DIY Dog Bed

For this project, we will be using four 2-inch x 2-inch x 8 foot boards, four 1" x 2" x 8’ boards, and three 1" x 6" x 8’ boards.

Begin by measuring out the components of the dog bed frame. The side frame consists of four pieces at 2 x 2 x 27.5 inches and the bottom frame of two pieces at 2 x 2 x 37 inches. The top back frame piece is sized at 2 x 2 x 39.75 inches. The front side frame consists of two pieces measuring 2 x 2 x 8.5 inches, and the front top frame of two pieces measuring 2 x 2 x 10 inches.

Next, we have four legs sized at 2 x 2 x 12 inches. The one-piece support beam measures 1 x 2 x 27.75 inches. And finally, the bottom bed consists of five pieces of board measuring 1 x 6 x 37 inches each.

For all pieces, start by making straight cuts along the measured edges. Lay out your pieces as described above.

The top back frame (2 x 2 x 39.75 inches) will require 45-degree angled cuts on both ends. The front side frame (2 x 2 x 8.5 inches) and the legs (2 x 2 x 12 inches) will require a 45-degree angled cut on the top edge of these pieces. Finally, the front top frame pieces (2 x 2 x 10 inches) will need 45-degree angled cuts on either side of these pieces.

The extra 1” x 2” x 8’ pieces will be used to create the X-shaped patterns once we have our bed assembled.

For all four side frame pieces (2 x 2 x 27.5 inches) and the two bottom frame pieces (2 x 2 x 37 inches) create two pocket holes on either end. Using a pocket hole jig, place the holes 1 inch from the end of each piece. These pocket holes will be used to put the frame together.

Now, it’s time to put everything together. Start by placing one of the bottom frame pieces between two of the legs. This should sit 2 inches off the ground, use an extra board to prop the bottom frame up and screw in each side using the pocket holes. Do the same with the other two legs and the second piece of the bottom frame.

Next, you will want to add the two sides using a clamp to hold your pieces in place and prop them up 2 inches off the ground. Using the pocket holes, drill each side until you have a sturdy frame. Add the support beam (1 x 2 x 27.75 inches) in the centre of this frame using wood glue and let sit until fully dried.

You can add the bottom of the bed in place once the support beam is dry. Do this by placing the five 1 x 6 x 37-inch pieces of board on top of the support beam running along your frame. Glue these using wood glue, and for extra security add nails using a nail gun.

Now we can add the top back frame by placing the 45-degree angled cuts along the legs and nailing them into place using the nail gun. Add your side beams on either side by screwing them into place along the top with the pocket holes.

Finally, add the front side frame (2 x 2 x 8.5 inches). To do this, place your front top frame pieces above the board to measure the distance at which the side pieces should sit and glue them into place using wood glue. Once this is glued you can nail in the front top frame pieces using the nail gun.

You should now have your almost fully complete dog bed assembled. The final step is to add the X-shaped accents to the front of your frame. The outcome may differ from person to person. Using the extra 1” x 2” x 8’ pieces, place them within your front frame and measure an angle along the top. Cut one long piece to go across first. Once you put this in place you can cut two smaller pieces to run along the other side, completing your X-shaped feature.

After you finish, you can choose to leave the frame as-is with a nice wood finish, or you can decide to apply a stain finish to your DIY dog bed. Apply the stain in a well-ventilated area and apply small amounts along the dog bed. Wipe away the excess stain using a rag and let it completely dry before using.