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!
Comments
Katrina (not verified)
Sun, 11/28/2010 - 08:16
I have noticed that quite a
I have noticed that quite a few people have requested plans for a standard King size bed and not plans for one that has been turned side ways. Has anyone figured out the measurements or has it been posted somewhere on the web site. I am another one of the followers that is intimidated and frustrated trying to figure it out myself and I don't want to waste a bunch of money buying wood and messing the bed up. Any comments would be greatly appreciated.
Bed Building |… (not verified)
Mon, 11/29/2010 - 08:21
[...] found some plans online
[...] found some plans online at Ana White’s blog (the blog star formally known as Knock-off Wood) and they provided just enough info for Jeremy to [...]
Hollie (not verified)
Fri, 12/10/2010 - 10:36
Hi, I love this!! My
Hi,
I love this!! My husband and I are planning on making this bed in the normal King size. Could you post the measurements for that? Thanks!
Shawna (not verified)
Tue, 01/04/2011 - 17:19
I wish you could do this
I wish you could do this also. I've never built anything before and am not the greatest when it comes to math and "re-figuring" something out. It seems way too daunting to try to figure out new measurements for this to make it the way the King is supposed to be turned. And I REALLY want to make this bed. The whole "mattress turned sideways" is stopping me!
Sara (not verified)
Fri, 01/07/2011 - 14:38
Hi Ana! My husband and I are
Hi Ana! My husband and I are making a farmhouse king...we did change some of the measurements so that it's 76 in wide. But I figure that we would have plenty of 1x8s to cut the panels, especially since it's less wide than your plans. But unfortunately we ran out of wood. Four 1x8s gave us all the 30 in panels and only 4 of the 15 in panels. We are going to have to buy a couple more. If you or anyone reading knows, did we measure wrong? Am I crazy?? Hehe. Thanks for any input!
Sharin W (not verified)
Wed, 01/12/2011 - 15:18
We are looking forward to
We are looking forward to building this when our house is finished, Looking at reusing some of the reclaimed wood off some of the old barns on the property to build, and then adding a canopy. This should look great in our 1904 farmhouse.
Moodboard: In … (not verified)
Wed, 01/12/2011 - 23:14
[...] I chose the farmhouse
[...] I chose the farmhouse bed from Ana White mainly because deep inside me I hope that someday I will build a piece of furniture [...]
Kerrin (not verified)
Sun, 01/23/2011 - 05:37
Hi Ana~ Is there anyway that
Hi Ana~
Is there anyway that you could update this plan for a standard King? (Shopping list/cust list) I can't build it with the mattress turned because I don't have the extra 4 inches of space.
If anyone has done this and could offer some assistance, please email me. [email protected]
Thank you for the beautiful plans Ana.
Jenn (not verified)
Tue, 02/01/2011 - 08:58
I just stumbled across your
I just stumbled across your website last week and have to say I'm in LOVE!
My Dad teaches shop class and I grew up using power tools, now I'm married to a tool-a-holic. I can frame a wall, wire up a house and install faucets...but I have always been stumped when it comes to building furniture! I've spent hours perusing free furniture plans on the internet but found most of them to be out of date, overly complicated or just not my style. Your site has exactly what I've been looking for!
I've already told my hubby that instead of making any plans for Valentine's day this year lets just spend some time together and make this awesome bed!
Thanks so much!
MarlaAndWilliam (not verified)
Fri, 02/04/2011 - 08:09
Where did you get that quilt?
Where did you get that quilt? It's beautiful!
JessicaAndCorey (not verified)
Mon, 05/16/2011 - 09:02
I believe that it is
I believe that it is available at Target currently. I was in the store just a couple of days ago & it was still available. In fact, if you search on the Target website under DwellStudio Bedding, it is the Mandala Bedding Collection. HTH!
Sherri R (not verified)
Thu, 02/10/2011 - 05:45
Please give plans for a
Please give plans for a standard king bed (not tuned sideways)! I really want to make this but I am intimidated by recalculating the sizes!!
Alex (not verified)
Sat, 02/12/2011 - 09:42
Hi, My wife and I are really
Hi, My wife and I are really excited to make this bed but we had one point that needed clarifying, you said you turned your bed sideways, what would the measurements be for everything for a standard king arranged normally?
Thanks,
Alex
Kristin (not verified)
Tue, 02/15/2011 - 10:02
I too would live the
I too would live the dimensions of a normal king bed if someone could email me! [email protected]
Gloria (not verified)
Fri, 02/18/2011 - 15:18
I just want to build the
I just want to build the headboard (not the footboard) what would be my "supply list"--would it be?
For the Headboard, you will need:
Panel Pieces (center) 10 – 1x8s @ 30″
Panel Pieces (ends) 2 – 1x3s @ 30″
Panel Trim Pieces – 4 – 1×4 @ 80″
Legs – 2 – 4×4 Posts @ 54″
Bottom Header – 1 – 2×4 @ 87″
Top Heaer – 1 – 2×6 @ 89″
Gloria (not verified)
Fri, 02/18/2011 - 15:19
btw...that is for a standard
btw...that is for a standard king right? please respond at [email protected]
Cameron Mathews (not verified)
Tue, 04/05/2011 - 07:12
To convert to standard king measurements
You could replace the 1x3s on the end with 1x2s This would shrink it from 80 inches to 78 inches. Standard King width is 76 inches.
Then take 2 inches off of everything else that goes width-wise, as follows:
Trim panels - 78"
2x4 top - 85"
2x6 top - 87"
ANOTHER option is to replace the 1x8 panels with 1x6 panels. You will need 13 of them instead of 10 - this will equal 71.5" (if your 1x6 is 5.5 inches each). Then use 2 - 1x3 pieces for the ends (at 2.5" each) to total 76.5". Then, same as above, you would take 3.5" off of each as follows:
Trim panels - 76.5"
2x4 top - 83.5"
2x6 top - 85.5"
Hope this helps!
Another option (that I am thinking about) is replacing all the paneled pieces with a single sheet of 3/4" furniture-grade plywood to avoid the paneled look and just get a solid piece of wood. Going to be evaluating cost on that one.
Enjoy!
Kevin MARCUS (not verified)
Wed, 04/20/2011 - 17:32
shopping list for fh king
You need (5) 1x8 8' long i'm making this bed and followed the cut pattern and found out i came up short when it came to the footboard. you need for the headboard 10 1x8@30" Thats 300" that totals 25' .The footboard you need 10 1x8@15" that totals 150" thattotals 12.5' for a total of 37.5' so 4@ 8' only totals 32' so you need a fifth 1x8
lynsrealm
Thu, 06/16/2011 - 21:31
Beautiful!
I'm so glad I found your site. Thanks to HGTV for sending me your way! There are so many wonderful plans, I don't know where to start!
Guest (not verified)
Sat, 07/09/2011 - 08:12
paint color
A bit off topic, but can you tell me what the lovely color on the walls is? Just the shade I'm looking for!
Guest (not verified)
Wed, 08/24/2011 - 14:36
Modify for California King?
I love this plan and am wondering if it can be modified for a California King mattress?
Guest (not verified)
Tue, 09/20/2011 - 16:08
bedspread
can you share where the bedspread is from? thank you!
mebohn
Tue, 10/04/2011 - 06:48
4x4 posts
I'm having a REALLY hard time finding untreated 4x4's. Even private lumber companies in my area do not carry them. I don't want to stack 2x4's. Any suggestions? Am I looking in the wrong spots in the store?
In reply to 4x4 posts by mebohn
Pswag
Tue, 10/04/2011 - 16:53
We are in the process of
We are in the process of making this. We also had a hard time finding 4 x 4's. We glued 2x4's together and then filled the sides with stainable wood filler. I just finish sanding and staining them and they look great. Hope this helps.
chordjezter
Thu, 10/13/2011 - 11:03
King Box Spring Question
I'm getting ready to make this bed soon and I have one question. I'm wanting to use the box springs. However since there are two twin size box-springs for my bed is it best to use slats on the cleats to support them? Is there a better way to support them? I was thinking of using 1 x 3's spaced 1 - 1.5" apart. Any reccomendations? (Also, is it necessary to attach the slats to the cleats? It seems like it would make it a lot harder when it's time to move the bed. I was thinking of maybe just attaching the head-most slat with screws to make sure the slats don't slide off the head-end)
AdamFink
Thu, 04/15/2021 - 18:51
If you use a box spring the…
If you use a box spring the bed is extremely tall. I have to jump on the bed. We just sent the box springs back.
AmberSkelley
Wed, 10/26/2011 - 19:51
Fastening Side Rails
I've been reading some of the different ways to fasten the side rails to the head board and footboard. Would it be possible to use the Kreg Jig to fasten the side rails to the footboard? Just trying to determine the best way before I start my project...... Thanks
Maggie B (not verified)
Sat, 11/26/2011 - 10:33
GIVE ANA A BREAK & READ ALL POSTS
I love this idea and hope my husband will make it in the spring. If you read all the posts before you ask a question here, you'd probably find it has already been answered. I can't imagine she has time to re-adjust everyone's shopping list for their unique situations ... All the information I've read will be very helpful!
Guest (not verified)
Mon, 01/30/2012 - 18:54
Fastening siderails
I am looking at thie pictures of this and understand that the siderails are connected to the 4 x 4 post with a bolt. I am trying to figure out how the footboard is connect. It does not appear to be the same. Any info would be great.. I plan on starting this this weekend
guest (not verified)
Sat, 02/18/2012 - 13:33
Wow! Now YOU make a woman
Wow! Now YOU make a woman proud! You GO GIRL! Soooo awesome! You make me feel a little more courageous to getting close to a saw...
Thanks alot and many blessings to you!
Keep all those fingers!
Guest (not verified)
Wed, 02/22/2012 - 13:14
LOVE the bedspread
Does anyone know where the bedspread is from? I'm in LOVE.
April Tottle (not verified)
Thu, 03/08/2012 - 23:57
Quilt - Bedspread - Coverlet
I have drooled over this quilt on www.target.com so I recognized it immediately.
It is DwellStudio for Target Mandala Quilt.
It seems to be discontinued as I haven't been able to get my hands on one. But I did see on a blog that someone bought theirs at Target on Clearance in King size for $56!!!! I have never seen it in my Target store (Biloxi, MS) but they don't carry stylish stuff it seems.
Guest (not verified)
Sat, 03/10/2012 - 16:42
bedspread
I love the bed but can you tell me where you purchased the bed spread!?! LOVE!
[email protected]
Sun, 03/11/2012 - 07:28
Attaching headboard and footboard to side rails
Please, can anyone help? We have the bed all done but do not know how the attachment happens to the side rails. I really don't want the hardware to show on the outside. Please help! Thanks. Cindy
In reply to Attaching headboard and footboard to side rails by [email protected]
birdsandsoap
Sun, 03/11/2012 - 11:29
The way this plan is
The way this plan is designed, you attach an inside rail (that will hold up the mattress) to the inside edge of the bedposts. Then, attach the exterior rails to that. If you nail the side rail from the inside using 1 1/4" nails or screws, no hardware will be visible. It is the side rail (cleats) on the inside that do the work, the outer rail is aesthetic.
If you have a Kreg Jig, you can use pocket holes and attach the rails with screws.
Guest (not verified)
Tue, 03/20/2012 - 19:15
It says in the plan that it
It says in the plan that it is based on standard dimensional lumber. Is it based on hardwood or softwood standards? For instance the 1 x 8 in the plan. Is it 3/4 inch by 7.25 inch or is it 7/8 inch thick or is it truly 1 inch thick? Thanks
Guest (not verified)
Tue, 03/20/2012 - 19:18
It says in the plan that it
It says in the plan that it is based on standard dimensional lumber. Is it softwood or hardwood standards? For instance is the 1 x 8 actually 3/4 by 7.25, is it 7/8 inch thick or is it truly 1 inch thick. Also what type of wood do you use in your project?
In reply to It says in the plan that it by Guest (not verified)
birdsandsoap
Wed, 03/21/2012 - 00:15
When you purchase lumber from
When you purchase lumber from the store, it is given in nominal (in name only) dimensions. A standard 2x4 is actually 1 1/2 inches thick by 3 1/2 inches wide. Don't ask me why, it's just that way (I think it's because they start out that size before they are actually milled). So, looking at any of Ana's plans, her cut lists are always labeled nominally, but the math for the plans is for the actual numbers of board size/width. Most of Ana's plans call for inexpensive pine (soft), which is what I use because it fits my budget. I can't afford hardwoods like oak. For this bed, I used "Top Choice" pine from Lowes. The 2x6's, 2x4's, and 4x4's were fir, as they don't sell them in pine. What I've found on this site, is that the plans use the softwood dimensions; every board is a half inch narrower in actuality, except for the 1x's, they measure 3/4 inches thick.
rgh1948
Wed, 03/21/2012 - 09:06
purchase lumber
For a little bit more I would suggest poplar, you'll find its straighter and easier to
drill into without overdrilling. I would also explore finding a smaller lumber yard/dealer
where the wood quality is far better. I recently did that and the #1 pine at this yard was called "clear" and didn't have a single knot in it. The #1 at the blue or orange stores has knots and isn't very straight.
Those stores will also list the actual dimension vs. nominal on their web site (at least blue does).
To answer the question why the shrinkage ? its do to the drying process after the milling.
Hope this helped.
Bob
Elabetly (not verified)
Tue, 06/05/2012 - 22:58
Hey guys I couldnt agree more...
[quote]It says in the plan that it is based on standard dimensional lumber. Is it based on hardwood or softwood standards? For instance the 1 x 8 in the plan. Is it 3/4 inch by 7.25 inch or is it 7/8 inch thick or is it truly 1 inch thick? Thanks[/quote]
Hey guys,
I couldn't agree more. I really don[url=http://bestelectricshaverhq.org]'[/url]t get why more people just don't get it.
Great post, keep it up.
Cheers!
Raspberry Ketone (not verified)
Tue, 07/03/2012 - 00:16
hi
you have an important blog right here! would you prefer to make some invite posts on my blog?
KateM (not verified)
Tue, 07/10/2012 - 09:53
Siderails
My husband built this bed this weekend but we would prefer to use our own bed rails instead of building a frame and slats however we love the look of the siderails. any suggestions on how to attach them so we can achieve that look without sacrificing our expensice metal bed rail ?
ErinK7
Sun, 07/29/2012 - 20:03
I am wondering the same
I am wondering the same thing! Did you attach the headboard and footboard right to the metal frame? Would it be possible the add the siderails as a cosmetic finish?
Tyra (not verified)
Sat, 09/15/2012 - 16:18
I think this one will answe
I think this one will answe your question. http://ana-white.com/2011/09/farmhouse-bed-king-size
mike g (not verified)
Sat, 10/27/2012 - 04:44
80"
If you put your rails on the inside of the posts you bring the dimensions down to 77". Leaving only 1/2" clearance on each side.
The fit will depend on your joinery. Bedbolts will give you the 80", installing the rails on the inside of your post will give you the 76" I keep hearing about. How has this not been addressed?
Have fun
-Mike G
kongk
Tue, 05/21/2013 - 05:35
Thanks for this article very
Thanks for this article very helpful. thanks.
Bowflex 552
mvanmeg
Mon, 02/03/2014 - 13:29
Farmhouse bed
Spoke to the folks at the lumber yard and they recommended tongue and groove lumber for the panel. It is 1X6 dimension but has the nice v joint, not flat. I'm looking forward to giving that a try. For those of you struggling to find the 1X lumber - that might work for you. It is a Home Hardware building centre.
usafhughes
Wed, 06/25/2014 - 20:40
regular plans
Can someone please send me the plans for the regular way 76 inches wide 80 inches long.... [email protected]! I love this bed but me and my husband are both tall and need it the other way.
Greglujan
Sun, 07/27/2014 - 09:34
Shopping list
I think the shopping list above is off. You need more 1x8.
Otherwise, love the plans! Simple and easy to follow.
Home Design
Sun, 08/03/2014 - 21:26
Bedroom Ideas
I Love This Bed ideas, this bed can make a comfortable when slept on this bed