Building a wooden daybed with a trundle drawer can be a rewarding woodworking project that enhances the functionality and aesthetics of any room. A daybed with a trundle provides both seating and sleeping options, while the trundle drawer offers additional storage space, making it ideal for small spaces. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you build your wooden daybed with a trundle drawer.
Materials Needed:
- 2×4 lumber (for the frame)
- 1×4 lumber (for the slats)
- Plywood (for the bed base and trundle)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Wood finish (paint or stain)
- Trundle casters (for easy sliding)
- Hinges (for attaching the trundle drawer)
Tools Required:
- Saw (circular or table saw)
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Square
- Clamps
- Sander
- Paintbrush (if finishing the wood)
Step 1: Plan and Measure
Before starting, measure the space where you want to place the daybed to ensure it fits. A standard daybed size is typically 80 inches long and 40 inches wide. For the trundle drawer, the measurements will need to accommodate a mattress of around 75 inches by 38 inches.
Sketch out your daybed frame, noting where the trundle drawer will slide in and out. Consider the height of the trundle in relation to the daybed, ensuring enough clearance for the drawer to open and close smoothly.
Step 2: Cut the Lumber
Cut your 2×4 lumber into pieces for the frame of the daybed. You’ll need:
- 2 pieces at 80 inches (for the length of the daybed)
- 2 pieces at 40 inches (for the width of the daybed)
- Several cross pieces (at 40 inches) to create the slats that will support the mattress.
For the trundle drawer, cut the plywood to match the size of the mattress you intend to use (typically 75 inches by 38 inches). You’ll also need some 2×4 pieces to build the trundle frame, plus a few additional 1×4 slats for the bottom of the trundle.
Step 3: Build the Daybed Frame
Start by assembling the main frame for the daybed. Take the two 80-inch pieces and attach them to the two 40-inch pieces to form a rectangular shape. Use wood screws and wood glue to secure the joints, and make sure the angles are square.
Next, add the cross supports (1x4s) inside the frame. These will support the mattress and give the frame strength. Space them evenly, with about 2 to 3 inches between each slat. Attach these using wood screws.
Step 4: Build the Trundle Drawer
Now it’s time to build the trundle drawer that will slide under the daybed. Start by assembling a rectangular frame with the 2×4 lumber. This frame should be the same dimensions as the daybed’s mattress size, minus a small gap for the trundle’s casters.
For the trundle’s base, cut the plywood to fit the frame. Add a few slats across the trundle’s base to support the mattress. These slats should be spaced in a way that ensures the mattress remains stable.
Step 5: Add Casters to the Trundle
To ensure the trundle slides smoothly, attach four heavy-duty casters to the corners of the trundle frame. You may want to choose locking casters so the trundle stays in place when not in use. Drill holes in the corners of the trundle frame and secure the casters with screws.
Step 6: Assemble the Daybed and Trundle
Place the trundle under the daybed and check that it fits comfortably. It should slide in and out with ease, allowing you to store the mattress and use the trundle when needed.
To finish the daybed, attach a back panel or headboard if desired. You can either build a simple panel using 2x4s and plywood or create a more intricate design with decorative moldings, depending on your style preferences.
Step 7: Sand and Finish the Daybed
Once the daybed and trundle are assembled, it’s time to sand the entire piece to smooth out rough edges and surfaces. Use sandpaper or a power sander to smooth the wood.
After sanding, apply your desired wood finish. This could be a stain, paint, or a clear wood finish, depending on the look you prefer. Allow the finish to dry fully before moving the daybed into place.
Step 8: Add Mattress and Bedding
Once the daybed is assembled and the finish has dried, you can add a mattress to the daybed frame and the trundle. The mattress for the trundle should be a thin one to ensure it fits comfortably when pulled out.
Final Thoughts
Building a wooden daybed with a trundle drawer is a great woodworking project that will result in a highly functional and stylish piece of furniture. It offers additional storage and sleeping space without sacrificing style, making it perfect for guest rooms, studios, or any room where space is limited.
For more detailed woodworking plans and step-by-step guides to similar projects, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course. With hundreds of plans and expert tips, you can create your perfect pieces of furniture!