Easiest Dog Bed Ever

Hannah and I wanted to share with you, a very simple wooden dog bed frame that you can make with just pocket screws and a couple of common tools. This will show that you can bring your child into your shop and show them just how easy it is to make a project, or better yet, allow them to make the project so they can take pride in it just as much as you take pride in them for building it. After you read through this instructable, I urge you to watch the video! Great stuff! Hannah is so proud!

Step 1: Prep Time

Start by cutting up your stock to the proper dimensions. You can get all the sides and cleats from the planks and the bed posts will come from the cedar post.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 2: Making the Posts and Post Toppers

Take the pieces you cut for all the posts to the table saw and cut them down to 3" square and to whatever dimensions you like. However, if you want you can download my plans below. Also, cut 4 post toppers from the 4x4 cedar post that you will need to shape later.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 3: Ease the Edges

Take the posts and post toppers to the router and ease the edges over using a 1/8" or 1/4" round over bit. A chamfer bit works quite well too.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 4: Sanding Time

Before you begin assembling I always recommend that you sand the surfaces to make for an easy finish later. Use a random orbit or finish sander to smooth everything up.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 5: Pocket Time

Go to the Pocket screw jig to make all the pockets for the headboard, footboard and the two sides. The top of the headboard will have pockets on the backside so it cannot be seen. Remember to put all the other holes facing the inside of the bed b/c the dog pillow will hide all the holes later.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 6: The Cleats

Attache the cleats using glue and finish nails. Make sure that it is flush with the bottom of the sides and does not exceed the ends, as that would prevent a good joint later.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 7: Assembly

Next assemble the bed using 1 1/2" screws making sure to backset the sides 3/8" from the outside face of the posts. Also raise them 1/4" from the base.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 8: The Bottom

Be sure and add the bottom before the post tops to allow for clearance. Notch the corners to allow clearance around the posts.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 9: Add the Toppers

Using glue and finish nails (if you prefer), attach the toppers making sure that they overhang the same all the way around.

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Plans/p/79014978/category=11853403

Step 10: Add the Pillow and It's Done!!!

Next just add the pillow (30x40 in this case) and it is done. You can make this for whatever size pillow you have but ours just needs more room for multiple dogs. You can make separate ones for each dog, plus add their name to the headboard for an added custom touch.

I hope you enjoyed this instructable. Be sure and share it around and keep on making dust! Also, don't forget........1.......2.......3......BOOM!!!

Download my plans here: http://www.rhwoodshop.com/store/#!/DIY-Dog-Bed-Pl...