DIY Headboard

Tuesday, July 7, 2015




My inner DIY goddess is at it again!

Sometimes I like to buy nice things, other times I like to make them! This project was actually 4 years in the making because we completed it in 'shifts' and it is one that I would like to call 'Beginner DIY' as this was one of the first DIY projects {R} and I completed.

Recently after getting hitched and moving into our third apartment together, we decided to upgrade to our first king sized bed (and now we're never going back!). With that meant we needed a new bed frame. We didn't have tons of money to spend and new headboards/frames are expensive! So this crafty girl decided to make her own. 


Mind you, this project began before the wonderful world of Pinterest was around so I had to resort to good ol' Google for project inspiration. Luckily, I was not the first person to want to build my own headboard circa 2010. Also, I don't have as many 'In progress' pics as I'd like since this was completed a few years ago (don't mind my iPhone 2 pics). But I still thought this was worth a share!

What you will need: (Note: This project is for a king sized headboard)
  • Plywood (Measurements will vary based on your bed size)
  • Batting
  • Upholstery fabric of choice (Note: Make sure your fabric measures slightly larger than the plywood you have purchased to have enough left over to wrap around the edges. This is also your opportunity to get creative! Use a print to add some texture to a neutral space or go for a a more neutral tone if you have a print on your bedding) 
  • Staple Gun
  • Nailhead trim
  • 3 2by4's (For Frame)

Let's get started! 

Step 1: Cover your plywood

First you will want to cover the wood with your batting. Some people like to glue it down with spray glue but personally I am afraid of the stuff (something about gluing your lungs shut?) so I simply put both the fabric and batting on at the same time (4 years later I haven't noticed a problem). You will also want to fold the edges nicely and staple into place. 

Check our Ryan's pre-beard phase!



Step 2: Add Nail Head Trim 

If you're smart you will not wait four years to add this beautiful accent! This nail head trim is awesome and super easy to use! You can find it your local JoAnn Fabrics. I chose the 'gold' finish.


You will want to straighten out your trim and lay it flat. Before you make any cuts make sure that you have measured each section properly so there are no gaps. Every 6 nail heads is an actual tack that you will hammer into place.




Step 3: Build your frame

For this part we hired my stepdad, Handyman Bob, who helped us build a frame to lift this headboard off the ground.

We bought a few 2 by 4's and simply nailed them as so. We also made sure that the we measured the two by fours to be able to be mounted to our frame. (Again, this project was Pre- {R&R} so I don't have a ton of measurements.)


Step 4: Enjoy your new bed!




I am just so happy with this project turnout! It has completely transformed our little master :)

Share your DIY headboard project in the comments below!

As always, Thank you for visiting {R&R} at home!



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