24 DIY Headboard Ideas That Will Totally Upgrade Your Bedroom
Let’s be honest—your bed is basically the centerpiece of your room. So why does it often look like an afterthought? If you’ve been staring at a plain wall behind your bed thinking, “This screams boring,” you’re not alone.
I’ve been there. I spent way too long trying to find a headboard that wouldn’t cost my firstborn, and guess what? DIY headboards saved the day.
So, I’ve rounded up 24 DIY headboard ideas that will make your bedroom feel like it belongs in a Pinterest board—without the hefty price tag.
Trust me, some of these are so simple you’ll wonder why you didn’t try them sooner.
1. Reclaimed Wood Plank Headboard
There’s something magical about reclaimed wood. It’s rustic, eco-friendly, and totally budget-friendly.
Why I love it:
- Adds instant texture to your room
- Perfect for rustic or farmhouse vibes
- Can be stained or painted any color
Pro tip: Sand the wood well unless you want splinters for breakfast.
2. Upholstered Padded Headboard
Comfort meets style. An upholstered headboard is a classic choice, but DIY versions are surprisingly doable.
Steps:
- Cut a piece of plywood to your bed’s width
- Wrap foam and batting
- Cover with fabric and staple it all down
FYI, a neutral fabric is your friend if you’re like me and change your bedding every week.
3. Painted Wall-Mounted Headboard
Not ready to commit to wood or fabric? Just paint one directly on the wall.
Ideas:
- Bold geometric shapes
- Ombre gradients
- Faux paneling with painter’s tape
I once did a gold stripe on a gray wall. It looked expensive but cost less than a coffee date.
4. Pallet Headboard
Pallets are the DIY hero we all need. They’re cheap, sturdy, and instantly rustic.
Tips:
- Pick smooth pallets or sand them thoroughly
- Stain or leave natural for that raw look
- Stack vertically or horizontally
Pro tip: Secure the pallet to the wall for safety—gravity isn’t always your friend.
5. Upholstered Headboard With Buttons
If you want a touch of glam, add buttons to a padded headboard. It’s easier than it looks and adds a tufted effect.
Materials: Fabric, foam, plywood, buttons, and a staple gun.
The extra effort is worth it for that “fancy hotel” vibe.
6. Ladder Headboard
A wooden ladder can make a surprisingly stylish headboard. Lean it against the wall and hang blankets, fairy lights, or decorative garlands.
Bonus: It doubles as a mini storage/display area.
7. DIY Rope Headboard
Rope isn’t just for boats—this headboard screams coastal chic. Wrap thick rope around a wooden frame or even nail it in patterns directly on the wall.
It’s inexpensive, lightweight, and looks way more complicated than it is.
8. Bookshelf Headboard
Bookworms, rejoice. Use a low bookshelf as a headboard and store your favorite reads within arm’s reach.
Why it works:
- Functional and decorative
- Customizable height and width
- Great for small bedrooms
Ever woken up needing a good read? Problem solved.
9. Upholstered Pallet Headboard
Combine pallets and padding for a rustic yet soft look. Perfect if you can’t choose between rustic and cozy.
10. Fabric Wall Panels
Skip the heavy plywood. Mount fabric panels directly to the wall.
Pro tip: Use velcro or push pins to make them removable. It’s like temporary wallpaper but way classier.
11. Hanging Curtain Headboard
A curtain as a headboard? Yep, it works. Mount a rod above your bed and hang a lightweight curtain or tapestry.
Why it’s great:
- Super flexible
- Easy to swap out colors or patterns
- Budget-friendly
12. Plywood Geometric Headboard
Cut plywood into triangles, squares, or hexagons and mount them to form a geometric masterpiece.
FYI: You don’t need fancy tools—just a saw, paint, and patience.
13. Industrial Pipe Headboard
PVC or metal pipes can create a modern, industrial vibe. Think of it as a statement piece with a minimal footprint.
- Can hold lights or hanging plants
- Works with any room theme
- Surprisingly easy to assemble
14. Chalkboard Headboard
Yes, chalkboard paint isn’t just for classrooms. Paint a rectangle on the wall or a board and get creative.
Fun factor:
- Daily quotes
- Doodles
- To-do lists (or passive-aggressive notes to your partner)
15. Painted Canvas Headboard
Stretch a large canvas and paint it like a mural. Then hang it above your bed.
Bonus: Changeable art without touching the wall itself.
16. Shiplap Headboard
Shiplap screams farmhouse without being overbearing. Nail horizontal or vertical panels for an instant focal point.
Extra touch: Whitewash it for a soft, airy look.
17. Upholstered Panel Strips
Instead of one big headboard, create vertical or horizontal fabric panels. It adds dimension and can be customized with colors or patterns.
I personally love this method because it feels modern without trying too hard.
18. Rope Macrame Headboard
Macrame isn’t just boho—it’s cozy, artistic, and incredibly DIY-friendly. Hang it from a wooden rod for a lightweight yet stunning effect.
Extra tip: Use chunky rope for a more dramatic look.
19. Wood Slat Headboard
Simple, modern, and minimal. Nail vertical or horizontal slats to a frame and stain or paint them.
It’s clean, inexpensive, and honestly timeless.
20. Upholstered Headboard With Nail Trim
This one’s all about the details. Add a nailhead trim around a padded headboard for subtle glam.
Pro tip: Use a ruler to space nails evenly—unless you want a “freehand abstract” look.
21. Hanging Wooden Crate Headboard
Mount wooden crates horizontally behind your bed. Instant storage + headboard.
Use it for:
- Books
- Small decor items
- Plants
Functional and artsy? Check and check.
22. Recycled Door Headboard
Old doors make fantastic headboards. Sand, paint, or leave natural for a dramatic effect.
Extra bonus: Some doors already have intricate panels—perfect DIY shortcut.
23. Floating Shelf Headboard
Install a floating shelf behind your bed. It works as a headboard and a mini nightstand for lamps, alarm clocks, or that book you never finished.
Pro tip: Make sure it’s wide enough to feel like a headboard and not just a ledge.
24. Upholstered Headboard With Storage
Add built-in shelves or pockets to a padded headboard. Perfect for small bedrooms or if you just love everything within reach.
Final Thoughts
Creating a DIY headboard isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about personalizing your space, saving money, and flexing your creative muscles. From rustic pallets to plush upholstered beauties, these 24 DIY headboard ideas prove that you don’t need to break the bank to make your bed the centerpiece it deserves to be.
So, which one will you try first? Personally, I’m torn between the macrame headboard and the floating shelf version—both look amazing and functional. No matter what you choose, one thing’s for sure: your bedroom is about to go from “meh” to “wow.”
