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Twin Storage Headboard Base Plans

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Difficulty
Intermediate
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This headboard base moves the bed out flush with bookshelves.

Collections
Storage Bed Collection

Special thanks to <a href="http://www.redmaplestudio.net/">Amy and Steve</a> for their photo.


I had a conversation with myself this morning.

How can I work without internet?

Now why, Ana, would you ever want to do that?

Because there's no internet at the cabin.

I wanna go to the cabin too (that's Grace talking).

So how are you going to work not just wirelessly, but satellitelessly?

Not to mention electricitylessly?

And plumbinglessly?

And roadlessly?

So all these things mean alot of less-lys.  Like refrigeratorlessly, phonelessly, even cellphonelessly, microwavelessly, pretty much convieniencelessly.

Well, I could not work, and just cram everything in when I come to town.

But you LIKE to work.

Yes, I do.

So I talked myself into something that might be better for you (you as in YOU, not me talking to me)

Because one thing I don't have to do is go batterieslessly.

How about if I developed plans into PDFs and then when I get back to town, all I have to do is blog the PDF?

Like this?

So what do you think? Can I still live a life where it’s common (but still amazing) to see 17 moose and 1 black bear in one night (that was last night) and still do what I love, design and build furniture? Love the PDF or back to blogger?

Dimensions
Fits Twin Bed

Preparation

Shopping List

1 Sheet of ¼” Plywood, Beadboard or MDF For the backs of the bookshelves and the headboard panel 

2 1x12 Boards, 8’ Long Cut a Bookshelf out of Each 
 2 1x2 Boards, 8’ Long Trim Boards 
 2” Nails You can also use wood screws 
 1” Brad Nails Nothing wrong with the ones you tack on with a hammer if you are sans a nailer 
 1 ¼” Screws 
Just a few
1” Screws For the headboard panel 
 Sandpaper Grits from coarse to fine
wood filler
Cut List

4- 1x12 27” Bookshelf Sides 

4- 1x12 10 ¼” Bookshelf Shelves 
 2- 1x12 11 ¾” Bookshelf Tops 
 2- ¼” Plywood 11 ¾” x 27 ¾” Backs of Bookshelves 
 4- 1x2 24 ¾” Side Trim 
 4- 1x2 12 ½” Top and Bottom Trim 
 1- 1x2 39” Top Tie-In Trim 
 1- ¼” Plywood 39”x24” Headboard Panel
Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Hammer
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Drill
Circular Saw
Power Sander
General Instructions

Please review the attached PDF for instructions and more information on cut list.

PDF

PDF Version
Project Type
Twin Beds and Twin Bed Frames
Bookshelf and Bookcase Plans
Beds and Bed Frames
Room
Teens
Bedroom
Kids and Toys
Style
Children's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans

Comments

Emily (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 07:06

as you say, "from one mom to another" these precious moments with grace only come around once. Before you know it, she will be building her own stuff for her college dorm room :0) Enjoy these moments. And I think pdf if just fabulous!!! I appreciate all you do! Have a great day!

Reenie (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 07:12

I love the PDF. And I love that you're at the cabin enjoying yourself. A little jealous maybe, but definitely loving it. Live it up and PDF all you want :) Makes it easier for me to print them anyway.

felicia (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 07:21

I say do what you have to in order to enjoy your time. You have enough of a following now that I'm pretty sure no matter how you present your ideas we'll all still be happy :)

Summers Camp (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 07:24

I personally love the PDF... it's much less distracting, to be able to just print it out as is and take it to the store, etc. Easier for me = more projects ;) Have fun at the cabin! *B

orange sugar (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 07:28

I'm all for the PDF, but I like being able to read it on the blog too.

But do what you need to do for yourself.

Robin (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 07:36

so excited about the PDF version...much easier to print out! and so glad that this new idea came to you out of a need to enjoy your OWN life!

April - Team Tottle (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 07:53

I LOVE the PDF idea, this way I don't have to copy and paste all your plans into Word Documents! I can just download/save them and print them when I'm ready to build! Thanks Ana, I think it's a wonderful idea!!!!

dthneece (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 07:54

pdf's work fine as long as you fill us in on the moose and bear sitings...and anything else that is as amazing! :D

Kara (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 08:04

Love it! Besides, you're giving away FREE plans Ana...do what you want when you want. I have like a guzillion things on my to-build list already...we'll all be fine with you taking a few days rest here and there and doing what's more convenient for you :-).

Theresa (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 08:12

Love the PDF versions...makes more sense for printing as well. As always, thanks for sharing your gift!

Mom (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 08:29

I LOVE this plan! The bed has been on my "to build" list for my 13 year old for awhile now. I could never think of what to do about the headboard. This is it! Thank you so much!

Anrad (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 08:46

I live the PDF!! And this headboard plan came just in time! We wanted to make this bed for our daughter but she wanted a storage headboard and we were trying to figure out how to make her one. You're a perfect mind-reader! Love it! Thanks!!

Anrad (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 08:47

I live the PDF!! And this headboard plan came just in time! We wanted to make this bed for our daughter but she wanted a storage headboard and we were trying to figure out how to make her one. You're a perfect mind-reader! Love it! Thanks!!

merideth (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 08:54

when you're home, give us blogger. when you're at your cabin, give us pdf's. we'll take them any way we can get them! (but don't forget - we don't want you to spend too much time away from your baby!)

Monica (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 09:00

Whatever makes it easiest for you to keep these wonderful plans coming is what work bests for me!!!! I love what you do and what you stand for!!!

Melanie (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 09:13

PDF please! I have actually been wishing more plans were available in PDF form- what a great idea! You rule!

Laurene (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 09:13

Hi Ana,

I love the PDF! I find that it's easier to print and the instructions are tidier to store in a binder for future refernce, unlike the blog format. Thanks again for all the wonderful plans you post and work you do!

Laree (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 09:14

Wow. I thought the pdf would be anoying, but after reading through it, I think it's actually an easier format!

You're amazing girl!

mkonieczki (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 09:30

WHOA! I have to admit, I haven't been to your blog in a few weeks... like, pre-makeover. 1st- I'm amazed somebody hasn't offered you your own tv show. You're so pretty, and certainly awesome at desinging and providing plans for projects. DIY reality tv, watch out! Second, the PDFs are FANTASTIC!

Dana Enzor (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 09:31

This is a GREAT idea! I remember when you posted the easiest way to print your plans was through reader...but look at this!! Great idea and so quick and easy!! LOVE IT

Swati (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 09:44

Whatever gives you the freedom to make! pdf is fine by me at least. But I would love a photo or two and a brief write up each time so I don't have to download the pdf to find out I have absolutely no need for it!

Bullwinkle (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 09:48

Pdf, please, for me.

The pdf is easier to print and use as well as store electronically and find later. The only reason to go back the other way is you. I want you to keep doing this, so I want it to be as easy for you as possible.

Mari Merchant (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 10:12

I LOVE the PDF! The only downside is that it doesn't show up in my feeder so I had to come to the website to see it. With that being said, I'd still rather have the PDF. In the end, all of us really appreciate your free plans, so you should do what's easiest for you (because I don't mind doing a copy/paste job into word)

Lindsay Cesari (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 11:02

I vote PDF, when possible. It's easier to print, and I LOVE the tables for cut list and lumber!!

Goings on at t… (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 11:32

I am a fan of both. I like the idea of PDF so that I can print the plans out more easily, but I also like scrolling through the blog to see them too. Hope you have fun on your trip. Would love to see some fun posts about your vacationing too!

Anna (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 12:25

I love the PDF. Do what you have to! I miss your daily posts when you don't! But your a mom first. DO the PDF!

Memory Moments (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 13:18

I like the pdf's even better! Enjoy time with your family at the cabin. I am a total "blog stalker" and I LOVE yours!

brnh (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 13:49

I turn all the designs I like into pdfs. So my vote is pdf. It is sad that it doesn't appear in my reader, but I usually just read the intro and look at a few pictures to decide if I really want to read it all anyway. (Not that you aren't great. I just don't need baby and child furniture.)

tconlan (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 15:24

LOVE the PDF idea!!! Thank you for so kindly sharing your talents!! Enjoy your cabin and family time!

Regan Rothery (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 16:08

Do whatever you want! You have already helped countless people save thousands upon thousands of dollars. Honey, take a break, take it slow, take it EASY. We love you and want you around for the long haul. In whatever format or electronic platform you choose. xoxo

TMM (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 17:09

I would miss feeling empowered to be able to build things that you teach me if you weren't blogging about it anymore. By far, your blog is my most favorite site on the internet.

lanisanford (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 17:20

I like the idea but when I click on the file, its not a PDF it pops up scribd. I don't know much about it I am just used to the good ole adobe kind of PDF.

Also can't blogs be set up to delay a post until a set time? You could set up all your posts for a week before leaving town? Then they auto post? I don't have a blog myself so I don't know how this kind of thing works.

rubelin (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 17:34

the PDF works just fine, woo for you for a great momma solution!

BTW, while you seem in the mood for headboards, I REALLY need a queen sized bookcase headboard =)

Lex (not verified)

Wed, 07/07/2010 - 18:14

Woo hoo! This is awesome! My super anal/OCD husband is going to love this for our boys' rooms. Thank you!

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!