DIY Woodworking Bed Frame Plans (Step-by-Step + Free PDFs)

Building your own bed frame is one of the most rewarding woodworking projects you can take on. Not only do you save money compared to store-bought furniture, but you also get to design something unique that fits your exact style and bedroom space.

This guide is part of our series on Woodworking Furniture Plans, where we cover everything from bed frames to benches, storage solutions, and pallet furniture ideas.

In this post, we’ll walk you through DIY woodworking bed frame plans, step-by-step instructions, and free PDF downloads to get you started.


DIY woodworking bed frame with step-by-step plans and free PDFs



Why Build Your Own Bed Frame?

  • Cost savings: DIY frames often cost less than half the price of store-bought ones.

  • Customization: Choose your size (Twin, Queen, King), style (rustic, modern, minimalist), and finish.

  • Skill-building: Great project for beginner to intermediate woodworkers.

  • Satisfaction: There’s nothing like sleeping on a bed you built yourself.

Tip: If you’re new to woodworking, start with a simple platform bed before moving on to advanced designs. For smaller starter projects, check out our DIY Pallet Furniture Plans.


Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Basic Tools

  • Circular saw or table saw

  • Drill + drill bits

  • Clamps

  • Measuring tape and square

  • Sander or sandpaper

Don’t have a sturdy work surface yet? See our guide on DIY Woodworking Benches (Free Plans + Ideas).

Materials

  • Wood boards (pine, oak, or reclaimed pallets)

  • Wood screws / pocket hole screws

  • Wood glue

  • Stain, paint, or sealer


Step-by-Step: DIY Platform Bed Frame

Here’s a simple step-by-step plan for building a sturdy wooden platform bed frame.

  1. Measure & Cut

    • Cut your boards according to mattress size (Twin, Queen, King).

    • Example: Queen bed frame – 60” x 80”.

  2. Build the Side Rails

    • Attach long side pieces to short end pieces to form a rectangle.

    • Use pocket hole screws for extra strength.

  3. Add Center Support

    • Install a center beam down the middle for stability.

    • Add legs or blocks at the center for weight support.

  4. Attach Slats

    • Lay wooden slats across the frame.

    • Space them 2–3” apart.

  5. Sand & Finish

    • Sand all edges for smoothness.

    • Apply stain or paint to match your room decor.

✅ Free PDF Download: DIY Platform Bed Frame Plans


Popular DIY Bed Frame Styles

  • Rustic Pallet Bed Frame – Uses reclaimed pallets for a budget-friendly, farmhouse look.

  • Modern Floating Bed Frame – Sleek design that appears to “float” above the ground.

  • Storage Bed Frame – Built-in drawers underneath for extra storage space. 

  • Canopy Bed Frame – Decorative posts for a more traditional design.

Want detailed blueprints? Access Ted’s Free Woodworking Plans with thousands of bed frame designs.


Free PDF Bed Frame Plans

Here are a few starter plans you can download:

📥 Download: DIY Platform Bed Frame (Beginner-Friendly)
📥 Download: Rustic Pallet Bed Frame
📥 Download: Storage Bed Frame with Drawers

Need more options? Grab Your 16,000+ Free Woodworking Plans Here.


Safety Tips for Building Bed Frames

  • Always wear safety goggles and hearing protection.

  • Use clamps to hold wood steady before cutting.

  • Double-check all measurements before drilling.

  • Test stability before placing the mattress.


Conclusion

Building your own bed frame is the perfect woodworking project — it’s practical, stylish, and saves money. With the right tools, step-by-step instructions, and a set of reliable plans, you’ll have a sturdy bed frame that lasts for years.

This guide focused on bed frames, but you can explore much more in our Ultimate Guide to Woodworking Furniture Plans — including benches, pallet furniture, and creative storage builds. Ready to start building? Download Ted’s Free Woodworking Plans and get access to thousands of bed frame designs, complete with step-by-step PDFs.