Builder's Studio: Attaching Bed Rails to a Bedpost

In this video, Tim shows you how to install and attach bed rails to a bedpost using our Bed Hanger Hardware (Part #903)! This hardware kit includes four sets which is perfect for attaching to all four bed posts. These hangers are a simple and strong method for building your own bed. We used the Pencil Bed Post (Part #2500) in this demonstration but we have other bed post options available. You can also use the hardware with a post of your own.

Assembly Instructions

Materials Used:

Bed Rail Hardware (Part #903)

Tools Needed:

  • Writing utensil

  • Mallet

  • Drill or screwdriver

  • 2 ½” tapered head screws (three needed per hanger piece)

  • Router (we used a laminate trimmer with a ½” bit and plunge router)

  • Scrap wood to create a jig (optional)

  • Hammer (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Place the bed hanger hardware on your side rail and trace around it. This will show you where you need to route the board for hardware installation.

  2. Route a groove in the side rail. We used a laminate trimmer with a ½” bit and completed two passes. When the hardware is placed in the groove, you want it to lay flush with the rest of the board.

  3. Place the male hanger piece into the routed groove and use tapered screws to secure the piece. Be sure to keep in mind the direction of the hanger piece so that the hooks are placed correctly for your application. It will differ depending on if you are working on bottom or top side rail pieces.

  4. Now, you need to install the female hanger piece to your bedpost. This requires a jig to be made and the use of a router (we used a plunge router for this step) to create an appropriately sized groove.

  5. Place the female hanger piece in the routed groove. We used a hammer to ensure it was tightly inserted. Secure the piece with tapered screws. Make sure the hanger piece fits flush in the post.

  6. Now, you can secure the side rail to the bedpost by using the hooks and grooves of the hanger pieces. The pieces will automatically hook together but we recommend tapping the rail a few times with a mallet for a tight fit.
  7. Complete these steps again to secure all of your side rails to your bedposts

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