Simple Floating Bed Plans [Mountain Modern Collection]

to build your own floating bed with headboard. This is a very simple, well thoughtout woodworking plan with detailed diagrams and step by step instructions. Build with basic tools (no pocket holes required). available in all bed sizes.

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Simple Floating Bed Plans [Mountain Modern Collection] dimension diagram 1

What you need

TWIN SHOPPING LIST (38" x 75")

8 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
2 - 1x10 @ 8 feet long
1 - 1x10 @ 4 feet long
1 - 2x2 @ 4 feet long
1 - 1/4" plywood @ 48" x 48" (half sheet)
5 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long (slats)
50 - 3" long self tapping star bit screws
50 - 2" long self tapping star bit screws
1-1/4" brad nails
wood glue

FULL SHOPPING LIST (54" x 75")

10 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
2 - 1x10 @ 8 feet long
1 - 1x10 @ 5 feet long
1 - 2x2 @ 5 feet long
1 - 1/4" plywood @ 48" x 96" (full sheet)
10 - 1x4 @ 5 feet long (slats)
75 - 3" long self tapping star bit screws
75 - 2" long self tapping star bit screws
1-1/4" brad nails
wood glue

QUEEN SHOPPING LIST (60" x 80")

11 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
2 - 1x10 @ 8 feet long
1 - 1x10 @ 6 feet long
1 - 2x2 @ 6 feet long
1 - 1/4" plywood @ 48" x 96" (full sheet)
10 - 1x4 @ 5 feet long (slats)
100 - 3" long self tapping star bit screws
75 - 2" long self tapping star bit screws
1-1/4" brad nails
wood glue

STANDARD KING SHOPPING LIST (76" x 80")

11 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
3 - 1x10 @ 8 feet long
1 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
1 - 1/4" plywood @ 4x8 (full sheet)
10 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long (slats)
100 - 3" long self tapping star bit screws
75 - 2" long self tapping star bit screws
1-1/4" brad nails
wood glue

CALIFORNIA KING SHOPPING LIST (72" x 84")

11 - 2x4 @ 8 feet long
3 - 1x10 @ 8 feet long
1 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
1 - 1/4" plywood @ 48" x 96" - headboard back
11 - 1x4 @ 6 feet long - bed slats
100 - 3" long self tapping star bit screws
75 - 2" long self tapping star bit screws
1-1/4" brad nails
wood glue

Step by step

For twin size, build two.

For all other sizes, build three. Build identical 2x4 frames using the 3" self tapping wood screws, two screws per joint.

Simple Floating Bed Plans [Mountain Modern Collection], step 1

Step 2

For two of the frames, add the base 2x4 as shown, flush to the front and side edges. They must be attached in mirror. Screw every 12" with 3" screws at a slight angle.

Step 3

Attach the 1x10 siderails to the outside of the frame. The 1x10 will equal the length of the mattress. Use glue and 1-1/4" brad nails. The 1x10 will NOT be flush on the top edge, but is flush on all other edges. Prefinish: Paint or stain the front edge of the 2x4 toekick and the front and top edge of the 1x10.

PREFINISH - Paint or stain the front edge of just the front 2x4.

Attach the base boards to the siderails using 3" wood screws. EXTRA SUPPORT: Cut corner bracing and attach inside the base frame.

Simple Floating Bed Plans [Mountain Modern Collection], step 4

PREFINISH: Paint or stain the front, top and side eges of the 1x10.

Attach the footboard 1x10 to the siderails with the 2" screws from the inside. Be careful not to let the screws poke through the 1x10s.

Simple Floating Bed Plans [Mountain Modern Collection], step 5

Step 6

For all sizes except twin, place the remaining 2x4 frame inside the bed and attach to the base and the footboard 1x10. The frame should be centered.

Headboard Frame

Attach the 2x2 top to the 2x4 legs at the top with 3" screws.

Simple Floating Bed Plans [Mountain Modern Collection], step 7

Step 8

Attach the 1/4" plywood to the back of the headboard frame with glue and 1-1/4" brad nails.

Step 9

Attach headboard to the siderails with 3" screws.

Lay slats on the 2x4 frames and attach with 2" screws.

Slats can be cut in half if using up scrap wood.

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.