Materials and tools for assembling a wooden structure
A person who starts assembling furniture with his own hands needs to prepare the following basic tools and materials:
- A figured and regular screwdriver (ideally, if it is a screwdriver with many attachments), a screwdriver.
- A regular hammer is small or medium in size.
- Reversible key.
- Manufacturer's instructions with assembly diagram. It should be included with the kit you purchased.
Before you start assembling the bed, you need to carefully review the instructions
Please note that this information must correspond to the configuration and include all those elements that come with the bed. The instructions should be clear, not vague, with numbered parts
Move all the sealed parts of your bed to the room where you plan to assemble it. After checking all the components and main parts and comparing them with the quantities according to the instructions, you can get down to business.
Advice: All actions must be performed not alone, but together. You can involve your family members in the work.
Necessary tools for furniture assembly
In the process of performing labor-intensive work that requires attention and concentration, you will need:
- construction marker;
- three-meter tape measure;
- jigsaw;
- drill;
- self-tapping screws;
- welding machine;
- grinder with a metal disc;
- level;
- stapler;
- construction hairdryer.
Having collected all the tools and material that will be needed during the assembly of the frame, we begin the construction procedure.
Step-by-step description of making a bed with a lifting mechanism
Having prepared everything you need, you can proceed directly to making the lifting bed. Let's look at all the stages in detail.
Making a lifting frame
The lifting frame is the basis for the main function of such a structure - the ability to lift. Let's take a closer look.
First you will need to make a lifting frame.
The work includes two stages: manufacturing and processing. The first ones mean:
- Prepare the frame parts.
- Assemble the bases using calibrated boards. It is best to do this on a flat surface.
- Screed the resulting structure with metal corners and furniture glue. All cuts need to be sanded, making sure that the heads of the screws are slightly buried in the wood.
- If you plan to make a large bed, then you need to make a central partition for greater strength.
- Attach the slats with self-tapping screws on the inside of the sidewall and align them with the bottom edge. The slats should be approximately 20*80 centimeters.
- You can use slats as slats, the length of which should be equal to the width of the future bed. Attach them to the slats for support, about 15 centimeters apart.
The frame is ready, now it needs to be processed. To do this, you need to sand the boards and then coat them with wood varnish.
Installation of an inset frame under a mattress
After making the lifting frame, you need to start installing the mattress insert. It will increase the reliability of the structure and extend its service life, so this step should not be skipped when making a double bed.
For installation you will need wooden planks and a steel profile.
Headboard manufacturing process
Any material can serve as the base: plywood or natural wood. Apply markings, and then use a jigsaw to carefully cut out the shape of the back. This element can be given any shape you like.
The headboard of the bed can be given any shape you like.
Take a furniture stapler, finishing material and a foam sheet. The sheathing should be soft and airy; to do this, place two sheets of foam rubber between the plywood.
Making the main frame
An integral part of any bed is its main frame, which consists of:
- side drawer, front and back back, bottom of boxes;
- mattress covering made from slats or boards.
Be sure to focus on ensuring that all elements are securely fastened.
Making the main frame
Let's take the standard dimensions 2*1.8 meters as a basis. Take 2 boards of 2 meters each for the side edges. For the end, take two 1.8-meter boards, connect them with screws and corners. All boards must be fastened at right angles.
When assembling the main frame, it is important that all boards are fastened strictly at right angles.
We install lifting mechanisms and supports
To install the lifting mechanism, you should secure the top bar and the bed frame with rolled steel, then attach the two bases of the mechanism to the bar to lift the structure. Fix the bottom bar so that it is located on the main box and check the strength of the structure, as well as its operation. Installing the mechanism is the simplest step, so even a beginner can handle it.
Sheathing and finishing
The last and final stage of making a raised bed is decoration. You can do without it altogether and simply varnish the wood, but if you want to finish it, you need to choose a material for this. The most commonly used are the following:
- textile;
- leather or leather substitute.
Upholster the bed frame and headboard with your chosen material. In order for the upholstery to be airy and soft, you should use foam rubber. A stapler and glue will help you carry out all the operations.
The final stage is covering and decorating the bed.
To make a double bed with a lifting mechanism with your own hands, you need to strictly follow the instructions, take careful measurements and be patient. As a result, you will get a chic homemade bed that will help you successfully save space in a small room.
How convenient is a gas lift mechanism for a bed and how to install it yourself
What is a gas bed lift and how does it work? This question is asked by those who have a small usable area of an apartment or house, and the question of how to hide a sleeping place during the daytime is being resolved. Most often, the issue is decided in favor of a folding bed with a lifting mechanism with a gas shock absorber, which is hidden in the closet during the day. But how do you decide on a bed lift?
Operating principles and advantages of the bed lifting mechanism on gas shock absorbers
The lift with gas shock absorbers consists of:
- stamped iron plates;
- metal axis;
- gas lift.
The iron plates are arranged around a metal axis of rotation and are attached to the bed and cabinet. At the moment of raising or lowering the berth, the plates rotate along the axis, and gas lifts evenly distribute the load, making the effort exerted by a person minimal. The design is ideal not only for an adult, but also for a children's bed.
Design
The advantages of the device are:
- ease of operation;
- no noise when raising and lowering;
- liquid nitrogen, which is used in the gas shock absorber to lift the bed, does not lead to corrosion of metal parts and damage to rubber gaskets;
- lightness (a person does not need to apply force, as happens when using springs);
- reliability (gas lifts almost never fail);
- safety (all moving parts are hidden under the casing and the risk of injury is minimal);
- a wide range, allowing you to choose a model that suits all the parameters of the furniture.
The mechanism for lifting the bed and gas springs of furniture fittings is designed for approximately 20 thousand folding and unfolding of the bed, and this is several decades.
But there are also disadvantages:
- unaesthetic (gas lifts are partially visible at the headboard);
- inability to immediately determine quality (the device quickly breaks down or the gas lift on the bed does not work at all if low-quality parts were used for its production).
The main disadvantage is the price. But it is compensated by the service life of the device: it will function without breakdowns throughout the entire period of operation of the furniture and will not require additional investments for repairs.
Tips for choosing a bed lift on gas elevators
Having decided to purchase a gas shock absorber as a lifting mechanism, you need to approach the choice responsibly, because the device is not cheap, and it will be a shame if it breaks in a couple of years. When purchasing, you need to take these points into account.
Company manufacturer
German or German-Russian models are considered the best. Manufacturers from Turkey and Taiwan have proven themselves to be quite good, while Chinese products have the least positive reviews.
Size
Color
After installing the gas shock absorber on the bed, the fittings are partially visible, and it is recommended to select a color close to the color of the furniture frame.
Load
The load depends not only on the weight of the frame, but also on whether vertical or horizontal tilting occurs. As a rule, the instructions indicate for which opening which gas mechanism is intended for a 180*200 cm bed, and what weight and size it can evenly withstand. It is recommended to select devices in accordance with all parameters.
Type of operation of gas bed lift
There are direct action mechanisms, when the lift operates by compressing the retractable rod, and there is a reverse mechanism, when the rod extends. Most often, manufacturers offer devices for direct-acting beds. But reverse action designs are no worse. The choice of forward or reverse movement of fittings is determined only by the personal preferences of the installer.
If the model is selected according to all parameters, then after installing the gas shock absorber on the bed it will last a long time.
How to install a gas lift on a bed?
The best option would be to entrust the work to an experienced furniture maker. The technician will install and adjust the smooth operation of the lift. But home craftsmen prefer to create furniture with their own hands, and furniture makers often refuse to install gas shock absorbers for a bed-cabinet.
If it is not possible to use the services of a professional, then you can study the question of how to assemble a gas lift for a bed and carry out the installation yourself.
To do this you will need:
- a simple pencil;
- roulette;
- screwdriver (you can take a screwdriver);
- self-tapping screws (as a rule, they are included in the furniture fittings kit).
The success of the work depends on the accurate implementation of the following steps:
- On the inner wall of the closet, mark holes from the bottom to the height of the bed legs and 14-15 cm from the edge (the distance from the edge is calculated as follows: the thickness of the mattress plus 2 cm).
- Attach the side platform (the base to which the gas elevator will be attached) to this mark and secure it with self-tapping screws.
- Repeat exactly the same operation on the opposite wall of the cabinet. It is very important for the coordinated smooth operation of the lift that the platforms are located symmetrically.
- An eye (the extendable part of the lift) is attached to the protruding part of the platform and secured using a built-in latch.
- The hinges are installed on the side of the bed frame. This stage is the most important, because it determines how level the sleeping place will be located in the closet and how it will recline. If you have no experience with such an installation, then the best option would be to install the frame in the closet and ask an assistant to hold it while you mark the place for screwing the hinges.
- After marking, the bed can be lowered to the floor and the hinges can be screwed in with self-tapping screws in the designated places.
- Connect the bed hinges to the already installed fittings and check the operation by folding and unfolding the bed several times.
If everything works fine, then you can forget for a long time about how to hide your sleeping place during the day - a solution has already been found.
If it doesn’t work, then it’s either a faulty hardware or an error was made during installation.
Most often, the problem is a malfunction of the mechanism: an incorrectly installed lift still works, but does not provide a smooth ride, or when lifting the folding bed, force is required.
Some will choose a durable gas bed lift mechanism, while others will prefer cheaper, but less durable, locking lifts. But if you don’t want to change lifting fittings every few years, it is better to give preference to strong and durable gas lifts.
Manufacturing stages
After completing the preparatory stage, you can safely begin assembling the bed with a lifting mechanism. The elements are mounted in the following sequence:
- main frame;
- lifting structure;
- directly lifting mechanism.
At the final stage, cladding and decoration are carried out. The process must take place strictly in the specified order, otherwise the assembly will not be completed correctly.
Main frame
Any lifting bed must have a reliable frame at its base. It consists of several elements:
- side drawer, back and front edges, bottom for installing drawers;
- mattress covering, which is created from slats or wooden boards.
To make the main frame of a regular bed with side aspect ratios of 2 to 1.8 m, you will need many parts. For the side edges you will need a pair of boards 2 meters long. For the end parts, it is better to also take two boards, but 1.8 meters each. Next you need to connect them using self-tapping screws and several corners. This stage of assembly is the most critical, so you need to make sure that the formed angles exactly correspond to 90 degrees. If glue was used, its protruding excess must be removed immediately, otherwise difficulties may arise during further processing of the surface.
When making a large bed, it is necessary to install a stiffener through the longitudinal axis. If the project includes legs, their fixation should be done at the very end. The simplest option is to use four wooden blocks. To strengthen the structure, you can make an additional leg in the center. Finally, it is recommended to coat the resulting frame with varnish.
Lifting design
The process of creating and assembling a lifting frame consists of two points: joinery and carpentry operations and processing. The first stage begins with the manufacture of a box from calibrated boards. It is better to do the work on the floor to avoid distortions. Next, using corners, all elements are combined. The joints can be further strengthened with furniture glue.
It is important to pay attention to the heads of the screws - it is necessary that they go under the wood, but only slightly. When creating a large bed, you will need to lay an auxiliary partition along the frame
Now we need to fasten the slats. Screw them with self-tapping screws inside the side surfaces. First, the parts must be aligned parallel to the bottom edge of the box. Elements are necessary for attaching the slats. The dimensions of the slats should not exceed 9 cm in width. For slats, you can take the same blanks, but only with a length equal to the width of the future bed. Plywood is also suitable for this purpose, but you will have to make a central partition.
All that remains is to process the lift. The structure can be refined with sandpaper or varnished. One of the significant nuances in preparing the frame is the quality of the plywood, which is laid on the slats to evenly distribute the load.
Installation of the lifting mechanism
Installing the lifting mechanism is the easiest part of the assembly. First, its upper part is attached to the bed frame using a special steel strip. Next, the remaining parts of the lifting mechanism are attached, which provide control over the highest lifting height of the bed frame and mattress. The lower bar is attached to the main frame. The installation is complete, all that remains is to check the strength of the fixation and test the mechanism in action.
Sheathing and decoration
The final stage in the creation of any furniture product is the covering and subsequent decoration, which must correspond to the style of the room. For this use:
- fabrics;
- leather or its artificial analogues.
The selected material must be used to cover the main frame and headboard of the bed. To give the upholstery volume and airiness, sheet foam rubber is placed under the fabric. An ordinary construction stapler is suitable for fastening textiles - its staples even penetrate wood, thanks to which they hold the material tightly. If desired, sheathing can be done at intermediate stages of work.
It’s not easy for novice craftsmen to figure out how to properly make a bed with a lifting mechanism. However, if you carefully study the process in the video and continue to follow all the recommendations, you will definitely be able to make furniture. You just need to put in a little effort when assembling and use your imagination in the decorating process.
The final stage is decoration
After the bed is completed, the product is sheathed using foam rubber, upholstery fabric and a furniture stapler. Thanks to the covering, the frame and frame elements are hidden, resulting in a soft, comfortable and aesthetically designed model.
How does the process of covering a finished model take place?
Step 1
Foam rubber is placed on the base of the bed. The required number of layers is determined by the master independently.
The sides of the bed are covered with foam rubber
Foam rubber is nailed on top with an overlap of approximately 3-4 mm
Step 2
The foam rubber is covered on top with upholstery fabric prepared in advance. The upholstery is chosen according to the interior of the room and the tastes of the owner.
The sides of the bed are upholstered with leatherette
Step 3
The trim is attached to the base using a stapler, which firmly drives the staples into the furniture frame. Staples on the trim are not noticeable and do not affect the aesthetic appearance.
The corners of the upholstery are secured with corners
Step 4
The sides of the model are decorated with upholstery. In places where the decorative fabric and the lift come into contact, a sealant is placed under the upholstery material.
Step 5
The legs are fixed to the finished model if they are provided in the schematic image.
A finished bed with a lifting mechanism, made by yourself
Having studied in detail the instructions on how to make a bed with a lifting mechanism with your own hands, even a novice master will make a complex piece of bedroom set on his own. It’s not difficult to make a bed with a lift with your own hands, based on pre-prepared drawings. Making your own sleeping bed saves significant money and makes it possible to create a unique multifunctional bed.
Wooden bed with a lifting mechanism and a niche for storing things
Assembling a bed with a lifting mechanism
For quality work, prepare tools that are used at home.
Required tools and materials
- screwdriver or screwdriver with a set of attachments;
- medium sized hammer;
- reversible key;
- Assembly instructions included with the product.
Assembly nuances
Before starting assembly, carefully read the manufacturer's instructions, they should be clear. Then transfer the details of the future bed to the room where you plan to place it.
All steps can be written down as a checklist for assembling a bed, and the steps themselves are best performed together, so involve your family.
Usually the frame is wooden or metal, the lifting mechanism is always made of metal
Base
You should start assembling the bed from the base, which consists of three frames and a headboard. To connect these parts into a single structure, you will need to take corners, small brackets or ties. For fastening, you must use the screws included with the model.
Then we attach the legs, if any, or install soft seals so that the structure does not damage the floor covering.
The next step is to install it to the top of the sidewall; if the model includes a lifting mechanism, then install it with a slight backlash (the gap between the parts is necessary to prevent the mechanism from jamming).
Frame
The main element of any bed is the frame, which is a metal frame with slats attached to it.
Thanks to the slats, the mattress is supported for the most comfortable sleep.
Thanks to the slats, the mattress is supported, which contributes to the most comfortable sleep
Standard model
- Using corners, we connect the side frames at a height of about 20 cm;
- We fix the footrests at the same height;
- We assemble the ribs, they should be 5 centimeters above the frame;
- We strengthen the central frame using special corners.
With orthopedic base
Today, the orthopedic base is considered the most popular, since a large number of people have problems with the spine. The orthopedic design consists of a frame and special adjustable slats. It is further equipped with a mattress with specially designed fillings and springs to ensure restful sleep for people with posture problems.
Headboard
The bed, as a full-fledged piece of furniture, is not only intended for sleeping, but also contains the main aesthetic component of bedroom design
The headboard can be carved, soft, covered in fabric or leather, as well as a central element that attracts attention in the bedroom. Your task is to connect the sides of the frame with the headboard using fixing elements
If the places for attaching the headboard are not marked, then you need to mark them with a simple pencil and make holes with a drill
Take a drill designed for wood. As a rule, the headboard is attached at a right angle; there are exceptions in designer models. The parts are connected to each other with confirmations, and the recesses are covered with special stickers in the color of the furniture.
Installation of the lifting mechanism
The lifting mechanism can be installed both on the sides and on the headboard and depends on the specific model.
It is worth installing exactly in accordance with the instructions so that the gap between the components is minimal. Next, we connect the lifting mechanism to the upper part of the base and check the operation of the lift. After checking, you can tighten the screws tighter. Now you can place the mattress on the lifting bed.
Additional equipment
In order to increase the functionality of the bed, it is necessary to consider additional equipment. These could be drawers, a mechanism for raising the mattress at the head, various limiters, and more.
After assembling the bed with your own hands, you should check all the fastenings, the lifting mechanism and the legs. If necessary, tighten and adjust all components.
After assembling the bed with your own hands, you should check all fastenings, the lifting mechanism and legs
Where to start
When purchasing upholstered bedroom furniture, most of us wonder how to assemble a bed ourselves and where to start? Before carrying out work on assembling the structure, you should figure out what tools will be needed to carry out such work.
Any furniture product necessarily contains bolts, screws, and nuts. Therefore, you cannot do without a set of screwdrivers and spanners. It would be a good idea to have a screwdriver with various attachments. In modern models, furniture manufacturers have recently begun to use a Euroscrew with a countersunk head and a hexagon inside. To avoid misunderstandings, you should think about such a specific tool. To ensure that the bed structure does not end up looking crooked, furniture assembly work should be done using a level and a tape measure.
The product must be accompanied by instructions detailing how to assemble the bed. It is better to familiarize yourself with it in advance.
If the decision has been made, and yet we assemble the bed with our own hands, the most necessary tools, without which it is impossible to do the job efficiently, can be considered:
- A set of screwdrivers or a screwdriver;
- Spanners;
- Hexagon for furniture screws;
- Roulette and level.
How to make a double bed?
Basically, people, regardless of whether they live with a significant other or on their own, prefer double beds. Moreover, its design is not very different from a single bed. Beds have always been considered an expensive pleasure, so making one yourself is much more economical and practical. Before you start, you need to understand a few important points:
- In order for the bed to meet your requirements, and its price to be minimal, you need to limit yourself only to your own efforts.
- The material for furniture should be easy to process and have an affordable price. In other words, it is best to purchase ready-made material and cut it according to templates, rather than purchasing an entire furniture workshop.
- It is necessary to purchase special and inexpensive tools. In the future they will be needed for other purposes.
If you have never encountered making furniture before, then for a double bed it is better to choose a podium made of laminated chipboard. Even a beginner can assemble it on his own. There is no need to bother yourself with making moving parts and lifting materials, since this podium has a special internal space. Do not forget about the design of the bed, because it should fit harmoniously into the room and match other furniture. Decide exactly what kind of bed you need, look at photos on the Internet or in magazines.
How to choose the right one
When choosing a bed for the bedroom, it is recommended to take an integrated approach. To ensure that furniture meets all requirements, you should pay attention to a number of basic criteria.
Company manufacturer
The furniture market offers a wide range of beds from different manufacturers. It is better to give preference to well-known brands whose product quality has been tested in practice. Since the bed is purchased for a long time, you should not experiment with products from little-known manufacturers.
Color
When deciding on the decorative characteristics of a bed, you must first take into account individual preferences. It is also important that the color of the furniture fits harmoniously into the existing style.
Load
Depending on the person for whom the bed is intended, the load indicator is determined. For children with low body weight, beds that can withstand minor loads are suitable, while adults should choose among more durable structures,
Type of operation of a gas lift to a bed
There are direct action mechanisms, when lifting is carried out by compressing the retractable rod, and reverse mechanisms. The result of the operation of gas lifts is the same, so this parameter is not particularly important and depends on the manufacturer.
Tools for furniture assembly
- Electric screwdriver. Indispensable for screwing in screws and attaching fittings.
A screwdriver will help you speed up the assembly process
Drill for drilling holes in chipboard, it is desirable that the drill has a reverse
Drills for wood and metal of different diameters
A jigsaw is needed for sawing off parts
You may need a rubber hammer if you need to knock something and put it in its place.
Hex key for confirmation for assembling cabinet furniture
Construction hair dryer for gluing edges
Furniture clamps for fixing, gluing, joining parts
A stapler will be very useful for stuffing the back wall of fiberboard
Remember to be vigilant and cautious when using these tools. Don't act hastily
It is best to invite an assistant.
Fixing tools have an important role in twisting furniture, and also as important “helpers”. These and other gear perform the function of installing fragile parts (mirrors and handles). They help attach and adjust doors.
Tools and materials
To construct a bed, an array of different types of wood or particle boards are suitable - chipboard, fibreboard, MDF, laminated chipboard, OSB. The most popular sheets are MDF and chipboard. Wood boards are easy to process and reliable in operation.
For installation and assembly work, you will need accessories: self-tapping screws, confirmations, corners, edge tape, bolts, washers, nuts. The lifting device can be assembled independently or purchased ready-made.
To process wood and fasten bed elements, you need a set of tools. These are screwdrivers and screwdrivers, a jigsaw, a drill, a tape measure, a level, and a furniture stapler. Also useful: a hair dryer, a welding machine, a hacksaw, clamps, foam rubber, markers, pencils, steel strips.
Main assembly problems
Modern beds have many complex mechanisms, and not all buyers can understand the principle of their operation and installation rules. Even though the beds come with step-by-step instructions. Why does this situation arise? There are three reasons.
- Most city residents, especially the younger generation, do not have the skills to work with construction and carpentry tools. Accordingly, assembling a bed on their own is an almost impossible task for them.
- Assembly instructions are written by qualified personnel. This is correct and logical, but the presence of specialized terms in the text significantly complicates the task for the average consumer. In addition, some operations in the instructions are skipped as a matter of course, which is another obstacle for an unprepared person. As a result, the buyer may read the instructions several times, but still not understand them.
- Making beds is not considered a complex production, and there are a large number of semi-handicraft companies operating in the furniture industry. They produce rather low-quality products; many elements and parts have to be adjusted independently during assembly.
Not every furniture company produces its products responsibly
And one more problem. Budget bed options are made from laminated chipboards, and the only real advantage of this material is its low cost. As for the physical properties and performance characteristics, they do not quite meet the requirements of strict buyers. Particularly great difficulties arise in loaded junctions of individual elements. They cannot withstand cyclic multidirectional loads, and these are the ones that mostly affect double beds. At the slightest violation of the assembly technology, the nodes weaken, then the slabs quickly collapse, and the bed frame can completely lose stability. In addition, all threaded connections in chipboard are considered disposable. This means that re-screwing screws into old holes will no longer provide the original strength.
Laminated chipboard has an attractive appearance and low cost, but is not durable
How to assemble it yourself: main steps
To assemble such a model, it is necessary to prepare all the structural components. This:
- the very basis of the structure;
- headboard;
- lifting mechanism;
- mattress.
Necessary steps:
- Preparation;
- assembly of parts from MDF;
- installing a free frame under the mattress;
- attaching a lift;
- frame assembly.
The frame consists of two side panels of 2 m each and two cross panels of 1.4 or 1.5 m. Two rows of support strips, usually consisting of a metal angle, are fastened with screws along the inner perimeter.
Important
Single and double models can be equipped with this transformation method. The configuration of the mounted lifting mechanism allows rational use of the empty area under the bed as a closet.
A key aspect of furniture design is its ergonomics. A reliable bed lifting mechanism makes it comfortable and multifunctional. Correct calculation of dimensions excludes all other related furniture. The bed will take on the functions of a wardrobe, chest of drawers, and bedside table.
How to assemble a single bed?
Often a model assembly diagram is included in the kit. However, the general design of all metal or wooden beds is the same. You can make the frame alone, but it is better to have an assistant who will hold the side elements.
Before starting work, you need to check the number of parts and the presence of fasteners that are supplied in the kit. There should be enough free space to allow the bed to be turned over.
To assemble a single bed, you need to prepare the following tools:
- a set of screwdrivers or a screwdriver;
- rubber hammer;
- hexagon.
For metal products, you may need wrenches and pliers.
Headboard and drawers
Self-assembly of the bed begins with connecting the headboard and side walls, which are also called drawers. In most cases, holes for fixing elements are already made at the fastening points. However, if they are not there, you definitely need to do it using a drill and a drill of the required diameter.
Attach the drawers to the headboard at an angle of 90° and secure with euroscrews, confirmats or dowels. If wooden pins are used, the joints should be coated with PVA glue to ensure secure fastening. The euroscrews should be tightened with a hexagon, and the confirmation screws with a screwdriver or screwdriver.
Then the drawers of the single bed are attached to the backrest. If the product has legs, they are installed on the base of the bed at this stage. When PVA glue is used during assembly, remove excess glue with a dry cloth before further work.
Base
Installation of the single bed base begins when the frame is ready. To do this, you need to fasten the transverse bars or lamellas to the longitudinal ones. The slats can be wooden or metal, depending on the model of the bed. They are fixed using self-tapping screws or screws to the frames in several places. The longitudinal parts of the bed are attached to them. Cross bars are inserted into special recesses.
Sometimes the grooves are missing and there may be holes in their place. Fastening can be done using self-tapping screws or self-tapping screws.
Assembly
Now you need to put everything together correctly. The box is installed in the place where the bed will be located. Then the base is carefully laid on top. Everything is fixed using fittings. Caps are installed on the screws to hide the caps.
Design of a typical product
Before you begin attaching the component parts of the product, you need to consider what it consists of. The design of typical beds is quite simple and consists of:
- frame;
- bases (bed);
- headboards;
- footboard;
- legs;
- side guards;
- mattress holders.
The frame is a rectangular frame made of drawers - boards placed on the edge. It is placed on legs and the front and back headboards of the bed are attached to it. There are 2 types of beds - a solid board made of plywood sheets or boards, transverse wooden slats or lamellas.
Types of lifting mechanisms, their principles of operation in the bed
Today, the furniture market offers several types of lifts that are installed in beds of various sizes and designs. They differ in price, design, durability, and the physical effort that must be applied to lift them. Based on their operating principle, they are divided into three groups:
- Manual mechanism on hinges. The simplest, cheapest option was highly popular in the 90s. Nowadays there are relatively few beds with such a lift, because it requires significant physical effort (the weight of the base is entirely on the person’s hands) and can cause deformation of the body (most often, hinges are installed in inexpensive models made of chipboard, which, with frequent use, cannot withstand the weight of the base and spoil). To be fair, it is worth noting that the lift itself is quite durable and rarely fails.
- Spring lift system. Convenient, easy to use mechanism. It is considered a budget option, and accordingly, it is installed in inexpensive beds. It does not require much effort to lift, but still, a child cannot handle it. Springs only partially compensate for the weight of the base. A significant drawback is the short service life, about 5 years, after which the springs stretch and require replacement.
- The mechanism is based on gas shock absorbers, or gas lift. Today it is the most advanced and easy to use. Requires virtually no human effort. It works smoothly, without noise, and securely fixes the raised base. The system is considered reliable and can be installed on any bedroom furniture, even children’s. With properly selected shock absorbers, it can last more than ten years. Its cost is higher than that of other mechanisms, but is fully justified by the comfort and safety of use.
Drawings and measurements
Calculations are made for the base of a box 1800*2000 with a height of at least 40 cm, so that there is room for a compartment for things.
In total you will need three components, bars, corners and panels.
- bars: 3 pieces with size 50*50*3000;
- shields: 4 pcs with dimensions 18*400*2000 (2x) and 18*2000*1600 (2x);
- mounting angles: 8 pcs with size 50*50*50, and 20 pcs 20*40*20.
During installation, it is necessary to measure the degrees of the angles so that the frame lies evenly and does not creak.
Drawing for a manual mechanism
Drawing of a mechanism with shock absorber springs
Important! For installation, drills of 2, 5 and 7 mm with wrenches of 10 and 13 mm are useful.
Manufacturing process: step-by-step instructions
Diagram of a bed frame with a lifting mechanism
To make a universal lifting mechanism for a bed with your own hands, you need to prepare detailed drawings of the future model. To avoid irreparable mistakes when installing the bed, you can rely on a ready-made schematic drawing of the frame assembly.
Detailed diagram of the assembly of a bed with a lifting mechanism
You can get information on how to make a bed with a lifting mechanism with your own hands by studying the prepared drawings.
Drawing of a lifting mechanism for a bed
First, a strong, reliable base for the intended bed is built. To make the base of the stock, you need to prepare:
- the bottom, sides of the bed, drawers and headboard are made of MDF or chipboard - all elements of the appropriate size;
- a frame formed from wooden blocks;
- mattress bridges made from slats and boards.
After completing the preparatory work for installation, the bed base is assembled from ready-made elements.
- On a frame made of bars, the bottom for the niche being prepared is secured with self-tapping screws.
- After the steps have been completed, the drawers and sides are mounted on the frame.
- We attach the headboard to the prepared structure using a screwdriver and self-tapping screws.
- After completing the base assembly process, the bed lift is installed. It is sold ready to use, so the lifting structure is mounted on nuts.
Elevator transformation system
The lower steel strip is immediately fixed to the base frame, then the upper element is fixed to the side part.
The gas lift is mounted on a rack base
Installing gas shock absorbers for a bed with a lifting mechanism
To create a reliable sleeping place, a steel base is installed, made of a metal profile, cut with a grinder into parts of the required dimensions and connected together into a solid structure by welding, which is an important working step. After completing the welding work, a timber frame is fixed to the base.
Drawing up a drawing
Before you start creating a bed with a lifting mechanism with your own hands, you need to make a drawing. The project must contain the exact dimensions of all parts, dimensions of the future product, and a list of selected materials and mechanisms. It is important to think through all these nuances in advance. If you do not have such experience, you can find ready-made drawings with already calculated dimensions on thematic resources.
Review of the most original beds in the world for adults and children
Any of them consists of several points. The first indicates general design parameters, as well as information about the selected materials. The second contains all the information regarding the assembly of specific elements. The third determines the order of actions. The work should be divided into points to simplify it as much as possible. The output will be not just a drawing, but also a ready-made plan with a detailed description of all actions.
Installation of the lifting mechanism
When planning to assemble the Suspa device, you should familiarize yourself with the basic recommendations of the manufacturer of this hardware. The gas lift installation process can be divided into several successive steps:
First, the bed frame is assembled. When performing all operations, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Metal corners are used to connect the boards. This will strengthen the entire structure and make it more resistant to external influences.
When the frame is assembled, they begin to attach the gas lift. The structure is fixed using special self-tapping screws, which are often included. Please note that some gas lifts are one-sided
Therefore, it is important not to confuse them.
In some cases, the side of the cylinder also plays an important role. This specification should be clarified with the manufacturer.
At this stage, the folding frame is assembled. In some cases it is metallic and solid. If the structure is made of wood, then it is constructed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The procedure is completed by attaching the gas lift to the upper element
It is important to screw the mechanism only when the lid is open. This will eliminate the possibility of breakage due to incorrect calculation of the arm length
When the entire structure is assembled, you should run the system several times to check its functionality. If the system does not work properly, the mechanism should be reinstalled.
Installing gas lifts on a bed can differ in many nuances. If you are not sure that you can perform the operation efficiently, you should entrust it to an experienced specialist. The best option would be to make such furniture to order. This will allow you not only to select the size and style of the structure, but also to determine the optimal characteristics of the lifting mechanism.
If you still want to handle all the work yourself, consider important nuances. This way you can get better results. To learn how to install a gas lift, see the following video.
Possible difficulties during work
Without practical experience in assembling furniture or making minor mistakes, you may encounter difficulties. The following installation difficulties are common:
- Need to drill additional holes. Recesses for fasteners are required in many parts of the structure, and if third-party elements are used, then new holes must be made on the body, having previously made markings.
- Gas lift installation. The process of installing the lifting mechanism is the most difficult step, so it is important to be careful and follow the exact sequence of actions.
- Incorrect markings on the furniture frame. If you make a mistake in the markings, you will not be able to assemble the bed correctly, so you need to check the measurements several times.
See also
How to choose the right interior doors, selection criteria and tips
Types of beds with a lifting mechanism
Beds with a lifting mechanism are available with different types of opening devices, different sizes, configurations, and transformation methods.
Classification according to the type of lifting device is presented in 3 types: with manual lifting, with spiral springs, with gas shock absorbers.
The fastening with the help of coiled springs is easy to install and reliable in operation. The cost of the fastening system is affordable. However, springs wear out and stretch if the rules of use are violated. If several elements are damaged, the entire system will need to be replaced. The warranty period of the mechanism is no more than 5 years.
The lifting device on gas shock absorbers does not require physical effort during operation, providing easy access to the unit for things and bedding at the bottom of the bed. Gas devices allow you to move the stock to the open position silently and smoothly. When choosing a system, the dimensions and weight of the surface of the sleeping bed are taken into account. The devices are designed to lift bulky mattresses. Manufacturers issue a warranty on the operation of the mechanism for a period of up to 10 years.
Manual lifting of the sleeping bed (on hinges) due to the lack of auxiliary elements requires physical effort when transforming the bed. However, the strength and durability of the device is great. Manual mechanisms are not equipped with systems for smooth lifting and spring devices, and therefore have a low price. To access the bedding unit, you will need to remove the mattress. Mechanisms are not used in furnishing children's rooms.
Depending on the number of beds, there are single and double models.
Single-bed structures are compact, versatile, suitable for small spaces, allowing you to organize an additional place to relax. Models are often made in the form of an ottoman and placed in the corner of the room. Single beds with a lifting device are used in the design of children's and teenagers' rooms. A spring mechanism or gas shock absorbers are used for the configuration. The lifting system in narrow beds is mounted along the short parts.
The mechanism in double models depends on the weight of the bed and mattress. For massive structures, gas shock absorbers are needed, for light ones - spring blocks.
In accordance with the number of furniture elements to be combined, there are lifting beds with a sofa, an ottoman bed, a resting place that can be transformed into a nightstand, etc. The sleeping bed can be built into a closet. The latest model is the easiest to design and assemble a lift-up bed with your own hands.
Beds also differ in the way they raise the sleeping bed: vertical or horizontal.
Blueprints
The manufacture of a lifting bed structure begins with a detailed study of drawings and diagrams for fastening elements. The sketches must show the dimensions of the product components, methods of fastening the end and side parts, etc.
The design of the bed is a box, which is created from 4 slabs and 4 transverse elements for the bottom of the frame. When drawing up the drawing, the parameters of the mattress are taken into account; the length can vary from 180 cm, width - from 80 to 180 cm. It is necessary to determine the dimensions and dimensions of the bed, the number of beds.
Planned additional elements (shelves, drawers) are also marked on the diagram. When preparing, it is important to draw up a diagram for fastening elements with a lifting mechanism.
DIY double bed. Dimensions, drawings, assembly instructions
Walking around furniture stores and showrooms, you can often be horrified by the price tags presented there. The most annoying thing is that a simple bed made of the cheapest material (not wood at all, but ordinary chipboard or MDF with an ordinary mattress board made of rough chipboard, i.e., even without slats) has an exorbitant price for such a product. Having seen enough of this, we are starting to look at other options: some are looking for used furniture on bulletin boards, others are taking something simpler and are content with a cheap analogue, and some are simply postponing the purchase of the product for an indefinite period.
But in this article we will take a different route. We will make a double bed with our own hands.
The advantage of this approach is that the furniture salon and you will pay almost the same for the materials. And by assembling this double bed yourself, you will save at least half the cost of the design (i.e., exactly the same amount as the markup on the cost price for the design, design and assembly of this piece of furniture).
Photo of a double bed that we will make with our own hands:
This article presents a master class on the manufacture and assembly of a double bed from chipboard + MDF lining on the frames, overall dimensions 2032 * 1692 * 800 (length/width/height), size of the sleeping area for the mattress 1600 * 2000 mm, i.e. quite a standard bed for two people.
At the very bottom of the article you can download a file with assembly drawings of a double bed, as well as its configuration.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of handmade furniture?
Buying a new piece of furniture is an expensive option, despite the fact that it is not necessarily of high quality, strong and durable. In this case, many resort to independent production and collection of interior items. Let's consider the advantages and disadvantages of hand-made furniture.
If you don’t have enough money to buy such a ready-made bed, you can try making it yourself. First let's look at the disadvantages:
- Lack of experience can affect the quality of work. If you want to save on your purchase, you can pay twice as much. Lack of experience, inability to work, incorrect calculations can lead to serious mistakes.
- There is some danger in the work. Failure to operate certain tools can cause serious injury.
- You can't always save money. Sometimes it is much cheaper to purchase a ready-made product than to assemble it yourself, since the purchase of some materials can cost an impressive amount.
- Difficulty of the process. Despite the excellent end result, the process itself is quite exhausting. You need to be as focused and attentive as possible.
- You'll have to spend a lot of time. Making parts yourself and assembling them is a long and labor-intensive process.
Making such furniture yourself will require time and certain skills.
It is worth considering that there is a possibility that the final result may not turn out as expected. You need to be prepared for this. Considering all the disadvantages, you need to be sure that this process is necessary. Let's consider the advantages of making furniture with your own hands:
- There is an opportunity to take into account all your wishes. Finished products do not always fully satisfy consumer desires.
- Confidence in quality. When making furniture yourself, you can use the highest quality materials and have full control over the process.
- Pleasure from the final result. This point should not be overlooked, since pride in one’s creation is of great importance.
- Opportunity to save. It is not recommended to make this item a priority, but still the opportunity to reduce costs pleases many.
Making your own will help you make a bed taking into account all your wishes. Knowledge of negative and positive factors will help resolve the issue of making a lifting bed with your own hands.
Only by understanding all the intricacies of the process can you draw a conclusion about whether or not it is worth making such a bed yourself.
How to disassemble the lifting mechanism and in what cases is it necessary?
Disassembling the bed lifting device is quite a painstaking task. If you are planning to transport furniture, then you should not disassemble the mechanism itself; it is better to leave it on the side slats, remove the mattress, orthopedic base, and carefully pack all the elements in protective film.
Disassembling the lift into parts is only necessary if it breaks down. The following symptoms may indicate a malfunction of the gas lift:
- the orthopedic base lowers spontaneously;
- the mechanism periodically jams and does not perform its lifting functions;
- When operating the mechanism, creaks or other unpleasant sounds are heard.
If it is not possible to call a furniture specialist to your home, you can disassemble the bed yourself, remove the lifting device and take it for repairs. The algorithm of actions is the reverse of assembly, i.e. First, the mattress is removed, the orthopedic base is disconnected, and then the lift is dismantled. It is advisable to film this process, or take step-by-step photos, so that in the future there will be no problems with the installation of a repaired or new device.
Which transformation mechanism is better?
When choosing a transformation mechanism, you should first of all proceed from the intensity of use of your bed. To turn the sofa into a bed, they can answer:
- soft;
- shock absorbers (closers);
- bearings, mechanical elements.
The first step is to make a frame for the cabinet, which will be firmly fixed to the wall.
The spring mechanism has the problem of stretching with frequent use, and the metallic sound of the working springs is not the most pleasant.
Decide on the mechanism for lowering the wardrobe bed.
Gas shock absorbers (they are also called gas lifts, less often - door closers) do an excellent job, but they can also fail, so when using them, it is recommended to provide for the possibility of unhindered replacement.
Everyone chooses for themselves the mechanism for lowering the bed-wardrobe.
Bearings are used less frequently than any other option due to the specific nature of the design transformation. This is due to the fact that the bearing is not responsible for the smooth development, that is, each time you have to manually lift the entire mechanism yourself.
Over the course of several years, the gas will gradually be released from the rack, after which the rack or the entire mechanism will need to be replaced.
Assembly of non-standard models
Beginners in this business often do not understand how to assemble a modern bed according to the instructions. To be honest, even professionals sometimes have problems. This is not surprising, since the design itself is not ordinary. The problem is that the durability of the product directly depends on its assembly. In the case when you simply have no idea how to properly assemble an original double bed, you need to contact specialists in their field. Check with the store to see if they can help you. This way you will save a lot of time and be completely confident in the quality.
You should not neglect such rules, otherwise you will waste your money, and the bed will not last you even ten years.
Overall, working on assembling a double bed is not a difficult task. Following the recommendations and diagrams, the furniture is assembled in less than an hour.
Definition with the model and design of the wardrobe bed
The most important advantage of making a transforming bed with your own hands is the ability to choose any of the proposed designs and even create your own.
When making a wardrobe bed, consider the appearance of the room.
First of all, you need to build on the existing style in the room. It is unlikely that it will be possible to combine a wardrobe-bed with a modern design if other furniture is made, for example, in a classic style. The main thing is to maintain the harmony of the living space and not allow radically different styles to mix.
You can draw a bed on a piece of paper.
It’s better if a sketch of the future bed is drawn up at the design stage. And the best option is to find the one you like on the Internet and adapt it as much as possible to your needs. In this case, you can also save a fair amount of personal time, which you can devote to creating designs and designs yourself.
Try to clearly draw a plan for the future wardrobe-bed.
Installation Tips
A very important point when making beds. All advice is given based on an analysis of the practical experience of professional furniture makers.
Installing a lifting mechanism is a very responsible process.
Lift installation location
Industrial bed models have only one place for attaching the mechanism - near the headboard to the sides. This arrangement creates more inconveniences than benefits. Why?
- In the raised position there is a very large distance between the mattress and the floor; not everyone is that tall. Especially big problems arise for women and children.
- The position fixing device is inserted into the mechanism body and consists of one or more levers. When the bed is raised to its maximum height, the mechanism automatically activates and locks it in place. Removing the fixation can be done in two ways: by further slightly raising the mattress and manually by pressing the lever. Both methods cannot be considered convenient. We have already looked at the first one a little; it is already difficult for people with short stature to lift the mattress. And the second method is even more difficult - you have to hold the bed with one hand and turn off the thrust mechanism with the other.
- The bed linen slides towards the headboard, making it difficult to get it out of there.
- To lift the mattress you need to have powerful lifts. The fact is that in this case the laws of force distribution are triggered; the size of the lever is large (equal to the length of the bed), which significantly increases the load at the other end.
In connection with such problems, experienced furniture makers strongly recommend installing lifting mechanisms not to the sidewalls at the head of the bed, but one at the head and foot of the bed - the bed rises to the side, all performance indicators are significantly improved. But there is one new problem: depending on which side the mechanism is mounted, the bed cannot be placed close to the wall; there must always be a passage.
Raising the mattress to the side increases the comfort of using the bed
Manufacturing stages
The work must be planned in advance; this is the only way to achieve high final quality.
- Model selection. Decide on the size and material of the bed. Approximately calculate the amount of materials, additional elements and hardware, find out their cost.
- Draw a detailed sketch indicating the overall dimensions of all main elements and assemblies. Make details, prepare working drawings.
- Check the tools and special devices; if you have a workshop, clear the workbench.
You need to start by drawing up a drawing and calculating the materials for making the bed
When choosing a bed model, we strongly advise you to soberly evaluate your practical experience in furniture construction. In practice, doing everything is much more difficult than reading about it in articles. Experienced carpenters recommend first making a few simple pieces of furniture with your own hands, and only then taking on complex ones.
Common mistakes
The most common mistakes:
- Ignoring manufacturer's instructions.
- Before drilling holes for fasteners, measurements were not taken or it was done very carelessly.
- The master did not prepare all the tools in advance.
- The workplace is not organized properly.
- Ignoring gaps in furniture. The parts must fit together perfectly.