How to build a wooden Murphy bed with storage

Building a wooden Murphy bed with storage is a rewarding project that combines functionality and craftsmanship. A Murphy bed is a great way to save space in small rooms, and adding built-in storage to the design enhances its usefulness. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build a wooden Murphy bed with storage.

Materials Needed:

• 2×4 Lumber
• Plywood (3/4 inch thickness)
• Wood screws
• Wood glue
• Murphy bed hardware kit (includes hinges, mounting brackets, and gas springs)
• Drawer slides
• Handles for drawers
• Finishing nails
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint
• Drawer boxes (if you’re making your own)
• Hinges for storage compartments

Tools Needed:

• Circular saw or table saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Measuring tape
• Carpenter’s square
• Clamps
• Wood finishing tools (brush, rags, etc.)
• Level
• Pocket hole jig (optional)

Step 1: Planning and Measurements

Before starting, measure the space where you want to install the Murphy bed. Consider the width, length, and height for both the bed and the storage compartments. A typical full-size Murphy bed is about 54 inches wide and 75 inches long, but this can vary based on your space.

Once you have your measurements, sketch out a design. Your storage compartments can either be drawers, open shelves, or a combination of both. Think about the height and depth of the storage units that will work best for your room.

Step 2: Build the Bed Frame

1. Cut the Lumber: Cut the 2×4 lumber to the appropriate lengths for the frame. This frame will support the bed when it’s in the folded position.
2. Assemble the Frame: Use wood screws or a pocket hole jig to assemble the frame. It should form a rectangular shape where the mattress will lie when the bed is folded down.
3. Attach the Support Legs: Install retractable legs that will support the bed when it’s in use. Many Murphy bed kits come with these, or you can buy them separately.

Step 3: Build the Storage Compartments

1. Build the Drawer Boxes: If you’re building drawers for storage, cut plywood pieces for the sides, front, back, and bottom of the drawers. Assemble the boxes using wood glue and screws. Ensure they fit the frame of the Murphy bed.
2. Install Drawer Slides: Attach the drawer slides to the sides of the drawer boxes. Then, install the corresponding slides in the storage compartment spaces of the bed frame. Make sure the slides are level and positioned correctly for smooth drawer operation.
3. Build Shelves (Optional): If you want open shelving instead of drawers, cut plywood pieces to create shelves. Install dividers or supports to keep the shelves stable.

Step 4: Install the Murphy Bed Hardware

1. Attach the Hinges: Install the Murphy bed hardware kit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. These kits usually include large heavy-duty hinges that will allow the bed frame to fold up and down.
2. Install Gas Springs: Gas springs are used to help lift and lower the bed. Attach them to the frame as directed in the Murphy bed kit, ensuring they are securely fastened.
3. Attach the Bed to the Wall: The bed must be anchored to the wall for safety. Use heavy-duty brackets to mount the frame to the wall studs. Double-check the level to ensure that the bed will open and close smoothly.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

1. Sand and Finish: Sand the wood to remove rough edges and prepare the surface for staining or painting. Apply a wood stain or paint to match your room decor. Allow the finish to dry completely.
2. Install Handles: If you have drawers or cabinet doors, attach the handles. Choose handles that complement the design of the bed and room.
3. Add the Mattress: Place the mattress on the frame. Ensure it fits properly, leaving enough clearance for the bed to fold up when not in use.

Step 6: Final Assembly

Once all parts are finished, assemble everything in the room where the bed will be used. Make sure to test the Murphy bed’s folding mechanism to ensure it works smoothly. Adjust the gas springs if necessary to ensure the bed is easy to lift and lower.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Murphy Bed with Storage

Now that your Murphy bed with storage is built, you can enjoy the additional space in your room while keeping your essentials neatly organized in the drawers or shelves. The bed should be sturdy, comfortable, and functional, providing both a place to sleep and a space-saving storage solution.

For further woodworking projects and detailed plans, you can explore Ted’s Woodworking Course, which offers a vast array of woodworking designs, including Murphy beds and other furniture. Find more information here: Ted’s Woodworking Course.