Create a Headboard Out of Picture Frames

Decorating your bedroom but stumped for headboard ideas? Why not try creating a headboard out of picture frames? It is a fantastic way to create a lot of visual impact while at the same time adding a unique personal element to your bedroom that will make you smile every time you see it. Here's how to make your own picture frame headboard.

1. Measure Your Bed

Before you get started you need to know how wide your bed is so you know how many frames you need to reach all the way across it. Take a measurement of the width of your mattress and write it down so you have it when you go shopping. Decide if you want your headboard to be the exact width of your mattress or if you want it to extend a little on each side. If you want it wider than the mattress add a few extra inches to your measurement.

2. Shop for Frames

To create a cohesive look you should choose a series of matching, identical frames. Ideally the frames should be simple. For instance, plain black frames with clean lines work well. Since you Will be hanging quite a few of them it can look cluttered if you choose a frame that is too ornate, so keep it simple. If you want to add color choose frames with a large matte that hold smaller pictures.

Keep your measurements handy and use them to calculate how many frames you need to span across the width of the bed. Also, decide if you want a single row of frames or if you want to double it up with two rows to add even more impact.

3. Choose Pictures for the Frames

Dig out your old pictures and start going through them looking for your favorites. Anything that makes you smile is a great choice. Or, use photos of your favorite vacation so you are always reminded of your fun, relaxing time when you head to bed in the evenings. If you have your photos stored digitally you can print them out on a regular printer to put in the frames. Consider printing them in black and white to get a cohesive look between all the frames.

If your photos are already printed you can take them to a copy shop and get them enlarged to fit the frame. Again, consider changing them to black and white if they are color photos.

4. Frame the Photos and Hang the Frames

Put the photos in their frames and then start hanging the frames on the wall above the bed. Determine the center point of the headboard and then hang the frames out from there so that the grouping will come out even on each side. Also, use a level to be sure that you are hanging the frames straight. You can hang them directly next to each other or leave a slight gap between each frame - the choice is yours.

That's it! Now you have a truly one of a kind headboard that is completely personal to you and that will bring you happiness for a long time to come.