rails , (head and foot) because they are shorter than the side rails I think you can get 2 of them out of a 12 foot section...

My problem is that I can't find 12 foot ones in the right woods at lowes or hd.

JA

EW (not verified)

Sun, 01/20/2013 - 12:29

My husband made this bed yesterday and it turned out great! It was intended for the second floor of our home, but will not fit up the stairs (with feet detached). Is there any way to modify this plan to get it finished (I would like to upholster it) and bring it up the stairs in a few parts? Or are there plans for a similar style of bed that could be assembled once finished?

EmmeW (not verified)

Sun, 01/20/2013 - 12:33

My husband made this bed yesterday and it turned out great! It was intended for the second floor of our home, but will not fit up the stairs (with feet detached). Is there any way to modify this plan to get it finished (I would like to upholster it) and bring it up the stairs in a few parts? Or are there plans for a similar style of bed that could be assembled once finished?

cathleenmr

Tue, 07/09/2013 - 08:34

Does anyone know the dimensions for turning this into a cal-king? And if I want the frame to come apart at a later date, how should I put it together?

beau_beashore

Sat, 10/26/2013 - 07:08

Hello Ana

I'm looking at making a bed very similar to this one and then upholstering it and was curious what type of wood you recommend?

Turkswill

Thu, 01/09/2014 - 14:01

Ana or anyone that can help,

can you please provide the cut measurements for a King size bed? I would love to start this soon and I am not too savy with figuring out how many inches I will need to add this queen size plan.

Thank you so much.

mb31725

Sun, 05/11/2014 - 08:41

My family and I built this bed last weekend. We adjusted the plans to fix a olympic queen bed. It turned out perfectly. We did add legs to the bottom to increase the height. We used deck post toppers for the legs. Now trying to decide if we will stain the wood or if we will upholster. Thanks so much for the plans. My daughters and I have NEVER built anything nor did we have any idea how to use the power tools. My husband liked the project so much he jumped in and help us to finish. He isn't a hany man either but this was a great family project. we are ready for the next project.

ajwhite2578

Sat, 05/11/2019 - 11:18

This an awesome bed!  We are making two full sized beds for our girls as we speak including the low modern headboard.  Do you have instructions on how to attach the headboard?  Thanks!

avegro

Sat, 11/14/2020 - 04:33

Hey Ana, I'm dying to build this bed but unfortunately I'm not in the US and don't have enough experience to easily make adjustments myself - wood sizes are different here, but more importantly mattress sizes are different here and I don't know how to make the adjustments (mattress size 140cmx190cm is what I would want to build it for most likely).. :( any tips?

Frequently Asked Questions

Wood Questions

What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!

Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.

What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.

What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.

Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.

Cutting Questions

Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.

How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.

Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.

Joinery Questions

What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.

Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.

How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.

Finishing Questions

Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.

What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.

How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.

Plan Questions

Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.

Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.

Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.

General Questions

What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.

Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.

What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!

What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.

I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.

Care & Maintenance

How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.

How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.

How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.

Want to Build with Confidence?

Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.

Still Have Questions?

Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!