A Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed, is a practical solution for maximizing space in your home. It can be folded up against the wall when not in use, making it ideal for small rooms or multipurpose spaces. Building your own Murphy bed may seem daunting, but with the right tools, materials, and instructions, it can be a rewarding DIY project.

This guide will walk you through the step by step process of how to make a murphy bed diy, helping you create a functional and stylish Murphy bed tailored to your needs.

The Benefits of a Murphy Bed

Murphy beds offer a range of benefits, especially for those looking to optimize their living space. One of the most significant advantages is their ability to save floor space, making them perfect for small apartments, guest rooms, or home offices. By folding up against the wall, they create a versatile area that can be used for other activities during the day.

Additionally, Murphy beds can be customized to match your home’s style, incorporating features such as shelving, cabinetry, or built-in lighting. They are also a practical choice for hosting guests, providing a comfortable sleeping option without permanently sacrificing valuable square footage. Overall, a Murphy bed is both a stylish and functional addition to any home.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin building your Murphy bed, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Here’s what you will need:

Tools:

• Power drill and bits – For creating holes and securing screws.
• Circular saw or table saw – To cut the wood to the required dimensions.
• Measuring tape – To take accurate measurements for precise cuts.
• Level – To ensure your bed frame and wall mount are properly aligned.
• Screwdriver – For assembling components and tightening screws.
• Clamps – To hold pieces of wood securely during cutting or gluing.
• Stud finder – To locate wall studs for secure mounting.
• Sandpaper or sander – To smooth wood edges and surfaces.
• Pencil and straight edge – For marking measurements on the wood.

Materials

• Murphy bed hardware kit – This includes essential components like hinges and springs for the folding mechanism.
• Plywood or MDF board – For constructing the bed frame and cabinet.
• Wood screws and bolts – To assemble and secure various elements.
• Wood glue – For extra joint strength during assembly.
• Paint or stain – To finish and personalize the appearance of your Murphy bed.
• Handles or pulls – For easy operation when folding and unfolding the bed.
• Mounting brackets – To securely attach the bed frame to the wall.

Having these tools and materials ready before starting will save time and ensure your DIY project progresses seamlessly. Make sure to double-check the requirements specific to your Murphy bed hardware kit, as additional tools or components may be necessary.

10 Steps How to Make a Murphy Bed Diy

Want to save space and add functionality to your room? A DIY Murphy bed is the perfect solution! This space-saving piece of furniture folds up against the wall when not in use, giving you more room for activities and daily use. While it might seem like a complex project, we’ve broken it down into simple, actionable steps. Follow this guide to create your own custom Murphy bed and transform your space.

1. Plan and Measure Your Space 

Before you begin, identify the area where your Murphy bed will go. Measure the available wall space and ceiling height to ensure there’s enough room for the bed to pivot open. Consider obstacles like baseboards, outlets, or nearby furniture.

Tip: Choose a wall that’s free from obstructions for a seamless installation. Pro tip—double-check your measurements before moving forward!

2. Choose the Right Murphy Bed Kit 

Murphy bed hardware kits are readily available online or at hardware stores. These kits include essential items like the lifting mechanism, pivot hinges, and detailed instructions.

Recommendation: Opt for a reputable brand that includes comprehensive guides. Kits typically come in sizes ranging from twin to king, so select one that matches your mattress preference.

3. Plan Your Frame and Cabinet Design 

Using the dimensions of your mattress and hardware kit, plan the structure of the bed frame and surrounding cabinet. Most DIYers use plywood or MDF for the frame and a wood veneer for a polished look. Your cabinet will house the bed when it’s folded up, so make sure it complements your room’s design.

Tip: Add shelves or storage compartments around the cabinet to optimize functionality.

4. Gather Your Materials and Tools 

Here’s what you’ll need:

Wood or plywood for the frame and cabinet 

Screws, nails, and wood glue 

A power drill, saw, level, and measuring tape 

Murphy bed hardware kit 

Sandpaper and paint/stain for finishing touches 

Having all your materials on hand before starting can save you several trips to the store.

5. Build the Bed Frame 

Start by cutting the wood pieces to match the dimensions outlined in your Murphy bed kit instructions. Assemble the bed frame based on the provided plans, securing it with screws and wood glue.

Pro Tip: Use a level to ensure your frame is even—it’ll save headaches during assembly.

6. Construct the Cabinet 

Next, build the outer cabinet that will house the Murphy bed. This cabinet acts as the mounting base for the bed frame and hardware. Assemble the side panels and top piece first, securing them tightly.

Tip: Add a back panel to the cabinet if you want a more polished look, but make sure it doesn’t block the bed’s functionality.

7. Install the Murphy Bed Hardware 

Follow the instructions in your hardware kit carefully to install the lifting mechanism and pivot hinges. This part is crucial for the bed’s functionality. Attach the mechanism to both the bed frame and the cabinet securely.

Reminder: Enlist a friend or family member to help out—this step requires precision and some heavy lifting.

8. Mount the Cabinet to the Wall 

Safety first! Use wall anchors or screws to firmly mount the cabinet to the studs in your wall. This ensures the Murphy bed stays in place and doesn’t topple over when in use.

Pro Tip: Use a power drill to secure the cabinet, and double-check that everything is tightly fastened.

9. Add Finishing Touches 

Smooth out any rough edges with sandpaper and paint or stain the wood to match your room’s style. Don’t forget to paint or stain in a well-ventilated area!

Idea: Add decorative hardware or molding to the exterior of the cabinet for a more custom, polished look.

10. Test and Enjoy Your Murphy Bed 

Once everything is assembled and secured, test the bed’s functionality. Open and close it a few times to ensure it moves smoothly and locks securely in place. Adjust the hardware if needed.

Now, step back and admire your handiwork! You’ve just created a functional and stylish piece of furniture that maximizes space in your home.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful planning and execution, you might encounter some hiccups during or after constructing your Murphy bed. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

• Bed doesn’t fold smoothly: Ensure that the lifting mechanism is properly aligned and securely attached. Check for any loose screws or bolts that might disrupt the movement. Lubricating the hinges can also help reduce friction.
• Cabinet feels unstable: Double-check that the cabinet is securely mounted to the wall studs using heavy-duty anchors or screws. If the cabinet still wobbles, reinforce it with additional brackets or cross-bracing.
• Bed frame isn’t level: Use a level to confirm the frame alignment. If it’s not balanced, adjust the screws or add shims to the supporting structure as needed.
• Hardware is difficult to install: Refer back to the manufacturer’s instructions in your hardware kit. If any parts seem faulty or missing, contact the customer service team of the manufacturer for replacement components.
• Squeaking noises during operation: Inspect all moving parts and connections to ensure they’re tightly secured. Applying a silicone-based lubricant to the hinges and joints can eliminate any squeaks.
• Bed doesn’t stay in place when folded or unfolded: The lifting mechanism might require recalibration. Check the tension springs or pistons and adjust them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

By addressing these common problems swiftly, you can ensure your Murphy bed remains functional, safe, and enjoyable for years to come.

Conclusion 

Building your own Murphy bed is a rewarding project that not only saves space but also adds style and functionality to your home. By following the steps outlined above and addressing any issues that arise, you can create a high-quality, custom piece of furniture that meets your specific needs.

Whether for a guest room, studio apartment, or multipurpose space, a Murphy bed offers a practical solution without sacrificing comfort or design. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to make a murphy bed diy!