DIY Bed Fort

One of the most joyful things in life is observing the magic unfold beneath a homemade fort. Whether it's made of old cardboard boxes or built around a makeshift frame with bed linens, cozy nooks & spaces are the perfect way to unleash a child's imagination. One of the most difficult things, however, is to reconcile the eventual need to break down the fort when all is said and done. So when Zappos asked me to create a cozy corner with their latest assortment of sheets, blankets, quilts and throws, I immediately knew I wanted to experiment with creating a rebuildable structure. PVC piping seemed to be the most practical material choice as it's lightweight and easy to disassemble and store. I designed the fort to fit around a twin-sized mattress to accommodate playdates and daytime naps. Needless to say, it was a an absolute hit.

You'll Need:

3/4" PVC piping (total length 68' minimum)

  • a. (1) 77" length
  • b. (9) 35" length
  • c. (6) 41" length
  • d. (4) 29" length
  • e. (4) 12" length
  • g. (8) 1.5" length

3/4" PVC joints (no threads)

PVC pipe cutter

3/4" snap clamps

PVC glue (optional)

bed sheets and quilts

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Start by cutting all the PVC pipes to their appropriate sizes. Measure, mark and cut using the PVC cutter. I recommend labeling each end of the pipes to corresponding letters provided. It makes assembly much easier!

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Processed with VSCO with l5 preset
Processed with VSCO with l5 preset

The lower case letters represent the PVC pipes and the upper case letters represent the joints. All sizes and quantities are above in the supply list.

fort

The only complicated parts are the 4 points where you will have multiple joints connected. This is where the shape of the roof is formed using 3 joints at each corner, as well as those little 1.5" pieces (f). The 1.5" (f) pieces will allow you to connect the joints together. For example, if the diagram says CBA, it means pipe b will connect with A. Then use pipe f as a connector between A and B.

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Processed with VSCO with l5 preset
Processed with VSCO with l5 preset

Then add another connector (pipe f) followed by C and then pipe d. If you would like to be able to dissemble the fort and reassemble it later, I recommend at least glueing these three joints together so you're not having to pack and unpack all those little pieces. Ultimately, the frame should look like this.

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Processed with VSCO with l5 preset
Processed with VSCO with l5 preset
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Processed with VSCO with ka1 preset
Processed with VSCO with ka1 preset
Processed with VSCO with ka1 preset
Processed with VSCO with ka1 preset
Processed with VSCO with ka1 preset
Processed with VSCO with ka1 preset
Processed with VSCO with ka1 preset

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17 Comments

  1. Martine wrote:

    Lovely as always ❀️ Would you share info on that wonderful lamp?
    Thank you!

    11.29.21
    Reply
  2. Ting wrote:

    Wow I love this! A great rainy day project πŸ™‚ I recently made several daisy chain necklaces from your site, I might try this project next!

    1.8.22
    Reply
  3. abbey wrote:

    I love this idea for my daughter who is ready to move up from a toddler bed! Can you give me some info on the setup for the mattress? Is it just on the floor or on a box spring or frame?

    1.11.22
    Reply
  4. Alexandra wrote:

    Love this article! Im gonna try these tips
    Thanks and keep sharing great content.

    Alexandra
    Hijab-style.com

    1.12.22
    Reply
  5. Meg wrote:

    *Priority comment*

    You guys are amazing.

    That’s all. Carry on.

    7.1.22
    Reply
  6. Love all this personalized decor! Always love decorating bed

    8.4.22
    Reply
  7. Mercedes wrote:

    this is a great idea! btw, would you mind sharing where that amazing wallpaper is from?
    Thanks! Mercedes

    8.11.22
    Reply
  8. Cassi wrote:

    Oh my goodness this is so fun, I absolutely love it!! Thanks so much for sharing πŸ™‚

    1.7.23
    Reply
  9. logibrisk wrote:

    this is cool i like it.

    1.12.23
    Reply
  10. this is a good for the every one.

    1.13.23
    Reply
  11. Fantastic idea! By the way, would you kindly share the source of that incredible wallpaper? Many thanks! – Mercedes

    5.24.23
    Reply
  12. Great post!

    6.20.23
    Reply
  13. I love it!! What a cute idea! Definitely save this for this fall room design ideas!

    8.21.23
    Reply
  14. Creating a DIY bed fort is not just a playful activity but a profound metaphor for the sanctuary provided by LifeChoice Hospice, a part of MyLifeChoice. This engaging project can transform a simple space into a comforting haven, much like the care and support LifeChoice offers to individuals with serious illnesses, ensuring they live their remaining months in comfort, managing pain and symptoms. Building a bed fort involves imagination, care, and a sense of security, reflecting the hospice’s approach to care, where comfort, dignity, and personal preferences are prioritized. Just as a bed fort becomes a cherished place of safety and joy for children and families, LifeChoice Hospice creates a compassionate environment where patients and their families find peace and solace. This parallel between a creative, loving space and the compassionate, supportive care provided by LifeChoice underscores the importance of nurturing environments in enhancing the quality of life, whether through a simple, heartfelt project at home or through the comprehensive care for those facing life’s final journey

    3.14.24
    Reply
  15. Sarah wrote:

    I recommend at least gluing these three joints together so you’re not having to pack and unpack all those little pieces. Ultimately, the frame should look like. Catio

    4.12.24
    Reply
  16. Emil A. wrote:

    I would add catio ideas to the list of projects to try out for all lovers of cats and DIY ideas out there! It’s just as fun as bed forts but a bit more sustainable.

    4.13.24
    Reply