Should I Build My Own Murphy Bed?
What to consider when deciding whether to buy or build a Murphy bed.
The Takeaway
- A Murphy Bed is a great way to get the comfort of a real bed into a small space.
- If you have any level of woodworking knowledge, there is a Murphy bed kit solution for you.
- Murphy Bed Mechanism Options
- Do I have the skills to Build My Own Murphy Bed?
A Murphy bed gives you the comfort of a conventional bed in a small room without using valuable floor space. For DIY enthusiasts, a quick Google search for ‘build my own Murphy bed’ will reveal plenty of guides. However, Murphy beds are large and heavy and rely on mechanisms like springs or pistons that store energy to help lift and lower the bed. The components can make the bed difficult or dangerous if not properly balanced.
At Wilding Wallbeds, we often hear from people who built their own bed but found it either too heavy to use or had issues with the mechanism not working properly. So, should you build a Murphy bed?
If you’re a skilled DIYer, it’s possible. But success depends on using the right mechanism and high-quality materials, and having the expertise to ensure it’s safe and functional.
Choosing the Right Murphy bed system.
When building a Murphy bed, one of the most important decisions is selecting the right system for your needs. With various options on the market, some include complete frames while others provide just the lifting mechanisms. Each option affects how your Murphy bed operates, from its ease of installation to its daily functionality.
At Wilding Wallbeds, we have a couple of great high-quality choices: the Murphy Frame and the Murphy Bed Mechanisms. Let’s break down what makes each unique.
The Murphy Frame: A Complete Solution
The Murphy Frame is a full, ready-to-install bed system that doesn’t require any additional cabinetry or woodwork. Originally designed for closet installations, its versatility allows for a variety of creative uses:
- Install into an existing closet
- Build a custom cabinet around the frame
- Integrate it into a bookcase bed design
- Install it into an alcove and use curtains to conceal it
This system includes a powder-coated white steel frame, a spring-driven yoke, and European slats. It mounts directly to the wall through the baseboards or can be mounted to the floor, depending on your installation needs. The Murphy Frame is perfect for those seeking a complete, hassle-free Murphy bed solution without the need for additional carpentry.
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Murphy Bed Mechanisms: Build Your Cabinet
Our selection of Murphy Bed Mechanisms are commercial-grade, spring or piston-driven systems designed for those who want to build a custom cabinet around the bed. These mechanisms include everything you need for the bed’s function—mechanism plates, swing arms, springs, a bed frame, legs, and all required hardware, depending on the mechanism you choose. They also have an instruction booklet and a cut list to guide your cabinet construction.
This option is ideal for skilled woodworkers or cabinet makers. Once built, the Murphy bed looks like a finished cabinet. You simply pull the handles to lower the bed, which sits directly on the back of the cabinet’s face. There’s no need for folding or sliding doors, and the finished product can support up to 1,500 lbs, making it suitable for everyday use.
What materials should I use to build my own Murphy Bed?
The materials you choose to build a Murphy bed will directly impact its safety, strength, and longevity. Unlike a kitchen cabinet or bookshelf, a Murphy bed has moving parts that store significant energy. This means that the strength of the materials is directly related to the safety of the Murphy bed as well as its durability.
Particle Board
A quick walk through your hardware store will show you that particle board is the cheapest option. The issue with this material is that it simply isn’t strong enough to support the torque of the mechanism and the stress of a person lying on the mattress. A particle board Murphy bed will fall apart and can be a safety hazard.
MDF
The next material often used in DIY Murphy bed tutorials is medium-density fiberboard (MDF) core. MDF is definitely stronger than particle board, but the issue with it is its weight. MDF is heavy and puts unnecessary strain on the mechanism, making it heavier to operate.
Plywood
Plywood
Furniture-grade plywood is the ideal choice. It uses layers of wood with the gains crisscrossing from layer to layer. This adds an incredible amount of strength as well as stability. There is much less risk of the boards bowing or warping. A nice edge banding will be used to cover the exposed edges of the boards.
Solid Wood
Solid wood is a great choice for the trims, crowns, and other decorative pieces. However, for the structure of the bed solid wood is a bad choice because of the bowing, warping cupping, and cracking that can naturally occur.
Do the Job Yourself with the DIY Kit
If you don’t want the hassle of sourcing, cutting, and milling your lumber, the Wilding Wallbeds DIY Murphy Bed Kit is a great option. It includes the Murphy bed mechanism, all of the wood components, edge banding, and instructions. All you need to do is sand, edge band, stain, and assemble it. The DIY kit is ideal for those with intermediate DIY skills.
The added benefit of the DIY Murphy Bed Kit is that it will come with our specially milled furniture-grade plywood, which means you are guaranteed to have a durable and strong final product that will last a lifetime.
Do I have the skills to Build My Own Murphy Bed?
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get to the real question—should you build your own Murphy bed? The answer depends on how big of a project you want to take on. Consider this:
The Murphy Frame: A Simple Solution for Basic DIY Skills
The Murphy Frame is a simple solution that requires know-how to put together and install in your room. From there you can be as creative as you would like in dressing it up. If you are handy at all, the Murphy Frame should be within your skill level.
The DIY Kit: Ideal for Intermediate DIYers
The DIY Kit is great if you know how to finish wood. You don’t need to have a full woodshop, maybe just a project space in the garage so you can get it all prepped and finished. No need to source any materials, it comes with everything you need. This is perfect for an experienced DIYer who isn’t afraid of a project.
The Murphy Bed Mechanism: For Skilled Experts
The Murphy Bed Mechanism is for skilled woodworkers and cabinet shops. This is more involved than a simple hobby kit. You need to find your own wood, have access to saws, and be able to accurately mill specific holes in the wood. If you are a casual DIYer this may be more than you can handle.
Cost Considerations of Building vs. Buying a Murphy Bed
Thinking of going the DIY route to build a Murphy bed? Let’s talk numbers. A DIY kit might seem like the cheaper option upfront, but don’t forget to factor in the costs of materials, tools, and your time. If you’re not already stocked with the right equipment, those expenses can add up fast.
Now, compare that to a pre-made Murphy bed with professional installation. Sure, you’re paying more, but you’re also getting convenience, expertise, and a guarantee that the job is done right. It’s a trade-off between saving cash and saving time.
See more: Space-Saving Solutions: The Ultimate Guide to Using Murphy Beds in Your Home
Is Building a Murphy Bed Worth It?
So, is it worth it to build a Murphy bed yourself? If you’ve got the skills and love a hands-on project, it can be a rewarding (and budget-friendly) challenge. But if the thought of cutting wood and assembling complex parts makes you sweat, it might be worth paying for a pre-made bed with installation. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your skill level and how much time, effort, and DIY spirit you’re willing to put into the project.
Brandon is the director of corporate sales, which means he oversees the sales staff at each Wilding Wallbeds location. He offers training, provides solutions, and helps our sales team tackle…