How To Make A Queen Size Murphy Bed

How to Construct a Queen-Sized Murphy Bed

A queen-sized Murphy bed is a fantastic space-saving solution for smaller bedrooms or guest rooms. When not in use, this bed can be seamlessly folded up and tucked away inside a cabinet, freeing up valuable floor space. Embarking on this DIY project may seem daunting, but with careful planning and execution, you can craft a functional and stylish Murphy bed that will enhance the aesthetics of your room.

Materials Required:

Before delving into the construction, ensure you gather all the necessary materials:

Queen-sized mattress
¾-inch (1.9 cm) plywood for the bed frame and cabinet
1x4 lumber for the cabinet frame and supports
2x4 lumber for the bed frame and legs
Heavy-duty hinges
Gas springs
Screws, nails, and wood glue
Drill
Circular saw
Level
Measuring tape
Safety glasses

Building the Bed Frame:

Begin by constructing the bed frame that will support the mattress.

Cut four pieces of 2x4 lumber to the length of the mattress (80 inches / 203.2 cm).
Cut two pieces of 2x4 lumber to the width of the mattress (60 inches / 152.4 cm).
Assemble the frame using wood glue and screws, ensuring a secure and sturdy structure.

Building the Cabinet:

Next, construct the cabinet that will house the folded Murphy bed.

Cut two pieces of ¾-inch (1.9 cm) plywood to the desired height of the cabinet.
Cut two pieces of 1x4 lumber to the same height and attach them to the plywood as side supports.
Connect the sides with a top and bottom frame made of 1x4 lumber.

Ensure the cabinet's depth (from front to back) is sufficient to accommodate the folded bed frame and mattress.

Attaching the Bed Frame to the Cabinet:

With both the bed frame and cabinet complete, it's time to connect them.

Place the bed frame inside the cabinet, aligning it with the back and ensuring it fits snugly.
Attach heavy-duty hinges along the top and bottom of the bed frame, connecting it to the cabinet.

The hinges will allow the bed frame to pivot up and down when needed.

Installing Gas Springs:

Gas springs are crucial for providing the necessary assistance when raising and lowering the Murphy bed.

Determine the appropriate gas spring strength based on the weight of the bed frame and mattress.
Mount the gas springs to the sides of the cabinet, ensuring they align with the bed frame and provide ample support.

Finishing Touches:

With the bed frame and cabinet assembled, it's time for the finishing touches.

Add a handle or knob to the cabinet door for easy opening.
Apply paint or stain to the cabinet to match your room's decor.
Place the mattress on the bed frame, and your Murphy bed is complete!

Congratulations on your new space-saving solution! Your queen-sized Murphy bed will provide a comfortable sleeping experience while maximizing the space in your room.