How to build a fire truck loft bed. Free step by step plans to build a fire engine loft bed.

Preparation
2 - sheets 3/4" plywood or MDF
4 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long
16 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long (does not include slats)
8 - 1x4 @ 8 feet long
2 - 1x6 @ 8 feet long
1 - 2x2 @ 4 feet long (add two more for 2x2 cleats for slats)
1 - 1x10 @ 6 feet long
3" bolts for bolting bed together
FRONT WALL
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 6
Step 7
Step 8
Step 9
Step 10
Step 11
Step 13
Step 15
Step 16
Make sure the ladder support is square all the way up to the side legs.
Step 17
Add trim and railings.
NOTE: you can also fill in railing spaces with 1x3 scraps.
Step 18
Build ladder as shown and attach to trim with screws or bolts.
Step 19
Now we have moved to the back wall. Attach railings and base trim to the legs. Take a diagonal and make sure your back wall is square.
For heavier loads, consider adding an additional leg down the center.
Step 20
Now the bed is ready for construction. You can do this in the room ... after you have painted. I recommend bolting legs together for the easiest assembly/disassembly.
Step 21
Attach cleats (use 2x2s with 2" screws and glue for more "meat" to screw the slats down) evenly and then your mattress support system.
Step 22
By this time, building the bucket is going to be a no brainer!
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
Comments
Caroline88 (not verified)
Mon, 03/05/2012 - 11:03
Shame on us. Ana you have
Shame on us.
Ana you have helped so many people, are taking on the craziest DIY project of all in the Momplex and you are in last place for best DIY blog. We can do better. Just signed up for an account to vote for you, it is the least I can do fir all you have done for me.
Cate888 (not verified)
Mon, 03/05/2012 - 11:32
Vote everyone!!
Come on everyone, Ana deserves many, many votes!!
jcmcclure77
Mon, 03/05/2012 - 11:38
Thank you!
Ana, thanks again for putting the plans together. Excited that others can build a even better version of the one I built. Of course, if anyone has any questions all they have to do is contact me. Contact information is on the blog.
Good luck!
Jeff
heather moxley (not verified)
Tue, 11/20/2012 - 16:59
fire truck bed
what size nails do you use? please email me if you would heathermoxley@yahoo.com thanks
aimee4775
Sat, 01/31/2015 - 15:38
full size
I was wondering if this could be converted for a full size bed? and what would I need to change to accomplish that?
Heidi Gorton-Rigazzi
Wed, 09/21/2016 - 16:41
Bunk bed possibility?
Hello,
I am in awe of your and Ana's amazing work on the fire engine beds. I would love to make one of these for my boys. Do you have any suggestions on how best to convert these plans into a twin over twin bunk bed instead of a loft bed?
Thank you so much!
Kind Regards,
Heidi
Guest (not verified)
Mon, 03/12/2012 - 06:26
Is this a twin bed size bed?
Is this a twin bed size bed? And will it fit through doors in a house?
Sea Story (not verified)
Mon, 03/19/2012 - 18:20
fire truck loft bed with ladder
Great plans up to step 17, then the drawings stop. Where are the drawings for the remaining steps? Step 18 says "build ladder as shown" but nothing is "shown." I love the bed and want to get it done ASAP. Please fill in the blanks after step 17, or point me in the direction to find them and finish it off. thanks!
Ana White
Mon, 03/19/2012 - 18:39
Sorry about the problem with
Sorry about the problem with images - not sure what happened. I am fixing right now.
Sea Story (not verified)
Mon, 03/19/2012 - 22:27
That was QUICK!!! Thanks for
That was QUICK!!! Thanks for the help