ADVANCED

MURPHY BED

40 hours

PROJECT OVERVIEW

A wall-mounted Murphy bed with surrounding cabinets. This complex project combines furniture-making with mechanical hardware installation.

MATERIALS

▪Cabinet-grade plywood: 3/4" (6 sheets)
▪Hardwood for face frames: 1x2, 100 feet
▪Murphy bed hardware kit
▪Piano hinges
▪Gas springs or counterbalance system
▪Wood glue and screws
▪Finish

TOOLS REQUIRED

▪Table saw
▪Router
▪Drill press
▪Level
▪Stud finder
▪Many clamps

CUT LIST

PIECE	QUANTITY	DIMENSIONS
Bed frame sides	2	3/4" ply 14" x 84"
Bed frame head/foot	2	3/4" ply 14" x 56"
Cabinet sides	4	3/4" ply 14" x 84"
Cabinet shelves	12	3/4" ply 12" x 24"
Platform	1	3/4" ply 54" x 75"

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Build bed frame box to hold mattress.

Attach platform to frame for mattress support.

Build side cabinets with adjustable shelves.

Install Murphy bed hardware according to manufacturer's instructions.

Mount bed frame to hardware.

Secure entire unit to wall studs.

Install counterbalance system.

Build face frames for cabinets.

Add doors and shelves to side cabinets.

Test bed operation—should lift and lower smoothly.

Apply finish to all components.

EXPERT TIPS

✓This project requires secure mounting to wall studs—don't skip this step.
✓Purchase quality Murphy bed hardware—cheap kits are dangerous.
✓Test the balance carefully before finishing.
✓Add straps or latches to keep bedding in place when bed is raised.
✓Consider adding LED lighting under the bed when raised.

FINISHING

Use a durable finish that can withstand daily operation. Pre-catalyzed lacquer or conversion varnish are excellent choices. Apply finish before final assembly for best results. Consider a contrasting color for the bed platform that will be visible when raised.