"Fold up" ironing board (reverse engineering) #1: measuring the model and planning any modifications

So as part of a Murphy bed build, I wanted to incorporate a fold up (or hide away) ironing board. I have seen these at Lowes and Home Deport starting off about $168. They don’t look that hard to build and I sure think I could save some money AND incorporate some better materials.

Step 1: Take my tape measure to Lowes and jot down some critical measurements. Ok, I forgot paper. Let’s see, what can I find in my glove box? Perfect, my State Farm insurance cards, I can use the back of that! Ugh, bad start…

These units are designed to fit between standard 16” stud space in a wall. Since my use will be a completely custom Murphy bed complex (yes, I’m calling it a “complex”, because it HAS become pretty complex) , I can make mine any size.

Coincidentally, my wife is learning how to sew. Her online class has a iron board cover as an upcoming project. How perfect, huh?

OK, I think I have the critical dimensions. Now I need to head home to build a mock up. The biggest challenge I see right now is the sliding mechanism is lined with plastic. I assume this is to lower the friction. I’m going to have to think about this one…

-- Jeff, North Carolina