We decided to make frames of plywood so it would be lighter and easier for the person to carry around. Fortunately, Beverly was able to make two different bed configurations, in addition to three different chair setups. The best apart bout the three different elements within the wheel, is that when built or folded into furniture, it is sturdy enough to hold your weight. But for the actual life size scale, we would you 3/4 inch plywood, so that the structure is solid and good.