Futons are an ideal solution for compact living spaces. They serve as both a seating area and a bed. There's no need to purchase a pricey futon from the store. Follow the instructions below to learn how to make your own futon frame.
Required Materials:
- Twenty 1-by-3-inch wooden planks
- Two 2-by-4-inch wooden beams
- Two pieces of narrow canvas fabric
- Stapler gun
- Measuring tape
Follow these steps:
- Measure your space First, determine where you want to place the futon. Measure the length and width of the available space to ensure it fits.
- Head to the hardware store Armed with your measurements, visit the hardware store. You’ll need to choose the type of lumber you’ll use. Options include pine, oak, poplar, and maple. It’s recommended to select treated and sanded wood [source: Tucson Futon].
- Build the frame Place the two beams parallel to each other, 2 ½ feet (76 centimeters) apart. Position a piece of wood parallel to the beams, aligning it with the upper left corner. Add another piece about 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) away from the first. The spacing between the pieces should match the width of your mattress. Repeat this pattern until you have five rows, each containing four pieces of wood that span the width of the beams.
- Secure the canvas strips Using a staple gun, attach the canvas strips perpendicular to the beams, filling the spaces between the wood rows. The frame is now complete, providing a back and seat support that can be adjusted up and down [source: Futon Magazine].
