DIY Under-Bed LEGO Workspace

This simple under-bed LEGO tray gives your child a dedicated play space that can slide away when not in use. Perfect for keeping LEGO projects intact and floors clear of painful plastic bricks!

Materials Needed:

  • 4'x4' piece of plywood (base)

  • 12' of 1x2 wood (for borders) - will be cut into:

  • Two 4' pieces

  • One 46.5" piece (3' 10.5")

  • Wood glue

  • Short flat-head screws

  • Drill with bit for pilot holes

  • 2-3 drawer handles

  • Plastic sliders or felt pads

Assembly Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  • Start with your 4'x4' piece of plywood. Sand any rough edges if necessary.

  • Decide which side will be the front (open side with no border).

Step 2: Prepare the Border Pieces

  • Cut your 1x2 wood into:

    • Two 4' pieces (for the sides)

    • One 46.5" piece (3' 10.5") for the back

  • Note: The shorter piece (46.5") will fit between the two side pieces, creating a U-shaped border.

Step 3: Attach the Border Pieces

  • Apply wood glue along the edge of the plywood where the borders will go.

  • Position the two 4' pieces along the sides.

  • Position the 46.5" piece across the back, between the two side pieces.

  • Drill pilot holes through the 1x2 pieces into the plywood.

  • Secure with flat-head screws (ensure they don't protrude through the bottom).

Step 4: Add Sliders

  • Flip the tray over.

  • Attach plastic sliders to the bottom corners and middle areas.

  • If using felt pads, consider adding a dab of glue for better adhesion.

Step 5: Attach Handles

  • Decide on handle placement - two handles on the front edge or two on the sides and one in the middle.

  • For younger children, a single handle in the middle may be easier to use.

  • Drill pilot holes and attach handles with screws that won't protrude through the plywood.

Tips

  • Choose higher quality plywood for a smoother surface and fewer splinters.

  • The open front allows vehicles and other toys to roll on and off the tray.

  • Measure twice, cut once!

  • Consider painting or sealing the wood for durability and appearance.

Enjoy your new LEGO workspace that keeps projects intact and floors free of stray pieces!

  • Attach handles with screws that won't protrude through the plywood.

If you don’t want to DIY the tray, try using an XL oil drip pan under the bed. Make sure the measurements fit, and get it as big as you can fit it.

This tray is 47 x 29.3 x 1.6