How to Build Bed Frames for Kids

The Headboard

• Twin beds vary slightly in their base heights from the standard 18 inches. Add 2 to 3 inches to this height for the headboard.

  Cut a piece of 1-inch plywood to the width of 41 inches by about 42 inches tall. Increase or decrease the height measurements according to the design of the headboard.

  Draw a decorative edge around the top of the headboard. A circular profile, a wavy edge, a large flower motif design for a girl, or a car profile for a boy are some ideas for transforming an ordinary headboard into a kid-friendly one.

  Cut out the edge design with a jigsaw or router outfitted with a cutting bit, and then sand the edges rounded and smooth to remove sharp points that will harm a child.

The Footboard

• The approach to the footboard is similar to the headboard, only its height is typically shorter. This is another variable measurement that depends on the desired appearance for the bed. Using the same 18-inch height, add another foot or two for the height of the footboard.

  Transfer the same design used on the headboard onto the footboard, or plan an interesting design medley with a different design at the foot of the bed.

  After cutting and sanding the design edge into the footboard, it is time to put the pieces together.

The Sideboards

• The sideboards run the length of the bed and are about the length of the mattress. An extra 1 1/2 to 2 inches is added to the length to accommodate the mattress’s bedding. Cut two 1-by-6 boards to 76 1/2 or 77 inches long. Cut two 2-by-4's to the same length.

  Cut two more pieces of 2-by-4's to a length of 35 inches each. These make cross supports along the foot and head boards. Align their ends perpendicular to the inside end of each sideboard. Apply wood glue between the joint and screw each corner together through the outside end of the long sides.

  Apply wood glue to the outer long, wide side of each 2-by-4, and match the glued side to a 1-by-6. Align both edges of the 2-by-4 and the 1-by-6 along the bottom. Screw 2 1/2-inch screws through the 2-by-4's, spacing the screws 4 to 6 inches apart.

  The best way to connect the sidebars to the head and foot boards is to use heavy-duty 3-inch bolts, because regular screws will not work without additional supports. First mark the height position of the mattress support on the head and foot boards. Line them up, and pre-drill countersunk holes for the 3-inch bolts. Then apply a generous amount of wood glue between the points of connection, and screw the bolts through the head and foot boards, into the sideboards. Fill in the bolt holes with wood putty and a putty knife and then sand dry after it sets.

  Screw a few more 2 1/2-inch screws through the crossbars and into the head and foot boards. With glue between the seams, this adds reinforcement to the structure.

Mattress Support

• Wait to measure the mattress support board until after the frame is assembled. Measure the width and length across the tops of the horizontal 2-by-4 support bar inserts attached to the 1-by-6's. Cut the 1-inch plywood with a circular or table saw, and lay it on top of the supports. Secure it in place with 1 1/2-inch screws all along the edges of the mattress support board, spaced 6 inches apart and into the tops of the 2-by-4's.

Dressing Up the Bed

• After a final sanding, apply brilliant paint colors that transform this wooden bed frame into a child’s delight. Geometric patterns, fun landscapes, toys, cars and flowers are some of the many themed designs for the bed. Complete the look of the kid’s room with coordinating bedding, curtains and room furniture.