Deconstruction & ReUse Network recently received a donation of 400 brand new, beautifully made, upholstered queen size and king size beds in three different colors. They were originally headed to a high-end retail store, but the order was rejected because the headboards were not included.


I’ve been wondering if potential buyers will be deterred by the lack of a headboard or inspired by it. I’m sure there will be a little of both. As for me, headboard ideas have kept me up at night for a few weeks now. Yes, I’m quirky that way.
Headboards are a great and inexpensive way to change your décor. Don’t get trapped in a box by thinking headboards have to match the footboard or the bed. Let your creativity flow. Anything can be used for a headboard.
Upholstered Headboards
Only 4 steps to a new headboard and a new look for the bedroom.
- Cut a piece of plywood to the desired size.
- Cut foam and batting to size and affix the foam first, then the batting to the front of the plywood (spray glue does the trick).
- Choose a fabulous fabric and cover the foam and batting. Using a staple gun, staple the fabric to the back side of the plywood.
- Hang it on the wall. Use a cleat or toggle bolts to create a floating headboard.
Easy-peasy! Too simple? Add nail heads, wood trim, etc. for a more sophisticated look.

Reclaimed Lumber Headboards
Want something a little more industrial? Try using galvanized pipe and fittings to create a frame for the headboard. (Paint the frame a color or leave it as-is) Now add pieces of reclaimed, aged lumber to the headboard. Want a simple headboard? Fasten wood boards horizontally to the frame. Leave space in between each plank or butt them together, it’s your choice. Want a pattern? Create one. Affix wood pieces to a piece of plywood or luan. Attach the plywood/luan with “S” hooks to achieve a floating look to brackets for a different look.

Reuse Salvaged Building Materials
Since I work around reclaimed building materials every day, I wondered what building materials could be reused as a headboard. It turns out there are a lot of items that fit the bill. After looking on Google images and Pintrest, I discovered wonderful examples of building components being used for headboards. Old doors, windows, wrought iron pieces, architectural details, art, fireplace mantles, shutters, fabric, picture frames, are just some items that are used as headboards and they don’t have to cost a fortune. The possibilities are endless. Go for it!

Think outside the box. Headboards are just one way salvaged items can be reused. A salvaged door can be a headboard or a coffee table. Send us your reuse ideas.
If you’re interested in purchasing one of our beds or purchasing several for resale, please contact us at info@reusenetwork.org. California only please. For more information about Deconstruction & ReUse Network, please visit our website: https://www.reusenetwork.org