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Playhouse Loft Bed with Stairs

Submitted by Karajoy on Tue, 01/03/2012 - 18:12

When I showed my husband the plans for this playhouse loft bed on Ana's site, he decided that we needed to build it for our daughter for Christmas. We combined the two plans for the Playhouse & the stairs and modified it slightly to fit our space. We had left-over carpet which we used on the stairs. She absolutely LOVES it!! And secretly, I think her 3 older brothers do, too. Thanks SO much, Ana!!

Built from Plan(s)
Storage Stairs for the Playhouse Loft Bed
Playhouse Loft Bed
Estimated Cost
350
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Paint is BHG Pink Carnation.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Phillip (not verified)

Wed, 01/04/2012 - 14:17

How can I get a copy of the plans?

Anonymous Coward (not verified)

Thu, 01/05/2012 - 07:16

Philip and Guest -
The plans are free, and click on the links in the post

From Plan: (plans are linked here)

Shameka (not verified)

Tue, 11/13/2012 - 18:29

Hey,
How do I get a copy of the plans for this bed? I would love to do this for my daughter for a birthday gift. I have gone to the section where it says plans but there is no link to click on. Thanks in advance.

Guest (not verified)

Tue, 01/17/2012 - 09:20

I would like to know how to get a copy of the plans for this bed. This is exactly what I want to do in my little girls room but I have not beed able to find plans. Thanks!

Karajoy

Fri, 01/27/2012 - 21:44

If you look in the section above, you'll see "From Plan:" There are two links (they're black and don't look like links. You'll need to hover over them). One for the basic bed and one for the stairs.

kelly.abbott (not verified)

Tue, 01/17/2012 - 18:38

I do not see the plans for the playhouse loft bed. Where is it located? Can you email it to me or post the link?

Guest (not verified)

Sun, 01/22/2012 - 11:57

Hi, I was wondering what age group this is best suited for? I can't tell from the size of the pictures, and my daughter is only 2.

Karajoy

Fri, 01/27/2012 - 21:38

I would say your 2 year old daughter is a little young for a bed this high. I think general guidelines would suggest waiting until age 6 for lofted and bunked beds, but I think that's being very cautious. Our daughter is just about to turn 4 and she does fine in it.

Cindy from Indiana (not verified)

Wed, 01/25/2012 - 11:29

You did a great job! That looks fantastic!

I'm going to be making this bed within the next month or two for my daughter. She's 4 (will be 5 in April). I know the overall design isn't *that* high off the floor, but my daugter has a tendency to roll out of bed...often. LOL

Do you find the guardrail/slats are high enough to prevent roll offs, or should I add some height to them when I build?

Yours turned out awesome! I can see why your daughter (and sons) love the bed!

Cindy

Karajoy

Fri, 01/27/2012 - 21:34

Hi Cindy.
Thanks for your kind words.
We had the same concerns about our daughter rolling or falling out. She is almost 4, but still had rails on her previous bed. We put the slats that the mattress sits on in the very lowest possible position and actually traded twin mattresses with her brother who had a thinner mattress. Her's had a pillow-top and even the extra 2 inches made quite a difference.
There are nearly 9 inches between the top of her mattress and the top of the rails which is plenty to prevent accidental roll-outs, but it certainly wouldn't hurt to add extra if it would make you more comfortable.
Now if we could just keep her from standing up there, I'd feel a whole lot better. lol
Good luck with yours.
Kara

Cindy from Indiana (not verified)

Sat, 01/28/2012 - 07:27

Hey Kara,

Thank you so much for replying! That does make me feel more comfortable that there will be around 9" between the mattress top and the rail top. Not sure yet if I'll add a bit more or not, but it's good to hear how it worked out for you guys. Now I'll be hoping to keep my little dare devil from trying to 'fly' off the top of it and we'll be good to go. LOL

Thanks, again! That was really helpful.

Cindy

Guest (not verified)

Thu, 01/26/2012 - 12:59

Hi! LOVE THIS!!! Am planing on making for my daughter. Any chance there are plans for this in a Full Size bed?

Karajoy

Fri, 01/27/2012 - 21:48

I've seen some posts on Ana's Brag Boards of these lofts with full sized mattresses on top. Ana's original plan is a twin bed, but others have modified it to suit their needs. You may just want to search and see if anyone has included their plans for a full. Sorry I can't be more help. Good luck!

Guest (not verified)

Mon, 01/30/2012 - 08:09

I will be making this for my boys. For the guard rail, I will be making it go all the way to the ceiling, since they like to jump off of things. They will get a kick out of it because it will be a "wild animal cage", lol.

Karajoy

Sat, 02/04/2012 - 16:14

Love it! It takes the safety issue out of the equation totally. Great idea. I know they'll LOVE it, too.

JessiW (not verified)

Tue, 01/31/2012 - 18:32

That is very nice if you dont mind me asking how long did you make that one... I am wanting to make one for my daughter but I dont have 103 inches that called for in the one plan...

Karajoy

Sat, 02/04/2012 - 16:10

We made our bed to the exact specifications that Ana gave (103"), however, if you need to save space, you could leave the stairs off and opt for the ladder.

Kelly Kelley (not verified)

Tue, 02/07/2012 - 15:42

I tried to get the plans for this bed and I cant seem to locate. Could you help please? Thank you!! What a beautiful bed!!

Karajoy

Wed, 02/15/2012 - 18:34

Hi Kelly,
There are links to the 2 plans in the "ABOUT THIS PROJECT" section above. Just hover your cursor over the "From Plans:" and the links will change color. They appear black and therefore, don't look like they're linked to anything. They're both there. Good luck!!

Guest (not verified)

Fri, 02/10/2012 - 14:23

I cannot find the plans to this bed. Could you email them to me ? Abby

Guest (not verified)

Fri, 02/24/2012 - 17:03

We were looking for plans to build a loft bed to save space in our 3.5 year old daughters room. My husband found this and we are sold on this idea. She is going to flip when she sees her new bed! Love it!

Amanda D. (not verified)

Mon, 03/05/2012 - 20:01

Hi there, I was wondering if you could tell me where you got the fabulous little washer and dryer combo that I see in the photo. I know the sweet owl painting is from target, but I love the little play space you seem to have created! :)

Karajoy

Mon, 03/19/2012 - 19:42

The little set inside is from Playskool's Rose Petal Cottage collection. It's a little miniature set and worked perfectly in this space.

Kirstie (not verified)

Sat, 03/17/2012 - 22:52

I LOVE this so much! I love the color scheme as well, we decided to copy the scheme in my daughter's room. I was wondering where you got the curtain from? Did you buy it or make it yourself? It's almost exactly the color of the green paint we bought so I would love to know. Also, I love the washer and dryer too, also curious about that. Thanks!

Karajoy

Mon, 03/19/2012 - 19:40

Hi Kristie.
I made the little curtain and the little washer/stove/sink set are from the Playskool Rose Petal Cottage collection. Good luck building your playhouse. It's a little girl's dream!!

Guest (not verified)

Wed, 03/21/2012 - 20:27

Hi Kara,
I'm really interested in building two of these for my girls... they caught my attention because they've been asking for a bunk bed and I don't want to do a bunk bed because I hate the idea of struggling to change the bedsheets. Just wondering if it's a hassle with a bed this height.

Yours looks amazing, btw!

Thanks,
Sarah

gabey2329 (not verified)

Tue, 04/10/2012 - 11:18

oh my god i love this it would be awesome for my daughter also. were you able to stay in your budget???? do you think is a safe style for a 3 year old? she would go absolutely nuts!

Guest (not verified)

Fri, 04/13/2012 - 20:17

so beautiful! if i wanted to do this with a full mattress how would i tweak the measurements? i want to do this with a full with the stairs... just so she can be in the bed for a longer period and also the space underneath to be a bit bigger... also if i wanted to make the stairs have a drawer? i really would appreciate alll the feedback if possible because im so far from handy... :-/ and 1 more thing how did u get a light down there?

Veahava

Fri, 05/11/2012 - 18:27

I was wondering if once put together is it easy to take apart? My dad builds houses for a living and was going to make it for my daughter at his house then bring it to mine to set it up

Sharlean (not verified)

Sun, 06/10/2012 - 14:40

My husband and I just finished making this bed with stairs for our 3 year old and he loves it.

Rebeccaguest (not verified)

Tue, 06/12/2012 - 06:41

what age would you reccommend this for?? my son is 3 n a half and i woant to attempt to make this bed, but dont want to spend time and money if i will have to buy him a new bed in a couple of years. i would like it to last a good while. also, like veahava, i was wondering if this was easy to dismantle once put together as i am planning a move in the future, thankyou

winter_baby26

Thu, 06/28/2012 - 07:43

This looks amazing! I'm sure your daughter was thrilled. I can't believe it only cost $350 to build - I have no doubt you would pay significantly more than that if you bought something similar at a store.

Claire_UK (not verified)

Tue, 10/02/2012 - 02:14

This is absolutely divine - you are so talented! I have just found this website and can't imagine I'd ever be able to make something so beautiful. Putting up a shelf is beyond me. Your daughter must be so proud of her little nighttime palace!

Christine N (not verified)

Sun, 10/21/2012 - 20:01

I am trying to get the plans for this bed with the stairs but when I click on the link it doesn't give me the plans. Help, my granddaughter would love love love this. Thank you so much.

Nikki_DivaMomm… (not verified)

Thu, 12/06/2012 - 20:30

I LOVE this bed ! It's exactly what my husband & I are looking for !! With your measurements, is this suited for a toddler mattress or a twin??

Tara Payon (not verified)

Mon, 12/17/2012 - 20:42

Love love love this bed, what size mattress does it use?

cevans81

Wed, 09/11/2013 - 05:11

We made this bed for our daughter and now my son and daughter play with her kitchen and table underneath in the playhouse. Your instructions were so easy to follow and everything matched up perfectly. We did do the ladder due to space but the bed is beautiful. We get so may compliments when people come over and I always tell them about your website. You truly have awesome ideas! I can not wait for the next project and I am sure it will be off your site :-)

kullmann

Mon, 10/07/2013 - 17:26

I love your playhouse with loft bed! How tall is the underneath part? Would you be able to fit a desk underneath? Also, could the plans be adjusted to accommodate a double bed?

THANK YOU!!

Farmhouse - King Headboard - made it longer

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 03/13/2016 - 19:40

We used flooring from Homedepot for the middle boards.  My decorator suggested that I make it longer and that worked well with this flooring.  We did discover that our Lowe's has the post for only $10 - we paid too much at 84 lumber - only to discover that they were warped - we had to use corner brackets to fix it.

 

Homedepot - Maui Whitewashed Oak 8 mm Thick x 11-1/2 in. Wide x 46-1/2in. Length Click Lock Laminate Flooring (22.28 sq. ft. / case)

Built from Plan(s)
Farmhouse Bed - Standard King Size
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Lowe's grey stain - only had one
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

L-Shape Outdoor Bench

Submitted by ShannonG on Mon, 07/24/2023 - 13:21

Modified to make an L shaped bench . Absolutely love it! Thank you!

Built from Plan(s)
Modern Park Bench

Comments

Dress Up Closet with Lights

Submitted by jimf on Tue, 01/07/2014 - 09:44

My daughter, like most other 2 & 3 year olds, love playing dress up. Over time we have collected a large selection of princess dresses and various other dress up clothes. Where do you put this stuff? My wife went to Pinterest for ideas. She came to me asking if I could make her a closet. A closet, what? She then showed me a picture. I said "that looks like a box. I can do better." the idea of repurposing a dresser sounded like a much better and time saving idea. So I set off to the second hand stores in search of a sterdy, decorative, not too expensive dresser.

Once the dresser had been procurred ($30 at Goodwill) and transported home, the project began. I first removed all but the bottom drawer and drawer supports. Next I removed the hardware from the remaining drawer and deglossed the entire dresser and drawer. Once deglossed, I put down a single coat of white primer. The next day I came back and put down two coats of paint. The outside I used a cream color to match the playroom where it would be housed. On the inside of the dresser I painted it bright Pink; Bear Paint calls this color "sexy Pink". We'll call it bright pink since its for my 3 year old.

After two coats of paint the project was pretty much complete. Then I had the bright idea to add lights. I went to the hardware store looking for under cabinet lighting. I was unimpressed with the lighting options and price points. To Amazon.com I go. I found 16 feet of LED Strip lighting for $4 and a power supply for a couple extra bucks. The lights came with a remote control. When UPS delivered the package of lights I couldnt wait to install them. This was going to put the closet over the top. I cut the strip to the size I needed and installed using the provided 3M tape. It could not have been easier to install. I was able to cut the strip into the size strips I needed (64 inches total).

The final product with the lights on can be found on my youtube page:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gE1soeC2OaE

My daughter was THRILLED! She loves using the remote to turn the lights on and off as well as changing the colors of the lights.

This project was super easy!

Estimated Cost
$50
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Sexy Pink Bear Paint
Color Matched Beige Bear Paint
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

The Entertainment Center

Submitted by a.mcdaniel on Mon, 03/19/2012 - 00:34

It took 2 1/2 months and a LOT of wood, but my husband created this masterpeice. Thank you to the inspiration provided by Ana White and Kristen Lotz, we have finally done our biggest project yet!

Built from Plan(s)
Build the Tommy Storage Wall - Media Base Plans
Custom Wall Media/Entertainment Center
Estimated Cost
1000.00
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Advanced

Comments

a.mcdaniel

Wed, 03/21/2012 - 10:22

Thank you so much, Ana! That comment means a lot to my husband and I! He is so amazing at building things now and your website has been a major inspiration for him - THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Now our new home is becoming more "ours."

Christie (not verified)

Thu, 07/26/2012 - 20:44

Both yours and Ana's centers are beautiful! I am a little more drawn to yours with the lighting and architectural touches you've added. Did you have a formal plan drawn for it? I would like to make an exact replica of it if possible. It is just stunning and exactly what I am looking for. GREAT JOB!!!

kristenlotz

Wed, 12/19/2012 - 15:58

I love it. I am so glad our project inspired you to build this! You incorporated a lot of the things we considered during the build such as fluted stiles on the bookcases, downlights, and faux raised panel doors. Now, we just need to see pictures with it all decorated.

kristenlotz

Mon, 12/31/2012 - 14:42

I finally got around to making the plans for our entertainment center (well, actually my husband did it). It is very similar to yours with a few exceptions. Hopefully that helps those looking for plans for this beautiful entertainment center. I love finding brag posts of similar entertainment centers because they are absolutely beautiful at a fraction of the cost of buying one. And we love telling people that we built it!

http://www.jrlwoodworking.com/2012/12/furniture-plans-custom-entertainm…

Thanks,

Panel bed king

Needing a new bed frame because we upgraded our mattress to a king size. Looking for something simple and inexpensive. We came across this plan and loved the outcome!!!!!

Built from Plan(s)
Simple Panel Bed (All Mattress Sizes) - No Pocket Holes
Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax Early american
Matte black for the border
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Small End Table from 2X4's

Submitted by jbknakal on Sun, 04/10/2016 - 11:55

I made a smaller version of the Tryde End Table with Shelf. I made 2 of them from 6 2X4's

Built from Plan(s)
Tryde End Table with Shelf - Updated Pocket Hole Plans
Estimated Cost
$30
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Black Paint
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

BBQ caddy

Submitted by Milhouse on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 22:59

I had some pallet wood laying around and felt like taking on a small project. The boards were warped, but after fighting with them a bit, it turned out well. I was going for the reclaimed, rustic look anyhow :) I find it a little heavy to actually use as a caddy, so it's more for decoration. I think I might plant a few herbs in it, for a little portable herb garden.

Built from Plan(s)
Reclaimed Soda Crate Caddy
Estimated Cost
Free - made from scraps
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
I stained it with Minwax Jacobean, but it turned out super dark. So I dry brushed some white paint over it, and it turned out 'old and reclaimed' looking!
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

handystanley

Mon, 06/18/2012 - 13:26

How many times do you go outside to eat and have to carry everything awkwardly. This is a great idea...I love the rustic look!! Great idea on how to finish it.

Workbench

Submitted by sawd1216 on Sat, 12/28/2019 - 15:18

Tried this project to inspire my woodworking. My hats off to Ana for these detailed plan. So enjoyed putting it together and creating something that will trigger other projects. Mounting the table saw was a trick but I finally figured it out. 

Built from Plan(s)
Ultimate Roll Away Workbench with Miter Saw Stand
Estimated Cost
350
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Easy to Build Workbench

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 09/06/2023 - 09:09

I was wanting a work bench for my outside shed to work on occasionally and help keep organized. This is the first piece of furniture I have built totally on my own! The plan was easy. I sized it down a little with no problem. I'm a little off on a couple of the cuts but will practice more! Overall, thrilled and extremely proud of it!

Lori B

Built from Plan(s)
Easy DIY Garage Workshop Workbench

DIY Wooden Cooler Stand - Vintage Look

Got this idea from the blue cooler project - but decided to deck it out with vintage trimmings. Everyone who has seen it loves it! Very fun project.

Estimated Cost
70.00
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax Summer Oak - followed with polycryllc and johnson's furniture wax.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

DIY everything

Tue, 02/04/2014 - 21:32

I'm in the process of building one out of this plan too except I'm trying to use pallet wood. I love how your cooler turned out so I hope you don't mind that I use the same Coke sign. Awesome job!

MY version 18 inch doll horse stable

This is my version of the horse stable. I used wood I had laying around in the shop. As a result I tweeked the plans slightly. I use 1x material for the roof and floor. This made is  much stronger. I put stops in for the door added hook and eye latch and toped it with gree and brown paint. My Granddaughter loved it.

Built from Plan(s)
Horse Stables for American Girl or 18" Dolls
Estimated Cost
45
Finish Used
spray paint
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Pergola Project

Thank you for the plans! They were easy to follow and my girlfriend and I are very happy how the pergola turned out. I used the 2x6's and 2x4's due to being in Nebraska with heavy snow and high winds often to give it more durability. I can't wait to start on the sectional. Total cost was about 350 dollars...so cheap in comparison to what they sell for.

Built from Plan(s)
Weatherly Pergola
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Jade (not verified)

Fri, 05/11/2012 - 14:43

love this

taylorgdaddy

Sat, 05/12/2012 - 05:22

Thank you Ana, I have had multiple people say it looks like it is on fire...hilarious :) We will be adding outdoor fabric over the top for shade and gathering outdoor curtains on the posts. Will take another pic when that is complete. This site is awesome and I will continue to support you as much as I am able.

Thanks for the comment Jade!

lipstickandsawdust

Sun, 05/13/2012 - 06:03

Very nice Pergola, the color is perfect and the construction rocks! This is on my list of to- do projects for my mom. I have not really made any "outdoor" projects yet. So, I'll keep getting my feet wet with indoor projects.

taylorgdaddy

Thu, 05/17/2012 - 08:31

Thank you lipstickandsawdust! I can send the other plans that I combined with Ana's which showed how to do the cut out notches if you like this construction better. Have a great weekend.

Forrest (not verified)

Tue, 08/28/2012 - 09:24

You mentioned that you combined another set of plans when it came to cutting the notches. That's one of the hang ups I have getting started is that I'm not sure how best to do that. What did you do? The pergola looks great!

jdlemmons

Thu, 05/17/2012 - 11:45

My husband is DYING to have a pergola. I showed him the plans and he is down to build and is really excited for it! That's our next project as soon as I finish our bed (haha!). Did you paint or stain this?

taylorgdaddy

Sat, 05/19/2012 - 05:01

I is the Behr weatherproof stain and the color was "coffee". It took two gallons which was two coats. Post pics when your husband is done I would like to see them. Good luck with the bed.

YankeeBelle

Fri, 05/25/2012 - 18:54

Great job! I want to build one too! The original plans say advanced, but on this post it says beginner.....watcha think? Can I do it? (so far I've made a picture frame and framed out some trimwork). Thanks for posting....btw, I love the twinkle lights!

slee (not verified)

Wed, 06/27/2012 - 17:00

You did an awesome job! I'll be showing my husband these pics and hopefully they will inspire him to make us one too! I'd love your modifications to the plans also since we have heavy snow etc.. up here in Quebec too. Thanks for sharing!

jeremy bales (not verified)

Thu, 09/20/2012 - 06:47

Im trying to build a 10x10 just like this but im trying to figure out exactly what wood dimensions I should order before i do. Im going to use cedar and I know i want to use 6x6 posts and I want to use 2x6 on top like yours but i cant figure out what exactgly I need to order. My wife wants me to do the decorative around the posts as well.
Please help!

sully82384

Sun, 04/28/2013 - 11:27

Hi I was hoping you would share your plans with me I live in oregon I wanna make one of these but I plan on using 12 ft 4x4 posts putting them 3 ft in the ground and I like the way you used 2x4's and 2x6's id like to know the dimensions you used if you modified anas plan what was your spacing and what degree did you cut the outside piece's on the 2x4's and 2x6's I love the design you created from anas plan

Fat Tire Bike Stand

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 10/29/2023 - 19:03

Fatbike rack! Ten minute project for the beginner. Heavy enough to keep your bike standing upright even in windy conditions. Great if you are short on space.
(2) 14" treated 2x4
(2) 28" fence posts
(8) 3 1/2" outdoor screws
6" space between the fence posts
Alter width, if needed, for your bike tire.
No part of the bike hits the wood except the tire.'

Deanna Peterson

Pool Steps & Safety Gate

Needed a safety gate and steps to get into the pool. Even provided shelter for the pump and filter.

Estimated Cost
$100
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
None
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Shoe Dresser

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 06/07/2016 - 16:29

Made tis twice. First one was a mess, Bought more wood and started over aware of problem areas and built more carefully second time.

Blog Link
Shoe Dresser
Built from Plan(s)
Shoe Dresser
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Paint
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

American Girl Doll Storage and Bed

Submitted by advanlente on Sat, 03/28/2020 - 11:09

For my niece's birthday, I built her this awesome storage solution. Mom was super happy that everything could fit together in one spot and my niece takes this with her wherever she goes. I was so happy to find plans to build this as I was not sure what to make her for her birthday!

Built from Plan(s)
Doll Closet - Folding 18 Inch Doll Furniture Storage Trunk with Bed
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)

Comments

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