

However, since this is a toddler bed, I kept the rounded corners on the boards to avoid having sharp edges. Normally, when working with construction lumber, I like to make my joints a little cleaner by removing the rounded over edges on the boards ( like in this tutorial). It’s best to cut these to fit as the sizing will vary slightly based on whether you are using actual 2x3s (which are 2 ½″ wide) or 2″ wide pieces ripped from a 2×4. In the last step, you will add these “2x3s” along the top to trim out the top edge. Whether you make your own or purchase them precut, the project is the same except for the last step. Instead of using precut 2x2s and 2x3s in my project, I opted to rip a few 2x4s into a 1 ½″ wide piece (which is the equivalent of a 2×2) and a 2″ wide piece (which is ALMOST the equivalent of a 2×3).
#Toddler floor bed with rails diy install
Another option is to install solid panels on the INSIDE of the bed behind the dowels to leave the look of the dowels, but create solid sides. If you want to change the spacing in the plans below to match the standard, it’s a matter of simply changing the spacing between your marks where you will drill the dowel holes. I encourage you to do what you are comfortable doing and add more rails if in doubt. However, if you prefer to stick to the standards, please take note to do your own research before building your own as these “industry standards” are always subject to change. And since this particular project was built for an older toddler, the spacing for the rails used here are adequate for his larger size. The great thing about building it yourself is that you can customize it however you wish. So, please be aware, the standards are not followed in this plan.

However, since this isn’t a “crib” for a baby, but is a bed specifically made for an older child, I’m not sure the standards apply in this case. There are “industry standards” for rail spacing for cribs in certain countries.
