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Carpentry Pro Framer

Make a Wooden Bunk Bed

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by

Taylor Balthazar
in

Cutting and Preparing the Lumber

Start by cutting your pine lumber to size using a miter saw for clean, precise cuts. Use 2x6s for the bed frame and 2x4s for the ladder and support beams. If available, use a thickness planer to remove manufacturing stamp marks.

For rabbet cuts, create a jig using plywood and spacers, then use your circular saw. This ensures neat cuts at the ends of your slats for a perfect fit in the bed frame.

After cutting, do a dry fit to check lengths and angles. Sand lightly to remove splinters and rough edges. Stay organized as you work to avoid losing smaller pieces or forgetting their placement.

A carpenter using a miter saw to cut pine lumber for a bunk bed project

Assembling the Bed Frame

Lay out your 2×6 frame pieces. Use pocket holes and wood glue for a clean look without visible screw heads. Apply wood glue on connections for extra strength.

Hold pieces together and secure with pocket hole screws. Attach 2×2 slats along the inner bottom edges of the frames to support the mattress. Space them evenly and secure with wood screws, keeping them level and flush with frame edges for stability.

Hidden pocket holes make the bed look seamless and protect hardware from damage.

A carpenter assembling the bed frame using pocket holes and wood glue

Building the Ladder and Leg Assemblies

Create L-shaped leg assemblies using 2×4 and 2×6 boards. Screw the 2×4 to the 2×6, placing pocket holes strategically so ladder rungs cover them later.

For the ladder, secure rungs with glue and screws. Position each rung carefully, ensuring it's level and aligns with pocket screws on the legs. Make sure rungs are perpendicular to the legs.

Add frame locating blocks to corners where the bed frame meets the legs to help align everything during assembly.

A carpenter constructing the ladder for a bunk bed using 2x4 boards

Final Assembly and Finishing Touches

Assemble the frame and legs methodically. Secure each corner with multiple screws to prevent racking and ensure stability. Install ladders on both sides for versatility and easier access.

For finishing, consider using Briwax in a well-ventilated area. Apply thin layers against the grain for an even coat, then rub with a clean cloth until you achieve a desirable luster.

Let the bed dry completely before use.
A carpenter applying the final touches to a newly assembled bunk bed

Your bunk bed is now complete, ready to provide a comfortable and sturdy sleeping space for years to come.

  1. White A. How To Build A DIY Built-In Bunk Bed. Ana White.
  2. Jay's Creations. Bunk Bed Plans. Jay's Creations.
  3. Canadian Home Workshop. Bunk Bed Plan. Canadian Home Workshop.