Simple Lift Top Storage Bed
Add extra storage to a room by building a simple lift top bed frame. This wood platform bed creates easy access to lots of storage. Optional caster wheels, legs, or can be set directly on the floor. in full and queen size.
Specifications
| Project type | Sofa |
|---|---|
| Room | Bedroom |
| Style | Cottage Style Furniture Plans |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Estimated cost | $150 - $200 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
FULL SIZE SHOPPNG LIST
- 2 - 4x8 sheets 1/4" plywood for the bottoms
- 1 - 4x8 sheet 3/4" plywood
- 1 - 1x6 @ 8 feet long
- 2 - 1x8 @ 8 feet long
- 3 - 1x8 @ 6 feet long
- 5 - 2-1/2" caster wheels (we did three swivels and two locking) or furniture feet o
- 3 - hinges
- Bed lift kit suitable for full size mattress ( we used this one )
- Edge banding for finishing plywood edges
QUEEN SIZE SHOPPNG LIST
- 2 - 4x8 sheets 1/4" plywood for the bottoms
- 1 - 4x8 sheet 3/4" plywood
- 1 - 1x12 @ 8 feet long
- 2 - 1x8 @ 8 feet long
- 3 - 1x8 @ 6 feet long
- 5 - 2-1/2" caster wheels (we did three swivels and two locking) or furniture feet
- 3 - hinges
- Bed lift kit suitable for queen size mattress ( we used this one )
- Edge banding for finishing plywood edges
TIP: If setting directly on the floor, use a 1x10 instead of the 1x8s for more storage. Furniture glides or levelers on the bottom will help protect the floor.
Cut List
FULL SIZE CUT LIST
- 2 - 1x8 @ 75"
- 3 - 1x8 @ 52-1/2"
- 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 54" x 37-1/2"
- 1 - 1x6 @ 75"
- 1 - 3/4" plywood @ 48" x 75"
QUEEN SIZE CUT LIST
- 2 - 1x8 @ 80"
- 3 - 1x8 @ 58-1/8"
- 2 - 1/4" plywood @ 60" x 40" - bottom
- 1 - 1x12 @ 80"
- 1- 3/4" plywood @ 48" x 80"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- drill
- circular saw
- jigsaw
- nailer
- sander
- Iron
Step-by-step Instructions
Build the frame out of 1x8s.
You can build in a number of different ways. We used 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws, but you could also use 2" self tapping star bit screws, or glue and nails with reinforced corners.
Step 2
Attach 1/4" plywood to the bottom with 3/4" brad nails or staples and glue. Use the plywood factory edges on outsides to help you square up the project as you attach it.
Step 3
Attach caster wheels to the base. You may need to add blocking inside at the corners to the 1x8 boards to support the caster wheels. You can alternatively use a bed leg, just make sure the weight is transferred from the 1x8 sides to the bed leg. Hairpin legs or metal legs would be great choices. Just make sure the center is still supported. Another option is to set the bed directly on the floor. I do suggest a furniture glide foot to help protect the floor like these.
Step 4
Now nail to the top the 1x6 or 1x12 board.
Apply edge banding to the outside edges of the top.
Attach with hinges to the top.
Step 6
Follow directions on bed lift kit for attaching the springs to the plywood and bed cavity. We adjusted ours quite a bit to get it just right.
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/simple-lift-top-storage-bed