How To Make A Twin Bed Into A Trundle: Step By Step Process To Convert A Twin Bed Into A Trundle

Step By Step Process To Convert A Regular Twin Bed Into A Trundle Bed

Trundles are one of the exceptional & easily stored beds that get adjusted in the space underneath a traditional bed or sofa. One of the best things about trundle beds is that it needs less space unlike air mattresses, stowaway beds, or cots, and as a result of it occupying less space, it allows the use of a standard mattress. Some of the trundle beds have fixed frames that are placed at a very low height. With the help of the right tools like a screwdriver, a saw, and other such tools, it is extremely easy to convert a regular twin bed into a trundle bed. This project will not take more than one hour to be assembled but you will need assistance from someone. If you work alone, then it will take a little extra time.

Step 1: Materials Preparation To Make A Trundle Bed

1. Calculate the space under the regular bed, height from the floor to the bed, and the width and length of the space beneath the bed. You also need to take measurements of the trundle bed frame, mattress, as well as bedding. For a normal twin mattress and frame, the measurement should be 9 inches high, 40 inches wide, and 78 inches long. If in case the regular bed is not having a normal height, then you can place risers under the feet.
2. Then calculate and mark the boards to the given lengths: two of the 2-by-6-inch boards need to be 75 inches long, the other two 2-by-6-inch boards need to be 39 inches long, the plywood for the base of the trundle bed frame need to be 39 inches by 76 1/2 inches. The additional 1 1/2 inches permits for the headboard and footboard. Make sure to wear protective eyewear. Trim the 2-by-6-inch boards to length with the help of a compound miter saw, circular saw or table saw. Trim the plywood backing with the help of a table saw or circular saw before getting rid of any large splinters.
3. Position a 2-by-6-inch board with its 6-inch side on the floor. With the help of a tape measure and a pencil, mark the location of the lag bolts. For instance, illustrate a light line in order to split the board from top to bottom as it lies on the floor. Carry on with this line around the end of the board, a little bit, so that it will be visible when viewed from another angle. Nearly 3/4 inch of the board needs to be above the line and at least 3/4 inch below it.
4. Mark the first hole through that line, 2 inches from the left edge of the board, and 2 inches from the right edge of the board. The markings need to be spaced nearly 2 inches apart and at least 2 inches from the left and right sides of the board, and in the center of the board's height as it is placed on the floor right now.
5. Pre-drill holes at the place of those markings, squeezing the drill as close to properly level as you can. Support the board up on something or tilt it on its side if in case you need more space to get the drill level. Repeat the same process with the other end of that board, as well as with both ends of the other 2-by-6-inch board. You need to have at least eight pre-drilled holes in the long 2-by-6-inch boards.
6. Pre-drill holes in the 2-by-6-inch head as well as footboard pieces in order to make sure that they align with the holes in the 2-by-6-inch sideboards. With the headboard piece placed upright as it will be when secured, the placement of the holes is just like this: 2 inches from the top & the base, and nearly 3/4 inch from the edge lined up with the pencil line that you made on the 2-by-6-inch board for the side of the trundle bed. Construct holes on both sides of the headboard as well as footboard.
7. Sand all of the boards lightly, with the help of the sander and sandpaper. Clean with the help of a moderately damp cloth.

Step 2: Assemble Trundle Bed

1. Move a washer onto a lag bolt before dropping the bolt into the hole in the 2-by-6-inch footboard piece. With the help of a socket wrench or socket adapter, carry the lag bolt on the drill through that board and into the equivalent hole in the 2-by-6-inch sideboard, however, do not tighten the bolt entirely. Repeat the process with another washer and bolt in the other hole and into the other hole in the 2-by-6-inch sideboard piece.
2. Again perform step one with the other side of the footboard, securing it to the sideboard. Now a U-shape will be made out of the two long 2-by-6-inch boards and one of the small 2-by-6-inch boards.
3. Secure the other small 2-by-6-inch board piece to the other ends of the 2-by-6-inch boards. This finishes the outer edges of the trundle bed frame. With the help of a carpenter's square, ensure that the frame is square and the corners are 90 degrees and strengthen all of the bolts.
4. Tilt the frame upside-down, and secure the plywood backing to the frame. Move 2-inch-long wood screws along the plywood backing and into the 2-by-6-inch boards. Position one screw every 6 inches for extreme durability. Insert the screws a bit into the plywood, in order to avoid scratching the floor or snagging on the carpet. Get rid of any splinters if needed.
5. Stain, paint or seal the wood as you want. Go through the manufacturer's directions for use and drying time.
6. Position the trundle bed frame bottom up on the floor. Secure the furniture sliders to the base of the trundle bed frame. Position one in each corner and at least one in the center of each edge of the bed.
7. Return the frame to its vertical position, and examine to make sure that the trundle bed slides lightly. If not, attach more sliders and return the frame to its vertical position once again.
8. Finally, position the mattress in the trundle bed frame, and then place the bedding on the mattress. Move the trundle beneath the regular bed.