How to Create a Headboard for Your Bed

Need a headboard for your bed? You can create your own without breaking the bank. You will need a few items to get started. You will need to have a pencil, butchers paper, jigsaw, Plyboard, sandpaper, batting, spray adhesive, scissors, fabric, staples and a staple gun.

First, draw a pattern for your headboard with a pencil onto butchers paper. Remember to keep your pattern three inches wider than the bed and about 12 inches taller. Next, cut your pattern out and trace it onto your plyboard. Once you have your pattern on the plyboard you will need to cut out the shape. Take your jigsaw and carefully cut along the lines of your plyboard. Be sure to protect your eyes when cutting the plyboard. Sand down any areas that may be sharp.

Next, spray one side of your batting with spray adhesive and attach it to the plyboard. Make sure to leave enough to wrap around all sides of your plyboard. Wrap the batting over the edges and staple the batting onto the backside. This will leave all the edges with a soft cushioned surface.

Finally pick a fabric to cover the batting and plyboard. You can find many patterns of interesting fabric at Hobby Lobby or other craft and fabric stores. Stretch the fabric on top of the batting and pull fabric over the edges of the plyboard and staple into place. Make sure you staple all the corners. Once you have your headboard covered you can attach it to the frame of your bed with screws. An easy alternative is to lean it up against the wall. Then, push your bed against the board to hold in place.

If you do not want to use fabric and batting for your headboard there are other options. Try covering your headboard in wallpaper. Pick a pattern or buy textured wallpaper in which you can paint. Another idea is to tile your plywood and create a custom tiled headboard. Instead of using plywood purchase an old door and paint or sand down to achieve a shabby chic look. Paint chalkboard paint on the surface which makes a great child's headboard. Simply hang a curtain rod and some interesting draperies behind your bed. Use a privacy screen as a headboard or make your own screen. Cubbies or shelves also make a great headboard and you can use it for extra storage. There are many ideas for headboards so be creative.

Resources:

http://www.countryliving.com/homes/headboards-0309