No special hardware is needed to build this contemporary futon -- everything you need is available at your local hardware store. The standard full size mattress you need should also be available locally. For a large piece of furniture, this futon is fairly inexpensive to make. A pine model could be made for about $120. The finished project measures 33" tall, 86" wide, and 36" deep as a sofa. The plan includes a list of the materials needed to build the futon, photos taken during the construction process, exploded diagrams, measured drawings, and instructions to help guide you. A sturdy, attractive, and useful piece of furniture.