If you have been contemplating building a bed you might feel a little overwhelmed. We can't say it won't be a challenge, but we can say that it is a very rewarding process that will bolster your woodworking skills for many more projects going forward. 

We are writing this with the assumption that you have some basic power tools and some basic knowledge. If you are new to woodworking the article in this link should provide some great help (Beginner woodworking setups).  

Step 1. Picking The Correct Lumber

Use lumber that has a moisture content that is below 9%. This will ensure that your bed doesn't warp over time. 

When building your side rails it pays to pick boards that are as straight as possible this will make the milling process much easier. If you don't have the capacity to work with lumber that is the length needed, you can check with your local hardwood lumber supplier and see if they can mill the boards to the sizes needed. If they are unable to cut and mill the boards for you, they should have a roster of customers that would be happy to help. 

Step 2. Joinery

The joints you use to build your headboard and footboard don't need to be over thought. There are many different joinery methods available (Common joinery methods). The best joinery method is the one you are most comfortable using. 

Our favorite method is mortise and tenon, however at the end of the day use whatever method you feel comfortable using and don't let the neigh sayers discredit your build because of the method you used.  Everyone has their preference and everyone thinks their preference is superior, but at the end of the day they all can be used and there is no shame in one versus the other. 

Step 3. Connecting the side rails

Using quality bed hardware to connect your side rails to your head and foot board will ensure that squeaks and movement is kept to a minimum. The weakest point of every bed is where the bed rails connect to the headboards and foot board. We have all spent the night in a bed that creaks every time you twist or turn. Using a well designed metal bed bracket will add the strength to your bed that should eliminate any movement or creaks.

These are simple steps, however they will get you along way. If there was one more piece of advice it would be that you just need to jump in and start. It is good to have knowledge, but knowledge without action won't serve you well.