How to Build a Plank-Style Bed A plank bed usually refers to a low-sitting platform bed that sits between 6 inches

and 16 inches from the floor. Common in Japanese homes, these beds offer a very peaceful and simple look, giving your room a little exotic twist. Also, as there are no legs to stand the bed up with, these beds are a little more affordable to build and easier to build. Determine the size of your finished bed, which will be anywhere from 42 inches to 75 inches wide and 78 to 87 inches long, depending on the size of your mattress. Account for a 1/2-inch lip around the mattress to keep it from sliding. Saw 2-by-10-inch lumber into 2 side rails measuring your desired bed length and 2 end rails that measure your desired width, less 3 inches. Cut 2-by-2-inch lumber into 2 slat supports that measure the length of the bed, minus 3 inches. Divide 2-by-4-inch lumber into at least 6 slats that measure the total width of the bed, less 3 inches, the same measurement as the end rails. Cut down a piece of 2-by-6-inch lumber into one central support beam that measures the length of the slat supports, the length of the bed minus 3 inches. Trim 1/2-inch plywood into panels that will lay across the slats and provide a platform for the mattress. Begin assembling the bed frame by butting the end rails perpendicular to the side rails, flush with the head and foot edges, forming an even rectangle. Secure each joint with Wood glue and six 3-inch countersunk screws placed through the outside of the side rail and through the end of the end rail. Ensure that the top and bottom of the frame is even. Measure down 4 inches into the inside of the frame and secure the slat supports with wood glue, clamping them in place until the glue sets. Place one 3-inch countersunk screw every 3 inches along the length of the rail, from the inside of the frame. Turn the frame over. Lay the slats across the slat supports and nail them in place using 3-inch nails on both sides of each slat. Position the plywood atop the slats and secure it with 1 1/2-inch nails along the length of the slats. Turn the frame back over. Place the central support beam into the frame, flush with the bottom of the slats, and secure it to the bed using three 3-inch countersunk screws placed from the outside. Turn the bed frame back over. Youll Need: Measuring tape Saw

2-by-10-inch lumber 2-by-2-inch lumber 2-by-4-inch lumber 2-by-6-inch lumber 1/2-inch plywood Wood glue 3-inch countersunk screws 3-inch nails 1 1/2-inch nails