A simple bed frame joinery project could add a rustic yet classy touch to your bedroom. The best part of this is you can do it in your garage.
Check out this easy step-by-step guide in making your own bed frame from scratch.
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Bed Frame Joinery Project in 10 Simple Steps
What You Need:
Tools
- Circular saw
- Wood chisel
- Hammer
- Power drill
- Bit set
- Caulk gun
- Framing square
- Work gloves
- Tape measure
- Safety goggles
Materials
- 3/4″ plywood sheet
- 1/4″ sheathing sheets
- 2x4x8′
- 4x4x4′
- Trim
- 8 x 1 1/4″ wood screws
- 8 x 2″ wood screws
- Caulk
- Face mask
- Wood glue
- Paint
Reminder:
Make sure that before you begin with your bed frame joinery project, every material is available. This will preempt any delays in doing your job with efficiency.
You should keep a checklist of all the tools and materials needed in the project. Make an inventory before you start.
Step 1. Cut the Panels
Cut the plywood board into four panels. If you have an assistant, you can cut the board using a table saw.
But if you are to do this alone, you can cut the board into sequential sections. This will make it easier for you to start the bed frame joinery project without any help.
Make sure that that you put the blade on the right segment of the cut before ripping.
Discard the cross-hatched sections but reserve all other pieces of wood.
Pro Tip: You can make a DIY cutting guide by using two C-clamps and a 2×4 wood. Make sure that the wood is straight.
Step 2. Sand the Panels
Using a sander and 80 to 120 grit sandpaper, smoothen the surface of the plywood panels. Make sure to secure the panel with clamps for an easier sanding job.
Note: When using a sander, always use goggles to protect your eyes from foreign materials. Having a first aid kit ready is also advisable just in case of bed frame joinery project emergencies.
Step 3. Assemble the Frame
After cutting, assemble the four panels on the floor. Drill three holes at each end of the panels.
There will be a total of 12 screws at the end of each side panel. Secure them all together at each corner using screws and wood glue.
Step 4. Install the Gussets
Ensure that every piece is flush to the next panel. When all the panels are joined, install the gussets flush below each corner of the frame.
Use three wood screws and glue to join each side. Make sure that the screw heads are slightly recessed.
Note: Both corners of the frame must be square before you install the gussets. By doing this, you can ensure that both frame measurements are equal.
Step 7. Install the Corners
First, set the blade of your saw to a depth of 2”. Cut 4×4 wood into four pieces measuring 11-1/2″ each.
Notch out the back of the 4×4. This will wrap the corner of the frame, make it protrude 1 ½” at the top, and flush at the bottom section.
Begin by making a cut-out marking using a 10” line and 2’ in on both adjacent sides. Cut the 4×4 into four -long pieces.
Using the same saw blade depth, make two perpendicular cuts. This results in a small wooden piece attaching the drop and the cut-out corner.
Clean up the inner corner and discard the final wood using a chisel. Once done, cut the top of the 1 ½” back at an angle of 45-degrees.
Glue and nail the inside corner to the mainframe.
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Step 6. Attach the Cross Slats
Mount the ledger strips at the bottom part of each bed frame side. Using wood glue, install the screws through the ledger into the side panels.
Using the distance between the sides of the frame, cut seven 2x4s using this reference. When you’re done, attach the cross slats at the center.
Step 7. Install Leg-Mounting Threads
On each side of the gusset, attach the leg-mounting threads. This is for solid legs that have threaded rods.
For accessible mounting threads, you can use washers and nuts for installation. Or, you can use adhesive instead of the mounting threads that are not accessible.
For the perfect and tightest fit, you can undersize by 1/16” the hole of the threaded rods. You can thread the rod by rotating the leg in a clockwise motion into the wood.
Step 8: Caulk and Paint the Frame
Install eight pieces of trim and fit them between each corner post. Do it around the perimeter of the frame from top to bottom.
Using painter’s caulk, seal nail holes, and joints. Let dry for at least half an hour.
While waiting for the caulk to dry, cut two ¼” pieces of sheathing which go over each 2×4 crossbar.
Once the caulk is dry, paint the bed frame with your preferred color.
Step 9: Let it Dry Some More
Before assembling the frame in your room, it is best to let the finished product dry for around 24 hours. The best place to air-dry wood is somewhere not moist and without direct exposure to sunlight.
There are other methods to do a bed frame joinery project the right way. But if you prefer a simple bed frame, this one is perfect for you. Enjoy and safety first!
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What do you think is the best reason to do woodworking projects DIY? We would like to hear your thoughts in the comment section below!
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