Can I build a $1700 headboard for $200?
Our headboard broke in a move so my husband and I haven’t had one in years! (Tell me you’re a military family without telling me your a military family). I decided it was time to make one! Why not flip something for myself for once.
Creating a headboard is not something I’ve done before so I contemplated just purchasing one, but when I found a headboard online that I absolutely fell in love with, the price tag of $1700 quickly changed my mind. I knew I could create my own version of the headboard using a few simple materials.
The Process only took about 2 days
I had scrap plywood lying around, but had to purchase the rest of my materials for this project. My goal was to keep cost under $200 because why not give myself a challenge.
Materials that I need to buy for the project, included foam pad, batting, a metal frame from Facebook marketplace, spray adhesive, and fabric of my choice. I chose a neutral colored fabric to match my existing bedroom decor.
To begin this project, I first had to remove all of the swirly bits of metal in the center of the headboard. I used a hack saw for this instead of a jigsaw because while I can handle power tools, sparks will always terrify me.
Then I measured the dimensions of my metal frame (and traced the shape with a sharpie) and cut the plywood and foam padding accordingly. I used spray adhesive to attach the foam to the plywood. Then, I wrapped the foam pad with a layer of batting around it, securing it in place on the back of the plywood with the staple gun. This created the base of the headboard.
Next, I used Wise Owl One Hour Enamel in Jet Black and a Zibra round brush (both can be found here on my site!) to paint the metal frame. This added a modern, clean look to the headboard and made it look more expensive than it was. Especially because it had chipped in transport!
After painting the frame, I wrapped the batting-covered foam pad with my chosen fabric and secured it in place with the staple gun, ensuring that it was taut and smooth.
To attach the upholstered piece to the frame, I used scrap wood and attached it to the back of the plywood and then to the thick posts on either side of the original frame. You don’t see this part when the headboard it up.
The end result was a beautiful DIY headboard that looked similar to the original one I had found online, but for a fraction of the cost. Though I have to admit I did come in at just over my $200 goal. Not only was this project budget-friendly, but it was also a fun way to get creative and personalize my bedroom space.
You can totally do this too!
Overall, creating a headboard was a relatively simple task that required just a few materials and some time for assembly. Don't be afraid to try this for yourself! Get creative and experiment with different fabrics, paints, and textures to create a unique headboard that fits your personal style.
Be sure to check the links for products used and for a closer look follow me on Instagram @the_things_we_built
