There's something inherently attractive about old, weathered wood, perhaps because it reminds us of the passage of time (which may or may not be a positive sentiment!). The following weathered wood headboard project is a simple project that can be tackled with a few tools and some patience.
Materials:
weathered wood pickets (Check local salvage and antique shops for this type of wood, which is gaining in popularity. Unfortunately, this means the price has also gone up, so be prepared to pay slightly more than what you had anticipated. Purchase (or find) enough to cover the width of the bed, and of a height that is a reasonable distance above the top of the bed. From an aesthetic standpoint, although subject to personal preference, a 48"-tall board is appropriate.)
stringer wood (Used to connect all the upright picket boards together, this can be as simple as a two-by-four cut to the width of the bed. You will need two of these to keep the headboard sturdy. An impressive outcome is possible if these are also made of weathered wood.)
screws or nails and nail gun (The length of the screws and nails or brads is determined by the thickness of the boards and stringers. They should not go all the way through the boards.)
bolts (The bolts will be used to attach the frame to the headboard, and their length is also determined by the thickness of the wood. Carriage bolts and nuts with lock washers are ideal for this project.)
drill and bit (To prevent the wood from splitting, use a 1/16" drill bit to create starter holes for the screws.)
carpenter's wood glue (Although the screws will hold the wood in place, glue will add to its sturdiness. Without glue, you'll be able to modify the headboard later.)
saw (To make any modifications in the pickets and to cut the stringers.)
Steps:
- Measure the width of the bed and frame, and note the location of the brackets at the head of the bed. The headboard will be connected via these brackets.
- Lay the pickets of weathered wood side-by-side on a flat surface, and decide how much width to trim. It may be easier to remove a board or two than to split one down the middle. Decide whether you want the boards spaced or butted against one another; spacing may eliminate some cutting.
- If it will not cause dramatic change to the wood's appearance, paint or stain the stringer boards, then slide them underneath the pickets. Space the stringers until the look is appealing but also to provide enough support for the pickets so that they don't sway or work loose.
- Use two screws or two nails per picket to attach the stringers. For a very clean look, drive the screws from the back, and for a rustic effect, use old nails to fasten the wood.
- Stand the headboard behind the frame and mark the location of the bolt holes on the flanges at the head (noted in step 1). On these marks, drill holes through the headboard and fasten the bolts through these holes.
Note: To prevent small splinters, coat the pickets with a clear polyurethane. Test a small area on the back to observe any undesirable change in the appearance of the wood.
Resources DeVilbiss Steel Driver Series Portable Air Compressor
DeVilbiss Air Power Tools Company
213 Industrial Dr.
Jackson, TN 38301
Phone: 901-423-7000
Toll-Free: 800-888-2468
Fax: 901-423-7951
Website:
www.devilbiss.com
Also in this Episode
WINDOWS MEDIA VIDEO
