Modern Bunk Beds
2x4 bunk beds that look anything but! We love the modern look of these sturdy bunk beds. Built in sections, it's easy to move in and out of a room. There's good reason this plan is a reader favorite. You'll love how easy and inexpensive they are to build! include diagrams, shopping list and cut list.
Specifications
| Project type | Beds and Bed Frames |
|---|---|
| Room | Bedroom |
| Style | Modern Style Furniture Plans |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
| Estimated cost | $50 - $100 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 7 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
- 6 - 2x6 @ 10 feet long
- 4 - 2x6 @ 8 feet long
- 2 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
- 2 1/2" self tapping wood screws for most of the joinery (about 150)
- If you have a brad nailer, 2" brad nails would be nice to use in step 2
- 2" self tapping wood screws for attaching the slats (about 50)
- Recommend using 32 - 3 1/2" bolts with nuts and washers for attaching siderails to headboard/footboard
- You'll also need wood to create the slat system if you mattress is not a "bunkie board". We recommend 1x4 lumber, spaced about 4" apart - you'll need about 10 1x4 at 8 feet long.
- For each guardrail, you'll need another 2x6 @ 8 feet long and about 3 feet of 2x4s
- For the ladder, you'll need two more 2x4 @ 8 feet long
Cut List
Bunk Bed Cut List
- 18 - 2x6 @ 36"
- 4 - 2x4 @ 72"
- 4 - 2x4 @ 18"
- 4 - 2x4 @ 33"
- 4 - 2x4 @ 10"
- 4 - 2x6 @ 82"
- 4 - 2x2 @ 75"
- Slats cut at 39" or bunkie board
Guardrail Cut List (for one guardrail)
- 2 - 2x6 @ 48"
- 2 - 2x4 @ 16"
Ladder Cut List
- 2 - 2x4 @ 59-1/4" - long point to short point measurement, both ends cut at 25 degrees off square, ends ARE parallel
- 4 - 2x4 @ 17-1/2"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- drill
- circular saw
- nailer
- sander
- countersink drill bit
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Build the two bunk bed ends by attaching the 2x6 @ 36" to the 2x4 legs. There should be a 1/2" gap in between the 2x6 slats, and 1" on space on either side on the 2x4 legs. We recommend two 2-1/2" self tapping screws per joint to attach from the outside - don't worry about it looking nice, this all gets covered.
Step 2
Once your ends are built, add the leg spacer trim pieces. Now this plan assumes your 2x6s are 5 1/2" wide. I would use a scrap 2x6 piece as a spacer to make sure you are getting the right gaps for the next step. Start at the bottom and work your way up. TIP: Cut the top sections last as they may be long or short depending on the width of your 2x6 boards. We recommend using 2" brad nails and glue to attach, as the nails are easy to hide. Sand, paint or stain the two end panels and your 2x6 @ 82" siderails now. Move the pieces into the room.
Step 3
To assemble, drill four holes in pattern on each end of the siderails, through the legs. Attach with bolts and washers. This way, your bed can easily be taken apart and moved.
Step 4
Screw 2x2 cleats to the inside of the siderail with 2-1/2" screws and glue, screw about every 8-10".
Optional Guardrail
Screw 2x6s to 2x4s from inside, leave a 1/2" gap in between. Screw guardrail to back side of the bed siderails.
Step 6
Mattress slats - use 1x4s or similar laid on top of the 2x2 cleats to support the mattress. We recommend 2" screws for keeping the slats secured. Place the slats around the guardrail legs.
Step 7
Cut the mattress legs at 25 degrees off square, long point to short point measurement, ends ARE parallel. Then cut the top end off, 1-1/2" back, at a 90 degree angle from the top angled cut end. Use 2-1/2" self tapping wood screws to attach ladder rungs to the ladder legs. Attach ladder from inside of the siderail with 2-1/2" screws.
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/modern-bunk-beds-side-street