We have found one that we like, and after looking at it, it does not look to difficult to build.
However, since I have never made anything like this before, I do not know all the answers.
Here is a picture:
So...
Here are my questions.
What kind of wood to use? (keep in mind that my wife wants it painted white)
What kind of paint to use?
What tools would make this easier?
Anything that I need to know before I start?
Thanks!
Michael
Michael, I'll try to answer your specific questions later, but first a comment about the bed. You say you have never made anything like this before. Does that mean you consider yourself a "beginner" woodworker, or are you more "advanced" but have never made a bed before. If you consider yourself a "beginner", this might not be the right project to tackle just yet. The bed is beautiful, and I know a two year old Little Princess would love it. However, there are some elements that might take a skill level more in tune w/ "advanced", or at least "intermediate". The serpentine curves on the head and foot boards will either require a band saw or bent laminations, depending on how you make them. It looks like the spindles may be mortised into the upper and lower members, although you might be able to work around those w/ a little creative engineering. The roll-out trundle bed underneath is a large box requiring special attention to make sure it travels in and out correctly. Sorry if I sound discouraging, but I don't know your level of skill, and I'm not sure this is a project for a beginner. At the very least, I would try to find a good set of plans to work off.
Now to answer your specific questions.
What kind of Wood: I would use Poplar for a painted project. It takes paint well, and is fairly reasonably priced (about $2.20/bf at The Hardwood Store of NC).
What kind of paint: two options. Since I prefer to spray my painted projects, I try to go w/ oil based paints. For primer, I use Zinsser's B-I-N, a shellac based white primer. Then I follow up w/ a reasonably good oil based paint. If you're brushing the paint, choose a good water based primer and latex paint. I don't have a specific recommendation. Add a flow agent, like Flotrol or Paint Ease, to help smooth out the brush marks.
What tools would make this easier: As mentioned above, I would think you're going to need a band saw, as well as the usual suspects (e.g. table saw, router table, drill press, etc.). If you don't have all the heavy machinery, you might be able to get by w/ some hand held power tools, like drills, sanders, routers, etc.
Anything that I need to know before I start: There are a lot of experienced woodworkers on this site who love to help others. Identify some of them in your area and don't be afraid to ask for their input. Most of them would be happy to have you visit their shop, or even come to your shop to help out.
I sincerely hope I haven't insulted or offended you w/ this advice. But since I don't know your skill level or tool inventory, I thought it best to say too much rather than not enough.
Bill