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A padded headboard is like a warm hug for your bed, and you can easily make one for cheap with this DIY tutorial.
Materials:
- 2x4s
- Plywood
- Foam
- Fabric
- Staple gun
- Screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Paint
Instructions:
- Cut the 2x4s to the desired length for your headboard.
- Assemble the 2x4s into a frame, using wood glue and screws.
- Cut the plywood to the same size as the frame.
- Glue the plywood to the frame, making sure that the edges are flush.
- Cut the foam to the same size as the plywood.
- Staple the foam to the plywood, making sure that the edges are covered.
- Cut the fabric to the same size as the foam.
- Fold the fabric in half, wrong sides together.
- Pin the fabric to the foam, leaving a 1-inch seam allowance.
- Sew the fabric to the foam, using a 1-inch seam allowance.
- Turn the headboard right side out.
- Trim the excess fabric.
- Sand the headboard to smooth out any rough edges.
- Paint the headboard to your desired color.
- Enjoy your new headboard!
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Materials: 2x4s, plywood, foam, fabric, staple gun, screws, wood glue, sandpaper, paint
- Cut the 2x4s to the desired length for your headboard.
- Assemble the 2x4s into a frame using wood glue and screws.
- Cover the frame with plywood, foam, and fabric.
A Reader Needs a Padded Headboard
Since you’re reading this, you need a padded headboard to improve your nightly reading session and add interest to your space.
A DIY headboard is a simple and affordable project that you can complete in a few hours.
You can use a variety of materials to create your headboard, including plywood, foam, and fabric.
Be sure to choose a fabric that’s easy to clean and durable.
You can also add some nailhead trim or tufting to give your headboard a more luxurious look.
How to Make a DIY Headboard
Needing a padded headboard for cheap? Make your own by following these steps:
- Decide on the size and shape of your headboard.
- Cut a piece of plywood to the desired size.
- Upholster the plywood with fabric.
For more detailed instructions, see the full tutorial on how to make a DIY headboard.
How to Make a Headboard
You can make a padded headboard for cheap by using bed foam, the backside of a soft headboard, and saving money by not buying cleat attachments for the wall.
This DIY headboard tutorial will show you how to make a padded headboard that looks great and is easy on your wallet.
My Cheap DIY Headboard Uses Bed Foam
To make a cheap DIY headboard, you can use bed foam.
Materials:
- Plywood ($10, Home Depot)
- Foam ($10, Walmart)
- Staple Gun ($20, Amazon)
- Fabric Glue ($5, Joann’s)
- Pillows ($10, Target)
Total: $45
Backside of Soft Headboard
With the front of your soft headboard complete, you can now focus on the backside.
- Use fabric that’s easy to clean.
- Attach the headboard to the bed with staples or glue.
- Add nailheads or buttons for decoration.
Save Money by Not Buying Cleat Attachments for the Wall
Instead of buying cleat attachments for the wall, you can use a piece of plywood as a backing for your headboard.
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After you’ve made your headboard, you’ll need to figure out how to attach it to the wall.
There are a few different ways to do this, but the easiest way is to use a few L-brackets.
Simply screw the brackets into the wall studs and then attach the headboard to the brackets.
You can also use nails or screws, but this is more difficult and can damage the headboard.
Decide on Your Headboard Shape
When deciding on your headboard shape, keep in mind the size of your bed and the overall style of your bedroom.
You can choose from a variety of shapes, including:
- Rectangular
- Square
- Curved
- Tufted
Drill Holes for Tufts
You’ll need to drill holes for tufts if you want a tufted headboard. Here’s how to do it:
- Determine the spacing and pattern of your tufts on the headboard.
- Mark the locations where you want to drill the holes.
- Choose an appropriate size drill bit based on your fabric choice and desired tuft size.
- Drill holes at each marked location, making sure to maintain consistent depth throughout.
By following these steps, you can create a beautifully tufted headboard that adds elegance and style to your bedroom decor without breaking the bank!
Add Some Nailhead Bling
To add some decorative flair to your upholstered headboard, consider incorporating nailhead trim into the design.
Nailhead trim comes in various sizes and colors, allowing you to choose the perfect style for your headboard.
When placing the nailheads, you can create patterns or simply follow the edges of the headboard for a clean look.
Make sure to space them evenly and use a small mallet to hammer them in securely.
Whether you’re making a queen or king size headboard, adding nailhead bling will give it that extra touch of sophistication.
Items You’ll Need to Make Your Own Headboard
Once you’ve decided on your headboard shape, you’ll need to gather your materials.
You’ll need:
- A piece of plywood
- Fabric
- Nails
- A staple gun
- Some tools
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best way to attach a padded headboard to a bed frame?
To attach a padded headboard to a bed frame, you can use two metal braces with a hole on each end.
Drill and pre-drill screw holes, then attach the headboard to the bed frame with long wood screws.
How do I make a padded headboard without a sewing machine?
To make a padded headboard without a sewing machine, you can use fabric glue instead.
- Apply the glue to the foam and press it onto the plywood.
- Then, wrap the fabric tightly around it and secure with staples.
What is the best type of fabric to use for a padded headboard?
The best type of fabric to use for a padded headboard is a linen blend fabric because it’s durable and easy to clean.
How do I prevent the fabric from stretching on my padded headboard?
To prevent the fabric from stretching on your padded headboard, you can use a spray adhesive to adhere the fabric to the plywood.
How do I clean a padded headboard?
To clean a padded headboard:
- Use a dry microfiber cloth to dust it regularly.
- If the headboard is soiled, spot clean it with a mild detergent and water.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the fabric.
Conclusion
Sure, you could buy a padded headboard, but it’ll cost you a pretty penny. Or, you could make your own padded headboard for a fraction of the cost. With this DIY tutorial, you’ll be able to create a beautiful and comfortable headboard that will add a touch of style to your bedroom.
[Keypoints]What you need:
- A piece of plywood (the size will depend on the size of your bed)
- Foam (the thickness will depend on how thick you want your headboard to be)
- Fabric (enough to cover the front and sides of the headboard)
- Staple gun
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors
- Pencil
- Tape measure
Instructions:
- Cut the plywood to the desired size.
- Cut the foam to the same size as the plywood.
- Center the foam on the plywood and staple it in place.
- Cut the fabric to the same size as the front and sides of the headboard.
- Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and press.
- Unfold the fabric and place it on top of the headboard, with the fold running down the center.
- Staple the fabric in place, starting at the top and working your way down.
- Fold the excess fabric over the sides of the headboard and staple it in place.
- Use a hot glue gun to glue any loose edges of fabric.
- Use a pencil and tape measure to mark where you want to attach the buttons to the headboard.
- Hot glue the buttons to the headboard.
Your padded headboard is now complete!
