How to Make a Dorm Bed Into a Loft

If you are searching for space around your room to fit a chair, desk, cabinet or little cupboard, you may find it difficult. However, if you could learn how to make a dorm bed into a loft, not only will you enjoy the experience, you’ll be creating that much needed space. Of course, this is a task that requires some carpentry skills but if you have some, follow these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Solid wood (2x6)
• Circular saw
• Power drill
• Drill bits
• Lag bolts (1/4”x 2½”)

1. Decide the size of your bed. If you have already chosen a particular bed size, you will only need to build a matching frame.

2. Measure and then mark the wood from which you will cut the four pieces to make the frame for a 3 x 6-foot bed. Make sure to allow for thickness of the boards by adding an extra 1/4-inch on each side to fit the mattress. Cut two pieces to a length of 6 and1/2-inch each (the extra 1/2 inch is for a 1/4-inch leeway on each side). Then cut the other two pieces, also leaving 1/2 inch for leeway. Make sure you allow an extra 3 inches for the thickness of the wood as 2 x 6 wood is 1 1/2-inch thick.

3. Complete the frame. To fix the lag bolts, use a 5/8” speed bore bit and drill a row of three equally spaced holes to a depth of 1/2 inch on each side of the end boards. Then drill pilot holes to fit each lag bolt. Now use an electric screw gun or ratchet wrench to screw in the lag bolts. Make sure that each bolt is recessed. To ensure right angular (square) precision and level of the bed frame, try assembling the four pieces of the frame on the floor.

4. Make the slats. You will need, four of these, one should be fitted at each end of the frame while the remaining two must be spaced evenly between the other two. Now use the 1/4-inch lag bolts to attach the slats between the two side pieces of the frame. Ensure that each slat in flush with the bottom of the frame and that each lag bolt is recessed.

5. Prepare plywood for mattress support. Cut a 3/8-inch sheet of plywood which will be placed on the top of the slats (in case you’re using box springs and a traditional mattress, this step may not be necessary).

6. Cut the legs for your bed. Use 2 x 6-inch wood as this size will be ideal for a 6-foot high loft. Now attach the legs to the sides of the frame ensuring that the 6 ft. high legs are flush with the top edge of the bed frame. To do this, use 1/4 x 1 3/4-inch or 2 -inch lag bolts. It is advisable to invert the frame on the floor when attaching the 2 x 6-inch legs. Return the bed to its original position and place.

7. Build braces for the legs. For this task, you can use either 1 x 4s or 1 x 6s. Fix two diagonal braces to the back and two horizontal braces at the bottom of each end. To attach the braces, you may use simple wood screws after countersinking and drilling suitable holes to match.

8. Fix a retaining sideboard for safety. Cut a piece from a 1 x 8 to the required length and fit it between the two upright legs at the top. Use regular screws to attach the sideboard to the frame allowing half the board to be above the edge of the bed frame. Make sure to countersink all screws.

9. Make rungs at one side of the bed to act as a ladder. Use 2 x 4s and attach them 1 foot apart.

Tips & Warnings

• Hook up a light or two below the bed frame to illuminate your loft.
• Polish or paint your loft with the color of your choice, if your loft is for a child's bedroom.
• Ensure that legs and frame are securely fixed and stable before use.
• Use safety gear when using power tools, particularly when using the circular saw.