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Twin Sleeper Chair

DIY twin sleeper chair - free how to

Twin Sleeper Chair

Specifications

Project typeChairs
RoomBedroom
StyleFarmhouse Furniture
DifficultyIntermediate
Estimated cost$100-$150

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Twin Sleeper Chair dimension diagram 1

Shopping List

5 - 2x8 @ 10 feet long

1 - 2x4 @ 4 feet long (could also use 2x8 scraps)

1 - 2x2 @ 4 feet long

1 - 1x2 @ 10 feet long

4 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long

1 - 1/4" plywood @ 33" x 30" (for heaver loads, use 1/2" or 3/4" plywood)

1 - Camp Foam pad, medium to firm, 72" x 30"

6 - 8" long screws, long drill bit for predrilling

2-3/4" self tapping wood screws (about 25)

2 sets of hinges (one should be heavy duty)

1 handle

Cut List

6 - 2x8 @ 30" - frame fronts/backs

8 - 2x8 @ 36" - frame sides

4 - 2x4 @ 13" - bottom frame corners

2 - 2x2 @ 26" - bottom frame cleats

1 - 1/4" plywood @ 33" x 30" (for heaver loads, use 1/2" or 3/4" plywood)

2 - 1x2 @ 30" - bottom frame top pieces

2 - 1x2 @ 26-1/2" - bottom frame slat cleats

5 - 1x4 @ 29-1/2" - bottom frame slats

6 - 1x4 @ 30" - top frame slats

FOAM 30" x 72"

cut one piece to seat dimensions

cut leftover piece in half

Tools

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

Step-by-step Instructions

1

Step 1

Make two full frames out of 2x8s, joining corners with 1-1/2" pocket holes and 2-1/2" pocket hole screws.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 1
2

Step 2

Stack frames on top and attach at corners with 2x4s. Elevate 2x4s so there is a 3/4" gap on top and bottom. TIP: 1x material is 3/4" thick and can be used as a spacer.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 2
3

Step 3

Attach in between 2x4s the 2x2 cleats with 2-3/4" self tapping screws and glue.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 3
4

Flip project over.

Cut plywood panel with circular saw or tablesaw. Screw to bottoms of 2x4s.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 4
5

Step 5

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 5
6

Step 6

Build the slat lid as shown, attaching with 1-1/4" fasteners and glue. Make sure the frame is square (I constructed mine inside the chair frame to make sure it was square).

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 6
7

Hinge frame to the 1x2.

This completes the bottom frame build. Set aside.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 7
8

Step 8

Attach remaining frame 2x8s at corners with pocket holes. Stack on top. Drill holes with a long drill bit and countersink 8" screws to attach the two frames together, two screws per side.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 8
9

Step 9

Attach slats to frame with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 9
10

Step 10

Hinge the two frames together with the heavy duty hinge.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 10
11

Step 11

Add a handle on the back.

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 11
12

Step 12

Cut the foam with a sharp knife. Cover foam in fabric (I used polar fleece since it's stretchy, thick, and cheap)

Twin Sleeper Chair — step 12
13

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/twin-sleeper-chair