Full Futon Frame
Futons – The Shopping Basics
Little did anyone know back in the 1970′s that the first simple tri-fold futon frame designs would lead to so much more. Over the decades the futon industry has grown from unfinished basic slatted wood frames resting on the ground into actual furniture groupings consisting of anything from sofas, loveseats or matching chairs. In this article we’ll examine what makes futons practical for the home and some of the basics of shopping for the futon that’s right for you.
The first futons were referred to as tri-fold. Tri-fold means that three sections make up the frame of the futon and as such the futon operates using these three sections to create the sleep surface and seating. Early models required locking pins but more modern designs were developed that did away with this by incorporating an improved design that folded up under itself. The only thing not going for these frames is that they would sit very low to the ground making them a great choice only for those who get in and out of them easily. Today you’ll find these frames offered in more specialty futon stores as they are typically made from pine and are left unfinished. Tri-fold futons are still sold today and usually offered at much lower price points.
Next, bi-fold futons would make it onto the scene in the early 1980′s. These frames while not as simple and inexpensive as the tri-fold designs allowed for greater creativity and design and looked more like conventional furniture. Bi-fold futon frames as their name suggests are made with two sections a seat and back rack. The design of these futon frames allowed for easier conversion from a sofa to a bed and back again and offered seating at the same height as most other furniture making them perfect for anyone. Arms at each end of the futon would be made in various designs and styles allowing for easy integration into almost any room. Bi-Fold futon frames are made in sofa, loveseat and chair sizes and are often available with matching tables and ottomans.
The advantage that futons have over conventional furniture is in the assembly of these frames. Because they come flat in about six primary parts they are easy to get around tough corners in a home or into tight spaces where most furniture can’t go. Why is this important? Most upholstered furniture can’t be easily disassembled to fit through tight spaces. Futons can, and can easily. In most cases you simply take each part in one at a time and then assemble it in the room. What could be easier?
Futon mattresses are the next component you’ll need. The early futon mattresses consisted of a duck twill covering and were often filled with straight cotton batting. While soft and pretty comfortable, the issue with straight batting is that it would mat down quickly. Manufacturers developed a better design in adding convoluted and straight higher density foam cores into the mattress designs and this much improved the longevity of the futon mattresses. Innerspring mattresses were introduced later and added a feel that was more closely associated with conventional furniture for consumers who liked the idea of futons but desired the feeling and support of springs.
The last component to choose is a futon cover. Much like shopping for bedding, instead of sheets and blankets you’ll want to pick out a futon cover. Today’s covers are available in a wide variety of designs and colors to choose from. Some are made with upholstery grade fabric while others can be thin like sheeting. Pricing will of course reflect the materials used as well as construction or custom options selected.
Futons are a great alternative when you need furniture that must double as both a sofa and bed. Many improvements in designs and construction have taken place since futons first came onto the scene in the 70′s. The core makeup of futons has stayed the same however. When shopping for a futon choose three components which include a frame, mattress and cover. These are available in a variety of options. You’re sure to find the one that’s just right for your own unique space.
About the Author
Phil Pendleton invites you to learn more about futons at Futons Now an online specialty futon retailer. Discover the many varieties of bi-fold and tri-fold futon designs as well as various futon mattresses and futon cover options.
August Lotz Boston Wood Futon Frame
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Prepac Oak Juvenile Queen Size Platform Bed $155.07 The Oak Juvenile Platform Bed has composite wood construction in an oak finish. It features clean, simple lines and decorative moldings to prevent the mattress from shifting. This Queen size platform bed is 10 inches high and has a flat surface to eliminate the need for a box spring. The Oak Juvenile Platform Bed appears to be simple in design, but it is in the details that give it an exquisite ap… |
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Good Best Simple Platform – 3ft. Square Classic Japanese Design Tatami Mat Table Top – 36 x 36 $69.00 This 36″ x 36″ (3ft. x 3ft.) traditional Japanese design tatami mat is a remarkable product, one of a collection 8 sizes we sell on Amazon. Customers use them for simple, natural, portable, practical (& decorative) purposes; here’s some examples a.) a simple square table top, b.) an altenative chair, with a cushion, c.) center 3 foot square of a traditional Japanese floor covering configuration of… |
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Coal Harbor Queen Platform Bed with Headboard (Espresso) (31.5H x 69.5W x 83.25D) $220.56 The contemporary and functional design of the Coal Harbor Queen Platform Bed with Headboard make this a great addition to any bedroom. The platform design makes a box spring unnecessary, providing all the support your mattress needs. Clean lines allow this bed frame to go with many styles of bedroom furniture. A 3″ recess keeps the mattress in place. This bed includes both the frame and headboard…. |
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Headboard And Footboard Adapter Conversion Plates, Set of 4 Plates $14.69 These plates allow you to use a queen sized mattress with full sized head and foot boards. Great for use with antiques. Use with bolt-on frames. Package contains enough plates for one bed (set of 4 plates). … |
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Fold Down Bed Mechanism – Side Mount Queen (67” High X 84” Wide) $304.49 The space-saving sleep solution for small rooms, guest rooms and apartments! Make your own side-mount fold-away bed using this sturdy hardware. Finely engineered hardware is counterbalanced for smooth operation without binding or overextending. Mechanism uses a sophisticated piston lift system rather than old-fashioned springs that can snap back. Beds are held securely closed, and open gently for … |
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Bed Rail Hooks Set comes complete with four hook plates and 16 pins for holding them in place. Use two plates on each end to make a sturdy bed frame. Just create slots in the head- and foot-boards to receive the hooks. Hooks are made for pins which are 2″ on center. They require a 3/32″ kerf which is 3-1/2″ high x 1-1/8″ deep on the bed rail. For the bed post the kerf should be 3/32″ and 5″ high X 1-3/8″ deep. … |
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SIS GREEN TEA Better Fit Upholstery Grade Decorative Futon Cover SIS Enterprises has been producing artistic, high quality decorative futon and pillows since the company began in 1987. Founded by two sisters, SIS has grown the company into the most comprehensive line of futon and decorative pillows in the United States. Features include but are not limited to a better fit, multiple sided hidden zippers for easy on/off, fabric all around (print is featured on a… |
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Furnitech 70 inch ContemporaryConsole (Ebony Finish) $1,299.00 Features: 2 Solid wood framed stipple glass doors Constructed of cherry wood hardwood and steel Ebony finish Sculptured stainless steel bar handles 2 adjustable shelves Media storage drawer Large open compartment for center channel speaker or component Internal wire management Ventilated back panel and plinth base Ships fully assembled Dimensions: Overall Dimensions: 70″ W x 23″ H x 17.7″… |
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Ballentine Entertainment TV Console $1,047.00 The Ballentine Collection is crafted from select hardwoods and figured cherry/mapa burl veneer. Given a bronze cherry finish, this collection warms your living room with a traditional facade. This facade hides the plethora of storage capabilities within each piece of furniture. Entertainment centers have never before looked this organized before. Drawers and adjustable shelves make storing and set… |
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Mission Metal Futon Frame – Full- Black $200.00 Mission-styled futon frame convertibles look attractive and achieve a time-less look that nicely compliments room decor. Our Mission metal futon frame convertible is constructed of hallow tempered steel and designed to look stylishly attractive in your room decor. Although the Mission is minimal in design, it truly has enough substance to look decorative and it is easy to accessorize. We offer … |
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Albany Hardwood Full Futon Frame – Natural Finish $289 Albany Hardwood Full Futon Frame – Natural Finish |
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Brunswick Full Futon Frame $258.92 Brunswick futon frame is made of hardwood in espresso finish. Full size with mattress sold separately. Functions as a platform bed and futonFour support braces back and seat deck and four L bracketsReclines into three positionsMade from solid hardwoodEspresso finish79 in. W x 36 in. D x 31 in. H (93 lbs.)Futon Covers Available Click Here to Browse Regardless of your decor, Gold Bond has a futon frame that will meet your design needs. Available in solid oak or hardwood, Gold Bond futon frames are designed for beauty, strength and durability to last a lifetime in any room of your home. |
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Albany Full Futon Frame $254.77 Albany full futon frame is made of wood in natural finish. mattress sold separately. Four support braces back and seat deck and four L bracketsReclines into three positionsMade from solid hardwoodNatural finish79 in. W x 36 in. D x 31 in. H (94 lbs.)Futon Covers Available Click Here to Browse Regardless of your decor, Gold Bond has a futon frame that will meet your design needs. Available in solid oak or hardwood, Gold Bond futon frames are designed for beauty, strength and durability to last a lifetime in any room of your home. |
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Bristol Full Futon Frame $268.62 Bristol full futon frame is made of wood in pecan finish. Four support braces back and seat deck and four L bracketsReclines into three positionsMade from solid hardwoodPecan finish80 in. W x 36 in. D x 31 in. H (94 lbs.)Futon Covers Available Click Here to Browse Regardless of your decor, Gold Bond has a futon frame that will meet your design needs. Available in solid oak or hardwood, Gold Bond futon frames are designed for beauty, strength and durability to last a lifetime in any room of your home. |
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Full Metal Arm Futon Frame $256 -Classic Futon Sofa Frame -Painted Black Steel Frame -Assembly Required -Mattress Sold Separately -Sleeping Dimensions: Full Bed – Frame is 54″ wide in sleeping position. |
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Mission Black Metal Futon Frame – Full $162.99 Get the benefits of metal futon frame with the illusion of wood with our mission metal futon frame. This exquisite mission styled frame looks like real wood but is lightweight and easy to move around. |
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Burlington Full Futon Frame w 2 Drawers $516.46 Full size Burlington futon frame has storage drawers and is made of wood in espresso finish. Mattress not includedFive support braces back and seat deck and four cross bracesFeatures two drawers for storageMade from Siberian solid oakFull Body: 79 in. W x 38 in. D x 33 in. H (81 lbs.)Full KD Drawer: 74 in. W x 20.5 in. D x 7.75 in. H (31 lbs.)Matching Futon Chair Optional: 33 in. W x 38 in. D x 33 in. H (33 lbs.)Futon Covers Available Click Here to Browse Regardless of your decor, Gold Bond has a futon frame that will meet your design needs. Available in solid oak or hardwood, Gold Bond futon frames are designed for beauty, strength and durability to last a lifetime in any room of your home. |
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Mead Full Futon Frame $358 -Wide, flat armrest -Timeless light and airy arm design -Attractive oak wood-grain -Clean and versatile look -Easy sofa to sleeper conversion -Easy to assemble -Full Sofa Dimensions 84″L x 38″D x34″H -Sleeper Dimensions 84″L x 54″D x 24″H -Made in China -Construction from plantation hardwood and metal -Please note mattress and cover are not included |
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Portofino Full Futon Frame $483 -Wide, flat armrest that flips open to reveal cup holder and remote control storage -Integrated magazine rack -Complimenting timeless look -Wood plugs hide hardware -Easy sofa to sleeper conversion -Easy to assemble -Full Sofa Dimensions 87″L x 37″D x 32″H -Sleeper Dimensions 87″L x 54″D x 24″H -Made in Malaysia -Construction from plantation hardwood -Please note mattress and cover are not included |
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Bridgeport Full Futon Frame $399 -Subtle curved armrest -borderlines traditional and modern -Wood plugs hide hardware -Easy sofa to sleeper conversion -Easy to assemble -Sofa Dimensions: 83 1/4″W x 36″D x 31 3/4″H -Sleeper Dimensions: 83 1/4″W x 54″D x 23 1/4″H -Made in Malaysia -Construction from plantation hardwood and metal -Please note mattress and cover are not included |
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Florenzia Full Futon Frame $399 -Curved leg posts and wide curved picketing -Sleek European appeal -Wood plugs hide hardware -Easy sofa to sleeper conversion -Easy to assemble -Sofa Dimensions: 85W x 39D x 34H. -Sleeping Dimensions: 85W x 54D x 24H -Made in Malaysia -Construction from plantation hardwood and metal -Please note mattress and cover are not included |
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Montego Full Futon Frame $378 -Curvaceous and smooth design -Borderlines traditional and contemporary -Wood plugs hide hardware -Easy sofa to sleeper conversion -Easy to assemble -Sitting dimensions 83.34 x 36 x 34 -Sleeping dimensions 83.34 x 54.5 x 24 -Made in china -Construction from plantation hardwood and metal -Please note mattress and cover are not included |
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Bridgeport Metal Wood Futon Frame – Full $223.99 The Bridgeport is the perfect futon frame for those that enjoy balancing their conservative and casual tastes. It is designed to take full advantage of the beauty and durability of solid hardwood. Smooth slightly curved arms with precision placed arm pickets join together for a settled lo |
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Portofino Metal Wood Futon Frame – Full $248.99 It is great to come home and have a room welcome you into its comfort. The futon frame features a solid form crafted with a contemporary arm design offering both beauty and function. Lifting the arm top reveals a hidden storage compartment that runs the full length of the arm. |
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Futon Frame w Arms $180.25 Mattress not includedArms for perfect and easy alternative to pull-out couchWarranty: One yearArms made from X-wood81 in. L x 38 in. W x 33 in. H (92 lbs.) Unlike the couch, this futon flaps down in a matter of seconds to turn into a comfortable full sized bed. This futon allows you to save floor space during the day and sleep peacefully at night. |
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Mission Futon Frame $178.59 Mattress not includedArms for perfect and easy alternative to pull-out couchWarranty: One yearArms made from woodFrame made from metal81 in. L x 38 in. W x 33 in. H (92 lbs.) Unlike the couch, this futon flaps down in a matter of seconds to turn into a comfortable full sized bed. This futon allows you to save floor space during the day and sleep peacefully at night. |
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Mead Full Futon $268 Oak is renowned for its beautiful wood grain and its durable strength. You will find these traits in our exclusive Medium Oak Collection. Discover our Mead futon frame convertible in our medium oak finish. Manufacturer: American Furniture Alliance. Brand: American Furniture Alliance. Part Number: 35-0914-008 |
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4838 Full Size Futon Frame in Natural $345 This lovely Futon Frame with Slat Side Detail in Natural will give your spare bedroom or den a stylish look The wide wooden arms have a slat side detail with a smooth frame and simple square legs all in a light Natural finish Easily convert from a co… |
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4382 Coaster Full Size Futon Frame in Dirty $340 This pretty Casual Futon Frame with Slat Side Detail in Oak will give your spare bedroom a stylish look and cozy appeal The wide wooden arms have an inspired slat design with a smooth frame and simple straight legs – all elements are in a warm Dirty … |
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Manhattan Oak Futon Frame $326 Manhattan Oak Futon Frame |
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Burlington Oak Futon Frame $346 Burlington Oak Futon Frame |
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Portland Oak Futon Frame $286 Portland Oak Futon Frame |
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Albany Futon Frame $489 Albany Futon Frame |
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Biltmore Futon Frame $489 Biltmore Futon Frame |
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Trinity Futon Frame $489 Trinity Futon Frame |
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Winston Futon Frame $559 Winston Futon Frame |
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Boston Oak Futon Frame $425 Boston Oak Futon Frame |
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Montego Wood And Metal Full Futon Frame – Oak Finish $209.99 The Montego is the perfect futon frame for those that enjoy quiet elegance with modern convenience. It is designed to take full advantage of the beauty and durabilityof solid hardwood. |
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Montego Wood And Metal Full Futon Frame – Walnut Finish $209.99 The Montego is the perfect futon frame for those that enjoy quiet elegance with modern convenience. It is designed to take full advantage of the beauty and durability of solid hardwood. |
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Metal Futon Frame in Black Finish $179.99 Futon sofa frame is metal with solid side panels, open tubular armrests and a center post support in a black finish. Cushion not included Smooth frame Extra leg Full metal construction Easily convert from couch to lounging 78.75 in. L x 54 in. W x 32 in. H This simple contemporary futon frame will give your spare bedroom or den a stylish look. The sleek metal arms gently arc into simple tubular legs. Ideal for overnight guests. Make the most of your space with this stylish futon. |
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Khaki Futon Pad with Wooden Futon Frame $536.4 Khaki Futon Pad with Wooden Futon Frame |
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Evolution Black Full Futon Frame $295 -Precision crafted tempered steel frame -Durable metal seat and back decks -Easy to assemble -Sofa Dimensions: 80″W x 36″D x 34″H. -Sleeper Dimensions: 80″W x 54″D x 26″H -Please note mattress and cover are not included |
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Evolution Pewter Full Futon Frame $295 -Precision crafted tempered steel frame -Durable metal seat and back decks -Easy to assemble -Sofa Dimensions: 80″W x 36″D x 34″H. -Sleeper Dimensions: 80″W x 54″D x 26″H -Please note mattress and cover are not included |
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Santa Barbara Full Size Futon $278.92 This full sized, walnut finished Santa Barbara futon features a high quality hardwood frame with flat, extra wide armrests for added comfort. A Mission style slat backrest and sides will give your living room a timeless look. This full sized, walnut finished Santa Barbara style futon features mission styled wood picketing with extra wide armrests. * Mattress sold separatelyFlat, extra wide armrestSmooth rounded edgesMission-styled wood picketingComplimenting timeless lookFrame easily converts from sofa to sleeper and back againPatented multiple-position hingeWarranty: One year limitedMade from quality and durable hardwoodMade in Malaysia83.25 in. L x 40 in. W x 31.25 in. H (76 lbs.)Assembly Instructions The Santa Barbara futon frame convertible offers casual elegance at its best. Santa Barbara presents itself well so that it will continuously compliment your room decor. |
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Metal Round Arm Futon Black Frame – Full $158.49 Make your child or teen�s room fun and trendy with the addition of a Metal Round Arm Futon. Enjoy the comfort of a sofa during the day and convert it into a sleeper at night. It�s a stylish and simple look that will give your child or teen�s bedroom or playroom a really cool look. |
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Natural Transitional Futon Frame $459 Natural finish trimline futon frame. |
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Black Contemporary Futon Frame $269 Satin futon frame with arched armrest. |