When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
the mattress was supported by 2x4's spaced ~10in apart. i just didn't include it in my "draft." i used lag bolts at the main joints and for the mattress 2x4 supports.
It is hard to build one that can look as nice as a finished product purchased at a store. If I were to build one, I wouldn't bother finishing it or staining it. I'd just cover it up with a bed skirt or sheet and be done with it.