How To Make A Murphy Bed Cabinet

How to Make a Murphy Bed Cabinet

A Murphy bed, also known as a wall bed, is a space-saving solution for small apartments and homes. When not in use, the bed folds away into a cabinet, freeing up floor space during the day. Building a Murphy bed cabinet requires carpentry skills, woodworking tools, and careful planning. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to construct a Murphy bed cabinet.

1. Planning and Design

Before starting the construction, carefully plan the design of your Murphy bed cabinet. This includes determining the bed size, cabinet dimensions, and desired features. Consider the following factors:

Bed Size: The size of the bed should fit comfortably in your space, with enough clearance for movement and operation.
Cabinet Dimensions: Measure the space where the cabinet will be installed to determine the width, depth, and height of the cabinet. Remember to factor in the thickness of the cabinet walls and the space needed for the bed mechanism.
Features: Decide on the desired features of your cabinet, such as shelves, drawers, or a headboard. These will impact the cabinet design and construction.
Materials: Choose durable and high-quality materials for the cabinet construction, such as plywood, particleboard, or solid wood. Consider the weight and durability of the materials, especially when selecting the bed frame and support mechanisms.

Once the design is finalized, create detailed drawings or sketches to guide the construction process. This will ensure that all components are properly sized and fit together correctly.

2. Construction

The construction of a Murphy bed cabinet involves building the frame, adding shelves and drawers, and integrating the bed mechanism. The exact steps may vary depending on the specific design, but the general process remains the same:

Build the Cabinet Frame: Construct the cabinet frame using plywood or another chosen material. Cut the pieces to size according to the design and assemble them using wood glue and screws. Ensure the frame is sturdy enough to support the weight of the bed.
Add Shelves and Drawers: After the frame is assembled, install shelves and drawers to create storage space within the cabinet. Measure and cut the shelf and drawer components carefully, and use appropriate hardware for secure attachment.
Incorporate the Bed Mechanism: Install the bed mechanism, which includes the supporting frame, hinges, and lifting system. Choose a mechanism that suits the weight of the bed and the size of the cabinet. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when installing the mechanism.
Attach Bed Frame: Securely attach the bed frame to the cabinet frame using sturdy hinges. Ensure the connection is strong enough to support the weight of the mattress and bedding.
Finish the Cabinet: Once the cabinet is assembled, prepare the surface by sanding it smooth and cleaning any debris. Apply a primer and then paint or stain the cabinet according to your preferences.

3. Installation and Operation

Once the Murphy bed cabinet is complete, carefully install it in its designated space. This may require mounting it to the wall for added support. The next step is to familiarize yourself with the operation of the bed mechanism. Different mechanisms may have slightly different procedures, but the general process involves:

Folding the bed away: To fold the bed away, lift the bed frame and secure it in the upright position using the provided mechanism. This may involve locking the bed frame or collapsing it against the wall.
Unfolding the bed: To unfold the bed, release the locking mechanism and gently lower the bed frame. Ensure the bed is properly aligned before using it.

Regularly check the bed mechanism for any wear or tear and tighten any loose screws or brackets. This will ensure the smooth operation of the Murphy bed cabinet over time.