Use your browser's Print (Ctrl/Cmd + P) and choose Save as PDF. This page works offline once you've opened it with a signal.

2x4 Captain's Bed with Flip-Down Storage

A low platform bed with two hinged flip-down panels on the side, opening into storage bins underneath — built almost entirely from 2x4s.

Cut list

Part	Qty	T × W × L	Material	✓
Frame top and bottom rails	4	1 1/2" × 3 1/2" × 70 1/2"	2x4	☐
Frame verticals	6	1 1/2" × 3 1/2" × 11 1/2"	2x4	☐
Headboard/footboard panels	2	3/4" × 14 1/2" × 36"	3/4" plywood	☐
Flip-down drawer faces Add two more if the bed will be exposed and open on both sides.	2	3/4" × 11 1/4" × 32 3/4"	1x12	☐
Mattress slat trim	2	3/4" × 1 1/2" × 72 1/2"	1x2	☐
End slat trim	2	3/4" × 3 1/2" × 33 1/2"	1x4	☐
Mattress slats Space about 4" apart; adjust count to your mattress maker's recommendation.	8	3/4" × 3 1/2" × 33 1/2"	1x3 or 1x4 scrap	☐

Item	Qty	✓
2x4 board, 8 ft (Pine) Pine is easier to work with and paint than fir.	4 each	☐
3/4" plywood, 14-1/2" x 36" (or 3 - 1x8 @ 72") Headboard and footboard panels.	2 each	☐
1x2 board, 8 ft (Pine)	2 each	☐
1x4 board, 6 ft (Pine)	1 each	☐
1x12 board, 6 ft (Pine) Drawer/flip-down faces.	2 each	☐
1x material or 3/4" plywood, for mattress slats	20 sq ft	☐
Hinges for flip-down panels	2 set	☐
Self-tapping wood screws, 2-1/2" to 3"	60 each	☐
Self-tapping wood screws, 2"	30 each	☐
Wood glue	4 oz	☐

Overall cost: $$. Lumber varies by region, species, and season, so we give a band rather than a figure.