A DIY Murphy bed is a great way to save space in a home. But you must have the right tools and some basic woodworking skills in order to make one yourself. Besides, it can be a lot cheaper than buying a pre-built model. It also gives you a lot more flexibility to make the best use of your space.
If you’re interested in building a DIY murphy bed, there are plenty of great plans available. Some of them use ordinary building materials, while others rely on specialty hardware. Fortunately, there are no fancy or expensive tools required. However, you do need to be aware of safety precautions when putting your own bed together.
The most important part of a DIY Murphy bed is constructing the frame. Whether you use plywood or MDF, this structure must be sturdy enough to hold your mattress and box spring. Before you get started, make sure you’ve measured and cut your pieces properly.
Depending on the model you choose, you’ll need about 2 to 3 feet of floor space. You’ll want to make your frame at least an inch wider than the mattress. Once it’s complete, you can attach it to the wall with finishing nails. In addition, you may decide to add a decorative top to hide the flimsy bed frame underneath.
Aside from the standard horizontal Murphy bed, you can also build a vertical wall bed. These are great options for low ceilings. They also allow you to create a guestroom or nursery in the process. To make your own, start with a couple of sheets of 3/4” plywood. Using a table saw will ensure your cuts are accurate.
After you’ve cut out your boards, you can begin to assemble your bed. This can be done by hand or using a drill. For the best results, make sure you’re working on a clean, level surface. As with any home improvement project, be sure to wear proper safety equipment and read the instructions carefully.
One of the more complicated steps of assembling your bed is attaching the side and back panels. You’ll want to take your time with this step, though. Your goal is to make sure the panels are symmetrical. Alternatively, you can use painter’s tape to mark your placement.
Next, you’ll need to install a cabinet on the wall. Most Murphy beds have one, but if yours doesn’t, you can easily make one yourself. While you’re at it, you might as well add a few side tables.
Ideally, the cabinet is made of the same material as the rest of the Murphy bed, so you won’t have to worry about a paint job smudging your walls. Also, you can customize the finish to match the rest of your furnishings.
While a Murphy bed might seem like a good idea, you must keep in mind that it’s very heavy when finished. To avoid any injury, you must anchor it correctly. Otherwise, your children might accidentally climb up onto the bed.
Also Read: Choosing a Work Bench With Table Saw and Circular Saw