How to make a wooden loft bed with storage drawers

Making a wooden loft bed with storage drawers is a rewarding project that not only gives you a functional piece of furniture but also adds a great sense of accomplishment. The loft bed will allow you to maximize floor space, and adding storage drawers beneath the bed creates an efficient solution for keeping things organized. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to build your own wooden loft bed with storage drawers.

Materials and Tools

Materials:

• 2×4 wooden boards (for the frame)
• 1×6 wooden boards (for the bed platform slats)
• Plywood sheets (for the storage drawers and bed platform base)
• Screws (3-inch screws for the frame and smaller screws for the slats and drawers)
• Drawer slides (heavy-duty, preferably 18-inch slides)
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Wood finish or paint (optional)

Tools:

• Circular saw or table saw
• Drill with screwdriver bits
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Wood clamps
• Carpenter’s square
• Pencil for marking cuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Plan and Measure

Before cutting any wood, it’s important to plan the dimensions of your loft bed. The typical height for a loft bed is around 5-6 feet, but you can adjust this depending on the available space in your room. Also, decide the dimensions of your storage drawers. Each drawer will typically be about 18-24 inches deep, depending on the size of the bed.

• Bed dimensions: Standard twin bed (38″ x 75″) or full (54″ x 75″)
• Height: Typically 5-6 feet, but adjust to your needs

Step 2: Cut the Bed Frame Pieces

Using a circular saw or table saw, cut your 2x4s to the following dimensions for the bed frame:

• Side rails (2 pieces): Length equal to the length of the bed (e.g., 75″ for a twin)
• End rails (2 pieces): Length equal to the width of the bed (e.g., 38″ for a twin)
• Legs (4 pieces): Cut 4 legs to the height you want the bed to be from the floor (e.g., 5 feet)

Step 3: Assemble the Bed Frame

Lay out the side rails and end rails to form a rectangular shape. Attach the rails to the legs using wood screws. Ensure the frame is square by checking the corners with a carpenter’s square. Use wood glue in addition to screws for a strong bond.

For added stability, you can add cross supports between the side rails. These will provide support for the bed slats and prevent the bed from shifting.

Step 4: Add the Bed Slats

Once the frame is assembled, measure and cut the 1×6 slats to fit across the width of the bed. These slats will form the base of the mattress. Space the slats about 2-3 inches apart for proper mattress ventilation.

Lay the slats across the bed frame and screw them into place, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Step 5: Build the Storage Drawers

Now, it’s time to build the storage drawers that will fit beneath the bed. You will need plywood sheets to construct the sides, bottom, and back of each drawer.

• Drawer sides (4 pieces): Cut two pieces to the length of the space under the bed and two pieces to the depth of the drawers.
• Drawer bottom (4 pieces): Cut plywood to fit each drawer.

Once the sides are cut, use wood glue and screws to assemble the drawer boxes. Attach the drawer slides to the sides of the drawer box and to the inside of the bed frame where the drawers will slide in and out. For smooth operation, use heavy-duty, full-extension drawer slides.

Step 6: Install the Drawers

Place the assembled drawer boxes under the bed, ensuring the drawer slides fit snugly into the designated space. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the drawers slide in and out easily.

If you’d like, you can add drawer handles or knobs for easy access to the contents of the drawers.

Step 7: Sand and Finish

Once everything is assembled, give the entire structure a good sanding. Start with a rough grit to smooth out any rough edges, and finish with a fine grit for a polished look. If you want to add a finishing touch, stain or paint the loft bed to match your room’s decor.

Step 8: Add the Mattress

Finally, place your mattress on top of the slats, and you’re ready to use your new wooden loft bed with storage drawers!

Tips for Success

• Use sturdy wood: Since this is a piece of furniture that will support a significant amount of weight, make sure you use high-quality, durable wood.
• Measure twice, cut once: Always measure your cuts carefully to ensure the pieces fit together perfectly.
• Customize the drawers: You can adjust the number of drawers depending on the space and your storage needs.
• Safety considerations: Make sure the bed is securely anchored and stable, especially if it will be used by children.

Conclusion

Building a wooden loft bed with storage drawers is a fantastic way to save space in your room while keeping things organized. With the right materials and a bit of effort, you can create a functional, sturdy piece of furniture that enhances your bedroom’s storage and style. Enjoy your new loft bed and the extra storage space beneath!

For more woodworking plans, tips, and projects, check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking