3 Ways to Update an Outdated Headboard

Here is a look at 3 easy ways to update an old headboard or a headboard from the 1970's that is simply in need of a complete makeover. These outdate headboard makeovers work best with wood headboard left over from the 1970's and 1980's.

So, don't skip over this bargain priced headboards at the local yard sales. You can update outdate headboard in no time and for very little money.

Here are 3 ways to update outdated headboards in a jiffy.

Cheap Ways to Update Old Headboards #1: Cover It

Most headboards from the 1970's were a carved wood or simple wood pattern, which is very easy to make a slip cover for. You will be sewing a simple box of fabric that slips over the headboard. There will not be any real padding, so this is a simple look to simply cove the headboard.

Measure how wide and tall the headboard is. Cut out 2 piece of upholstery grade fabric to this size plus 3 inches on each side. Hem the bottoms of each side.

Lay one piece fabric up and top off with the other face down. Now, sew the sides and top together with a 1 inch seam allowance. Turn inside out and slip onto the headboard! Cool and cute all at once!

Cheap Ways to Update Old Headboards #2: Pad It

Another great look is to sew the same cover as before, but pad the headboard. To do this I simply like to cut a large piece of foam to the same size as the headboard. Try to use at least a 2 inch thick piece.

This can be sewn onto the headboard or glued. Then make the fabric cover and slide it on as well! Tip: Use plastic tarps to help the fabric slide onto the foam easy. Cover the front of the foam with a tarp then slide the cover on. Finally, pull the plastic tarp out and enjoy!

Cheap Ways to Update Old Headboards #3: Paint It

Finally, I bet you will be really surprised how great an outdated wood headboard can look when painted. The key is to use a shiny paint that is popular today. So, high gloss paint in a chocolate brown is very modern and hip!

For the shabby chic update to an old headboard try using while milk paint! It looks great and works well to update yoru old headboard! This is a great look for remaking a headboard in a guest room or master bedroom!