platform bed from timbers

Why not just cut bridle joints in the end instead of ripping the whole length? Wouldn’t a rabbet accomplis the same thing as offsetting one third? If you used mortise and tenon joints you could probably do without the iron rod as well. I’m not saying you are wrong or anything I am just curious as to why? It sounds like it will be a great bed!

-- "Checking for square? what madness is this! The cabinet is square because I will it to be so!" Jeremy Greiner LJ Topic#20953 2011 Feb 2

Mark,

I lost confidence in my ability to handle the bridle joints on the heavy timbers and worried about stability of the preliminary design.

My final solution was use 4×4’s for end posts and cut dados in them to capture the head, sides and foot (2×8’s) using bed bolts. The bolts from Horton Brasses were the most economical. I attached some 3/4” pieces to hold the slatting as well as long board running down the center of the bed with simple supports beneath it to support the weight. The slatting from Ikea comes in 2 30” wide pieces that work really well.

It turned out great and is now in place at my son’s apartment in Denver. He owes my pictures that I will post as soon as I get them. It’s good enough that now his brother (also in Denver) wants me to make one for him.

Thanks for your input. It’s fascinating how the very act of engaging with others on the Forum prompts the creative juices to flow, even when the specific starting point may be abandoned in the process.

Jim

Its good to hear that the build was a success! Orders for a second one is the best kind of praise for a project.

-- "Checking for square? what madness is this! The cabinet is square because I will it to be so!" Jeremy Greiner LJ Topic#20953 2011 Feb 2