How to Build a Storage Bed with Built In Drawers

Hey friends, let's build a bed with storage drawers built into the side rails!

I've built several beds in the past, but this one is definitely top of the list as my favorite. Storage drawers on the side provide space for blankets, pajamas, and clothes. And subtle trim details add dimension to this classic design.

I hope you enjoy watching it come together as much as I enjoyed building it!

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**Helpful resources for this build:**

Tools & Materials:
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Tools:

Clamps
Table Saw (optional)

Materials:

(2) 4’x8′ sheets ¾″ plywood
(1) 4’x4′ (½ sheet) ¼″ plywood
(2) 1x2x8 boards
(7) 1x3x8 boards
1×4 boards (quantity depends on bed size–refer to plans)
2x2x8 boards (quantity depends on bed size–refer to plans)
2x4x8 boards (quantity depends on bed size–refer to plans)
1 ¼” & 2 ½” wood screws

**Chapters**
00:00 Introduction
00:19 Anatomy of a bed frame
00:57 Assembling the side rails
05:00 Adding the drawer framing
06:26 Installing the drawers
09:51 Assembling the headboard and footboard
12:34 Adding trim details
15:00 Installing Bed Rail Brackets
17:25 Adding bed slats
18:24 Finishing and final assembly
19:06 Final Reveal--Conclusion

[JayBergCustoms]

You have to best affordable/approachable beginner+ style videos on YouTube as far as I'm concerned. Really cool bed!

[scottkramer]

I built one very similar to this almost 20 years ago for my son. It's still in his room and he sleeps there when he comes home. He'll have it forever and will be able to pass it down to his children

[keithfaulkner]

I just have to love your giant workbench.
Everybody builds these tiny 2-foot-wide benches that just aren't big enough to do anything with.

[aytviewer]

I made a farmhouse style bed (queen) about 10 years ago and it turned out so well one of our daughters "stole" it. I wanted to put drawers in it, but alas my experience with drawers has often been a struggle. You make it look so simple and yes, I have watched your drawer video a while back and eventually I will try again using your guidance. As always, awesome creation. Thanks!

[markgilles-ihgo]

Your creative idea to add those spacers on the foot board, absolutely marvelous! The weather oak stain makes this bed look warm and cozy!

[EmorettaRobinson]

This turned out beautifully. I like how you described each step of the process. And I like how chill your cat and dog are.

[MrAlbrimm]

I love watching your videos. I also love the fact that you show your mistakes. I think it is important that everyone knows that mistakes are part of the process. You have inspired me to make many projects. Thank you for your great videos.

[timothycreasy]

I have always wanted to build a bed frame with the built in drawers. That would nice in a smaller bed room.
And just to let you know, jig saws, you are not the only one that struggles with them.
It looks really good Ms. Shara

[jongolsteyn]

Excellent job, it looks great. I built my own king size bed a long time ago with doors and drawers all around it. It was a fun project. Nothing gives you more satisfaction than creating something in your mind, then building it and it turns out great. Keep building.

[rissavan]

I have been considering building a bed for our guest room and this was the inspiration I needed. Thank you!

[davidguinta]

Great job Shara, you always make these projects you!

[cecilevanderspek]

Hi Shara, I built a single bed with drawers. The drawers I cut were about 760mm length and 400mm wide and a depth of 200mm. I used 3/4 inch plywood. What I found is the drawers are very heavy. Got 3/8 inch plywood, removed the 3/4" bottom, cut dado and installed the 3/8 plywood. What a difference in weight. Looking to reduce weight further by using 1/2 plywood. Also using the Kreg pocket hole. Regards.

[pteddie]

This bed is beautiful, Shara. The oak is striking. I agree with you. The extra trim pieces add a nice little bit of pazazz. Thanks for the video.

[EricBaker-hw]

Ha! We have an orange tabby cat named Bubba! Great video! I’ve been thinking of building one of these for a while now. This has inspired me. Thanks!

[kimlee]

I built my daughter a king size bed and wish I had seen thi video before I had started. Thank you for all the info. Beautiful bed.

[stevedockery]

Great looking bed frame. Love the storage idea. Great job Shara. Have a great weekend. Steve

[SxmTech]

I always said it Shara makes these builds looks so easy, another banger 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉

[godessamongwomen]

I have an epic head and footboards that I waited years to find. Now I can convert it into a storage bed. Dreams really do come true!

[MaryseRacine]

We did one with 4 drawers: 2 in the front and 1 on each middle sides to make sure we can have night tables. I love it so much!

[abad_gtr]

always killin' it Shara! you're the queen of hand-holding pocket hole joints while screwing them in and not having them walk....i don't know how you do that lol. i use clamps when screwing and they still walk on me a bit.