Want to DIY a headboard for a fraction of what you’d buy it for? I’ll walk you through how I made mine step by step!
My youngest daughter is an opinionated little lady so it was no surprise that when it came time to decide on a headboard for her tween room makeover, she knew exactly what she wanted. And since the closest store-bought version of her dream headboard was $700+, it was time for me (a gal who’s never upholstered a thing in her life) to figure out how to DIY one. Making the headboard took some time and patience but it wasn’t very difficult – if I can do this, you can do this!

Supplies
French cleat picture hanger
1. Get a Piece of MDF or Plywood for Your Headboard

2. Trace the Outline of Your Headboard
Draw a line down the center of your MDF/plywood sheet and sketch out the shape of your headboard. If you want your headboard to have an arched top like mine, trace a plate or use a compass to draw a circle in the top center of your board and use it as the base to draw your headboard shape:

3. Cut Out Your Headboard Shape
4. For Extra Tall Headboards, Attach an Additional Piece at the Bottom


5. Add a Wood Spacer to the Back if Needed


6. Install the Hanging Hardware



7. Cover It With Foam



8. Layer with Batting
9. Cover with Fabric
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Target Drapes found {here*} |

10. Hang It Up!




Thanks for stopping by the blog!

jvw home says
Kris this is amazing….i still think it might be hard for moi, but sometimes ya never know, when i’m determined! I’ll keep this in my DIY file b/c it’s a great shaped headboard and a great tutorial….
Lisa @ Shine Your Light says
This is one of my favorite elements of your daughter’s room, Kris. I love the shape you created and the smart ideas for adding height and covering it with affordable fabric! Smarty. Looks beautiful!!
Rebeca Francis says
You did a great job! Rebecca
Kris @ Driven by Décor says
Thank you Rebeca!
Krystine @ www.KrystineEdwards.com says
Kris LOVE this!!!! Great job!!!
pam {simple details} says
So fabulous, my friend!! I love the shape and the simple white against the bold and fun pattern was brilliant! Great tutorial, too!
marty (A Stroll Thru Life) says
Great tutorial. I love the shape you chose. Such a pretty room.
Sarah Gaylor says
Thanks so much for sharing this! I can’t wait to try it!! 🙂
Patty Day @Pattys Epiphanies says
This is fantastic. I am saving this post for future use!!!!
Thanks.
Georgina Irving says
You are a genius! Her headboard is gorgeous, Kris! I cannot wait to make one myself. Thank you for sharing!
Kris @ Driven by Décor says
I’m glad you’re going to give it a go – hope it turns out beautifully!!
[email protected] says
I love your practical tips! My favorite is to make sure you can get it through door before deciding to add any height 🙂 The things you learn only by doing! It turned out great and you have the form, so you can always change up the fabric later!
Becky {This Is Happiness} says
Awesome job! Great tutorial and tips 🙂 Love her room!!
Vel Criste says
This is a great step-by-step tutorial Kris! You did an amazing job on that headboard, no one can tell it was a DIY project!
robyn says
can you give us an approximate cost on the whole project (headboard)? Good job !
Kris @ Driven by Décor says
Hi Robyn – my total cost for the project was just under $150 including the lumber (sheet of MDF plus a 2 x 4), mending plates, foam and batting (both 40% off at Hobby Lobby), fabric, and cleat wall hanger. I already had the wood glue, spray adhesive, and staple gun so I didn’t need to buy those. Hope that helps!
Joyce Stokes says
Great job need a new one , have a sleigh type ,takes up to much room this looks ?.
Holly Hold says
Your daughter and I have precisely the same taste in headboard shape and height. Lovely. And, now, because of you, I have the confident know-how to execute a long-held dream. Thanks so much!