Storage Stairs for a Bunk or Loft Bed
to build your own storage stairs for a loft or bunk bed with- • 2 deep compartments which can store toys or extra bed linens • a shallow compartment in the top step that is perfect for treasures or those large flat books • a small shelf under the middle stair that fits a rolled up sleeping bag perfectly • a large cubby under the top step that can be used as a crawl through, suitcase storage, could be divided into smaller cubbies, or could have doors attached.
Specifications
| Project type | Bunk Bed |
|---|---|
| Room | Bedroom |
| Style | Children's and Kid's Room Furniture and Toy Plans |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 1- 1x3
- 3/4 plywood (I used Purebond)
- 3 sets of hinges
Cut List
- 3 - 1x3 @ 20 (tread brace of 3 steps)
- 4 - 10 3/4 x 10 3/4 (sides of bottom 2 steps)
- 2 - 5 3/4 x 17 1/2 (sides of top step)
- 2 - 20 x 9 1/2 (treads of bottom and middle steps)
- 1 - 20 x 16 3/4 (tread of top step)
- 3 - 20 x 10 3/4 (front of bottom step, shelf and base of middle step)
- 1 - 20 x 22.5 (front of middle step)
- 2 - 20 x 33 7/8 (front and back of top step)
- 1 - 10 3/4 x 18.5 (bottom step base)
- 1 - 20 x 17 1/2 (top step base)
- 1 - 17 1/2 x 18 1/2 ( top step compartment base)
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- kreg-jig
- drill
- circular saw
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Assemble the bottom step by attaching the sides to the base with pocket screws and glue, then attaching the front in the same manner.
Step 2
Assemble the middle step by attaching the sides to the bottom with pocket screws, then attach the front, followed by the base.
Step 3
Begin assembly of the top step by attaching the sides of the top step to the top compartment base with pocket holes and glue.
Attach front and back of top step from the inside with pocket screws and glue.
Attach top step base from underneath with pocket screws. (although the top step base is shown in the same color it is NOT the same size as the top shelf compartment base.
Step 5
Step 6
Add 1 x 3 tread braces to each step. Again, I used pocket holes screwed from the inside. It would be easier to just screw down from the top.
Step 7
Attach the stair treads to each stair with hinges.
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/storage-stairs-bunk-or-loft-bed-free-plans