An iron bed is an item that can add special luxury and chic to the interior. Smooth metal curves will add aesthetics to the bedroom.
An iron bed is an item that can add special luxury and chic to the interior.
A person spends a third of his life sleeping. A good night's rest is the key to daytime activity, the quality of which can only be ensured by a comfortable bed.
Smooth metal curves will add aesthetics to the bedroom.
Furniture stores present a wide range of choices for such a necessary piece of furniture. But it is not always possible to choose exactly what you need based on all parameters. In this case, the question arises of independent production of such an important piece of furniture.
A good night's rest is the key to daytime activity, the quality of which can only be ensured by a comfortable bed.
Difficulties at work
Making an iron bed is a responsible, labor-intensive and complex process. Is it easy to make it yourself? Everyone decides for themselves based on their capabilities and skills. Some knowledge is required. Replenishment of this knowledge. Creative attitude. You need to start small - get lessons from an experienced blacksmith, or ask for help from someone knowledgeable in this matter. Because there is a high probability of doing something wrong. Trying to create it yourself is an easier option. In addition, you must have at least the simplest necessary equipment. The main difficulty lies in the preparation of components and their processing. All the necessary diagrams can be taken from the Internet. The main thing is a little patience and self-confidence.
But it is not always possible to choose exactly what you need based on all parameters.
What goes with a wrought-iron bed in the bedroom
For a harmonious appearance of the room, you need to make sure that all pieces of furniture fit perfectly together. There are a huge variety of different options for wrought iron beds, so you can easily choose something suitable.
The variety of designs today has erased the boundaries of acceptable interiors for forged beds, delighting consumers with its versatility.
It is recommended to complement forged elements with glass lamps, wooden inserts, and bamboo stands. It is advisable to place elegant figurines, lamps or lamps on the cabinets. Soft and fluffy bedspreads in delicate shades will make the room more comfortable, and you can also arrange plenty of pillows.
A wrought iron bed in a bedroom interior should be in harmony with the style of the room.
Sizing
Before starting work, you need to decide on the future dimensions. To do this, you need a clear understanding of where the sleeping place will be placed and who will sleep on it. In the case of modernizing an apartment or room, you can move away from the usual stereotypes and choose a new place for it.
Making an iron bed is a responsible, labor-intensive and complex process.
There are standard types of beds: single, double, single. It should be remembered that the place to sleep should be 30 cm longer than the height of the person who is going to sleep on it. Typically the length is 2 m, but can vary from 191 cm to 213 cm.
Some knowledge is required.
It is also worth deciding on the width. So, depending on the type, the width will have the following value:
- single – 91 cm;
- double – 137 cm;
- one and a half – 99 cm.
You need to start small - get lessons from an experienced blacksmith, or ask for help from someone knowledgeable in this matter.
Larger settings are designed for two people. However, they take up quite a lot of space in the room. Therefore, before starting work, it is necessary to measure the space in the room allocated for the bed. And also take into account such parameters as space for a bedside table and simply a place for free movement.
The main difficulty lies in the preparation of components and their processing.
Another important factor is the choice of mattress. When performing work deviating from established standards, it should be taken into account that it will have to be made to order.
The main thing is a little patience and self-confidence.
Types of beds
Wrought iron beds come in various shapes, types and sizes. Let's take a closer look.
It is worth saying that in addition to the fact that the sleeping places are very beautiful, they also have high practical properties.
To size
They can be single, double or one-and-a-half-beds, single-tier and two-tier. Single bedroom sizes:
- 0.7*1.9 meters;
- 0.8*2 meters;
- 0.9*1.9 meters;
- 0.9*2 meters.
New metal coatings make them resistant to any mechanical damage.
There may be other sizes depending on the manufacturer's preferences. The most common size is 0.9 * 1.9 meters.
Double sizes:
- 1.4*2 meters;
- 1.6*2 meters;
- 1.8*2 meters;
- 1.6*1.9 meters.
The frame serves as a place for attaching light tulle or a luxurious curtain, which perfectly frames the sleeping area and, if desired, covers it from prying eyes.
You also need to take into account the height. It can be low (up to 50 centimeters), medium (from 50 to 70 centimeters), and high (more than 70 centimeters).
The model with backs is perfect for a classic interior.
In order to choose the right bed, you need to follow some recommendations:
- The ideal length of a sleeping place is at least twenty centimeters greater than a person’s height;
- The width of a normal bed should be greater than the distance from elbow to elbow when the arms are at right angles to the body;
- There should be a distance of at least 50 centimeters from the bed to the wall so that you can move around the room without problems.
Today, the sizes and design options of forged beds delight with a variety of parameters.
If necessary, you can make the bed yourself or order its production.
By shape and design
The shape of the sleeping place can be rectangular, square, round, oval and so on. The choice depends on the interior of the room, the preferences of the owner and the size of the room.
The choice of a wrought-iron bed has many aspects, because it is not only a place to sleep and relax, but also an excellent interior decor.
Note! It is preferable to choose a simple bed shape, as it is more comfortable and will not get boring over time.
Forged beds can be single-tiered or double-tiered, but you need to take into account that the weight of the structure is quite large, so the second option is not always successful.
Metals used for manufacturing include iron, aluminum, copper, and sometimes cast iron.
By style
Using artistic forging, a headboard, footboard or side edges can be made. There are beds made entirely of metal, or combined with inserts made of another material. For example, forged elements go well with wooden frames or patterns. Forging in most cases is made in the form of curls of plants, fancy bends.
Wrought iron beds come in a wide variety of models and styles.
By headboard
There are many forged beds with a beautiful headboard with photos. For example, depending on the style decision you can highlight (photo below):
- Classical. The back is made with patterns in the form of plants, in perfect harmony with gold and silver shades. Such headboards are usually complemented by mirrors, leather inserts, ornate candlesticks;
- Modern. Smooth lines are used, there are no sharp corners or asymmetry. They look simple and elegant;
- Provence. The rustic orientation can be seen in artistic forging: aging or underpainting of metal. Looks very gentle and neat;
- High tech. Usually made entirely of metal, discreetly with a minimum of patterns and curls;
- Scandinavian. A combination of wood and metal, usually both a footboard and a headboard are made. The design looks serious and impressive;
- Loft. Simple, no frills, usually using wooden boards.
You can make a custom-made bed according to an individual sketch. Then you can get a unique sleeping place that will perfectly complement the interior of the room.
Forged elements perfectly create an airy effect, turning into real jewelry.
Types of structures
Egypt can rightfully be considered the birthplace of metal beds. Only wealthy people could afford them. They were a sign of wealth and luxury. In the Soviet Union, iron beds were made according to a template and were not distinguished by their elegance. Currently, the situation has changed dramatically. Metal objects have appeared on the furniture market, differing in the way they are made. These include the following types.
- Forged structures - have a solid base made of metal pipes. Pipes with cross-sections of different diameters, which allows you to recreate a variety of scenes in the design. Weight is no more than 50 kg. There are two types of forging: cold and hot. In the first option, all manipulations with metal are performed by a special apparatus. The process is more like stamping. In the second case, the master works with his own hands. The metal heats up to +600 C. Using forging, you can recreate an object in any interior style: classical, modern, rococo, baroque, ethno, high-tech.
- Welded structures differ from forged ones in the way the finished parts of the future product are connected to each other by welding. Products made in this way are less original: classic or modern.
Before starting work, you need to decide on the future dimensions.
Any bed consists of a frame, frame, back, legs and fasteners. The main elements that serve as the basis of any bed are the frame and frame. The frame serves as a support. Consists of back and side panels. The frame is the part on which the mattress is located. During manufacturing, special attention should be paid to the headboard. It has a decorative role and completely sets the tone for the entire product. Forged elements are used as decoration. They can be purchased ready-made.
In the case of modernizing an apartment or room, you can move away from the usual stereotypes and choose a new place for it.
Manufacturing process
Before you begin assembling the individual parts of a homemade metal bed, you need to prepare consumables for connecting them. To do this, you need to cut metal parts according to the dimensions indicated in the drawing. Sand the ends with sandpaper. After this, you can begin assembly.
Frame and base
When the details of the future structure are ready, you can begin assembling the base and frame. Assembly steps:
- Lay out the cut channels, angles, profiled pipes, and fasteners.
- Align the parts relative to each other so that the angles between them are 90°. In this case, you need to use a special corner. After alignment, the parts must be welded together.
- Drill holes in the frame for attaching the brackets.
- Weld the legs to the base. They can be made from large diameter fittings or sections of pipes. To prevent the metal from scratching the flooring, you need to attach rubber pads to the ends of the legs.
The assembly of the frame is completed, you can proceed to making the headboard.
Double bed frame (Photo: Instagram / industrialloftspb)
Headboard
Manufacturing process:
- To create a headboard you will need a solid pipe. Several separate cross members need to be welded to it at an angle of 90°.
- When the crossbars are ready, side posts are welded to the end of the upper pipe, which are attached to the bed frame from below.
Cross members must ensure the reliability of the structure. They can be patterned, giving them an unusual shape.
Assembly
When the headboard and frame are ready, you can begin the general assembly of the bed:
- Weld the bases with the headboard.
- Weld the legs to the bottom of the frame.
- Install the inner part of the frame. It will consist of metal jumpers on which the mattress will later rest. The more jumpers, the better.
After completing the assembly, you need to process the joints of the individual parts of the structure. To do this, you can use a file, sandpaper, or sanding machine. It is important to go through all joints to get rid of irregularities and metal burrs.
Bed with forging elements (Photo: Instagram / industrialloftspb)
Preparation for the process
Before you start making an iron bed with your own hands, you should carefully familiarize yourself with the available models and designs. Assess the complexity of production and your capabilities. Most of the options are quite simple in their implementation and can be implemented even by a beginner.
There are standard types of beds: single, double, single.
Next, it is recommended to make a plan. Describe all steps, materials and tools. This will save money and time.
Decide on the size and model based on your wishes.
Metal objects have appeared on the furniture market, differing in the way they are made.
To make a bed with your own hands from metal , you need to perform a number of preparatory steps aimed directly at production.
- Draw a drawing of the product.
- Purchase materials.
- Measure the dimensions of the mattress, which is best purchased before making the bed. This will allow it to be compared with the product during production.
Forged structures - have a solid base made of metal pipes.
Work sequence
The frame is made using a 45x50 mm steel angle. The skeleton is mounted from a pipe having a diameter of 25 mm. You can order the side and ends for the second floor in a workshop that constructs metal gratings. The structure itself can be assembled by welding or bolts. First you need to buy a children's orthopedic mattress. A drawing is made based on its dimensions. Height – not less than 1800 mm. Next, determine the dimensions and choose the location of the bed in the room. Then - a detailed diagram of the frame and calculation of the required volume of materials. Next, buy and order all the components you need.
According to the scheme, 2 rectangular frames are made. All components must be securely fastened. After marking, the frame is placed on the support posts and the structure is fastened by welding. Then the protective side is attached and the ladder is welded. The surface is polished and ground. At the very end - primer and paint with the color you like. A bed made in this way with your own hands will be more durable and will last for many years.
Tools for work
To make a welded iron bed with your own hands, you will, of course, need a welding machine. And also other tools:
- angle grinder (grinder);
- drill with a set of metal drills;
- roulette;
- square;
- square file;
- metal brush;
- sandpaper;
- paint brushes;
- primer for metal surfaces;
- paintwork.
Welded structures differ from forged ones in the way the finished parts of the future product are connected to each other by welding.
For a forged product, in addition to the main list, you will need to add the presence of forging equipment. Depending on the type of forging, the set will be different. So, the kit for cold forging includes:
- snail – allows you to create spiral patterns;
- bender - designed for bending metal rods at different angles;
- flashlight – for creating parts under the same name “flashlight”;
- twister - twists the rods along the longitudinal axis;
- volumetric – makes it possible to make three-dimensional patterns;
- wave – equipment for creating wave-like patterns.
Any bed consists of a frame, frame, back, legs and fasteners.
For the hot type of forging you will need a forge, an anvil, shperaks, a handbrake, a sledgehammer, pliers, and hammers.
Not all equipment may be needed. The choice will depend on the end goal.
Iron bed designs
Also, before making a bed, you need to decide on the type of its design. It can be:
- Forged Products. They are distinguished by elegance, nobility and luxury.
Such beds are considered works of art and have artistic value (if the product is made by hot forging). Making forged furniture with your own hands is quite difficult.Here you need to have certain skills, tools and you need to be able to work with hot metal. It is easier to make a forged bed using the cold forging method, when the metal does not heat up, but deforms when cold. Such products will not be distinguished by elegance, but will have high technical characteristics;
- welded structures . In this case, you need to be able to work with a welding machine. Products made by welding are more suitable for modern trends, for example, Art Nouveau.
Step-by-step technology for creating a metal bed
Creating an iron bed includes preparatory work, installation and processing of the finished product.
The process starts with the backs. For this purpose, blanks are prepared from profile pipes according to the drawing. They are laid out on a flat surface, fastened and secured by welding. It is necessary to monitor the degree of angles to obtain an even structure.
Next, footrests and plugs for the open parts of the pipes are installed on the backrests.
At the next stage you will need to use a grinder and a channel. Brackets are made for fastening the frame - 2 central and 4 side, with a slope of 5 degrees. Fasteners connect the back to the frame with a continuous weld. The optimal distance from the floor is 0.35 m.
To give the bed sophistication, all seams and protruding elements are cut off with a grinder, processed with a special brush and a grinding machine to the base of the metal.
- Preparation of material for frames.
Steel channels are cut into blanks. The size is determined by the calculation: frame length plus 5-6 cm. The channels are connected by corners. For better quality of joining, protruding areas in the horizontal flange of the angle are cut off. The joints, as in the previous version, are welded with a continuous seam.
When performing work deviating from established standards, it should be taken into account that it will have to be made to order.
- Frame installation.
The backs are set to a strictly vertical position, the frames are adjusted and the grooves are marked on the lower channel. Holes are made with a drill no more than 9 mm in diameter. The drilled holes are adjusted to the shape of the tenon using a file.
Another important factor is the choice of mattress.
Assembly of the main part is complete. The next step is to weld the grid under the mattress. It is welded onto the finished frame.
Next, footrests and plugs for the open parts of the pipes are installed on the backrests. They are usually covered with steel circles.
Therefore, before starting work, it is necessary to measure the space in the room allocated for the bed.
To give the bed sophistication, all seams and protruding elements are cut off with a grinder, processed with a special brush and a grinding machine to the base of the metal.
Finishing is done on a well-prepared surface: a primer is applied, then varnish and paint.
Looking for a mattress for a sweet sleep
The operating principle of an orthopedic mattress with a spring block is to follow the curves of the body
In truth, choosing a mattress is a purely individual matter. There is no universal option that would equally satisfy everyone.
In addition, the choice of mattress is influenced by many factors: from the area of the bed and the weight load, to the health status of the person who will sleep on it.
Below I have prepared a table - it will help you decide what exactly you need. Let me make a reservation right away that we will talk specifically about orthopedic models, since the usual ones have already faded into the background and few people are interested in due to their uselessness.
Types of orthopedic mattresses | Spring block type | Mattress height | Filling material or mattress hardness |
With a spring block - a feeling of weightlessness and elasticity. | 1. Dependent, with Bonnell type springs - an economical, affordable option with a low orthopedic effect. This is the best thing if you need to think about a spare sleeping place, for example, for a guest room. 2. Independent, where the springs are activated individually when pressure is applied directly to them, thereby providing targeted support to the body. There are a lot of models with an independent spring block. Remember the main thing: the more springs per m², the better the orthopedic effect and the higher the price of the mattress. For example, the Dreamline Kombi 3 S2000 mattress has as many as 1000 independent springs per m². It is not surprising that it adapts to the anatomical features of the body and fits tightly to the spine, allowing it to completely relax. And in Promtex-Orient Soft Kombi Eco there are only 256 springs per m². Do you feel the difference? | The standard height of the mattress is 18–22 cm, it can accommodate one spring block. But there are also taller models, reaching 30–50 cm, which can accommodate as many as three spring blocks - they act “in conjunction” and complement each other. | A special filler is placed between the spring block (if there is one) and the mattress cover. The “fillings” of mattresses can be divided into two categories: 1. Natural - coconut fiber and natural latex. They are of higher quality, environmentally friendly, have good throughput, remain clean and fresh longer, maintaining a healthy microclimate in the bedroom. 2. Artificial - holofiber, artificial latex, memorix, thermal felt, polyurethane foam and other materials based on it. Almost all of them are 100% hypoallergenic, well ventilated, and do not collect dust or moisture. But everything artificial is always inferior to natural. Also, the “filling” of the mattress is divided according to the level of hardness: 1. Soft fillers are artificial and natural latex, memory foam. 2. Medium hard filling - latex + coconut. 3. Hard fillers - coconut and holofiber. |
Without a spring block - more rigid models due to the large amount of filler, beneficial for the spine and posture. | – | Springless models are quite thin, on average 3–5 cm. They are great for forged sofas, single beds and children's beds. |
Dreamline Kombi 3 S2000 cutaway
Decorative forged parts
In the case of forged beds, the main decorative function is assigned to the headboard. Designers try to make it sophisticated, graceful and unique.
And therefore it often becomes the central accent in the bedroom interior. The shape of the headboard can be square, semicircular or asymmetrical. Exclusivity is achieved through ornament, design and figured elements.
Artistic forging in combination with fabric trim
Wrought iron headboard in the shape of a rose
Black metal and bright accents in the children's room
An original move - a gilded decoration above an antique wrought-iron bed
The footboard and bed supports usually follow the design of the headboard, but in a more discreet form. In modern interiors, the footboard is often missing or replaced with a bedside bench. This element is more typical of palace classics.
Beds with a forged headboard made in combination with stone, glass, expensive wood, genuine leather or bamboo look very respectable.
But forging also goes well with more affordable materials - plastic and fabric. Such combinations will please those who do not like the cold of metal.
Noble combination of metal and wood
For romantic natures who love complete privacy, there is such a solution as a wrought-iron canopy bed. Graceful metal rods with intricate curls will serve as a frame for translucent organza, noble silk or heavy velvet.
Venetian style - wrought iron bed with a canopy like from a fairy tale about princesses
A lightweight version of a canopy over a wrought-iron bed
Advantages of beds made of metal
Despite the complex process, metal beds have a number of advantages. Here is a list of some of them:
- environmental friendliness;
- wear resistance;
- hygiene;
- reliability: resistance to mechanical damage and weight loads;
- variety of design and style;
- light weight, which is convenient when rearranging furniture;
- not subject to fire.
Larger settings are designed for two people.
The metal bed is attractive in appearance and will fit perfectly into any interior. And if you have certain skills and a set of tools, the process will not be difficult. In addition, this type of activity is an excellent option for developing creative abilities and, as a result, obtaining an individual piece of furniture. A self-made iron bed will serve for a long time and reliably.
It is also worth deciding on the width.
Advantages and disadvantages of forged beds
In order to decide whether to buy or make your own bed with a wrought-iron headboard, you need to understand the disadvantages and advantages of this model.
Forged beds are an item of luxury and a refined sense of taste in every home.
Let's first consider the advantages:
- Strength. It is very difficult to break such a bed;
- Durability. The metal is treated with a special substance that prevents corrosion;
- Does not deteriorate when exposed to moisture;
- Does not burn;
- Does not deform;
- Does not deteriorate due to sudden temperature changes;
- Does not harm humans, as it is an environmentally friendly material;
- A wide range of ideas and forging options;
- Looks great in combination with wood;
- Easy care.
Iron beds are not the creation of modern designers, and their life spans more than one historical century.
Now it's worth examining the disadvantages:
- Not safe for children;
- High price;
- Heavy weight. If necessary, moving such furniture is quite problematic;
- Not suitable for every room. In small rooms such a bed will look out of place;
- Cold metal.
Modern metal beds are the personification of lightness, transparency, openwork and chic.
Based on these facts, it is worth drawing a conclusion about whether you need to purchase this piece of furniture.
In proud loneliness
A single bed is absolutely not inferior to a traditional double family bed, either in beauty or comfort. But it has a clear advantage that will definitely please the egoist living inside each of us. The fact is that your bedchamber remains only yours: there is no need to give in and share it with someone.
A luxurious forged model will expand your horizons regarding the choice of furniture and help you decide on such a difficult choice of the best place for your quality rest.
Finishing
To give the bed a noble appearance, finishing is carried out. An anti-corrosion coating is applied to the metal, all seams are cleaned of slag using a metal brush or grinder .
Next, the product is polished and primed. Primer treatment improves the adhesion of paints and varnishes to surfaces. Next, the product is varnished or painted. The choice of paint largely depends on the overall interior.
If the room is designed in a high-tech or minimalist style, you should give preference to monochrome colors. For classic motifs, dark or light shades are more suitable.
Advice : if you are serious about furniture for the bedroom, try making a dressing table, bedside table or changing table. You may also be interested in a wardrobe or beds made of timber, solid wood, pallets, chipboard and boards.