This is my first ever build using Ana White's awesome plans! I stuck to the plan mostly, but used 4.5 lag screws and joist hangers like others had suggested. Oh, I also used a 2 inch board in the middle of the headboard and footboard, since my HD only carried 7.25" 2 X 8's. I had a couple of hiccups.....the headboard fell down in my garage and some boards got tweaked out of place, but I think I was able to sufficiently cover up the aftermath with wood filler and paint :D I really wanted to do this project by myself (sort of a "I am woman, hear me roar!" kind of thing, but it would've been a lot easier to have a helper.....just some advice :)
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$175.....about the same as a bed frame from ikea :)
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Primed with Zissner Bull's Eye, painted with Clark and Kensington Flat Enamel in Antique White (with a free quart that I got at Ace!) and finished with Trewax clear paste wax.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner