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Classic Storage Bed (King)

If you can build a bench, you can build this storage bed. It's simply three benches! Optional drawers can add functionality. Features six oversized cubbies, no box spring is required. Our step by step plans are easy to follow and include a full shopping list and cut list. This plan is also available in a Queen version.

Classic Storage Bed (King)

Specifications

Project typeBeds and Bed Frames
RoomBedroom
DifficultyIntermediate
Estimated cost$150 - $200

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Classic Storage Bed (King) dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

  • 2 - sheets of 3/4" thick cabinet grade plywood, you can also use MDF or AC plywood for painted finishes
  • 1 - 4x8 sheet of 1/4" thick plywood
  • 5 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long
  • 3 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long

*For a stained finish, cabinet grade plywood is recommended. For a painted finish you can use MDF (not fun to work with but inexpensive) or AC Plywood (will need more sanding but also less expensive)

OPTIONAL DRAWERS SHOPPING LIST

  • 3 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long
  • 6 - 1x6 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - sheet of 1/4" thick plywood
  • 6 - 18" drawer slides
  • 2 - 1x12 @ 8 feet long - cut two drawer shorter and one longer drawer face from each board to fit everything on the boards

Cut List

SIDE BENCHES (BUILD 2 - Follow Queen Plans)

  • 2 - 3/4" plywood @ 19-3/4" x 60"
  • 6 - 3/4" plywood @ 19-3/4" x 14-3/4"
  • 4 - 3/4" plywood @ 19-3/4" x 28-7/8"
  • 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 15-1/2" x 60"
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 60"
  • 2 - 1x4 @ 60"
  • 9 - 1x2 @ 11-1/4"
  • 2 - 1x4 @ 60" - back cleats

END BENCH (BUILD 1)

  • 1 - 3/4" plywood @ 19-3/4" x 76"
  • 3 - 3/4" plywood @ 19-3/4" x 14-3/4"
  • 2 - 3/4" plywood @ 19-3/4" x 36-7/8"
  • 1 - 1/4" plywood @ 15-1/2" x 76"
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 76"
  • 3 - 1x2 @ 11-1/4"
  • 1 - 1x4 @ 76"
  • 2 - 1x2 @ 20-3/4"
  • 2 - 1x4 @ 20-3/4"
  • 4 - 1x2 @ 11-1/4"

OPTIONAL DRAWERS FOR KING END BENCH - measure and cut drawers to fit openings and drawer slides

  • 4 - 1x4 @ 18"
  • 4 - 1x6 @ 18"
  • 4 - 1x6 @ 32-7/8"
  • 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 34-3/8" x 18"
  • 2 - 1x12 @ ~35-1/2"

OPTIONAL DRAWERS FOR QUEEN SIDE BENCHES - measure and cut to fit openings and drawer slides

  • 8 - 1x4 @ 18"
  • 8 - 1x6 @ 18"
  • 8 - 1x6 @ 24-7/8"
  • 4 - 1/4" plywood @ 36-3/8" x 18"

Tools

  • measuring tape
  • square
  • pencil
  • safety glasses
  • hearing protection
  • kreg-jig
  • drill
  • compound miter saw
  • table saw
  • nailer
  • sander

Step-by-step Instructions

1

This bed is made up of three benches.

The two side benches are identical to the queen bed. Follow the instructions in the queen bed to build two side benches. Add the cleats for the mattress slats to the backs of the side benches. The end bench for the king only differs in overall length from the queen. The steps are listed below for your convenience.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 1
2

Step 2

Build the end bench with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. Three screws per joint is sufficient.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 2
3

Step 3

Attach back with 3/4" brad nails and glue.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 3
4

Build the face frame first with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

Nail completed face frame to front of bench with 1-1/4" brad nails.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 4
5

Build the end bench trim face frame first with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

Attach with 1-1/4" brad nails to sides of end bench.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 5
6

Assemble the three benches in the room. You can screw benches together if necessary.

Cut scrap plywood pieces to fit in cavity and screw to slats on backs of side benches.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 6
7

OPTIONAL DRAWERS:

Drawers are optional. Draw a line on 1x4s, 1" up from bottom edge of 1x4. Attach drawer slides to the 1x4, with front edge of drawer slide cabinet member flush with front edge of 1x4. The holes in the center of the drawer slide should line up with your pencil mark, 1" up from bottom edge of 1x4 - so you know your slides are being installed level. Remember that the opposing drawer slide needs to be installed in mirror. Set the 1x4s inside the cubbies and nail to the sides of the cubbies with 1-1/4" brad nails. The front edge should be lined up with the front edge of your plywood carcasses.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 7
8

Step 8

Build drawer boxes to fit drawer slide width. Measure the distance between the 1x4s, subtract the drawer slide clearances (usually 1" for 1/2" on each drawer slide) and build drawers to this size. If your opening is true - 35-3/8" - AND your drawer slides require 1/2" clearance (1" overall) AND your drawer box material is 3/4" thick, you can follow the dimensions shown.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 8
9

Install drawers into the slides.

Cut 1x12 faces and adjust to fit. You may need to sand down edges for a perfect fit, or cut drawer faces down with a table saw. There should be an even gap around all edges, about 1/8" on all sides.

Classic Storage Bed (King) — step 9
10

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.

Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/classic-storage-bed-king