This project was built and designed by Nathan from Nathan Builds. It’s a clean and sturdy bed frame made using common lumber and repurposed hardware for a practical and budget-friendly build.
If you’re looking for a satisfying woodworking project that results in a long-lasting piece of furniture, this bed is a great place to start. It also shows how basic materials can come together to make something strong and attractive.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Nathan’s channel:
Choosing and Preparing the Materials
Nathan starts by selecting 2x12s for the main components of the bed. These boards offer strength, are easy to find, and give the piece a solid presence.
Once the lumber is selected, each board is planed smooth and squared up. Ripping the edges clean ensures that joints will be tight and clean during assembly.
Building the Headboard
The headboard is made from three boards glued edge to edge. Nathan begins by finding a layout that looks visually balanced, then marks the dowel positions.
A doweling jig is used to drill accurate holes for alignment and strength. After a dry fit to check the alignment, the boards are glued and clamped in stages.
Once dry, the headboard is cut to final length using a straight edge for accuracy. Tongues are routed on the sides so the headboard can connect securely to the vertical posts.
Grooves are cut into the posts to match the tongues, allowing for a clean and tight joint. Careful measuring and a steady hand help keep everything aligned.
Framing the Bed
The bed’s side rails and footboard are assembled using pocket holes. This joinery method offers good strength and keeps screws hidden for a cleaner look.
Nathan attaches the foot posts first, using glue and clamps to hold everything together. Side supports are added next to support the mattress slats.
These supports can be attached using brad nails, screws, or clamps depending on your preference. Ensuring the frame stays square during this step is key to the final fit.
Smoothing and Finishing
Once assembled, the frame is sanded thoroughly using 220 grit sandpaper. Corners are beveled with a router to remove sharp edges and soften the overall look.
Because pine tends to absorb stain unevenly, Nathan uses a pre-stain conditioner before applying any color. A golden oak stain is then applied, followed by three coats of polyurethane for protection.
This combination of finishes highlights the wood grain and gives the bed a warm, clean look. The finish also helps protect the wood from everyday wear.
Addressing Small Issues
As with many woodworking projects, a few adjustments were needed along the way. When minor gaps appeared in the tongue and groove joints, wood putty was used to close them up.
Nathan also decided to cut down the height of the headboard to better fit the space. The changes were made cleanly, and the components were reassembled without issue.
Reusing Hardware
To cut costs and reduce waste, Nathan reused the slats and hardware from an old IKEA bed. These were measured and fitted into the new frame without glue, allowing for easy disassembly.
This reuse strategy adds a practical element to the project and keeps usable materials from going to waste. It also makes future moves or modifications easier to handle.
Final Notes
The finished bed frame is strong, clean, and minimal in design. It proves that you don’t need exotic materials or complex joinery to create quality furniture.
Using soft pine worked well for this build, though switching to a hardwood in the future could improve durability even further. It’s a solid project that balances simplicity, function, and good craftsmanship.
Watch Nathan’s full video here and subscribe to his channel: