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.

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

I install a dado blade stack into my table saw.

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

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

I now begin making the dado cuts.

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

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

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

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

I cut the pieces to length at the miter saw.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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!