Bid Farewell to Conventional Metal Bed Frames and Box Springs!
If you’re tired of the traditional metal bed frames that always seem to need a box spring, then building your own platform bed is the perfect solution. This comprehensive DIY project demonstrates how to craft a sturdy, stylish wooden platform bed that elevates your sleeping space. I collaborated with Kreg Tools to streamline this process, utilizing the versatile Kreg 520Pro pocket hole jig, which is ideal for quick assembly, especially with long boards. This jig is a compact, portable tool that makes drilling precise pocket holes on extended pieces straightforward.
With this method, you can assemble all the components of your new platform bed within an afternoon, saving both time and money. Designed to accommodate modern foam or latex mattresses, this frame eliminates the need for box springs, offering a sleek and contemporary look. While constructing a bed frame might seem intimidating at first, it’s actually quite manageable. Just ensure you have ample workspace—setting up your project outside or in an empty garage will give you enough room to handle larger boards comfortably. For a king-sized bed, the longest board you’ll work with measures approximately 80.5 inches, which is manageable with a little planning.
Creating an Affordable and Stylish Bed Frame
Understanding budget constraints, I designed this platform bed to look luxurious without breaking the bank. Using standard 2×4 and 2×6 lumber, the cost remains under $100, even considering current lumber prices. To keep expenses low, you can opt for fully assembled frames with pocket hole screws instead of using bed rail brackets—though the latter makes assembly easier, especially for larger beds like queen or king sizes. For smaller beds such as twin or full, a fully screw-assembled frame is a smart choice for easier mobility through doorways.
Choosing Between Bed Slats and Plywood
Once your frame is built, you need a solid base for your mattress. Modern foam or latex mattresses require either a grid of closely spaced slats or a sheet of plywood. This particular frame is designed to sit higher off the ground and isn’t compatible with box springs. The decision between slats and plywood depends on your mattress type and personal preference. Inexpensive 1×4 furring strips work well for slats, typically spaced about 2 inches apart, providing a budget-friendly, yet sturdy, support base. For example, I used slats spaced just 2 inches apart, costing less than $50 for all the wood involved.
Explore More DIY Bed and Headboard Ideas
If you’re interested in expanding your bedroom decor, check out additional DIY projects like the Simple Mission Style Platform Bed, Modern DIY Headboard with Headboard Cushion, or the Easy-to-Build DIY Bed. These projects can complement your new platform frame and personalize your sleeping area.
How to Build Your Wooden Platform Bed Frame
Tools & Materials Needed:
- Recommended Tools:
- Kreg pocket hole jig (preferably the 520Pro for mobility and ease of use)
- Miter saw (preferably a sliding model for larger cuts)
- Circular saw with guide track or a table saw with a taper jig
- Power drill
- Impact driver (optional but highly recommended)
- Finish nail gun
- Kreg Quick-Flip
- Kreg Automaxx Face Clamp
- Sander
- Supplies:
- Premium PDF woodworking plans
- Wood stock including:
- (3-4) 8-foot 2×6 boards
- (2-3) 8-foot 2×4 boards
- (14-15) 8-foot 1×4 boards or (2) 4×8 plywood sheets (3/4″ thick)
- 2 1/2-inch Kreg pocket hole screws
- 1 1/4-inch Kreg pocket hole screws
- 2-inch finishing nails
- Three pairs of bed rail brackets
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper in various grits
Cut List & Frame Dimensions
Specific measurements vary based on the size of the bed you wish to build. Detailed PDFs include cut lists for:
- Twin: 38.5″ x 75.5″ platform
- Full: 54.5″ x 75.5″ platform
- Queen: 60.5″ x 80.5″ platform
- King: 76.5″ x 80.5″ platform
- California King: 72.5″ x 84.5″ platform
Premium PDF Plans & Step-by-Step Instructions
Get access to comprehensive plans with clear cut lists, shopping guides, detailed step-by-step instructions, 3D diagrams, and helpful resources. Plus, a BONUS 3D SketchUp model is included. Buy Now
Step 1: Cutting the Legs
If your 2×6 boards have rounded edges, consider ripping ¼ inch off one side to ensure a flat surface for assembly. Measure 2.5 inches from the bottom and 5.5 inches from the top on each leg and draw a line for tapering. Cut along this line with a circular saw, jig saw, bandsaw, or a table saw equipped with a tapered leg jig. This creates elegant tapered legs that enhance the overall aesthetic.
Step 2: Building the Headboard and Footboard
Set your pocket hole jig to drill in 1½-inch thick material. Use the high-quality Kreg 520Pro for mobility and precision. Cut the front and back pieces of the headboard/footboard according to the PDF plans, ensuring to account for any modifications if you ripped edges off your legs. Drill three pocket holes at each end of these pieces. Apply wood glue, position the legs, and secure with 2½-inch pocket hole screws, ensuring the assembly is flush and sturdy. Repeat for both the headboard and footboard.
Step 3: Assembling the Side Rails
Cut side rails from 2×6 boards and support pieces from 2x4s based on the plans. Position the support pieces approximately centered horizontally, about 2¾ inches from each end, and 1½ inches below the top edge to create a ¾-inch lip for the mattress. For a deeper lip, lower the support; for a flush top, raise it accordingly. Secure the support with wood glue, nails, and screws, spacing the screws every 8-10 inches for strength.
Step 4: Installing the Center Rail
Applicable for all sizes except twin, the center rail prevents sagging in the middle. Cut it from a 2×4, drill pocket holes in the legs, and attach with glue and screws. Position the legs evenly and adjust measurements if modifications were made earlier.
Step 5: Sanding & Finishing
Sand all assembled parts thoroughly to smooth surfaces. Stain or paint to your desired finish before proceeding to attach bed brackets. For a visual guide, watch the accompanying video.
Step 6: Attaching Bed Rail Brackets
Use two sets of bed rail brackets, one for each side rail, and one for the center support. Mark and predrill holes for each bracket, ensuring proper placement—3/4 inch from the top and inset from the edges. Secure brackets with appropriate screws, adjusting for any length discrepancies or gaps. Make sure brackets are mirrored on the ends of rails and aligned correctly.
Step 7: Final Assembly and Support Installation
Slide the side rails onto the brackets attached to the headboard and footboard, tightening bolts to secure. Repeat for the center support. Check the frame for squareness by measuring diagonally across opposite corners; adjust if necessary. Install slats or plywood base—cut to fit and support your mattress properly. Use screws to secure slats at both ends and along support beams. Place your mattress, and enjoy your new, custom-built platform bed.
Don’t Forget: Download Your Printable PDF Plans!
Our comprehensive plans include:
- Recommended tools
- Shopping list
- Easy-to-read cut list and diagrams
- Step-by-step instructions with 3D renderings
- Helpful tips and resources
- BONUS: 3D SketchUp file for virtual modeling
I love how the tapered legs elevate the design, giving the bed a refined look with simple 2x boards. I’m excited to enjoy my new king-sized bed and hope you find this guide helpful for your project! Happy building!
Special thanks to Kreg Tools for sponsoring this project. I only endorse products I truly love and use. All opinions are my own. Read my full disclosure policy.