How to Build a Futon Couch

Drill holes 1 inch from the end of the 2-by-4 boards large enough to slide the bolts through the holes. Four boards need only one hole each and the remaining two boards need one hole on each end. Smooth the drilled holes with sandpaper to get rid of slivers.

Place the two boards with holes in each end on a level work area on the 2-inch side. Space the boards 30 inches apart. Screw a 1-by-3 board 3 inches from the end of the 2-by-4s with an electric screwdriver. Do this at the other end of the two boards, and then screw two more boards an equal distance between the end boards. This center piece should resemble a train track. Move the center piece to the side.

Place two more 2-by-4s on their 2-inch sides spaced 26 inches apart. Make sure the holes are both on the same side. Screw the first 1-by-3 board to the 2-by-4s at 3 inches from the end with the holes. Attach the next 1-by-3 board to the other end of the 2-by-4s, but line the edges up. Only one side of the end panel will have the 3-inch end. Screw three more boards between the end 1-by-3 boards. Make one more end panel to match this one.

Place the center panel on the floor and set the end panels on either end of the center panel. Line up the holes in the 2-by-4 boards. Fill the small gap between the holes with washers and push the 5-inch bolt through the first hole, washers and the last hole. Thread a nut onto the end of the bolt. Bolt the other ends together. Lay the futon mattress on the frame and push it into couch position.