A low altitude, traditional futon frame has two significant differences over a traditional low-altitude western bed frame. More support is required, since a futon mattress lacks the rigid internal structure that allows western mattresses to hang from a set of rails. At the same time, you should not set up a futon mattress on a solid panel. Without a box spring under it, a futon needs airflow if you want to prevent mold formation. This is why futon frames use a series of slats on the rails to accommodate both of those needs.
Great Deal Furniture | Baron | Mid Century Queen Platform Bed Frame | in Navy Blue
Instructions
1 Sand all the pieces of your wood until it feels soft to the touch.
2 Clear out surface of approximately 7 feet by 5 feet in the room where you want your bed. It will be easier to build instead to build your futon in the garage and move the completed frame.
3 Place two beams at their edges 2 inches, parallel and with their outer edges 50 inches apart. Adjust the third of the poles on the edge, centered between the two outer beams.
4 Establish a furring strip on the three beams, perpendicular to them. The outer edge of the strip must run along the ends of the beam. Each end of the strip should extend beyond its beam edge by 2 inches.
5 Screw the furring strip into place with one screw per beam. Adjust the screws in the middle lines of the two pieces of wood being crossed. Sink the screw so that its head is flush with the surface of the furring strip. With soft pine, you should be able to do this without drilling countersunk holes.
6 Place a second strip strip down parallel to, and one inch away from the first. You can use the narrow edge of a third strip to help you with the spacing. Screw in place as you did the first time.
7 Repeat step 6 to add additional batten strips until you have covered the entire top of the beams.
Tips and warnings
- These instructions are for a full size mattress or double futon. You can adjust the length of your wood to accommodate futons of different sizes. For double futon frames, you can set aside the center of the lane.
- Traditional futon frames are not painted. If you want to paint yours, do it between steps one and two.