Ana White Queen Platform Bed With Storage

Building the Ana White Queen Platform Bed with Storage: A Detailed Guide

The Ana White Queen Platform Bed with Storage is a popular DIY project for its ease of construction and stylish design. This bed features a sturdy platform frame with integrated storage drawers that can be customized to suit your needs. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step instructions and tips for building this versatile piece of furniture.

Materials and Tools

Before starting your project, gather all the necessary materials and tools. The exact materials will vary depending on your chosen wood type and design. The following list provides a general overview:

Lumber (2x4s, 2x6s, plywood, optional: headboard and footboard material)
Wood screws (various lengths)
Wood glue
Pocket hole screws and jig
Drawer slides
Drawer fronts and boxes (pre-made or DIY)
Sandpaper (various grits)
Wood stain or paint (optional)
Clear coat sealant (optional)
Measuring tape
Level
Circular saw or miter saw
Drill
Screwdriver
Clamps
Safety glasses
Dust mask

You can find the detailed Ana White plans and cut lists on her website or various woodworking blogs. Make sure to review the plans carefully before starting your project.

Constructing the Platform Frame

The platform frame is the foundation of the bed. It is built using 2x4s and plywood for strength and stability. The process involves cutting the lumber to the correct dimensions and assembling the frame with screws and wood glue. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Cut the lumber according to Ana White's plans.
Drill pocket holes on the ends of the side rails and headboard/footboard supports.
Assemble the frame using pocket hole screws and wood glue.
Secure the plywood platform to the frame with screws.
Ensure the frame is square and level before moving on.

Adding Storage Drawers

The storage drawers are a key feature of this bed. They provide ample space for storing blankets, linens, or other items. You can choose from pre-made drawer boxes or build them yourself.

Measure and cut the drawer fronts and boxes to size.
Attach the drawer slides to the platform frame and drawer boxes.
Attach the drawer fronts to the boxes.
Test the drawers for smooth operation and make any necessary adjustments.

You can customize the number and size of the drawers according to your storage needs. For example, you can add a larger drawer for bulky items or multiple smaller drawers for smaller items.

Finishing the Bed

Once the construction is complete, you can finish the bed to your liking. This includes sanding, staining or painting, and applying a clear coat.

Sand the entire bed frame and drawers with various grits of sandpaper to achieve a smooth finish.
Apply a wood stain or paint to your desired color.
Apply a clear coat sealant to protect the finish and enhance durability.

The finishing process can be customized according to your preferences. You can choose to leave the bed with a natural wood finish or add a splash of color with paint.