How To Make A Full Size Pallet Bed

Building a pallet bed offers a cost-effective and stylish way to furnish a bedroom. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to constructing a full-size pallet bed, requiring basic tools and readily available materials.

Gathering Materials and Tools

Preparation is key to a successful project. The following materials and tools are essential for building a full-size pallet bed:

Four to six standard-sized pallets (depending on desired headboard height)
Measuring tape
Pencil
Safety glasses
Gloves
Crowbar
Hammer
Screwdriver (electric preferred)
Wood screws (3-inch)
Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
Wood sealant or paint (optional)
Mattress (full-size)

Selecting and Preparing Pallets

Choosing the right pallets is crucial for stability and aesthetics. Look for sturdy, heat-treated (HT) pallets without chemical treatments. Avoid pallets with markings such as "MB" which indicate methyl bromide fumigation. Preparing the pallets involves the following steps:

Inspect pallets for damage and protruding nails.
Clean pallets thoroughly with soap and water, allowing them to dry completely.
Sand the pallets to remove splinters and rough edges, using medium grit followed by fine grit sandpaper. This process also enhances the final appearance.

Disassembling Pallets (Optional)

While using whole pallets is the simplest approach, some designs benefit from disassembling them. This allows for more customization and a cleaner look.

Carefully pry apart the pallet boards using a crowbar and hammer. Be cautious not to damage the wood.
Remove any remaining nails or staples.
Sort the boards by size and condition for efficient assembly.

Constructing the Bed Frame

Building the frame involves arranging the pallets to create the base structure. This section outlines the process for a basic full-size bed frame.

Place two pallets side-by-side to form the base, ensuring they align evenly. The combined width should match the width of a full-size mattress.
Securely join the two base pallets together using wood screws.
For a headboard, add one or two more pallets at the head of the bed, again securing them with screws. Stacking pallets vertically increases headboard height.

Reinforcing the Frame

Reinforcements provide added stability and prevent shifting over time. Follow these steps to ensure a robust frame:

Add support beams across the center of the base pallets, perpendicular to the pallet slats. These beams should rest on the inner frame supports of the pallets.
Secure the support beams with screws, reinforcing the connection between the pallets.
Consider adding corner braces for extra support, particularly if using disassembled and reconfigured pallet boards.

Finishing Touches

The final steps focus on aesthetics and protection. Applying a finish is optional but recommended for longevity and visual appeal.

Apply a wood sealant or paint to protect the wood and enhance its appearance. Allow adequate drying time between coats if necessary.
If desired, attach felt pads to the bottom of the pallet frame to protect flooring from scratches.

Setting Up the Bed

Once the frame is complete and the finish dry (if applied), the bed is ready for the mattress.

Carefully place the full-size mattress on top of the pallet frame, ensuring it fits snugly within the frame boundaries.
Add bedding and pillows according to preference.

Customizing Your Pallet Bed

Pallet beds offer significant opportunities for customization. Explore different designs and additions to personalize your bed.

Incorporate under-bed lighting for a subtle and ambient effect.
Attach side tables made from additional pallet wood or other materials.
Consider adding a footboard for a more traditional bed aesthetic.
Sanding and finishing the wood in different styles can create unique looks, from rustic to modern.