How to Build a Wooden Platform

They must be sturdy and strong to hold up the goods without sagging or swaying. Build one 18 inches high, 4 feet deep and 8 feet wide to keep the cutting and labor to a minimum.

1. Place two of the 1½-by-3½-by-96-inch studs parallel to each other on a flat surface, standing on edge.

2. Place two 1½-by-3½-by-45-inch studs between them, flush at both ends, and one centered. Clamp the frame together using bar clamps.

3. Drill two holes using a 5/16-inch drill bit and drill/driver, evenly spaced, through the 96-inch studs, to penetrate into the ends of the 45-inch studs at each contact point. Countersink another hole into each existing hole to a depth of ½-inch using a ½-inch Forstner bit.

4. Insert 3-inch lag bolts into the holes. Drive the screws in with a 3/8-inch socket and ratchet to create a frame measuring 48 by 96 inches.

5. Cut the seven 1½-by-3½-by-17¼-inch studs to the desired height, if needed, with a miter saw. Leave them as-is for an 18-inch tall platform.

6. Place one 17¼-inch stud in each corner, with the flat side against the 96-inch studs. Place two of the 17¼-inch studs in the center corners, with one on each side of the 45-inch center stud, with the flat sides against the 96-inch studs. Place one stud centered on either side of the center stud.

7. Clamp the short studs to the frame. Drill through the frame and each leg with a 3/8-inch drill bit. Make three holes for each leg, evenly spaced in a triangle pattern. Countersink to a depth of ½-inch with a ½-inch Forstner bit.

8. Insert 3½-inch hex bolts in each hole. Place washers and nuts on the inside. Use the 3/8-inch socket and ratchet to tighten the bolts. Remove the clamps. Flip the frame upright on its legs.

9. Place the 3/4-by-48-by-96-inch piece of fir plywood on top the frame. Screw the plywood to the frame using 1½-inch screws. Space the screws 8 inches apart, 3/4 inch from the edge around the perimeter. Center the screws through the 45-inch center support.

Tip

If your platform design is taller than 18 inches, add another 48-by-96-inch frame to the platform at the bottom for security. For platforms under 48 inches square, you typically don't need a center brace. If excessive weight is expected, double up the plywood and include four-by-four posts for legs instead of two-by-fours.

Warning

Wear eye protection when working with wood or woodworking tools.

Check out this related video from Homesteady on Youtube.