Making a Padded Headboard

Ever since I watched Trading Spaces on TLC I have wanted to make a padded headboard. They make it look so easy. In only minutes they wrap a piece of plywood with batting and fabric, staple it and presto! I told Michael it would be a piece of cake one day project. Well, it ended up being a piece of cake two day project and we're really pleased with the result.

I found this home decor fabric at JoAnn's for 50% off, making it only $12 a yard. I purchased two and a half yards. I also picked up two and a half yards of 1" thick sheet batting - also on sale so the cost of batting and fabric came in around $34.

Michael picked up some 3/4" cheap plywood and two 2x4s and 1x2s. He then framed the headboard and screwed it together, leaving two long planks on either side that will screw into the bed frame below. Most queen beds measure about 60" wide. We made the headboard 62" wide since we have a pillow top mattress and it has a little extra fluff. Once upholstered, the headboard measures about 64".

Michael and I laid the batting on the floor, then laid the frame on top and wrapped it like a present, stapling the batting along the back. We pulled it straight but were careful not to pull it too tight since the batting is a little fragile. Bean was pretty disappointed that the batting wasn't his new bed.

After we finished padding the board, we stood it up straight and stretched the fabric over the face. I took a warm iron and smoothed it as Michael pulled along the back side and stapled each side into place. Neither of us knows how to upholster, but we are both painters so we took the same approach as stretching a canvas. We're happy with the result, and I'm very happy my head won't go into the window behind our bed anymore while I sleep. The total project came it at just under $60.

Plus, it's Bean and Lily approved - so you know it's good.