How to Build a Wooden Bed Step Stool

Cut the wood the following lengths. Cut 1 piece of 3/4-by-8-inch board 14 inches long; this is the top of the wooden bed step stool. Cut 2 pieces of 3/4-by-8-inch board each measuring 9 inches long. These will be the legs of the stool. Cut a piece of the 3/4-by-3-inch board 11 1/2 inches long. This is a support board.

Mark the center point at the top of the leg pieces, both inside and outside. On the outside of each leg, drill two pilot holes through the leg, with the first one 1/2 inch from the top and the second one about an inch below it. The holes should be about half the diameter of the screws you're using. Attach the support piece lengthwise between the legs by driving screws through the pilot holes into the ends of the board, making sure its long top edge is flush with the tops of the legs. Sand all rough edges, and check that the boards are level.

Center the top piece on the legs; there should be about a half-inch overhang. Mark spots for four screws, centered above the legs and about 3/4 inch in from the edge, and drill pilot holes. Also mark and drill pilot holes for two screws evenly spaced along the support board. Using a screwdriver and screws, secure the top piece to the legs and support board. The top board needs to be level and even on both sides. Sand the corners and edges of the top.

Fill all screw holes with wood filler. Allow the filler to dry 24 to 48 hours before moving to the next step.

Sand the wood filler smooth. Coat the step stool with paint or stain. Decorate as desired. Do not use the wooden bed step stool until the paint or stain is entirely dry.