A full-size bed frame is about the same width as the length of a standard crib mattress. This makes a standard full bed frame with a headboard and foot ideal for converting into a crib. It is a fairly simple project, which requires only limited tools and knowledge of carpentry.
Zinus OLB-GB-S Folding Foam Guest Bed Frame with Wheels, Single, Twin, Brown
Instructions
Shortening the frame of the bed
1 Use a miter saw to cut the side rails of the bed to a length of 28 inches.
2 Align the rails so that the bottom of the rail is flush with the bottom of the floor plate and the header cross members and 1 inch inward from its original position. Screw the rails to the head and foot using the long screws.
3 Reinforce corners with metal supports L.
Framing the cradle
4 Measure the height of the top of the rail to the top of the footboard. Subtract the height of the wooden railing.
5 Using a table saw, cut two pieces of 28-inch plywood by the measurement you calculated in Step 1.
6 Use L small metal brackets spaced every 8 to 10 inches around the three joints.
7 Cut two pieces of wooden railing 28 inches long. Apply wood glue to the bottom of the hand rail and place on top of the side walls of plywood. Secure in place with long screws from the threaded ends, through the head and foot.
8 Cut a piece of plywood that is 28 inches by 52 inches. Place this piece on the underside of the crib and secure it in place by screwing down on the rails and using L-brackets along the headboard and foot.
Completion of the cradle
9 sand all the frame. Soften the rough edges and remove any old finish from the bed structure.
10 Clean the entire clean frame with an antistatic cloth to remove any remaining sanding dust.
11 First all the cradle. Once dry, apply two coats of paint. Seal with a polyurethane layer if desired.
12 Place a crib mattress in the finished crib and dress as if it were a store-bought crib.
Tips and warnings
- For ornamental beaded frames that you do not want to retouch, apply paint or other finishing to new parts before attaching them to the bed frame.
- Sand all edges cut well to avoid splinters.
- When using a saw and other power tools, always wear safety glasses.