Introduction to DIY Padded Headboards

Want to learn how to make a padded headboard for your bedroom without spending three to four hundred dollars (or more) to buy one? Using a contemporary headboard is a fast way to update any style bedroom and freshen your look. This step-by-step home decorating project will guide you through making your own DIY padded headboard for a fraction of what buying one would cost!

Making a Padded Headboard – 101

Supplies Needed:

• One sheet of pressboard or plywood
• (We found a 4’x8′ sheet at Home Depot for less than $11!)
• Foam mattress pad or other padding
• (Used a twin foam mattress pad on clearance for $9)
• A flat sheet of your chosen color, large enough to cover and wrap around your board
• (We used a twin sheet to cover our headboard from Walmart for less than $5)
• Staple gun
• Staples
• Glue gun
• Glue sticks
• 4-8 Buttons
• (We bought plain metal buttons for $2 at Hobby Lobby. You could also use buttons that can be covered with fabric of your choice, also at craft store.
• An extra person to help move the headboard while working on the project.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Cutting the Wood

Cut your wood to the size of the finished headboard. I had the home improvement store do it for me, and the first two cuts are free. For a queen headboard, I recommend having it cut to 62-65 inches wide, and to whatever height you prefer. I simply used the 48-inch side as my finished height.

Step 2: Attaching the Foam Padding

Lay the foam padding on a firm surface, then lay the board on top. Wrap the foam tightly around the back, then staple into place, every couple of inches or so. Be sure to keep pulling it snug every time you staple to keep the edges consistent. Wrap it over the top and sides. If your foam sheet is too short to reach the bottom of the headboard, make sure it at least covers enough so that the un-padded area will be below the level of the pillows behind the bed, and therefore will not be seen.

Step 3: Attaching the Fabric

Lay your sheet or fabric right side down on a firm surface, and then the board on top, face down. (That is foam side down on the back side of the fabric.) Now wrapping the fabric around to the back, staple every couple of inches until all four sides have been secured to the backside. Remember, it is VERY important to pull the fabric taut as you staple each opposite side, you want the front side to be snug and smooth.