How To Build A Queen Murphy Bed: A Step-By-Step Guide

A few years ago, I downsized from a large home to a much smaller one. I quickly realized that I needed to make the most of every square inch of space, and that included the guest room. That’s when I decided to build a queen murphy bed. It was a challenging project, but the end result was worth it. In this article, I’ll share my experience and provide a step-by-step guide on how to build your own queen murphy bed.

What is a Murphy Bed?

A Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed, is a bed that can be folded up and stored vertically against a wall or inside a cabinet. This type of bed is ideal for small spaces because it allows you to free up floor space when you’re not using it. Murphy beds are available in various sizes, but in this article, we’ll focus on how to build a queen murphy bed.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Gather Materials

Before you start building your murphy bed, you’ll need to gather materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

1 sheet of 3/4″ plywood (4′ x 8′)
2 sheets of 1/4″ plywood (4′ x 8′)
1 sheet of 1/2″ plywood (4′ x 8′)
1 box of wood screws (2″ long)
1 box of wood screws (1″ long)
1 box of wood glue
1 piano hinge (8′)
1 pair of folding metal legs
1 piece of foam (5″ thick)
1 piece of fabric (large enough to cover the foam)

Step 2: Cut the Plywood

Using a circular saw or table saw, cut the 3/4″ plywood into the following pieces:

2 pieces (60″ x 12″) – top and bottom of the bed frame
2 pieces (80″ x 12″) – sides of the bed frame
1 piece (60″ x 80″) – back of the bed frame
1 piece (60″ x 79 1/2″) – front of the bed frame

Next, cut the 1/2″ plywood into two pieces (60″ x 80″). These pieces will be used to create the face of the bed frame.

Step 3: Assemble the Bed Frame

Using wood glue and 2″ wood screws, assemble the bed frame. Start by attaching the top and bottom pieces to the sides. Then, attach the back piece to the frame. Finally, attach the front pieces to the frame. Make sure everything is square and level.

Step 4: Install the Folding Legs

Attach the folding metal legs to the bottom of the bed frame. Make sure they’re securely attached and can support the weight of the bed.

Step 5: Attach the Face of the Bed Frame

Attach the 1/2″ plywood pieces to the front of the bed frame using wood glue and 1″ wood screws. Make sure they’re flush with the edges of the bed frame.

Step 6: Install the Piano Hinge

Attach the piano hinge to the back of the bed frame. This will allow the bed to fold up and down smoothly.

Step 7: Add the Foam and Fabric

Finally, cut the foam to fit the size of the bed frame and cover it with the fabric. Attach the foam and fabric to the back of the bed frame using wood glue and staples. Make sure the fabric is taut and smooth.

Top 10 Tips and Ideas

Choose high-quality plywood to ensure the bed frame is strong and durable.
Use a circular saw or table saw with a fine-toothed blade to create clean cuts.
Make sure the bed frame is level and square before attaching the folding legs.
Consider adding a bookshelf or storage cabinets to the side of the bed to maximize space.
Use a fabric that matches your decor to make the bed blend in with the room.
Install a safety strap to prevent the bed from accidentally falling down.
Attach the bed frame to the wall to ensure stability.
Add a lighting fixture above the bed for added convenience.
Consider adding a built-in desk or workspace underneath the bed for added functionality.
Use a wall bed mechanism to make the bed even easier to fold up and down.

Pros and Cons

Like any project, building a queen murphy bed has its pros and cons. Here are a few to consider:

Pros:

Makes the most of limited space
Provides a comfortable sleeping option for guests
Can be customized to match any decor style
Easy to fold up and down

Cons:

Can be a challenging project for beginners
Requires a significant amount of time and effort
May require additional tools and equipment
Can be expensive to build or purchase

My Personal Review and Suggestion

Overall, I’m extremely happy with my queen murphy bed. It’s the perfect solution for my small guest room, and it’s surprisingly comfortable. I will say that this project was more challenging than I anticipated, but with some patience and perseverance, I was able to complete it. My suggestion for anyone considering building a murphy bed is to do your research, gather all of the necessary materials, and take your time. And if you get stuck, don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Question & Answer / FAQs

Q: How much does it cost to build a queen murphy bed?

A: The cost of building a queen murphy bed can vary depending on the quality of materials and tools you use. On average, you can expect to spend between $500 and $1,500.

Q: How long does it take to build a queen murphy bed?

A: The amount of time it takes to build a queen murphy bed can vary depending on your skill level and the complexity of the design. On average, it can take anywhere from 1-2 days to several weeks.