How to Build a Log Bed Frame

Log furniture is a stylish alternative to the normal furniture you find at every department store and none more beautiful or stylish than a log bed frame. If you want to create a rustic bedroom that is more like a cabin getaway than just a place you sleep then get a log bed frame. A log bed frame is not a cheap piece of furniture to purchase but you can create your own easily with some tools and logs.

Step 1 - Wood Selection

You need large and small logs that are nearly the same exact size. The large pieces need to be at most 6 inches in diameter but no less than 4 inches. Small logs need to be around 2 inches in diameter. You also need wood that is dried out or else you will need to dry it out before it can be used as it'll crack.

Step 2 - Preparation

The wood needs to be dry in order to be made into a log bed frame which can be achieved by using a kiln. Use the drawknife to remove the bark from the log. Brace the piece you are working with and pull the drawknife toward you. Use even pressure and the bark will be peeled. You can peel the log entirely or you can keep bark on the ends to create a really rustic look.

When you peel logs you may notice what people call "planer's glaze". The pores of the wood close when they're cut. For indoor furniture this is not a problem but it will prevent staining the wood. Avoid this by sanding the log.

Create tenon and mortise joints by drilling a hole through the middle of the log. You then rotate the log around saw to remove the edges. Use a chucking machine to make the logs uniform. Use a drill that allows you to use it as an angle to create the mortises.

Step 3 – Rails

Cut the 4-inch logs to the length of the bed plus 2 1/2 inches on each side. You'll want 4 for the length of the frame and 4 for the width. Take the length minus 5 inches and divide it by 3. Make marks at these areas then bore 1/2-inch holes. Place glue inside the holes and insert the spindles. When you're done you'll have 2 4-inch diameter rails with 3 spindles per side.

Step 4 – Build the Bed

Determine where you want the rails to be positioned and bore two 4-inch diameter holes each 2 1/2-inch deep into the posts. Place glue inside the holes and insert the rails.  Connect the rails to the posts by boring holes into the posts. You can create decorative patterns at the head and foot of the bed with the spindles. Hold the bed together further by using cables and eyes hooks. Drill pilot holes on the posts where the rails intersect then add wood screws to make the frame sturdier.