As you may already know, the largest size bed being made back in the early to mid 1800’s was the double/full size, measuring approximately 54″ wide and 75″ in length. Today’s queen size mattresses measure 60″ in width and 80″ in length. To accommodate that difference, the easiest and least costly way to convert an antique iron beds for a queen size mattress, is to have the side rails, that connect the headboard to the footboard, cut and welded 5″ longer. That will accommodate the length difference. The width difference is approximately 3″ on both sides, and once the mattress is set on “top” of the siderails, that three inch overhang will appear negligible…..especially once a dust ruffle and quilt are used to dress the bed.
King conversion requires cutting the original antique iron bed in integral places and adding additional tubing to increase the width of the headboard and footboard. This has to be done by welding pieces of tubing that have been subtly curved, so when welded into the original design will be seamless an undetectable. No easy feet. If done properly, moulds should be taken of the existing castings, so any additional castings that are needed, will appear to be exactly like those already on the iron bed. This type of conversion takes a true artisan ….. not your everyday welder. It also requires the ability to take molds and pour new castings. Also no small feet. If done properly the converted antique iron bed will look as if it were originally intended to be today’s king size.
I hope you’ve found this blog informative . I invite you to revisit my website
to answer any and all questions you might have about antique iron beds.
I also invite you to take a look at our company Face Book page for multiple photo albums on Custom Finishes, Canopy Conversions and a comprehensive “Before & After” King Conversions album.
