Any woodworkers (or your DH?)

[SusanBAnthony]

We are thinking about building bunk beds for DS for the new house.  He wants them, but I don't really want to spend 800$+ for something that is definitely a want, not a need.  A friend of mine bought plans online, and build bunk beds from solid pine for about 200$.  They needed a saw and a drill, and I think that was it (the hardware is visible, so didn't need a biscuit joiner). I think they had a sander, too.  

But we have done basically no woodworking at all, so I don't want to get in over my head.  FIL has lots of experience so we might be able to borrow some tools from him and use his expertise.  

[jhawks482]

$200 seems REALLY cheap, for bunk beds. Where did they get that lumber? Obviously it would depend on the design but I like to think of building projects like a kitchen renovation: most times you spend more than you think you will spend. I've built beds, tables, and bookshelves. I have learned a lot along the way, but I wouldn't choose bunk beds for my children as my starter project (though it would be nice to get the help from you FIL!). THe biggest thing for me is completely setting aside the time (say 6 hours, or an entire weekend) to get the entire project built. That's difficult for me with two young children. But if you start a project, and plan on finishing it over a couple weekends, it won't get done. It can be done, but expect to run into a few complications- it's just the nature of woodworking. Good luck!

[mrs.jacinthe]

The ana white plans for the classic bunk bed could probably be built for around $200, depending on what lumbar you use. It's not a highly skilled plan, either.

ana-white.com/2010/09/classic-bunk-beds-cleverly-designed.html

That said, it'll be a serious time commitment. Just be aware, you'll probably be doing it over at least a weekend, if not longer. Especially including paint.

[SusanBAnthony]

I assumed 3-4 weekends. Jhawks, it was just solid pine from lowes or Home Depot. They bought basic plans online. From looking at it, I would guess 2x6's.

[jhawks482]

Feb 4, 2013 16:46:28 GMT -5 SusanBAnthony said:

I assumed 3-4 weekends. Jhawks, it was just solid pine from lowes or Home Depot. They bought basic plans online. From looking at it, I would guess 2x6's.

I would plan on at LEAST 200 dollars for the lumber. I would even think upwards of 300. Then consider your screws, glue, sand paper, and paint or stain. With pine, I'd honestly put it closer to $400 total project cost. And then your time investment sanding is a pain. When it's all said and done, you will be so proud, and you'll have a nice piece. The right tools can make or break, so again, I'd see if your FIL can work along side you guys!