This is in part a closer look at what’s already outlined in Volume 1 of the manual, “Making a Bunk Bed.”
When first starting out we recommended purchasing your wood through a local building supply or home improvement company.
The SPF (Spruce/Pine/Fir) 2×6 and 2×4 dimensional lumber is predominantly what you’ll be using. Hand pick each board, the dry straight ones, not the ones that are cupped, bowed twisted, etc. Look lengthwise down the edges and sides of the lumber. If the wood is bowed, crooked, twisted, etc. put them to the side and place them back with the others before you leave.
If it looks like any of the ones in the sketch below do not purchase them, unless perhaps if the material has slight checking on the ends that could be cut off.
Have a look at the photo below. This material is ideal; it has fewer knots, and is straight and dry with little to no checking, twisting, bowing, etc.
The material in the photo above is indeed ideal, even still, if you look closely you’ll see minor imperfections on the ends. As a rule of thumb, never use the factory ends. Measure in as needed and make a clean straight cut as pictured below.
Selecting the nice straight boards up front and following these simple tips will save you lots of time in the building of the beds. Remember, think on your feet, and use the talents you have to the best of your abilities.
