After 1 1/2 hours trying to make sense of the directions for assembly, I decided to see if YouTube had some advice. That made all the difference in the world. Complete assembly took me 4 hours. Upon testing the futon out, I realized the STOPPERS were installed at the wrong end. The stickers the manufacturer used to signify correct placement were too dark for the wood color and I never saw them. It only took another half hour to loosen some screws and switch those two pieces so they could grab to keep futon in upright position. Slept 2 nights on the futon and it is firmly comfortable. Place the futon against the wall where your head lays so pillows don't drop to floor during sleep time. I am happy with my purchase. The Aspen full sized futon has a quality look and will suffice both in upright and bedding usage.