How To Make A Murphy Bed Out Of Pallets

How to Make a Murphy Bed Out of Pallets

Building a Murphy bed out of pallets is a unique and budget-friendly way to maximize space in your home. Pallets are readily available, often free, and offer a sturdy, rustic aesthetic. This project requires basic woodworking skills, but it can be a satisfying DIY endeavor. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions to help you turn reclaimed pallets into a functional and stylish Murphy bed.

1. Preparation and Material Gathering

Before starting, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need:

Pallets (at least two, preferably sturdy and in good condition)
Measuring tape
Saw (circular saw or hand saw)
Drill with various drill bits
Screwdriver
Wood glue
Sandpaper (various grits)
Wood filler (optional)
Paint or stain (optional)
Hinges (heavy-duty for the bed frame)
Support brackets (for the bed frame)
Mattress (size that fits your frame)
Optional: Bed slats, hardware (screws, nuts, bolts), and locking mechanism.

Once you have gathered the materials, choose a suitable location for your Murphy bed. Measure the space carefully to determine the dimensions for your bed frame. You can also decide on the desired height of the bed when folded up, taking into account existing furniture and ceiling clearance.

2. Building the Bed Frame

Start by dismantling the pallets, carefully removing any nails or staples. Choose the strongest and most visually appealing pallet planks to use for the bed frame.

Cut the planks to the desired length for the bed frame. The length should be slightly longer than the width of the mattress you plan to use. You will need two sets of planks for the top and bottom of the frame, along with side rails that will be screwed to the top and bottom planks to create a rectangular frame.

Assemble the frame by attaching the side rails to the top and bottom planks using wood glue and screws. Ensure the connections are secure and create a sturdy structure.

Next, attach the hinges to the frame. Place the hinges on the side of the bed frame that will be attached to the wall. The hinges should be placed at a height that allows the bed to fold up and down smoothly.

3. Constructing the Wall Unit

The wall unit will hold the bed frame when folded up. Choose pallet planks or wood that complement the bed frame. Cut and assemble the planks to create a rectangular unit.

The wall unit should be slightly larger than the folded bed frame. Place the wall unit on the chosen location in the room and attach it securely to the wall using brackets or a strong mounting system. Make sure the wall unit is level and stable.

4. Integrating the Bed Frame and Wall Unit

Now, connect the bed frame to the wall unit. Attach the bed frame to the wall unit using the hinges. Make sure the hinges are securely attached and allow the bed frame to fold up and down smoothly.

You may need to add support brackets to the wall unit to help stabilize the bed frame when it is down. These brackets can be attached to the bottom of the frame, providing extra support and preventing the bed from tilting.

5. Finishing Touches

After assembling the Murphy bed, finish it by sanding all the surfaces to achieve a smooth and consistent finish. You can then apply a wood stain or paint to enhance the look of the bed and match your décor.

You may also want to consider adding a safety latch, locking mechanism, or support slats to ensure the stability and safety of the bed. These enhancements can be customized based on your preferences and the specific design of your bed.