If you’re interested in making a Murphy Bed, you’re in luck! This article outlines the steps to create your very own custom bed with just a few tools. First, you’ll need to gather some plywood and cut it down to size. Then, follow the instructions provided by the Rockler eye assemble kit, which includes all the necessary hardware. Pay attention to the blue tape markings to ensure you drill to the correct depth. Once the bed box is assembled, attach the leg bolts to secure it to the wall. The next step is to install the frame and slats, making sure everything fits properly before tightening the bolts. Finally, add the finishing touches such as a front face frame and a coat of paint. This step-by-step guide will help you create a stylish and functional Murphy Bed to enhance your home decor.

How to Make a Murphy Bed

Are you interested in making a custom Murphy Bed with only a few tools? Well, you’re in luck! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of building your own Murphy Bed. With the right materials and a little bit of DIY know-how, you’ll have a stylish and functional bed that can easily fold away when not in use. So let’s get started!

Materials

Before diving into the construction process, it’s important to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of items you’ll need for building your Murphy Bed:

Plywood: You’ll need plywood that is three quarters of an inch thick. Cut it down to the desired size for your bed.
Rockler eye assemble kit: This kit contains all the necessary metal hardware for assembling the bed.
Metal hardware: In addition to the assemble kit, you’ll need some additional metal hardware for reinforcement.
Allen key: An Allen key will be needed for screwing in the bolts.
Leg bolts: Attach leg bolts to securely mount the bed to the wall.
Box molding: Box molding will add a decorative touch to the bed frame.
Glue: Use glue for attaching the box molding and other components.
Bread nails: Bread nails will be used for attaching the box molding.
Pole wrap: Use pole wrap to line the built-in storage compartments.
Select Pine: Select Pine is ideal for creating a face frame for the bed.
Paint: Choose a paint color that matches your aesthetic preferences.
Tape: Use tape to create clean lines while painting.
Plastic: Use plastic to protect surfaces while painting.

Now that you have all the necessary materials, let’s move on to the preparation phase.

Preparation

Preparing the materials and getting everything ready is crucial for a successful construction process. Here are the steps you need to follow during the preparation phase:

Cutting plywood to size: Measure and cut the plywood to the desired dimensions for your bed.
Making cross cuts: Make cross cuts on the plywood to ensure a proper fit.
Following the assembly kit instructions: Carefully read and follow the instructions provided with the Rockler eye assemble kit.
Measuring and drilling holes: Use a tape measure to accurately measure and mark the drill holes for the metal hardware.
Threading in T-nuts: Thread in the T-nuts into the plywood using an Allen key for reference.

Now that you’re prepared, let’s start building the bed box.

Building the Bed Box

The bed box is the foundation of the Murphy Bed. It’s where the mattress will rest when the bed is in the folded position. Follow these steps to build the bed box:

Attaching left and right side panels: Attach the left and right side panels of the bed box using the metal hardware and screws provided in the assembly kit.
Screwing in brackets: Screw in the brackets on top of the side panels to provide additional support.
Adding stretchers for stability: Install stretchers across the top and bottom of the bed box to ensure stability.
Ensuring squareness: Check that the bed box is square to ensure proper alignment of the mattress when the bed is folded.
Attaching leg bolts: Securely attach leg bolts to the top and bottom of the bed box. This will ensure that the bed is firmly attached to the wall and prevent any risk of it falling.

Now that the bed box is complete, it’s time to install the frame.

Installing the Frame

The frame of the Murphy Bed is what supports the mattress when the bed is in use. Follow these steps to install the frame:

Attaching the frame bolts: Attach the frame bolts to the bed box using the provided hardware.
Adding slats: Place the slats onto the frame, ensuring they are evenly spaced. The slats will provide support for the mattress.
Using clips to secure slats: Use clips to secure the slats in place. The small clip goes on the outside, while the thick clip goes in the middle.
Testing for fit: Before finalizing the installation, ensure that everything fits properly and moves smoothly.
Dropping bolts on the pistons: With the bed in the folded position, drop the bolts into the pistons to secure the frame in place. Make sure everything fits before tightening the other bolts that attach the frame.

The frame is now installed and functioning properly. Now it’s time to add some customization to your Murphy Bed.

Adding Customization

Adding personal touches and customization to your bed can enhance its overall design and functionality. Here are some customization options you can consider:

Installing box molding: Add box molding to the front of the bed for a decorative touch. Cut the molding at a 45-degree angle for clean edges.
Using glue and nails for attachment: Attach the box molding to the bed using glue and bread nails for a secure hold.
Making built-ins for storage: Create built-in storage compartments within the bed box. Use pocket screws to attach the compartments to the stretchers.
Creating compartments with stretchers: Make additional compartments within the bed box by using stretchers for division.
Lining the boxes with pole wrap: Line the built-in storage compartments with pole wrap to create a clean and finished look.

With the customization complete, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your Murphy Bed.

Finishing Touches

The finishing touches will give your Murphy Bed a polished and professional appearance. Follow these steps to complete the finishing touches:

Attaching the face frame: Use select Pine to create a face frame for the bed. Attach it securely using the provided hardware.
Painting the bed: Choose a paint color that complements your style. Leave the inside of the bed box natural and paint the outside for a contrasting look.
Leaving the inside natural and painting the outside: Apply tape and plastic to protect surfaces while painting. Ensure clean lines and a professional finish.
Ensuring clean lines: Carefully remove the tape and plastic to reveal crisp lines and a finished product.

With the finishing touches complete, you can now step back and enjoy the view of your newly built Murphy Bed.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully built your own custom Murphy Bed. Enjoy the satisfaction of completing this DIY project and appreciate the finished product. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you throughout the construction process. Wishing you success and enjoyable nights of sleep on your new Murphy Bed. Sweet dreams!