DIY Project: How to Make Your Own Camping Bunk Beds.
DIY Project: How to Make Your Own Camping Bunk Beds
Camping trips are filled with unforgettable, raw experiences that put us in touch with nature. However, sleeping on the ground or regular camping beds can sometimes take away a bit of the fun due to discomfort. That is why having a set of DIY camping bunk beds could prove to be such a game changer. These bunk beds not only provide a comfortable sleep but also save a lot of space, especially if you have a larger family or group.
Before we go into the details, please be informed that the process requires some woodworking skills and a lot of patience. So, if you are new to woodworking projects, you could always seek help from someone experienced. With that out of the way, let’s get started on how to build your own camping bunk beds.
What you’ll need:
A DIY project wouldn’t be complete without gathering all the necessary tools and materials to start. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Wooden planks for frame
- Wood screws
- Drill
- Measuring Tape
- Canvas material for beds
- Staple gun for affixing the canvas material
Step 1: Frame Construction
The first step includes constructing the frame of your bed. The standard size for a bunk bed is approximately 75 by 33 inches (for the sleeping area). You can adjust these measures according to your preference and comfort.
Cut your wooden planks according to the measurements. For each bed, you will need four planks, two for length and two for width. After cutting the planks, drill the corners and screw the joints to make up the base frame of the beds. Make sure to keep the joints strong because the base needs to support weight.
Step 2: Making the Legs
The stability of your bunk bed largely depends on the legs. Based on your preferred height, cut four pieces of planks for the legs of the bottom bunk. If you want your bunk bed to be mobile, consider adding castor wheels to the legs.
Step 3: Assembling
Attach the four legs to each corner of the frame. Ensure that the legs are tightly screwed to the frame to hold the weight of the bed and the sleeper. Once you have successfully installed the legs to the bottom bunk, repeat the process to the top of the bottom bunk and attach the top bunk frame accordingly.
Step 4: Create the Beds
You will need sturdy, comfortable material to serve as the actual bed. Canvas material is usually a good choice because it is strong, durable, and provides a reasonable amount of comfort. Cut the canvas to the size of the frame with a few extra inches on all sides (these will be wrapped around the frame). Attach the material securely to the frame using a staple gun.
Step 5: Ladder Construction
If you’ve come this far, congratulations! You now have to build a ladder for climbing to the upper bed. You can easily build a basic ladder by attaching rungs (steps) to two longer pieces of wood. Remember to position the ladder at an angle which promotes easy climbing.
Step 6: Final Touches
With everything assembled, you may need to add some finishing touches. Sand down any rough spots to prevent splinters. You can also paint or varnish your bunk bed to make it weather-resistant and to match your décor style. Adding mattresses or foam pads on top of the canvas can make the bed more comfortable.
Building your own camping bunk beds may be an intimidating project at first glance, but if you break down the process, it becomes pretty manageable. Remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect. The primary purpose is to provide comfortable sleeping quarters while enjoying the great outdoors. With careful planning and a bit of hard work, your camping trips will become much more comfortable. Happy DIY-ing and camping!
