How to Make a Twin Mattress Swing Bed

This swing bed is a great addition to any porch or outdoor space and is easy to make! I have very detailed plans available for this project on my website! The plans include exploded views, detailed cut lists, material lists, build techniques, and more! The plans are available by clicking here.

Step 1: Cutting the Side Pieces

I begin by cutting down some Cedar 4x4s to length at the miter saw.

Step 2: Install Dado Blades

I install a dado blade stack into my table saw.

Step 3: Setting the Blade Height

I set the height of the blades to half the thickness of the 4x4s.

Step 4: Marking the Cut Depth

I mark the depth of the cuts on the ends of the 4x4s, which is the total thickness of the adjacent 4x4.

Step 5: Cutting the Dados

I now begin making the dado cuts.

Step 6: Applying Glue

I apply some wood glue and spread evenly across all areas of the dado joint.

Step 7: Checking for Square

While the glue is still wet, I ensure the joint is square to a perfect 90-degree angle.

Step 8: Installing Wood Screws

I install some 3” wood screws into the joint to secure in place.

Step 9: Ripping Pine Material

I now rip down a 2x8 piece of Pine to be 3” wide.

Step 10: Cutting Pine Material to Length

I cut the pieces to length at the miter saw.

Step 11: Assembling the Platform Frame

I begin making the bottom platform out the Pine 3” pieces.

Step 12: Installing Bottom Screws

I install some screws through the bottom of the side assembly and into the ends of the side angled braces.

Step 13: Pre-Drilling for Top Screws

I drill pilot holes through the side pieces to allow full depth install of the screws.

Step 14: Installing Top Screws

I then secure the top ends of the angled brackets with wood screws.

Step 15: Applying Wood Glue

I liberally apply wood glue to the bottom runner of the side assembly.

Step 16: Pre-Drilling for Lag Bolts

I drill a pilot hole through the bottom runner of the side assembly.

Step 17: Installing Lag Bolts

I then install 3 lag bolts through the side assembly, into the edge piece of the bottom platform.

Step 18: Cutting Plywood to Size

I now rip down a piece of 1/2” plywood to size on my table saw.

Step 19: Installing the Plywood

I install the plywood piece to the bottom platform frame using wood screws.

Step 20: Installing the Back Support Pieces

I install the first rear support piece on the back of the assembly. Once the first piece is installed, I use a spacer block to work my way down the back of the swing and installing the backer pieces.

Step 21: Inserting Dowel Plugs & Sanding

I plug the visible pilot holes with a 3/8” dowel and wood glue. I then flush cut the dowel with the face of the rail. I give everything a thorough sanding, working my way through the grits.

Step 22: Staining

I stain the entire project using True Black exterior wood stain.

Step 23: Installing Eye Bolts

I drill pilot holes for the eye hooks and then install the eye hooks, washers, and nuts on the rails of the swing that will be used for hanging the swing in place. This project is now complete and ready to install!