Creating your own cedar wood bed frame is a rewarding project that combines functionality, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Cedar wood is a popular choice for furniture due to its natural resistance to decay, pleasant aroma, and rustic charm.
Building a bed frame from scratch allows you to customize the design to match your style while ensuring a sturdy and long-lasting piece of furniture. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a DIY enthusiast, this guide will walk you through the steps ofhow to make a cedar wood bed frame.
Why Cedar is a Great Choice
Cedar wood stands out as an excellent material for building a bed frame due to its unique set of qualities. One of its most notable attributes is its natural resistance to rot and decay, which ensures longevity and durability even in varying environmental conditions. Additionally, cedar has a natural aromatic scent that not only adds a pleasant fragrance to your room but is also known to repel insects like moths. Its lightweight characteristic makes it easier to work with compared to heavier hardwoods, while its rich, warm tones and fine grain provide a rustic yet elegant aesthetic. These qualities make cedar an ideal choice for both functionality and style in furniture building.
Why Choose Cedar for a Bed Frame
Cedar is an outstanding material choice for bed frames due to its unique combination of practicality and elegance. Its natural durability ensures that a cedar bed frame will withstand years of use without warping or deteriorating, even in fluctuating humidity levels. Additionally, cedar’s insect-repellent properties provide extra protection against pests, ensuring a more hygienic sleeping environment. The warm, earthy tones of cedar lend a timeless charm to any bedroom décor, making the bed frame a beautiful centerpiece. Its lightweight nature also makes it easier to assemble or move, offering convenience without compromising strength and stability. For those seeking a blend of functionality, style, and natural benefits, cedar stands out as a perfect choice for a lasting and appealing bed frame.
Tools and Materials Needed
To construct a cedar bed frame, you’ll require the following tools and materials:
Tools:
- Measuring tape
- Saw (hand saw or circular saw)
- Drill with assorted drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Clamps
- Sandpaper or electric sander
- Level
- Hammer
Materials:
- Cedar wood planks (cut to size for the frame)
- Screws or nails
- Wood glue
- Wood filler (optional, for minor imperfections)
- Wood stain or finish (optional, for added protection and aesthetic appeal)
Having these items on hand will ensure a smooth and efficient assembly process, helping you create a durable and attractive cedar bed frame.
10 Methods How to Make a Cedar Wood Bed Frame
1. Choose the Right Type and Grade of Cedar for Furniture
The first step to any successful project begins with material selection. Not all cedar is created equal. Western Red Cedar is often the best choice for indoor furniture, as it has a straight grain, relatively soft texture for easy working, and a beautiful reddish tone. Avoid construction-grade or knotty boards meant for exterior use; instead, choose furniture-grade cedar that’s kiln-dried for stability. Take time to inspect each board for cracks, knots, and warping—these imperfections may weaken your structure or complicate joinery later on. Investing in quality lumber at the start sets the tone for a durable, attractive frame.
2. Design Your Bed Frame Dimensions and Layout
With your wood selected, it’s time to draft a design. Whether you prefer a platform bed, slatted frame, or a structure with a box spring, measurements must be precise. Begin by measuring your mattress (twin, full, queen, or king) and adding extra room for ease of fit—typically one inch wider and longer. Plan for four main frame pieces: two side rails, a head rail, and a foot rail. Also account for support components like center beams or slats. A scaled drawing or 3D model can help you visualize proportions and refine your build plan before cutting any wood.
3. Cut and Label Each Frame Component
With plans in hand, start by cutting all cedar lumber to size using a miter saw or circular saw. Common dimensions include 1×8 or 2×6 boards for the rails, with 2x4s or 2x2s for supports and slats. Be sure to label each piece after cutting—marking head rail, side rail left, slat #1, etc.—to avoid confusion during assembly. Take care to sand cut edges immediately to prevent splinters and to remove any frayed fibers. If using thicker cedar boards, account for the natural taper that can occur and adjust measurements accordingly to maintain square corners and symmetry.
4. Create Pocket Holes or Mortise and Tenon Joints
Cedar is a softwood, but it responds well to most joinery methods. For a clean and beginner-friendly build, use a pocket hole jig to drill hidden screw holes on the inside of the frame rails. This method allows for strong, clean joints without visible hardware. For a more traditional and durable structure, you can chisel mortise and tenon joints into the ends of the side rails and head/foot rails. Dry-fit your joints before assembly to ensure alignment. Whichever method you choose, apply wood glue at the connections to reinforce the structure and reduce frame creaking over time.
5. Sand All Surfaces Thoroughly Before Assembly
Though cedar is relatively smooth compared to hardwoods, sanding is essential for both touch and finish. Begin with 80-grit sandpaper to remove rough areas, working up to 120- or 150-grit for a smooth surface ready to accept stain or sealer. Pay special attention to visible surfaces like the headboard and frame edges. If you’re building a frame with decorative cuts or routed edges, use a sanding block or sponge to reach grooves and contours. Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain to prevent scratches and blotchy finishing later.
6. Assemble the Outer Frame Securely
Once sanded, it’s time to put your frame together. Start by laying out the head and foot rails with the side rails on a flat surface. Use clamps to hold everything square as you insert screws or fit your joints. Reinforce each corner with angle brackets if desired, particularly if the bed will support heavy weight. For larger bed sizes (queen or king), be sure to install a center support beam running from the head to the foot to prevent sagging. Ensure all pieces are flush and square before tightening fasteners fully.
7. Add Slats or a Platform Base for Mattress Support
The interior mattress support system is just as important as the outer frame. For a slatted base, cut evenly spaced 1×3 or 1×4 cedar boards and screw them across the width of the bed, attaching them to cleats mounted along the inside of the side rails. Keep the spacing tight—about 2 to 3 inches apart—to ensure adequate mattress support and prevent sagging. Alternatively, you can use a sheet of plywood cut to fit for a platform base, especially if you’re using a memory foam mattress. Either method should be securely fastened and free of sharp edges or protrusions.
8. Install a Headboard and Optional Footboard
A headboard adds elegance and structure to your cedar bed frame. It can be as simple as a vertical plank panel or as ornate as a slatted or carved design. Attach the headboard using bolts and threaded inserts, allowing it to be removable if necessary. For added strength, consider attaching the headboard directly to wall studs or framing members behind it. A footboard is optional but can balance the look of the bed visually. Use the same mounting principles for a cohesive and solid build.
9. Apply Wood Conditioner and Protective Finish
Cedar’s natural beauty deserves to be preserved and highlighted. Start by applying a pre-stain wood conditioner to reduce blotching, which is common in softwoods like cedar. Once the conditioner sets, apply a wood stain if desired, using a brush or cloth. Let it penetrate for several minutes before wiping away excess. Finally, seal the wood with a protective topcoat such as polyurethane, tung oil, or water-based varnish. Choose a matte, satin, or glossy finish depending on the look you prefer. Be sure to coat all surfaces, including slats, to protect the bed from humidity and wear.
10. Test for Stability and Final Touches
Once everything is assembled and finished, test the bed frame’s stability. Press on the corners, sit on the edge, and check for creaks or movement. Tighten any screws or bolts as needed. Add felt pads to the bottom of the legs to protect floors and reduce noise. If the frame will support a box spring, ensure it fits snugly and is well-supported. For finishing touches, consider adding decorative accents like routed edges, inset panels, or cedar plugs to hide screws. Your handmade cedar bed frame is now complete—durable, beautiful, and built to last for years.
Conclusion
Creating a cedar wood bed frame combines the practicality of solid construction with the artistry of woodworking. Cedar’s beauty, scent, and durability make it a joy to work with and an ideal material for a cozy and rustic bedroom centerpiece. With careful planning, quality materials, and patient craftsmanship, these ten methods provide a comprehensive roadmap to build a bed frame that’s not only functional but deeply personal. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to make a cedar wood bed frame!
