How to Build a Bed Bench

1). Determine the length, width and depth of your bed bench based on the size of your bed and on your personal preference. Create a materials list, complete with specific measurements. For a rectangular bench, you will need two 2x4's cut to the length, two 2x4's cut to the width, and two ¾-inch plywood panels cut to fit as a base and a top of your bed bench. You will also need one or two 2x2 brace supports, depending on the length of your bed bench. The posts, or legs, of your bed bench can be made from premade posts, or you can have 2x2's cut to fit. You can find trim for the sides of your bed bench in the aisle with other decorative moldings. Your local home improvement store will often cut the material to size for you at no additional charge. This will save you a lot of time and mess at home, so take advantage of this service.
2). Gather your materials and begin to build the frame for your bed bench by attaching the two longest 2x4's to the two 2x4 pieces cut for the sides of your bench frame with screws and a screw driver. You will have a rectangle when you are finished.
3). Attach the 1-by-2 trim pieces or other molding that you selected around the perimeter of the bench frame, adjacent to the top. The molding adds to the stability of your bed bench and provides a design interest.
4). Place the 2-by-2 legs in each of the four corners of the bench, attaching them with wood glue and then screwing them in for security. Set your screws from the inside of the bench to the outside, so they are invisible. Add support braces every 16 inches or so sideways across the top of your bed bench.
5). Attach the top piece of plywood to your frame using wood glue and screws from underneath the bench.
6). Sand your bench until it's smooth and ready for finishing. If you're painting, apply a coat of primer first, then two coats of paint in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Staining looks best on woods such as oak, cherry and maple, so take your desired finish into consideration when you purchase your supplies. You can also upholster the top of your bed bench, or add pillows for added comfort.