I did a lot of DIY projects these last few weeks since we are all advised to stay at home. Just last week, I was able to do a lot for my kitchen and now I'm thinking of making an outdoor daybed for our backyard.
I got this idea a few months back when I went to my friend's house and saw her beautiful looking daybed right by their swimming pool. Now that I have more time at home, I thought it's the perfect moment to do it. I'm quite the handy(wo)man so I thought I should build one myself.
So I did my research online and would you believe it would only cost $200 to make? Here's how.
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DIY Outdoor Daybed Project to Do While on Home Quarantine
Getting Started on Your DIY Outdoor Daybed Project
Before I began the project, I asked my husband if she could help me with this project. Sure, this project is simple but I couldn't do the heavy lifting by myself. Plus, two heads are better than one, right? The great thing I have all the lumber needed at home so we were able to start with the project immediately.
For the mattress, I have an extra queen-sized mattress lying in our basement. It may be banged up but still serves its purpose.
Materials Needed:
- 4 4×4 lumber (which will serve as the posts)
- 2 2×2 lumber (to be used as cleats)
- 8 long 2×4 lumber
- 4 short 2×4 lumber
- 6 1×6 lumber
- 7 1×4 lumber
- Angle brackets
- All-weather bases and caps for the 4×4 posts
- Wood glue
- Exterior screws
- Drill
- Mattress
Step 1: Install the Bases and Caps
Place the caps and bases to prevent the bottom of the posts from rotting whenever it rains. This is totally optional but very important if you plan to place the bed on the grass and in an open space to protect the wood.
Before we begin to assemble, it is crucial to do this first since the daybed will be difficult to move around once we get to attach everything into place.
Step 2: Lay the Foundation
Start by attaching the two 2×2 on top of the 2×4 side frames using exterior screws. It should form a right angle because that's where the slats will be drilled to later on. Make sure everything is symmetrical so the mattress can fit in perfectly.
So why buy eight long 2x4s? Four will be used for the backrest and the other two are for the pergola provision. Set aside the two frames you just did as we're going to connect the left and right side of the post.
Step 3: Assemble the Sides
Here's where the four short 2x4s come in. We'll use it to connect each post. The bottom one should be a bit higher while the one on top could be two inches away from the cap.
Here's where the extra set of hands come in handy. Now, bring out the two long 2x4s and connect it to the newly combined posts. Use the angle brackets for this.
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Step 4: Install the Mattress Support
Now that all posts are connected with the front and back frame, you can now drill eight of the 1x4s to the slats of said frame. Just drill the screws in the middle for stability. Make sure it has an even gap since you don't want your mattress to feel uneven when you lay on it.
Step 5: Add the Backrest
This should be easy provided our daybed is already sturdy at this point. Just use the remaining 2x4s and drill it to the posts at the back. Make sure the gaps are even, too! We're almost done!
Step 6: Install the Pergola
If you're putting this daybed right under the roof of your house, then you may skip this step. But since I'm already at it, I want this daybed to be ready for any weather.
Create a pergola if you need to create a shade for when you're on your daybed. This is where you can hang a blanket if you need shade. Here's where you can use the remaining 1x4s. Just like that, you have your very own daybed!
But wait, there are more ways you can improve this project. Read on.
Finishing Touches
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Just like me, it will be great if you have an extra mattress lying around your house. Check your basement. You can use it instead of buying a new one that will cost you $100 or more.
To further fortify the daybed, I recommend spraying some outdoor waterproof stain/sealant spray on it. It took me around four cans to cover the entire thing. For a more stylish finish, you can apply paint or coat it with varnish.
Now that the project is finished, bring out some of your pillows and blanket and enjoy the fruits of your labor!
So, there you have it! Why spend more when all you need are the right tools, materials, and an extra set of hands. Now, I have a new spot at home where I can relax, read my book, and spend time while we wait for the pandemic to die down.
Check out this outdoor daybed tutorial by Shanty2chic which helped me a lot completing this project:
This simple DIY outdoor daybed project can be done in your backyard or in your garage with the help of anyone who is with you inside your household. It's a very productive way to spend the time while you're in quarantine.
What other DIY projects have you done at home during the past few weeks? Show it to us in the comment section provided below!
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