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How to build a storage bedhead

By Bunnings magazine /

A bed in a room with a window and a guitar next to the bed.

Overview

The lack of a bedhead can make a bed look unmoored, but we have a D.I.Y. project that can solve that problem. This box shelving unit is made from wallet-friendly plywood and doubles as a headboard and bedside table, while also offering convenient out-of-sight storage.

You’ll need the power-tool trifecta for this project: circular saw, jigsaw and drill. Once the seven pieces are cut, it’s a straightforward glue, screw and paint job.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Cut plywood with circular saw

    On the plywood, measure up 1100mm to cut a 1200mm-wide back panel with a circular saw. Measure across 1050mm and up 950mm to cut the front panel. From the 150mm-wide piece, cut a 950mm shelf and two 150mm shelf panels. From the remaining piece, cut two shelves 950mm by 150mm.
    Circular saw cutting through piece of plywood on benchtop
  2. 2

    Mark curves and cut

    On the back panel of the headboard, position a 2L paint tin in the top corners, flush with both edges and mark the curves in pencil. Use a 1L tin for the front panel. Use a jigsaw to cut the curves, checking the blade is unimpeded underneath. Sand all cuts and round over the edges slightly with a sanding sponge.
    Jigsaw cutting through piece of plywood to form curves on back panel of bedhead.
  3. 3

    Apply adhesive to shelf panels

    To make the base assembly, mark a shelf 5mm from the ends and 20mm in from either side using a combination square. Predrill with a countersinking bit, then apply adhesive to the shelf panels, position them against the shelf, flush with the ends, clamp and secure with 40mm screws.
    Hands attaching two, upright pieces of plywood together at a 90 degree angle.
  4. 4

    Mark lines for storage shelves

    Centre the base assembly on the front panel, flush with the bottom, use a combination square to check the overhang on both sides is equal and mark around the shelf. Measure 350mm up and mark a line for the middle shelf. Mark 350mm up from this to mark the top shelf. Repeat on reverse side.
    Hands using a combination square ruler to measure angles on piece of plywood.
  5. 5

    Predrill panels

    With the best sides facing up, place the front panel on the back, flush with the bottom, checking the overhang is even, then clamp together. Predrill two evenly spaced holes 5mm inside the shelf panel marks and four along the shelf marks. Remove top panel and countersink the holes in the back panel.
    Holes pre drilled into a piece of plywood spaced in a line, evenly apart.
  6. 6

    Clamp panels and secure

    Position the front panel upright, clamped either side of the base. Apply adhesive to the base assembly and centre against the panel. Clamp and screw through predrilled holes. Apply adhesive to the middle and top shelves, check for centre, then clamp to the front panel and secure with screws.
    Plywood positioned upright on bench with hands using a drill to make holes in wood.
  7. 7

    Sand and wipe down the bedhead

    Sand over the screw holes to remove breakout, then fill holes with timber filler using a scraper, leaving to dry. Sand over the filler to remove excess. Wipe all over the front panel and shelves with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust and leave to dry.
    Hands using sanding tool to smooth over plywood.
  8. 8

    Apply primer and paint

    Apply primer all over the front and back panels of the headboard using a mini roller, leaving to dry. Apply two coats of paint all over, leaving to dry after each coat.
    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: There’s no need to fill or paint the screw holes in the back panel as they will face the wall.
  9. 9

    Apply adhesive and secure screws

    Apply adhesive along the shelf backs, then stand the front assembly upright. Position the back panel against it with equal overhang and screw through the holes. Secure safety straps into wall studs, 600mm apart and 1100mm up, using the supplied screws, and attach to the bedhead.
  10. 10

    Keep in mind…

    • Wear a mask and work in a well-ventilated area when cutting and sanding timber.
    • To check the depth of the countersunk holes, place a screw upside down in the hole – the head should sit just below the surface.
    • Even though the bedhead is secured to the wall, don’t let kids climb or sit on it.
    • The gap created between the bedhead and wall by the strap is about the same as most skirting.
    • Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered
    • Paint colours may vary on application.
    • *Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

    Are you looking for more smart storage solutions?

    Design and plan your own with our online storage planner.

     

    Photo Credit: Michelle Holden, Natasha Dickins

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.