How to build rustic camp style pine bed! Free step by step plans include everything you need to DIY furniture!

Preparation
1/2 sheet - 3/4" thick plywood measuring 4x4 feet
2 – 2x8 @ 8 feet long
2 – 1x4 @ 8 feet long
4 – 1x3 @ 8 feet long
2 – 2x4 @ 8 feet long
2 – 1x2 @ 8 feet long
1x3s for slats or box spring
1 1/4” and 2 1/2" pocket hole screws
1 1/4" finish nails
Wood glue
Finishing Supplies
2 – 3/4" plywood @ 24” x 37 1/2" (panels)
4 – 1x4 @ 37 1/2" (panel trim)
12 – 1x3 @ 17” (panel trim)
2 – 2x4 @ 48 1/2" (headboard legs)
2 – 2x4 @ 29 1/4" (footboard legs)
2 – 1x3 @ 45 1/2" (top of footboard and
headboard)
2 – 2x8 @ 75” (siderails)
2 – 1x2 @ 75” (cleats)
1x3 @ 39” for slats or use box spring
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1
Step 2
Step 7
Step 8
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
Comments
sherx2 (not verified)
Thu, 03/15/2012 - 11:41
queen size ?
WIll you be doing this in a queen size version?
Also how could you just make the headboard and
attach it to a (free standing) metal frame
for matress and box springs.
Thanks!
In reply to queen size ? by sherx2 (not verified)
Ana White
Fri, 03/16/2012 - 11:27
Queen Size
CGCouture
Thu, 03/15/2012 - 11:50
You mention being able to
You mention being able to purchase special hardware to make assembly/disassmbly easier, but I have no idea what it's called or where to find it. Could someone please provide that information? Thanks!
This bed is awesome, I have changed my mind about which bed I want to build for my husband and I's room several times over now....I'm paralyzed by indecision! ;-)
In reply to You mention being able to by CGCouture
claydowling
Thu, 03/15/2012 - 11:59
Knockdown hardware
The general term for it is knockdown hardware. In this particular case, you're probably going to be happiest with bed frame brackets, which are sold by Rockler among others. A cross dowel nut might also work, and Tage Frid had a slick little trick he could do with a t-nut, a dowel, and a bolt, so that the hardware was almost completely hidden. The Tage Frid trick is documented in his book on furniture design (book 3 of Tage Frid Teaches Woodworking), if you want to get completely DIY about it.
Carrie Wittenberg (not verified)
Fri, 03/16/2012 - 08:05
knockdown hardware
I used the brackets from Rockler on the Farmhouse Bed I made for my sister. It takes a little work with a hammer/chisel to get them mounted nicely but they work great when they're done! The rails come unhooked on both ends so you can take the bed apart into 4 pieces (headboard, footboard and 2 side rails).
Just be sure you start making the holes for the hooks to slide into with the bracket mounted right side up. I made that mistake and couldn't figure out why the hooks weren't sliding in. Turns out that they were resting on the mounting screw because I put the bracket on upside down! Easy fix but I sure did feel stupid!
Sara Jayne (not verified)
Fri, 03/16/2012 - 10:51
We have built two beds of our
We have built two beds of our own design, using some of Ana's as a starting point. We use deck hardware to put the side rails on so then you can unscrew it to take it apart for moving. It's about $20.
Rachel Harwood (not verified)
Thu, 03/15/2012 - 18:03
Love this!
I was thinking I would just make my girls matching headboards for their beds, but now I'm thinking I might make them matching beds instead! Love this bed! :)
I'm sure I can figure out how to alter it for a king single bed, I'll just measure the mattresses that we already have and adjust the sizes of the wood to fit.
Donna @ Edible… (not verified)
Fri, 03/16/2012 - 07:47
It looks great!
And if you have the time and material to make a Kentwood shelf as well and put it in the corner, you have a real hit!
Michael Brooking (not verified)
Fri, 03/16/2012 - 13:52
King Dimensions
I think the work you are doing is great and very inspirational. I have been looking for project ideas for a king size bed. Will you be positing dimensions for this project or is there already a place they can be found for a king?
sherx2 (not verified)
Fri, 03/16/2012 - 23:23
Thanks Ana !! As always you
Thanks Ana !!
As always you rawk !