Camp Twin Bed Frame

Build the headboard and footboard panels, two screws per joint. Tip: once each panel is done, paint or stain it — and the 2x6 side rails — before moving anything into the room for final assembly. Reaching separate panels with a brush beats cutting in around an assembled bed.

Attach the 2x4 cleats to the footboard and headboard with three screws per joint. These carry the side rails, so don't skimp on the screws.

Add the 2x6 side rails to the outside of the 2x4 cleats, driving 2-1/2" screws from the inside. This is the knockdown joint — the rails lift off the cleats if you ever need to move the bed.

Lay the 1x4 slats in the frame about 4" apart and screw them down with 2" screws. Or skip the slats and drop in a bunkie board or box spring instead.