Expert: Kirk Ryan - 3/2/2009

Question
Dear Kirk,
I got a great deal on a sleigh bed.  But, it is missing the bed frame and side boards.  What do you recommend that I do to ensure that I can put the bed together safely.  I have researched bed frames that I can attach the head and foot board to.  Do I need to have sideboards?

Answer
We have a simple sleigh bed here at my store that is just made of a headboard, a foot board, and 2 sides. But it does have a middle cross support piece that connects to the head, foot, and sides. Then the slats go on top of that. I have seen beds where the middle piece only connects the head and foot, but I especially like the design and strength of this one in particular. So I would recommend copying it.

The middle support beam should be cut to the right measurement. Then I would add simple support legs onto it that you can connect through the middle support beam.

The bolts that you use to connect the headboard to your sides should be decent in length and I recommend fit bushings for them to connect to for the best support.

You will notice that sometimes the middle legs(middle beam legs) are just barely touching the floor as cut. This is to adapt to the pressure that when someone is laying in the bed, the legs are allowed a little room.

Hope this helps.