Are you hoping to save space with a bunk bed, but worried about sacrificing style? Are you on a budget, and not too handy? Spray painting might be the solution for you.

Spray painting allows amateurs with little painting experience to create designer looks for a small price. All you need is imagination and some time.

1. Find a wooden bunk bed. Used bunk beds are relatively easy to find. Search Craigslist, ebay, local classifieds, or yard sales. You can often get older, very sturdy bunk beds inexpensively because they are damaged or outdated. A seemingly unattractive design can be totally changed by a coat of paint.

2. Make a painting space to use for as long as necessary. The amount of time depends on the paint’s drying time and your availability. Use a large space, or cover surrounding areas. You can also make a paint booth, which is a “room” created by hanging old tarps, sheets, or blankets. Set up sawhorses or other structures (that you don’t mind being painted) on which to place the bed pieces.

3. Disassemble the bed. You might want to check that the bed comes apart before you buy, as it is much more difficult to paint an assembled bed.

4. Prepare the surface. Wipe the bed with a damp cloth, or use stronger cleaning agents if necessary. Thoroughly sand visible surfaces using a very fine-gauge sandpaper. If the surface is rough, it will show up tenfold under a coat of paint. Consider adding wooden appliqués to headboards and footboards, or wooden finials to the tops of plain posts.

6. Apply primer, then paint. Follow the instructions carefully, and be patient. A detachable spray nozzle is a must. These are usually located next to the spray paint. Multiple thin coats, along with your increasing skill as you handle the paint, will create an even coat in the end.

7. Enjoy!

Although the finish may not be quite as durable or shiny as a factory finish, your imagination and the small price tag will easily compensate. The time you spend will add charm and warmth to your child’s world for many years to come.