How to Build a Headboard and Footboard from Bifold Doors

Maybe you've noticed something as you head in to plunk down on your pillow-top each night: Your bed's just a gussied-up mattress, and it's making the whole room look neglected. Well, with a trip to the home center for some ready-made parts, plus a few basic tools of your own, you can give it a proper framework. This Old House general contractor Tom Silva assembled the handsome head- and footboard shown here in just a day, using paneled bifold doors and stock molding. "Using off-the-shelf products makes this project easy," says Tom. "The basic woodworking is done for you." Read on to learn how to build a bed like this one, customized to your taste and space.