First-time DIY customer standing proudly beside a completed Murphy bed with built-in shelving

Can You Build a Murphy Bed If You’re Not an Expert DIYer?

May 21, 2026

One of the most common questions homeowners ask before starting a Murphy bed project is:

Can You Build a Murphy Bed If You’re Not an Expert DIYer?

“The honest answer is: Yes.”

Most people can successfully build a Murphy bed if they are patient, willing to follow instructions, and comfortable using basic tools.

You do not need to be:

  • A professional carpenter
  • A cabinet maker
  • Or an advanced woodworking expert

In fact, many first-time builders start with little to no furniture-building experience and still complete the project successfully using a guided system. 

That’s exactly why the approach from Easy DIY Murphy Bed is designed around what we call the DIY Confidence System, a complete support structure, not just hardware.

A first-time DIYer assembling a Murphy bed frame in a clean home workspace or spare bedroom.

The DIY Confidence System: Why Beginners Actually Succeed

Most people assume a Murphy bed is a complicated woodworking project. But the truth is, success comes down to having the right system, not advanced skill. That’s why Easy DIY Murphy Bed provides more than just Murphy Bed Hardware Kits.

Every project is supported by our Murphy Bed Hardware Kits, step-by-step instructional videos, and downloadable construction guides, including:

  • Professional-grade Murphy bed hardware
  • Detailed construction plans
  • Step-by-step instructional videos
  • Customer support during your build

Instead of figuring everything out yourself, you’re following a proven guided process designed specifically for beginners.

The Biggest Misunderstanding About Murphy Beds

Many people assume a Murphy bed project is:

  • A complex custom cabinetry build
  • Something only professionals can handle
  • An advanced woodworking challenge

But in reality, most Murphy bed projects are primarily a step-by-step assembly process.

A finished Murphy bed has two major components: The cabinet and the bed frame

The bed frame works together with the hardware system to allow smooth lifting and lowering. While the project includes multiple individual pieces, they are assembled step by step into a fully functional Murphy bed.

For many homeowners asking, “Is it hard to build a Murphy bed?”, the answer often depends more on patience and organization than woodworking expertise.

The real keys to success are:

  • Taking your time
  • Following the instructions carefully
  • Measuring accurately
  • Avoiding unnecessary rushing
Easy DIY Murphy Bed hardware kit with gas pistons

Exploded diagram or labeled layout showing the separate Murphy bed components before assembly. 

Why DIY Murphy Beds Are Easier Than Many People Think

Many homeowners are surprised by how manageable the project becomes once they see the step-by-step plans and videos. If you’d like to preview the process before purchasing, download our free Murphy Bed Construction Guide.

One reason many homeowners feel intimidated is because they assume they need advanced workshop equipment or years of woodworking experience.

The truth is, a DIY Murphy bed for beginners is very achievable when using a quality Murphy bed hardware kit paired with detailed instructions and support resources.

Beginner ConcernReality
Need advanced woodworking skillsNo
Need a professional workshopNo
Need a table sawNo
Need a cabinet makerNo
Need patience and accurate measuringYes
Need a proven hardware systemYes

 

Still unsure whether this project is right for you? Download our free Murphy Bed Construction Guide and see exactly how the process works before you buy 

Most beginners succeed because modern hardware kits simplify much of the engineering and lifting system required for the project. Instead of designing complicated mechanisms from scratch, homeowners simply follow a proven system step by step.

1. What Tools Do You Actually Need?

Most customers already own many of the required tools.

Basic tools typically include:

  • Cordless drill/driver
  • Measuring tape
  • Framing square
  • Drill bits and screwdriver bits
  • Wood clamps (recommended)

You do not need a professional woodworking shop to complete the project.

2. Do You Need a Table Saw?

No. This is one of the biggest concerns beginners have when researching Can You Build a Murphy Bed If You’re Not an Expert DIYer. Many homeowners never cut the wood themselves.

Instead, they:

  • Purchase plywood or melamine sheets
  • Bring the cut list to Home Depot or a local lumber supplier
  • Have the pieces professionally cut before assembly

This removes one of the biggest barriers for beginner DIYers and makes the project significantly less intimidating

Home Depot employee cutting birch plywood sheets for a DIY Murphy bed project using Easy DIY Murphy Bed construction plans

Employee at a lumber store cutting plywood sheets for a customer using a panel saw. 

3. How Long Does It Really Take?

A typical Murphy bed project usually takes around:

20 total hours

Experienced builders who have completed several projects may finish in as little as 8 hours. However, beginners often prefer a slower and more comfortable pace.

Many first-time builders choose to work:

  • 1–2 hours per day
  • Over the course of a couple of weeks
  • One step at a time

This approach often reduces stress, improves accuracy, and helps beginners build confidence throughout the project.

4. What Is the Hardest Part?

Most people assume cutting the wood is the hardest part. In reality, the most important part is measuring and drilling accurately. Once the parts are prepared correctly, the remaining assembly process becomes much easier.

Many homeowners are surprised that:

  • The bed frame assembly
  • Cabinet installation
  • Final setup process

go much smoother than they originally expected.

Common Beginner Fears (And the Truth)

1. What if I make a mistake?

Most mistakes are fixable. Careful measuring and following instructions prevents most issues.

The best way to avoid problems is to:

  • Double-check measurements
  • Follow the instructions carefully
  • Avoid rushing the process

Remember, even experienced DIYers occasionally make small adjustments during projects.

2. What if I’m not good with tools?

You do not need advanced woodworking skills.

If you can:

  • Measure accurately
  • Drill holes
  • Install screws and hardware accurately
  • Follow instructions

You can usually complete the project successfully.

This is why so many people searching “Can beginners build a Murphy bed?” discover the answer is absolutely yes.

3. What if the bed is too heavy?

Murphy beds are designed with piston or spring systems that help balance the mattress weight. When installed correctly, the lifting process feels controlled, smooth, and manageable.

A quality Murphy bed hardware kit plays a major role in ensuring the bed operates safely and efficiently.

 Beginner DIYer reviewing Murphy bed plans and measuring plywood in a garage workshop before starting construction<br />

A beginner DIYer looking slightly unsure while carefully measuring or drilling a wooden panel, reviewing instructions nearby before proceeding.

4. What Helps Beginners Succeed?

From our experience, successful builds usually come from homeowners who:

  • Take their time
  • Watch the instructional videos
  • Follow the steps carefully
  • Ask questions when needed

The people who struggle the most are typically the ones who:

  • Rush the process
  • Skip important steps
  • Ignore the instructions

If you’re not an expert DIYer, success usually comes down to patience and preparation — not advanced skill.

Why Many Homeowners Choose DIY Murphy Beds

For many people, building a Murphy bed is about more than simply saving space.

It’s also about:

  • Saving money
  • Customizing the design
  • Learning a new skill
  • Creating something they are proud of

A DIY Murphy bed for beginners can often cost far less than:

  • Custom cabinetry
  • Prebuilt Murphy beds
  • Hidden wall bed systems

For many homeowners, the project becomes a rewarding experience that combines practical functionality with the satisfaction of building something themselves.

Real Customer Feedback

Tens of thousands of DIYers across North America have used Easy DIY Murphy Bed hardware systems and step-by-step instructions to build custom Murphy beds with confidence. Many customers begin the project with little or no woodworking experience and are surprised by how manageable the process becomes with the right guidance and support.

  • “I had very little woodworking experience before starting this project. The instructions, videos, and hardware kit made the entire process much easier than I expected.”
  • “I was nervous at first, but after completing the first few steps, my confidence grew quickly. The step-by-step videos were incredibly helpful, and customer support answered my questions along the way.”
  • “What impressed me most was how organized the system was. Having the plans, videos, and hardware all working together made the project feel much less intimidating.”

Realistic Expectations Matter

Building a Murphy bed is still a real DIY project.

It requires:

  • Planning
  • Patience
  • Attention to detail

However, for homeowners asking Can You Build a Murphy Bed If You’re Not an Expert DIYer?, the answer is still yes for most people willing to work carefully through the process.

You do not need perfection. You simply need patience more than expertise.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been wondering, Is it hard to build a Murphy bed?, you are definitely not alone. Most beginners feel uncertain at first.

But once they:

  • Start the project
  • Complete a few steps
  • See visible progress

Their confidence grows quickly. The goal is not speed. The goal is to:

  • Follow the process carefully
  • Build with confidence
  • Finish with a Murphy bed you are proud of

At Easy DIY Murphy Bed, many homeowners discover that building a Murphy bed is far more achievable than they originally expected — especially with the right hardware kit, clear instructions, and step-by-step support.

For many people, the experience becomes not only practical, but genuinely rewarding.

Ready to Start Your Murphy Bed Project?

Explore our beginner-friendly Murphy Bed Hardware Kits , downloadable construction guides, instructional videos, and support resources designed to help real homeowners build confidently — even if it’s your very first DIY furniture project.

Download our free Murphy Bed Construction Guide and see exactly how the project works before you buy. It is the easiest way to determine whether this project is right for you. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Build a Murphy Bed If You’re Not an Expert DIYer?

Yes, most homeowners can build a Murphy bed successfully with basic tools, careful measuring, and step-by-step instructions. You do not need professional woodworking experience to complete the project.

How long does it take to build a Murphy bed?

Most DIY Murphy bed projects take around 15–20 hours in total. Beginners often complete the project over several days or weekends to reduce stress and avoid mistakes.

What is the hardest part of building a Murphy bed?

The most important part is accurate measuring and drilling. Once the pieces are prepared correctly, the assembly process becomes much easier.

Is a Murphy bed hardware kit worth it?

Yes. A Murphy bed hardware kit simplifies the lifting mechanism, improves safety, and makes the entire project much easier for beginners.

Can one person build a Murphy bed alone?

Some parts of the project can be completed alone, but having an extra person helps during cabinet assembly, lifting, and final installation.