Mechanisms for transforming sofas

Among the wide variety of folding sofas, the model with the “book” mechanism has not given up its position for many decades. Many other mechanisms have appeared, roll-out, walking, and yet the good old “book” remains the most popular option.

Sofa book

This species is named so because of its principle of transformation. Initially, the sofa is assembled, with the backrest perpendicular to the seat. This is a classic day uniform. In this position the sofa is suitable for comfortable sitting. It can comfortably accommodate several people at once. Once opened, the sofa turns into a place to lie. It takes up more space. When opened, it is intended for sleeping.

Sofa book

During intermediate opening, a special cavity is formed in the sofa, intended for storing things. Most often, bed linen is placed in it. The size of the box is considered quite roomy. Thanks to its presence in the room, it is possible to further save space, making the book-type sofa as functional and comfortable as possible.

Linen box in a book sofa

Transformation

For everyday use, the sofa is in the folded position. This way it takes up less space, leaving more free space in the room. The transformation mechanism of the book sofa is extremely simple. It is enough to pull the seat up until a specific click is heard. Then the back will lie perpendicular to the floor. After this, the seat can be lowered to its original position. As a result, a large platform is formed on which a person can lie down comfortably. In this form, the sofa will resemble an open book.

Mechanism for transforming a sofa-book

The intersection of the back and seat will move to the center of the base. For this reason, the sofa will take up more space in the room. Its location close to the wall of the room is unfavorable. This is due to the fact that when opening the sofa you will have to move it back each time.

Peculiarities

This type of sofa is one of the most frequently chosen. This is primarily due to the cost of such models. Book-type sofas are one of the most affordable models with a transformation mechanism. It is also worth noting the fact that the design includes a special compartment for storing bed linen, which is also a plus.

Sofa book in the interior

One of the disadvantages is the insufficient ergonomics of the model. Due to the specific layout mechanism of a book-type sofa, it is inconvenient to place it close to the wall. After all, you will have to constantly push it back. And the transformation system itself is quite simple, but you need to make an effort to open the sofa.

You can very often find a sofa book in the interior of a home. This is due to its convenience, functionality and low price. These three factors completely eliminate the shortcomings of the product. Therefore, a sofa book is an excellent purchase for a living room or recreation room.

Advantages and disadvantages of the book mechanism

Why is she so good?

Reliable and easy to use.
The simplicity of the mechanism ensures long-term intensive use.
The sleeping area is spacious and comfortable.

This mechanism is usually found in small-sized models - there is almost no alternative for small rooms.
There is a drawer for linen at the bottom.
The most budget model.

And you also need to know about the disadvantages of this model:

To unfold it, there must be a distance between the sofa and the wall.
The sleeping place at the junction has a recess.

You may not like the overly simple design of these models.

As you can see, there are very few disadvantages.

Click-clack

The name of this type of sofa transformation comes from the specific sound it makes when unfolded. In terms of design features, it is a modernized version of the book type. The sofa has an increased level of comfort. This is due to the fact that in addition to the two standard positions, there is a third, intermediate one. The back of the sofa can be fixed in any position between open and closed. As a result, a person can be on it in a reclining position.

Sofa backrest positions click-clack

Some sofa models with this transformation mechanism have sides. When unfolded, they turn into comfortable armrests or headrests.

Transformation of sofa armrests click-clack

As in simpler book-type sofas, these have a separate compartment for bed linen. It is located under the seat.

Linen drawer in the sofa click-clack

Click-clack sofa folding mechanism

The extreme positions of the click-clack sofa are the same as those of the book. However, it has the ability to be secured at a certain angle.

For this position, the sofa first needs to be opened halfway. So that the linen drawer is accessible. This is also done by lifting the seat up. After it has taken the extreme position, it needs to be lowered down and then fixed. Now the sofa is in an intermediate position and is ready for use. The mount is extremely reliable and can support the weight of even several people.

Sofa transformation mechanism click click

Advantages and disadvantages

Click-clack has become one of the most popular mechanisms for transforming a sofa due to a number of positive qualities:

Increased convenience. The click-klyak sofa can be opened at any intermediate angle, finding the ideal position for a particular person.

Comfortable sofa with click-clack transformation mechanism

The presence of a linen drawer. The design of this sofa includes a cavity for storing things. Putting them there allows you to save space in the rest of the home.

Reliability of the design. The click-clack mechanism for opening the sofa does not require additional maintenance. And its service life is more than ten years.

The service life of a click-klyak sofa is more than 10 years

The disadvantage in it is the same as in the book-type sofa. It is inconvenient to place it close to the wall. And when opened, the click-clack sofa takes up more free space in the room.

Preparation of tools and materials

To make a sofa you will need ordinary carpentry tools:

wood hacksaw, jigsaw;
screwdriver;
a set of wrenches and a set of drills;
tape measure, corner ruler;
stapler for attaching trim;
marker or pencil;
fasteners - furniture bolts, nails, screws, staples.

A do-it-yourself sofa book is made of wood, since metal is much more difficult to process. This model requires the following materials:

timber – 40*60 mm, 40*50 mm and 50*50 mm;
boards 25 mm thick;
transformation mechanism - purchased ready-made based on the expected load;
Fiberboard – for linen box;
foam rubber or other filler;
wooden slats and holders - from 32 to 64 pieces for each part;
non-woven fabric, upholstery fabric, glue.

If the sofa is placed on legs, the latter can also be bought, and not hewn out of wood.

Sofa "Accordion"

One of the most popular mechanisms for transforming a sofa is the “Accordion”. Its main difference is its maximum compactness. The entire main part of the opening system is built into the backrest. Therefore, the “Accordion” sofa, when unfolded, increases significantly in size. At the same time, it becomes an excellent place for a person to lie down.

Sofa “accordion”

Opening principle

The sofa itself is divided into several parts: a seat, a double back and a base. Everything is placed as compactly as possible; as a result, the entire structure does not come out in any way when closed. All system components are involved in unfolding.

In order to open the sofa, you need to pull the center of its horizontal base, first lifting the seat. Eventually it will install on him. When the structure of the sofa is almost open, you should press on the place where the two surfaces of the backrest fold.

The principle of opening the sofa “accordion”

As a result, the system will increase significantly in size. The opening principle resembles the operation of an accordion. Therefore, the sofa layout mechanism is named after a musical instrument.

Distinctive features

The popularity of this type of opening near the sofa is due to several points. The main one is the overall ergonomics of the design. When unfolded, the sofa increases significantly in size. In this case, the rear part does not move beyond its limits. For this reason, the sofa can be installed close to the wall or even in the corner of the room. It is perfect for small rooms and spaces, as it is much smaller when folded.

A sofa with an “accordion” transformation mechanism can be installed against a wall

But along with the advantages, this model has several disadvantages that you should familiarize yourself with. Most Accordion sofa configurations do not have a drawer for bedding. This is due to the fact that almost all of the internal space is occupied by the folding mechanism. It also requires additional care and lubrication. Otherwise, the service life of the sofa will be shortened.

The “Accordion” sofa is famous for its dimensions when opened. They are much larger than when folded. Thanks to this, such a sofa is an excellent find for small rooms. After all, it can be placed even in the corner of the room; it is enough to ensure unhindered extension.

Sofa - accordion suitable for small rooms

Causes and troubleshooting with your own hands

The most common breakdowns of a folding sofa book are as follows.

A piece of furniture does not unfold or fold at all, or requires more force than before. The reason is the jamming or breakdown of the transformation mechanism.
Creaks when changing body position.
It is uncomfortable to sit or lie down - the uneven terrain of the sofa interferes .
The seat panel is falling through . The root cause may be deformation of the lamellas. Replacing damaged parts can help.
Surface damage - scratches, chipped frame parts, damaged cover, etc. Damage to wooden parts can be sanded and varnished. The cover is easier to replace, especially for stubborn stains.

The first type of malfunction (difficulty with transformation) requires checking and/or replacing the sofa folding mechanism itself. You can repair such a breakdown yourself, without involving third-party specialists - of course, if you know at least a little about furniture repair. First, carefully disassemble the sofa and inspect the mechanism for damage. If none are found, and the sofa is just sticking, lubricate all components with high-quality machine oil or other lubricant. Check its operation. If everything is in order, the repair is almost complete - all you have to do is assemble the furniture.

If the problem persists, dismount the mechanism.

Examine it carefully and purchase a similar one at a hardware store (you can take it with you as a sample, so as not to make a mistake). Then screw it (new, of course) to the body and panels of the sofa. Assemble the furniture. Test the operation of the mechanism - fold and unfold the sofa. If everything is in order, lubricate the metal parts with machine oil (a few drops at the joints of the elements are enough).

If the uneven surface of the sofa causes you discomfort , you will have to disassemble the deformed panel and try to adjust the springs . Increasing the padding over them may also help. But remember that, most likely, you will soon have to carry out a similar procedure again. It is easier to replace the entire spring block.

Sofa "Dolphin"

The list of popular sofa transformation mechanisms includes the “Dolphin” modification. It is included in it because of its convenience, ease of opening and small size. The sofa itself is divided into two parts. One of them occupies a large area and is static. But the second one is retractable. It is located under the seat of the sofa. Because of this, its dimensions are not very large. Typically, Dolphin designs are installed in corner sofas.

Dolphin sofa

How the Dolphin sofa opens up

The folding mechanism of the “Dolphin” sofa is lever type. Therefore, it is revealed extremely simply. It is enough to pull the retractable part towards you until the limiters operate. When opened, the mattress block will be visible inside. It needs to be pulled out from there, placing it on top of the sliding part. Usually, special hinges are provided in the sofa for this purpose.

Transformation mechanism for the “dolphin” sofa

When opened, the product increases slightly. This is due to the overall compactness of the transformation mechanism.

Peculiarities

The popularity of the folding mechanism in Dolphin-type sofas is primarily due to convenience. To open it, just pull the bottom part. The process itself takes minimal time and requires almost no effort. Also, such sofas have a large drawer for storing bed linen.

Linen box in the dolphin sofa

The disadvantages include not the lowest price of the product. Basically, Dolphin sofas are corner sofas, so they are quite expensive. Also, the movable structure, when opened, is under constant load. In this regard, internal fittings require additional care and regular lubrication. Otherwise it won't last long enough.

Corner sofa “dolphin”

The fact that when opened, the “Dolphin” sofa does not take up very much space can hardly be attributed to advantages or disadvantages. Because of this, the product cannot always become a full-fledged sleeping place for a person. However, such a sofa can be placed in a place with insufficient free space. And this is a very ergonomic solution.

Main types of sofa transformation mechanisms

The choice of types of sofas and mechanisms for their transformation should be approached carefully, because this piece of furniture is chosen for more than one year. Therefore, here you should not justify your choice with a low price, but you need to carefully study the advantages and disadvantages of all options. It is recommended to inquire in advance about the reliability of sofa mechanisms and the ease of their operation.

All types of sofa layout mechanisms have advantages and disadvantages

Important! When choosing, you should take into account the parameters of the room in which you plan to install the furniture. The area should be enough to allow you to move freely around the sofa when unfolded.

Modern sofa layout mechanisms are represented by a large number of models, each of which has its own characteristics. For convenience, different names are used for sofas that have a certain method of transformation, the main of which include:

turning one part right next to another;
forward retractable design;
sofas equipped with pendulum or walking blocks that fold forward;
systems with a mechanism that extends like a telescope;
blocks that open like a book.

All these types of sofa layout mechanisms have both disadvantages and advantages. A characteristic feature of all transformation methods is the presence of a sufficient amount of free space in front of the sofa or on the side of it. L- and U-shaped models require free space inside the furniture parts. When choosing a folding mechanism for a sofa, you should focus on the dimensions of the unfolded product, because all ratings are subjective and are unlikely to help in your choice. The main thing is to be sure that it will be convenient to use the product in the conditions of a particular apartment.

When choosing a folding mechanism, you should focus on the dimensions of the product when unfolded.

Sofa mechanisms: main points to consider when choosing

It is important to take into account the characteristics of the floor covering in the place where the product is planned to be installed. If expensive parquet is laid in the room, then the roll-out mechanism of the sofa during prolonged use will leave characteristic marks on the floor, and over time, deep cuts will form.

If a sofa is purchased for a married couple who have a large total weight, then you should not opt for an option in which the sleeping place rests on small and thin legs, since they may not withstand the load and break. It is recommended to adhere to the same principle when choosing a sofa for a child’s room, because children love to use the product as a trampoline, especially when adults do not see it. In this case, additional strength will increase the life of the furniture.

In a small apartment, where you need to make smart use of all available space, you should make sure that the sofa has an additional compartment in which you can store bed linen or winter clothes. For these purposes, it is recommended to purchase a sofa with a rotating transformation mechanism, or you should pay attention to the mechanism of the Eurobook sofa.

If you plan to use the sofa for daily sleep, then it is better to choose spacious options that form a full-fledged sleeping place. In this case, the leaders are the “Eurobook” and the straight sofa “Dolphin”, which are easily and conveniently laid out and have compact dimensions when folded. Depending on the configuration of the room, you can choose a corner option.

It is important that the product has a certificate of not only quality, but also environmental friendliness

Helpful advice! If you purchase a folding sofa for a teenager or child, you need to be able to independently unfold and fold it without the help of adults. The same principle should be followed when choosing a product for older people.

When buying a product, you need to pay attention not only to the type of mechanism, but also to other parameters, such as:

frame type;
filler;
quality of upholstery;
manufacturer;
price.

It is better to purchase the product from a time-tested official store, so that in case of a breakdown it is easy to find spare parts for the sofas. You also need to take into account that when purchasing a product from the manufacturer, at least a year of warranty is given, which also applies to transformation mechanisms. It is important that the product has a certificate of not only quality, but also environmental friendliness, which confirms the fact that no toxic substances were used in its production.

Experts do not advise choosing and buying a sofa on Internet sites, since it is virtually impossible to check the quality of workmanship, the filling of the berth, and it is also impossible to inspect the product for defects. Therefore, if you decide to buy a sofa with delivery, before signing the document on receipt of the goods, you need to unfold the sofa, carefully inspect the body, fold and unfold the product several times. This is the only way to avoid the quick disappointment of buying low-quality furniture.

When buying a sofa, you need to pay attention not only to the type of mechanism, but also to the type of frame, filling and upholstery

Sofa "Eurobook"

“Eurobook” is also considered a popular mechanism for transforming a sofa. Its design is reliable, well thought out and easy to use. This is an advanced version of the book sofa. It is distinguished by greater comfort when opening, as well as an increased volume of the linen drawer.

Unfolding the Eurobook sofa

The very principle of opening the Eurobook sofa is extremely simple. The entire seat or part of it rests on a roller base. It is not built into the product, but stands on top. To unfold the roller part of the sofa, pull it towards you until the movement limiters operate. In this position, the space for bedding located in the base of the sofa will become visible.

Unfolding the Eurobook sofa

After the roller part was pulled out, all that remained was to install the backrest. To do this, you need to press a little on its upper part. As a result, it will fall into place, flush with the extended seat. In this position, the back will close the linen drawer, and the product itself will be completely open.

Linen box in the Eurobook sofa

In this form, the sofa will increase in size, and now it will be comfortable for a person to lie on it. The opening mechanism is very convenient, the task can be completed without much effort.

Transformation mechanism for the Eurobook sofa

Advantages and disadvantages

The Eurobook sofa has gained popularity for a number of reasons:

Ergonomics. It can be installed either in the center of the room or close to the wall. When opened, the sofa extends only in one direction. For this reason, it will not have to be moved away from the wall.

The Eurobook sofa is distinguished by its ergonomics

Easy to open. The mechanism for transforming the Eurobook sofa is very well thought out. The roller base is very easy to move away.
Linen box. When opened, a large niche is formed in the sofa. It is convenient to put bed linen and related items there.

Eurobook sofa easily unfolds

Reliability. The opening design and internal fittings do not require additional maintenance and can withstand heavy loads.

The only thing that can put you off buying a Eurobook sofa is the price. It will be higher than most other models. This is due to solutions in the transformation mechanism and general ergonomics.

Sofa "Puma"

Such sofas are often found in the interior of modern living rooms. When folded, they take up a small amount of space, but look quite premium. The opening mechanism is reliable. And when pulled out, parts of the sofa do not scratch the floor covering of the room, since they are not on roller bases, but on a hanging structure. The product is perfect as a place for a person to sleep. After all, it can be pulled out quite simply, while increasing its size.

Corner sofa “Puma”

Transformation of the Puma sofa

The layout mechanism of the Puma sofa is quite complex. The design consists of many individual parts. Thanks to this, when opened, the product greatly increases in size. It becomes really comfortable to sleep or lie on.

To unfold a sofa of this type, you need to raise the seat. After this has been done, you need to take out the exit bottom part. You need to pull it towards yourself until it stops. Now you can pull out the seat of the exit part. There are special loops located on the sides of the center for this purpose. You must first pull them up and then back until the limiters operate. To complete the transformation, all that remains is to lower the main seat block, which was raised from the very beginning, into place.

Puma sofa transformation mechanism

After these operations, the Puma sofa was finally unfolded. After opening, the seat area will increase several times. Now it can be used for its intended purpose, that is, lying down.

After transformation, the puma sofa increases significantly in size

Sofa features

The Puma sofa is compact when folded. It can be placed in places with a small amount of free space. For example, against a wall or in a corner of a small room. And when opened, it increases significantly. Therefore, nothing should stand in its way, because it will interfere with its movement.

The puma sofa when folded is quite compact

Most modifications of the Puma sofa do not have a drawer for linen. It is only available in corner models. This is the main drawback of a product with such a layout mechanism. Plus, the sofa belongs to the high price segment.

Restoration of an old Soviet sofa of the “Book” system

Today in many apartments you can still find an old sofa that was left over from Soviet times, I’m talking about the “Knizhka” system. Such products served their owners for 20 years or more. Many people throw away Soviet sofas, sell them to students in rented apartments or take them to their dachas, and in return buy themselves new ones, which after a couple of years have to be reupholstered or upholstered, since nowadays manufacturers often save on materials and use low-density foam rubber and low-quality fabrics. The question arises: might it be more advisable to spend a relatively small amount on restoring the old one and thereby avoid buying an expensive new sofa?

If you decide to update it, then a few tips will not hurt you. So, you have an old Soviet sofa, free time and a desire to update it. The question arises: where to start?

The first stage is disassembly. First you need to remove the sides. They are usually fastened with two bolts from below. Removing the armrests, you will see a mechanism that allows you to unfold and fold the sofa - it connects the seat, backrest and linen drawer. First you need to disconnect the seat and backrest from the linen drawer, and then the seat from the backrest. The disassembly is now complete. Look at the mechanism for folding and unfolding the sofa; if it is faulty (the parts are worn out or broken), it needs to be replaced.

The second stage is the removal of old upholstery. To do this you will need a screwdriver and pliers. Remove the staples around the perimeter that secure the trim. You need to remove them carefully so that the sharp ends do not remain in the sofa. Don’t rush to throw away the old casing: you may need it to take measurements from it, and also, if it is not too worn out, it can be used in reupholstery.

French folding bed

This variety is one of the most popular sofa transformation mechanisms. When opened, it resembles a folding bed. In this regard, it received such a name. The French variety is distinguished by a three-stage drop-down base.

Sofa with French folding system

Sofa folding mechanism “French folding bed”

The first step in unfolding a sofa of this type is to remove the base of the seat. To get it out, you just need to lift it from the front side. Then put it aside. This action will open access to the folding part itself. Now you need to remove the main block of the clamshell. For this purpose it has a special handle. It should first be pulled up, and then slightly towards you. So that the main block stands parallel to the floor.

Mechanism for transforming a sofa “French folding bed”

After this, the structure itself can be unfolded. The folding bed needs to be unfolded twice. For the first time, the largest part of it is installed, as well as the mount with legs. Here you need to lay it out carefully so that the structure does not scratch the floor. Afterwards, the same action must be repeated with the rest of the block. Now the sofa with the French folding mechanism is fully opened. In this form, the seat base is not used, only in the folded version.

Corner sofa “French folding bed”

Differences with other variations

This type of sofa is distinguished by its compactness when assembled. The product can be placed not only in the center of the room, but also close to the wall. And when opened, it is an excellent place to sleep, as it offers enough space for a person lying down.

Compact sofa with French folding system

Due to the design features of this layout mechanism, the sofa does not have a drawer for bed linen. And this is a clear disadvantage of the product. Even when opening, you constantly have to put aside the base of the seat, which will take up additional space in the room. Regular sleep on such a sofa can negatively affect a person’s spine. The product also requires a thin mattress.

There is no linen drawer in the “French folding bed” sofa

Build process

Many people, when buying furniture, do not want to pick it up from the exhibition stand, but prefer new ones from the warehouse. In this situation, the furniture may arrive completely disassembled and will need to be assembled yourself. In order to save money, buyers can refuse the services provided by furniture assemblers and do the assembly themselves.

Assembling individual models is a couple of trifles; with a “book” it will be a little more difficult. However, with practical guidance, this process will not cause additional complications. Let's look at how to assemble a “book” from one of the manufacturers.

It must be remembered that the designs of different manufacturers in the assembly may vary slightly, but without touching on details, the mechanisms are still of the same order.

1st Step. First of all, you need to unpack all the furniture components from the packaging. This should be done carefully so as not to damage the materials from which the furniture is made. When unpacking the components, it is necessary to inspect each of them for damage and check the completeness according to the instructions.

2nd Step. Assembly work must begin with a box with a transforming mechanism. The retaining clamps should be removed from the metal parts. Then it is necessary, using bolts, washers and nuts, to install the crossbars on the racks of the transforming mechanism.

3rd Step. The mechanisms themselves that raise the back of the sofa should be fixed on the inside of the side posts. The mechanism platform should be located on top. Fixation is carried out using bolts using washers and nuts.

4th Step. Then the sofa supports must be mounted on the platforms of the mechanism. First of all, the one that will perform the function of a seat is installed.

5th Step. Then a second support must be installed on the second platform of the mechanism.

6th Step. After the supports and mechanisms have been assembled, you should make sure that the furniture unfolds and folds in accordance with the norm.

7th Step. After this, you need to lay out the sofa and place a mattress on it, acting as seat cushions and a place to sleep.

8th Step. Now on the opposite side of the supporting structure it is necessary to secure the mattress using specially provided stoppers, fixing them on the frame.

9th Step. All that remains is to put on the cover included in the kit, secure it to the supports with specialized tapes - the assembly is complete.

I must say that nowadays it is quite easy to assemble a sofa even on your own. But the previous sofas from the USSR were quite bulky and heavy; assembling them was extremely difficult precisely due to the impressive mass of components.

The second master class on making a book sofa can be found in the video below.

Pantograph

This sofa transformation mechanism is similar to the Eurobook. Their main difference is the fact that the “Pantograph” does not have a roller system. It opens using a hinged mechanism. For this reason, it does not damage the floor covering. The sofa folding mechanism “Pantograph” is also called “Tick-tock”.

Sofa with pantograph transformation mechanism

Disclosure

According to the general principle, the opening of a sofa of this type is similar to the “Eurobook”. To extend the seat, you need to pull it up, and then forward. Its movement resembles an arc. When extended, the sofa seat will be at the same height as it was in the folded position. This action opens access to a drawer where you can put bed linen.

Mechanism for transforming sofas “pantograph”

Now all that remains is to lower the backrest. To do this, you need to press on it from the back until it covers the resulting niche. When opened, the “Pantograph” sofa is comfortable for a person to lie on and even sleep.

Advantages and disadvantages

The list of advantages of this type of sofa is similar to the Eurobook variation: ergonomics, ease of opening, the presence of a drawer for bed linen, no need for maintenance and compactness when folded. But one new thing is being added to them. This is the fact that when opened, the “Pantograph” moves not along the floor, but through the air. For this reason, the coating is not scratched in any way.

The “pantograph” transformation mechanism does not scratch the floor surface

But this fact also adds a disadvantage associated with less reliability. The suspended structure receives a large load. This means the roller system will last less. Plus, sofas with the Pantograph mechanism are not the cheapest.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of the Eurobook include:

simple design;
little time to get into sleeping form;
sofa capacity;
reliability of design;
durability;
quality of finishing materials.

It has a convenient and reliable folding mechanism, aesthetic appearance and high technical characteristics.
Before you make a Eurobook sofa with your own hands, the drawings of which you will see below, you need to familiarize yourself with all the shortcomings of this design.

The main disadvantage of this design is the presence of wheels. They are necessary for the smooth unfolding of the moving part. Wheels can cause damage to the floor covering. To eliminate this drawback, it is necessary to select wheels with a soft coating (for example, silicone).
With constant unfolding, the mechanism becomes loose. This contributes to the deterioration of the quality of the upholstery due to excessive friction of the surfaces.
Tall people may experience discomfort due to the limited length of the side armrests.

Modern apartments cannot be imagined without folding sofas.
Their advantage is undeniable. Buying a Eurobook sofa is a good idea. All the disadvantages are completely covered by the advantages. But what if you make such a piece of furniture with your own hands? This will save money and make the product according to your own drawings, dimensions and design.

Sofa "Telescope"

This sofa folding mechanism is also called a roll-out mechanism. It has several retractable elements that open up like a telescope. The name of the transformation mechanism is connected with this. This is a very convenient and ergonomic design.

Folding sofa “telescope”

Transformation

The “Telescope” type layout mechanism itself consists of three elements. Two of them are located at the base of the sofa. They have a telescopic design, because one part extends from another. The third element, when folded, is located inside the backrest.

Mechanism for transforming sofas “telescope”

This sofa opens up quite simply. The base on which the seat is located should be pulled out. You have to pull it towards yourself until it stops. As a result, all three elements of the layout mechanism should come out of the sofa. Now all that remains is to place the upper part of the seat in the formed niche. To do this, you need to rotate it along a circular axis. After all these steps, the sofa with the “Telescope” layout mechanism will be unfolded.

Differences between the model and others

Such sofas are distinguished by their large size when unfolded. Thanks to the ergonomic design, they increase several times. For this reason, a product with a roll-out mechanism will be an excellent replacement for a bed.

Location of the linen drawer in the “telescope” sofa

One of the disadvantages of such sofas is the fact that when extended, the sleeping area is close to the ground. Plus, the design most often does not provide space for storing bed linen.

Telescope sofa unfolded

Project preparation

The sofa-book diagram includes drawings of each part separately and general dimensions of the product .

Seat – consists of 2 parts: a box for linen and a frame. Slats are attached to the frame. You can also use a plywood sheet as a base, but lamellas are a more convenient and practical option. Even if the box is of medium size, it is reinforced with crossbars - their thickness and the distance between the slats are indicated in the drawing.
The back is a flat frame and slats. The upper structure is strengthened in the same way as the lower one, since when laid out it acts as a sleeping bed. The frequency of installation of lamellas is the same.
If homemade furniture has armrests , a template is shown on the drawing indicating the dimensions.

When drawing up a diagram, it is recommended to immediately indicate the location of the attachment mechanism for the layout. Based on the finished drawing, it is easy to calculate the amount of fasteners needed: this can also be immediately indicated on the sketch.

You can use ready-made drawings on relevant websites and forums. But at the same time it is necessary to strictly observe the specified dimensions and proportions.

Sofa "Lit"

The sofa with the Lit folding mechanism is distinguished by its convenience. When opened, it takes up slightly more space than when closed. Plus, it’s quite easy to transfer it to another state.

Sofa system “Lit”

Sofa opening

The entire movable Lit mechanism is connected to the armrests of the sofa. They move in a circle. In addition to vertical and horizontal positions, the armrests can be fixed at any intermediate angles. This way you can choose the most comfortable position for lying.

Transformation mechanism for the sofa “Lit”

When opened, the armrests become an extension of the sofa, increasing the seating space. The mechanism is extremely simple, yet convenient.

Distinctive features

Thanks to the “Lit” transformation mechanism, such a sofa very easily turns into a single bed. At the same time, it takes up almost no additional space. The price of such a product can also be considered a positive feature. After all, she is quite low. However, the Lit design does not provide space for a bed box.

The sofa lit easily converts into a single bed

Above were presented the most popular mechanisms for transforming sofas. And along with them their description, distinctive features, advantages and disadvantages. It is impossible to single out a clear favorite among the disclosure mechanisms, because each of them is good in its own way. For this reason, the choice of sofa should be based primarily on the budget, room size and personal preferences of the home owners.

Drawings and diagrams

In order to begin directly creating furniture, you need a detailed drawing of a Eurobook sofa, which is drawn according to individual preferences; you can take the finished project as a basis.

The main thing is that the drawing includes the size of the finished product with overall dimensions, with the dimensions of each component part. In addition, it is necessary to indicate the location of the hinges so that during the manufacture of the back and seat, reinforcing bars are placed in the right place for reliable fastening, the exact dimensions of the height of the box with legs, and the location of the parts. This model has 4 main legs on the frame and 2 on the retractable seat.

If the contractor is familiar with carpentry and has an understanding of the process of creating a sofa, you can rely on previously acquired knowledge and adjust the details in the process. It is better for a beginner to spend more time creating a diagram and drawing, carefully calculating all the parameters at this stage.

Types and classifications of sofas

Under one general name “sofa” are hidden a variety of types of this furniture. And corner ones, and books, and even round ones. To understand which sofa is suitable for an apartment, it is worth understanding the classification of this type of furniture. First of all, let's look at sofas by the type of how they fold out (or transform), that is, by the type of folding structure.

Sofas come in different types of transformation

Table. Types of mechanisms.

There are also book sofas, which are one of the most popular models. But they will be discussed below in a separate chapter.

Also, sofas can be divided into several types according to the type of design.

Straight - a sofa with a flat seat and a flat back. Can be folded out. It is this type that book sofas belong to.
Chair-bed . Compact and take up very little space when folded. Designed for one person's sleep.