How to Build a Slide for a Child's Bed
- 1). Measure and cut a 45-degree segment from each end of two of the 2-by-4s. The miter saw is designed to help make angled cuts. These cutouts will allow the slide to rest flush against both the bed frame and the floor while maintaining a comfortable angle. Both cuts need to be made on the same side of the lumber.
- 2). Measure out 2-foot sections onto the remaining pieces of lumber and cut them out. There should be eight sections (four on each board) that will form the crossbeams of the slide.
- 3). Divide the long frame into eight sections starting at the end of the 45-degree cutouts. Apply a small amount of wood glue to the end of one of the crossbeams and line it up with one of the marks. The crossbeam should be flush with the bottom edge of the frame and lay flat (2 inches tall and 4 inches wide). Clamp the crossbeam in place to secure it.
- 4). Hammer the crossbeam to the long frame using nails that are at least 3 inches long. The nails should extend through the outer edge of the frame and into the crossbeam. Use two or three nails per crossbeam. Remove the clamp. Repeat this process until all eight of the crossbeams are attached to one of the long frames.
- 5). Lay out the already constructed structure so that the long frame is on the floor with the crossbeams extending upwards. Apply wood glue to the end of each of the crossbeams and lay the other long frame on top. Check to make sure that it's even with the first long frame. Nail the long frame to the crossbeams the same as before.
- 6). Set down the slide frame so that the crossbeams rest against the floor. Lay the metal sheeting onto the frame. Bend the excess sheeting at the ends around the crossbeams and nail it into place. Nail the sheeting to the crossbeams using two or three 1.5-inch nails for each crossbeam.
- 7). Sand the edges of the wooden frame to ensure that it's smooth to the touch. Paint the wood a color that matches the bedroom's décor.
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