Classic Bunk Beds

classic bunk bed diy bunk beds how to build bunk beds
Difficulty
Intermediate
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These bunk beds are unique because they are easy to build and can be assembled and disassembled easily. Ladder is integrated into the design.

Photo by Our Home Notebook

how to build a bunk bed shared room

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bunk bed diy bunk bed

Photo and built by Our Home Notebook

Dimensions
Classic Bunk Beds
Dimensions are shown above. Fits standard 39″ x 75″ twin mattress, shown with 6″ mattresses.

Preparation

Shopping List
  • 11 – 10′ 1×4 Boards
  • 4 – 8′ 2×2 Boards
  • 9 – 8′ 1×3 Boards (not including wood slats)
  • 2″ Self Tapping Wood Screws
  • 1 1/4″ Self Tapping Wood Screws
  • 1 1/4″ Brad Nails
  • Wood Glue
  • Wood Filler
  • Finishing Supplies
  • 16 – 3″ Bolts with washers and nuts
Cut List
  • 12 – 1×4 @ 37 1/2″ (End Rails)
  • 8 – 1×3 @ 63″ (Solid Leg Pieces)
  • 8 – 1×4 @ 80 1/2″ (Back and Front Rails)
  • 2 - 1x4 @ 64" (Front Rails)
  • 12 – 1×3 @ 3″ (Trim Pieces between Rails)
  • 2 – 1×3 @ 22″ (Trim Pieces between Rails)
  • 4 – 1×3 @ 8″ (Bottom Trim Pieces)
  • 4 – 2×2 @ 75″ (Use Metal braces for a stronger bed)
  • 1 – 1×3 @ 55″ (Ladder Side)
  • 2 – 1×3 @ 19″ (Ladder Rungs)
  • 1 – 1×3 @ 13″ (Ladder Front Trim Piece)
  • 6 – 1×3 @ 10″ (Ladder Trim)
  • 1 – 1×3 @ 35″ (Front Leg Trim Piece)
  • 1x3s @ 39″ (Bed Slats, as shown with 34 total slats)
Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Hammer
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Kreg Jig
Drill
Circular Saw
Brad Nailer
Power Sander

Instructions

Step 1

Build the Ends

Build two of the ends as shown above. Best joining method is to use pocket hole screws from the insides of the rails into the legs. Other option is to use 2″ screws from the outside of the legs, with a countersink bit. Screws are recommended, because bunk bed are going to take lots of movement, and nails joints will eventually separate out.

Step 2

Build the Back

Simply take two of the 1×3 legs @ 63″, and mark as shown in the diagram above. Glue and screw with 1 1/4″ screws the side rails to the legs. On this step it is very VERY important that you check and adjust for square. If the diagonals do not match up, push the outside corners of the longer diagonals together.

Step 3

Trim the Back

After you have built the back, cut 1×3 pieces to fit the legs between the slats. You can nail these pieces on with a finish nailer and glue, using 1 1/4″ nails. TIP: Don’t cut these pieces prior to building – measure and cut to the opening, to get the exact fit.

Step 4

Bed Slat Supports

If your child is heavy or you expect the bed to take a large amout of abuse, I recommend purchasing metal braces, and screwing to the inside of the bed. Otherwise, use 2x2s, 2″ screws and WOOD GLUE to attach the bed slat supports to the back slats, keeping bottom edges flush.

Step 5

Step 6

Rails and Ladder Rungs

Mark the sides and the ladder piece as shown above. Glue and screw with 1 1/4″ the top bunk rails and the ladder rungs to the legs and the ladder side.

Step 7

Trim the Front

As you did the back, trim the front, filling in all the spaces with 1×3 boards. Use 1 1/4″ nails or optionally screws and glue.

Step 8

Assembly Assemble the bed by bolting the four pieces together, using 3″ bolts and washer and nuts, four bolts per leg. If you plan on seldom assembly/disassembly of the bed, you could also use 2″ wood screws from the inside of the end legs into the back/front legs.

Step 9

Mattress Slats Your mattress should have recommendations for bed slats. Use 1x3s, cut at 39″, layed on top of the wood slat supports, according to the recommendations of the mattress. Screw down with 1 1/4″ screws.

Comments

BayviewBadger

Sat, 05/30/2015 - 07:51

While I'm always grateful for free content, this isn't the only set of bunk bed plans on the web.

Just wanted to warn any other husbands/fathers out there...

We were planning on building these with a planned trip to get the lumber later today. Then I started looking at lumber prices...that brought an abrupt end to this project.

All the research I did says to use hardwood, pine/softwood is just going to be a disaster...good luck finding one perfectly straight piece of pine at a home improvement store. Also if you're building this for kids, the only way you'll get a strong enough bed for them is hardwood.

A **single** 1x4x10' piece of hardwood runs $17-$24, putting the price of just the 1x4's at $170-$240. That brought this project to a halt, I only eyeballed the 1x3 and 2x2 prices.

If nothing else, make your list and price it out before you head off to get your lumber. Don't mess with the cheap softwoods, hardwood is the only way to go.

I miss the bunk we had in the 80's...it was bombproof and survived the beating my brother and I gave it from pre-school into our college years.

njmorin

Wed, 09/23/2015 - 20:58

I'm thinking of building these bunk beds but I'm just a little unsure about using 1x boards.  Anyone who has built this - is it pretty sturdy?

RajeanaBarker

Mon, 11/02/2015 - 06:02

I was wondering how many boards I needed of the 1x4 x 10" long because it says 7 but then it also says I need 8 at 80 1/2" long and then 12 @ 63"and only 7 boards total so I'm just a little confused do I need to buy more 1x4 x 10"

Tjguerin

Sat, 08/13/2016 - 10:14

hey Ana,  LOVE this bunk bed plan!!  However, I am needing to build a double over double.  Plus we have a low ceiling and so this height is perfect.   So many other plans and retail bunk beds are just too tall. .... Any chance you might be able to design something to reflect that? A low (like this) double over double bunk??? Or even this exact design with dimensions, and cut list?   If so,  THANKS!!! appreciate your time and vision SO MUCH!!!

Tjguerin

Sat, 08/13/2016 - 10:14

hey Ana,  LOVE this bunk bed plan!!  However, I am needing to build a double over double.  Plus we have a low ceiling and so this height is perfect.   So many other plans and retail bunk beds are just too tall. .... Any chance you might be able to design something to reflect that? A low (like this) double over double bunk??? Or even this exact design with dimensions, and cut list?   If so,  THANKS!!! appreciate your time and vision SO MUCH!!!

rarmstrong15

Fri, 02/28/2020 - 13:46

For the husbands building these note: make the 80.5 1x4 cuts first and use the scraps for the slats... I multi cut 12 slats before I figured it out haha now I have to buy 5 more 1x4 and have a great amount of “other” project 1x4. It’s a great bed frame.

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!