How to Assemble a Futon Bunk Bed

This is a great family project for a room that siblings share.

Futon bunk beds are among the most space-efficient beds on the market today. A futon bunk bed is, essentially, a convertible couch on the bottom and a full-size bed on the top.The top bunk generally remains in bed form all the time but can still be manipulated to take couch form if the user desires. This couch works well for children's rooms, small guest rooms and small lofts or apartments.

Things You'll Need

• Two ready-to-assemble futon sets Lumber Hammer Nails Drill and bits Nuts and bolts Carpenter's glue Wooden ladder

Instructions

1. Select two futon sets of equal size. Measure the length, width and thickness of each wooden piece that makes up the headboard and footboard. Be sure the sets are the same size, especially in the width and thickness of the posts.

2. Construct a headboard and footboard for the futon bunk bed using lumber. These will be placed adjacent to the existing headboards and footboards to provide additional support. The posts should be no more than 7 feet high, but wider and thicker than the originals--up to twice as thick.

3. Drill enough holes in the headboards and footboards to connect the pieces together, but do not overdo it. Make sure you drill large enough holes for the bolts that came with the futon frames.

4. Carefully attach the frames to the headboards and footboards using nuts and bolts. The original headboards and footboards will fit just inside the ones that you've constructed. If the posts you're using are thicker than the original futon posts, you will probably need bolts that are longer than (but the same width as) the original ones.

5. Make sure the futon frames are securely attached to the headboards and footboards, the bolts are securely and tightly fastened, and the frames do not wiggle. This is especially vital for the top bunk. This step is important to the overall project.

6. Connect a ladder for access to the top bunk. Attach it to the headboard or footboard with carpenter's glue and nails.

Tips & Warnings

• Since much of this project involves working with wood, you may need a partner's help for the heavy lifting. Test your futon bunkbed thoroughly before you allow children to use it. If it appears wobbly, tighten all nuts, bolts and screws; consider drilling more into place for more security.

• For safety's sake, do not use shoddy materials or skimp on bolts and screws.

Resources

• If you don't want to build your own, order a kit!