tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49536112458275657212024-03-10T07:05:40.534-07:00Jerry's ProjectsJerry Starbuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925775867114008123noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4953611245827565721.post-20649565584680979512011-02-14T13:59:00.000-08:002011-03-14T13:33:04.919-07:00Murphy Bed with IKEA CabinetsMy wife and I decided to re-do our guest room. We wanted our guests to have a comfortable Queen-size bed, and use the floor space for other activities. The solution... a Murphy Bed (folding wall bed). After a lot of research, we decided to purchase a free-standing Murphy Bed Frame. The frame features welded steel construction, simple spring mechanism, and moves independent of the cabinet. The other option, a Murphy Panel Bed, is more expensive and requires attachment to a factory-made cabinet. The frame and cabinet essentially become one mechanism. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioEluH_vJhrIgvFlILK4y9z-zviGnf-BGojKxPb_FiYp240BeBVydrWbNI6pG2IQk4m59OMVm0Gd9ZcgXTm8CVJoJT9ZvYOo26YUeky7gaTRzMqzhO7h4pA8-0xIu0rjL-RnDJycPkAn8v/s1600/murphy_bed_web01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="341" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioEluH_vJhrIgvFlILK4y9z-zviGnf-BGojKxPb_FiYp240BeBVydrWbNI6pG2IQk4m59OMVm0Gd9ZcgXTm8CVJoJT9ZvYOo26YUeky7gaTRzMqzhO7h4pA8-0xIu0rjL-RnDJycPkAn8v/s400/murphy_bed_web01.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
To build our own cabinets, we turned first to IKEA furniture. The quality is very good, relatively inexpensive, and there are many accessories to choose from. Just by coincidence, I found a wonderful blog (<a href="http://herbiesworld.blogspot.com/2009/04/guest-room-remodel-budget-murphy-bed.html">Herbie's World</a>) that detailed construction using a Murphy Bed Frame and IKEA cabinets. Exactly what we were looking for. Herbie's blog and photos convinced us the idea would really work. Thanks Herbie! <br />
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The design is based on standard IKEA PAX wardrobe cabinets. The cabinets are tall enough to enclose the Murphy Bed in the vertical position. However, to accommodate the width of a Queen-size bed (65" clearance), top and toe-kick panels are fabricated to extend a standard cabinet (1-door wide) to a "quadruple-wide" cabinet (4-doors wide); using stock Birkeland doors. That's essentially the build. My fabrication follows Herbie's design, except I strengthened the top panel. We wanted the center cabinet to support boxes (cloths, comforters, books, etc.). <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/103401415796133377946/JerrySProjects?authkey=Gv1sRgCMOWk7-WkMaBwgE#">Click here to see my fabrication photos</a>.<br />
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HINT: Because the center cabinet's bi-fold doors are completely supported by the side panels (which are secured to the cabinets on each side), you don't even need the center top panel. Here you can be creative with your own design.<br />
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<i>Tools and Time Required</i><br />
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This is an intermediate woodworking project that will require 5-6 days to complete. You must be comfortable using a miter saw, and either a band saw or table saw (preferable). Also, you'll need an electric drill, various drill bits (including 19mm and 35mm Forstner bits), hammer, screw driver, various clamps, and measuring tools. I also purchased an inexpensive wood dowel kit to fabricate the toe-kick panel.<br />
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<i>List of Materials</i><br />
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<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="width: 500px;"><tbody>
<tr bgcolor="#000066"><td width="26"><span style="color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Qty</b></span></td><td width="198"><span style="color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Item</b></span></td><td width="89"><span style="color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Vendor</b></span></td><td width="141"><span style="color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Purpose</b></span></td><td width="46"><span style="color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Price ($)</b></span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Queen-size Murphy Bed Frame</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Murphy Bed Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Murphy bed mechanism </span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">285.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Wall Mount Bracket</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Murphy Bed Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Connects bed frame to wall</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">50.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Queen-size Mattress Foundation</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Murphy Bed Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Supports mattress<sup>1</sup></span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">110.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="right" bgcolor="#cccccc" colspan="4"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Sub-total</b></span></td><td align="right" bgcolor="#cccccc"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>$445.00</b></span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">3</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">PAX Cabinet Frame (100.140.30)</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Enclose Murphy Bed</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">270.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">4</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">PAX Birkeland Door (900.493.23)</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Center cabinet bi-fold doors</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">320.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">2</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">PAX Birkeland Glass Door (200.904.72)</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Doors for side cabinets</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">160.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">6</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Komplement Door Hinge, 3 pack</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Attach doors to cabinets</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">60.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Komplement Door Hinge, 4 pack</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Attach doors to cabinets</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">10.50</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">3</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Gravy Handel, 2 pack</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Door handles</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">24.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="right" bgcolor="#cccccc" colspan="4"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Sub-total</b></span></td><td align="right" bgcolor="#cccccc"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>$884.50</b></span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">3</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Komplement Drawer (901.839.72)</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Optional</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">90.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">2</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Komplement Clothes Rail (401.411.64)</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Optional</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">10.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">2</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Komplement Shelf, 2 pack (801.466.64)</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">IKEA</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Optional</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">30.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="right" bgcolor="#cccccc" colspan="4"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Sub-Total</b></span></td><td align="right" bgcolor="#cccccc"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>$130.00</b></span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">3</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Melamine Shelf, 3/4" x 11-3/4" x 97"</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Top and toe-kick panels<sup>2</sup></span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">40.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">3</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Azek Trim Stud, 1" x 3-1/2" x 96"</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Fabricate top panel "box"</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">60.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Diablo 1-3/8" (34.93mm) Forstner Drill Bit</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Drill European hedge cups</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">17.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Diablo 3/4" (19.05mm) Forstner Drill Bit</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Countersink bolts in studs</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">10.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">2</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Piano Hinge, 72"</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Connect bi-fold doors</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">31.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">50</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Crown Bolt Wood Screws, #10 x 2"</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Fabricate top panel "box"</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">6.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">8</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Nuts & Bolts & Washers, #10 x 1-1/2"</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Bolt top panel to side frame</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">3.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">6</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Lag Bolts, #10 x 3"</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Secure wall-mount bracket</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">3.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">8</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Plastic Countersink Plugs, 3/4"</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Cover countersink holes</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">4.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">4</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Heavy Duty Wall Anchors</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Secure side cabinets to wall</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">6.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">20</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Wood Screws, #8 x 1"</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Attach foundation to frame</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">2.50</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Wood Dowel Kit</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Fabricate toe-kick panel</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">6.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="center"><span ace="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" style="font-size: xx-small;">2</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Magnetic Door Latch</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Home Depot</span></td><td><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Fabricate toe-kick panel</span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">4.00</span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="right" bgcolor="#cccccc" colspan="4"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Sub-total</b></span></td><td align="right" bgcolor="#cccccc"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>$192.50</b></span></td></tr>
<tr><td align="right" colspan="4"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>Total Material (without mattress)</b></span></td><td align="right"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><b>$1,652.00</b></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">1. A mattress foundation is required. You can either order one from Murphy Bed Depot or fabricate your own.<br />
2. Herbie used a single 24" wide shelf to fabricate the top panel. Because I didn't have a table saw, I used 11-3/4" wide shelves which are easier to cut with a band saw.</span><br />
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A similar system (Murphy Bed Frame, raised door cabinets, and side bookshelves) would cost $2,299.00. Build-it-yourself and save approx. $650.00. Plus, the IKEA PAX system offers real wardrobe cabinets, glass doors, and many accessories that will delight your better half.<br />
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We purchased an IKEA Queen-size Sultan Fidjetun memory foam mattress (001.398.32)... $249.00. The mattress is quite comfortable and won't collapse in the vertical position. Box springs are not needed. Update... we recently added a 1-1/2" memory foam topper (from Kolhs) for ultimate comfort.<br />
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We decided not to purchase lights. We used a free-standing floor lamp that fits inside the cabinet. <br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Calibri;">On with the build...</span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 1: Paint the Guest Room</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The first weekend was spent painting the guest room and shopping for materials at Home Depot. The Murphy Bed Frame and foundation were ordered online, and delivered in less than a week.<b> </b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 2: Buy IKEA Cabinets</b><br />
The next weekend we loaded up the car (recommend using a pickup truck ) with PAX cabinets, Komplement accessories, and Queen-size mattress. Note that the PAX door hinges (you'll need 22) are purchased separately. I didn't realize this and had to make a separate trip.</span></div><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 3: Assemble Wardrobe Side Cabinets</b> <br />
I assembled the wardrobe cabinets (2) and secured one with heavy-duty wall anchors. Note that a 3/4" spacer (wood block) was placed behind the cabinet (at the top) for vertical alignment with the floor molding. Later, the other cabinet is secured when the doors are hung, i.e., after final spacing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 4: Measure the Center Cabinet Dimension</b><br />
Getting the exact width dimension of the center cabinet is critical! This measurement is used to fabricate the cabinet's top and toe-kick panels. How did I do it? I laid all four doors on the ground (carpet) and inserted cardboard spacers. I attached the doors on each end to the frame side-panels; pointing up 90 degrees. This simulates the doors in the closed position. With everything in place, I measured the<i> inside</i> width, side-panel to side-panel... 77-3/32" (<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/103401415796133377946/JerrySProjects?authkey=Gv1sRgCMOWk7-WkMaBwgE#5573640250305301714">see photo</a>).</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNyDd4hbXBW8Hk-wAe3DpCXkqf-Ri_1eH3MuoLmvi84CW4juwJBPI5lVcJch2t9x-IdFeuzuY9g6CzxRwWPRn2pBAfDSPtqsUozSZebruyzaNXcVT23sNLILUrwkDsjodSl143sreg7S8/s1600/murpy_bed_web02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFNyDd4hbXBW8Hk-wAe3DpCXkqf-Ri_1eH3MuoLmvi84CW4juwJBPI5lVcJch2t9x-IdFeuzuY9g6CzxRwWPRn2pBAfDSPtqsUozSZebruyzaNXcVT23sNLILUrwkDsjodSl143sreg7S8/s400/murpy_bed_web02.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">HINT: Perhaps a safer approach would be to actually hang the doors in the vertical position, then take the inside measurement. However, installing the top panel now becomes impossible. You would have to remove the doors, install the top panel, then hang the doors again. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 5: Build Top Support "Box"</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Building the center cabinet top support is nothing more than constructing a wooden box. Easy! The Melamine shelves (2) are secured to vinyl studs (4 sections) with wood screws, countersunk around the edge. Although the vinyl studs are expensive, they are easy to work with and match the look of the Melamine selves (no painting required). I recommend cutting the studs with a miter saw and sanding the edges. Note that the width of the two shelves (side-by-side) must equal the cabinet's depth (approx. 23"). I cut approx. 1/2" off one shelf (length-wise) using a band saw.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 6: Install Top Support "Box"</b><br />
The top support "box" is bolted to the center frame side-panels (you'll need to drill holes). I used #10 x 1-1/2" bolts -- four on each side. With three sides of the center frame assembled, lift the frame into the vertical position (takes two people). Finally, bolt the center frame to the wardrobe side cabinets (already in place). IKEA provides these bolts. This baby is strong!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">IMPORTANT: The top support "box" will block the top door hinges. This is not a big deal, since you're going to install additional hinges to support the weight of the bi-fold doors. I used seven (7) hinges on each door (Herbie used six hinges). </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 7: Install Piano Hinge on Bi-Fold Doors</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">With two doors laying flat on the carpet, install the piano hinge (remember the rib faces up). Be sure to place cardboard spacers between the doors.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 8: Hang Bi-Fold Doors</b><br />
Thanks to Herbie for this tip! Hang the bi-fold doors using the pre-drilled holes. Now the tricky part.... with the door in place (and supported), drill four (4) additional "European" hinge cups (use 35mm Forstner drill bit). Use the hinge, seated inside the hinge cup, as a template to drill the two pilot holes on each side of the cup (use #10 drill bit). When you're finished, you'll have seven (7) hinges supporting the bi-fold doors.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">HINT: To prevent drilling through the door, wrap the #10 drill bit with masking tape at the proper depth. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 9: Hang Second Bi-Fold Doors</b><br />
Repeat Steps 7 & 8 for the second set of doors. Fortunately, my inside measurement (77-3/32") was correct. The doors lined up perfectly with an 1/8" gap. Note that the IKEA hinges allow for some gap adjustment after installation.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 10: Install the Glass Doors</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Install the glass doors (2) on the side cabinets. You may or may not want to add the plastic glass dividers. My wife decided she liked the look.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 11: Install the Komplement Accessories</b><br />
Install the Komplement clothes hangers, selves, and drawers. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 12: Install Door Handles</b> <br />
Take a look at the photos to see how I positioned the handles. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Time to celebrate... most of the cabinet construction is finished.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 13: Assemble Murphy Bed Frame</b><br />
The frame assembly instructions are poor. Just to get my head around things, I first labeled each part. To secure the frame to the wall, I drilled pilot holes pointing down towards the wall studs. The Wall Mount Bracket was secured with #10 x 3" Lag bolts (three on each side). Very strong! The thin wood screws supplied with the mounting kit didn't seem strong enough.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">For me, the tricky part was assembling the foot retraction mechanism. Two 1/2" nylon spacers (included with the frame) are needed for proper alignment. Read the instructions carefully and do not lose the spacers! A little WD-40 lubricant helps the mechanism retract smoothly.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 14: Install the Springs</b><br />
This is a bitch!!! Using a screwdriver as a lever and the frame as a fulcrum, you are suppose to left the springs up and into the upper holes. Not an easy task. I found that all 10 springs were needed.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">CAUTION: Watch those fingers!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 15: Install Mattress Foundation</b><br />
I agree with Herbie, the foundation is cheap! The foundation comes in three sections that are secured to the bed frame with wood screws (use #8 x 1"). If you want to build your own foundation (perhaps out of plywood), recognize the foundation extends beyond the frame on each side and at the foot (Queen size 60" X 80"). Also, there is a cutout near the head so the foundation does not rub against the frame. At this point in the project, you'll probably be too tired to fabricate your own foundation. Might as well order one with the bed frame.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 16: Install Mattress</b><br />
The IKEA Fidjetun mattress comes shrink-wrapped. Open the night before so the mattress can expand to normal size. With the mattress installed, the Murphy Bed floats effortlessly with one hand!</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 17: Fabricate the Toe-Kick Panel</b><br />
The toe-kick panel is constructed from the remaining Melamine shelf. The panel is only for aesthetic purposes (non-weight bearing). I glued the pieces together using wood dowels. Lining up dowels is tricky, so it helps to use a dowel kit and drill press. I used a simple "L" brace on each end to attach the toe-kick panel to the side panels.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 18: Install Door Latch</b><br />
I used a simple magnet latch. The doors close tight.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 19: Install 35mm Wooden Plugs (optional)</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">At Rockler.com I found a "35mm Hinge Hole Repair Kit" (#34339)</span>. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">The wooden plugs were inserted into the hedge cups, then painted. Note that the Birkeland glass doors (not the regular doors) come with plastic inserts to cover the extra hinge cups. I tried to order more of these from IKEA, but they did not stock the part.<b></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b>Step 20: Show-off to Friends & Family</b><br />
We are absolutely delighted with our new Murphy Bed. The frame mechanism will last a lifetime and the IKEA cabinets look stunning! If you have the patience and modest ability, you can build one yourself. Thanks again to Herbie for blazing the trail.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU0dhNB3WhWb0xObeHHiz1-Kuv1x2HdjaQvkxk73TNxyfTmvQaY3hwqv1S4VNvDSNJ6Cb9eXycuq9pnGdm8e40h_iDAF3UtCGvdx1wd-n8Nj4mp4hc-PQ2sRxYgSRIKJ337vgwPB6zouH/s1600/murpy_bed_web03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnU0dhNB3WhWb0xObeHHiz1-Kuv1x2HdjaQvkxk73TNxyfTmvQaY3hwqv1S4VNvDSNJ6Cb9eXycuq9pnGdm8e40h_iDAF3UtCGvdx1wd-n8Nj4mp4hc-PQ2sRxYgSRIKJ337vgwPB6zouH/s400/murpy_bed_web03.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>Jerry Starbuckhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07925775867114008123noreply@blogger.com4