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How to Build a Waterbed Frame

Ezmeralda Lee

There are two main reasons to build your own waterbed frame. The first would be expense. It may be cheaper just to do it yourself. The second reason is for versatility and custom building. It may be hard to find exactly what you're looking for and need in a waterbed frame.

  1. Get the proper measurements so you are sure to purchase the right type of wood at the right thickness and length. Get the wood cut at your local hardware shop. This will save you a lot of time and effort later. You may want to stain all the wood before you begin building. The size that you will build your frame will depend on what size waterbed you desire to build: full or single, queen or king. Single size waterbed dimensions are 48 inches wide by 84 inches long. Queen size water dimensions are 60 inches wide by 84 inches long. King size waterbed dimensions are 72 inches wide by 84 inches long. Decide what size bed you will need and then have your boards cut, or cut them yourself, to the appropriate length.

  2. Begin to build the frame. The frame only includes the area the waterbed will be in. Do not confuse this with the headboard. Connect all the frame pieces using wood glue, nails and, if you want it more secure, screws as well.

  3. Create your frame first and connect together. How you add shelves is entirely up to you. This is the part you can customize to fit exactly what you want and/or need.

  4. The pedestal must fit inside the waterbed frame. Use several pieces of wood that will be about the same height as the frame itself. Interlock these pieces and secure together.

  5. The deck of the waterbed frame should be about ½ to a full foot longer and wider than the pedestal. The deck is basically flat pieces of wood securely attached together and placed on top of the pedestal. Be sure this wood is sanded properly first. Be sure the deck is securely fastened to the pedestal.

  6. Be sure everything is attached properly before this step. Place the frame on top of the deck. Create the supporting legs of the headboard and attach to the frame. Attach the headboard to the frame and supporting legs.