Frame Assembly

• 1). Remove all nails, staples or pins from the boards. Sand the boards to remove any nicks or old paint that remains. In an open space with plenty of room to work, lay out the wood to see how many pieces you have and which ones will need to be trimmed or repaired to be usable.
  
  
• 2). Assemble the backboards of your daybed. Lay four long 2-by-4s (approximately 5 to 6 feet long, depending on the length of the reclaimed wood you've found) parallel to one another. Place two boards perpendicular at the ends of the longer boards and screw into place to hold the backboards in place. Trim any excessive length from the boards to make them all similar in size. Sand any exposed board ends to prevent splinters or injury. Set aside.
  
  
• 3). Screw a frame board the same length as your backboards into one of the chair legs. Place a second chair leg at the opposite end. Repeat with another frame board and the remaining two chair legs. Use two side boards of approximately 3 feet each to form the rest of the sofa frame. Sand out any exposed nicks or other potential danger areas.
  
  
• 4). Add the base to hold your mattress. Take 9 long boards the same length as your backboards and lay them across the top of your seat frame, parallel to the long frame boards. Screw into place. Trim the boards to fit flush with the bed frame. Alternatively, you can use shorter boards perpendicular to the long frame boards, and leave a 2-inch overhang in the front. Sand out any imperfections or uneven board ends.
  
  
• 5). Form sides of the sofa if desired. Using shorter boards, form two side panels the dimensions of your sofa ends. Screw perpendicular boards to hold the boards in place. Sand out any imperfections.
  
  
• 6). Assemble the pieces, attaching the back and sides to the mattress frame. Screw in place. Sand out any remaining imperfections. Stain the bed the desired color or finish you choose. For reclaimed wood that isn't in the best shape, color-tinted stain can hide imperfections and give an antique, weathered look to your daybed/sofa. Let the stain dry for at least 24 hours or according to the stain manufacturer's directions.
  
  

Mattress Assembly

• 1). Cut your foam padding to fit the dimensions of your sofa/daybed. Make it about an inch smaller all around so that it fits well into the frame. Alternatively, you can use cushion pieces available from any crafts store and most large discount stores.
  
  
• 2). Upholster your seat cushions. Wrap your seats in the fabric and turn to the bottom. Sew the upholstery in place with the needle and thread, ensuring the thread is upholstery strength.
  
  
• 3). Place the mattress in the frame and adjust the fit. If needed, you can add padding to the back seam of the daybed to secure the fit of the foam better. Add the decorative pillows, throws or other accents.