Looking for a practical and stylish solution to maximize your space? DIY Pete has created a fantastic guide on building a queen-size Murphy bed that’s perfect for any home. This project provides a comfortable sleeping area for guests and allows you to reclaim your space for other activities when the bed is not in use.
What You Will Need:
- Murphy Bed Hardware Kit
- 3/4 inch cabinet-grade plywood
- 1 x 2 boards
- Edge banding
- Wood glue
- Screws (various sizes)
- Drill and drill bits
- Table saw or circular saw
- Miter saw
- Orbital sander
- Measuring tape
- Paint or wood stain (optional)
Step 1: Research and Prepare
The first step is to research hardware options for your Murphy bed. DIY Pete found a Murphy bed kit online, which includes gas springs, project plans, and all necessary hardware. The kit was priced at around $300, and the wooden supplies were approximately $400, bringing the total project cost to around $700. This is a great deal compared to pre-made units that can cost over $1300.
Step 2: Gather Your Materials
Head to your local hardware store to gather all the materials you will need. Make sure to get cabinet-grade plywood and 1 x 2 boards for the frame. You will also need edge banding for a polished finish.
Step 3: Cutting the Wood
Set up your workspace with sawhorses to create an outfeed surface for your table saw. Begin by cutting the plywood into the necessary pieces. The bulk of the bed is made from 3/4 inch plywood, which forms the front of the Murphy bed cabinet and the bed frame itself.
Step 4: Assemble the Frame Struts
To create the frame struts, attach one board to another in an L shape. Pre-drill holes approximately every 8 inches and secure them with wood glue and 1.5-inch screws. Repeat this for all struts according to the size of the bed you are building.
Step 5: Create Side Rails
Determine which side of the plywood will face outward. Cut out rounded corners and mark the locations for the leg bracket using a template. Drill holes for the pivoting leg bracket and then attach the hardware.
Step 6: Prepare Face Panels
Lay the two face panels with the best side facing down. Add edge banding on three sides of each panel and ensure a strong bond. After that, center the inner frame on the face panels and trace around the areas where the struts will be attached.
Step 7: Attach the Frame to the Face Panels
Once the glue is applied, set the frame back on the face panels and attach using screws. Ensure everything is square and secure.
Step 8: Install the Cabinet Verticals
Measure and mark for the placement of the stopper and gas spring plates on the cabinet verticals. Drill holes and secure the hardware in place.
Step 9: Add the Header and Finish Assembly
Attach the header to the cabinet verticals, ensuring it is flush with the top. Secure it with screws and ensure everything is stable.
Step 10: Secure the Bed Frame to the Wall
Use a stud finder to locate and mark each stud on the wall. Secure the cabinet frame to the wall using 3-inch screws. Make sure it is securely attached for safety.
Step 11: Finish the Bed
Now is the time to add any additional trim or finishes. You can paint or stain the bed to match your decor. Once everything is dry, you can add the elastic straps that hold the mattress in place.
Step 12: Enjoy Your New Murphy Bed!
Once you’ve added your mattress and any final touches, it’s time to enjoy your new Murphy bed. This piece not only looks great but also provides the functionality you need in your home.
For more detailed instructions, be sure to check out DIY Pete’s full tutorial on his website. Happy building!