How to Build a Double Bed Bunk Bed

A double or full-size bunk bed is just as easy to build as a more traditional twin-size set of bunks. Not only does this accommodate for older (and thus larger) children, it clears out nearly 30 square feet of extra floor space. If your children are old enough to need a bed of this size, they're probably old enough to include in the project. They'll be able to lend valuable assistance while learning more about construction and do-it-yourself projects.

Things You'll Need

• 2 sheets of plywood, 39 in. x 75 in. x 1/2 in.
• 4 beams, 2 in. x 4 in. x 75 in.
• 4 beams, 2 in. x 4 in. x 39 in.
• 4 posts, 6 in. x 6 in. x 72 in.
• 2 wooden dowels, 1 in. diameter x 80 in. long
• 6 bolts, 7 in. long with matching nuts and washers
• Power drill with drill and screwdriver bits
• 1-in. diameter auger bit

Instructions

Prepare Wood

1. Cut your lumber to the dimensions above. If you don't have a table saw, have your lumber cut at your home improvement center.

2. Drill two holes in each of your 6-inch x 6-inch posts. Use a drill bit the same diameter as your bolts. Space the holes vertically, the first one foot from the end of the post and the second 3/4 inches further down. Place both holes 2 3/4 inches from the outside of the post.

3. Repeat Step 2 for the other end of all four posts, running the holes parallel to the line of the holes you've already drilled.

4. Drill two holes in each end of the 75-inch beams. Place the holes 2 3/4 inches from the end of the beam and 3/4 inches apart.

5. Drill a hole running perpendicular to the other holes, on center six inches from one end of each post. Widen the holes further using the 1-inch auger bit.

6. Move all components into the bedroom where you intend to install the bunk bed.

Mattress Frames

1. Set up two long beams and two short beams in a rectangle, lying on the narrow (2 inch) ends. The short beams should be placed inside the long beams.

2. Screw the rectangle in place using two screws at each joint. Drive the screws through the face of the long beams and into the end of the short beams.

3. Lay a plywood sheet on top of the rectangular frame and screw it in place with one screw at each corner. Reinforce with a centered screw for each short edge and two spaced screws for each long end.

4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 to build a second mattress frame.

Assembly

1. Set up the support posts to the ends with the extra hole on the top, running parallel to the long side of the bed.

2. Attach the top platform, bolting it in place through the holes you drilled in the posts and the long beams.

3. Attach the bottom platform, bolting it in place through the holes you drilled in the posts and long beams.

4. Slide the dowels in through the larger holes to make safety rails.

References

• Better Sleep: Mattress Sizes
• Bunk Beds Central: Free Bunk Bed Plans
• Gene Brick, Furniture Hobbyist, Hillsboro, OR