Building a Trundle Bed Frame

If you need extra sleeping arrangements for overnight guests, a trundle bed frame is a great way of creating a bed that can be conveniently slid underneath a larger bed when not in use. Trundle beds are great for children or smaller adults and are a great DIY project. This simple how-to guide will show you how to construct your trundle bed frame with a few simple hand tools and a few hours of your time. Let's get started.

Step 1 - Measure the Mattress

Before you begin building the trundle bed frame, measure the length and width of the mattress you will use for the trundle bed. The size of the mattress that use will determine the measurements of the frame you will need to construct.

Step 2 - Measure and Cut Base

Measure and cut a piece of 3/4-inch plywood that is slightly longer and wider than the mattress by about 2 inches for each measurement.

(Tip - You should make the frame slightly larger than the mattress so that you can easily remove the mattress if you need to.)

Step 3 - Measure and Cut Frame Pieces

Measure and cut two pieces of 2x4 lumber that are the same length as the piece of 3/4 inch plywood that you cut for the base Then, measure and cut 2 more pieces of 2x4 lumber that are 3 inches shorter than the width of base piece of plywood. Note that the pieces need to be shorter because they will be the inside facing pieces for the frame. The width of the two other pieces of 2x4 lumber will make up the 3-inch difference.

Step 4 - Assemble Frame

Layout the pieces so that the two long pieces and two short pieces of 2x4 lumber form a rectangle. Ensure that the two shorter pieces of lumber are the inside facing bracing pieces for the frame. Use a brush or flat stick to apply wood glue to the ends of the short pieces of 2x4 lumber. Then, use 2 1/2-inch wood screws to secure the two long pieces of wood to the two shorter pieces. Insert the L-brackets in the corners of the frame and secure with the 1-inch wood screws. Make sure the frame is level by using the carpenter's square.

Step 5 - Attach Frame to Base

Place the piece on plywood on top of the frame and ensure the edges of the frame and base are flush and square. Then, insert 1 1/2-inch wood screws along the perimeter of the frame and base. Space the screws about 10 to 12 inches apart.

Step 6 - Paint or Finish Frame

Choose a color for your new trundle bed frame and paint.

Step 7 - Attach Casters or Wheels

Align the mounts for the casters or wheels on the corners of the base piece of plywood. Then, use 3/4-inch wood screws to attach the casters to the base.