Picket Fence Headboard

Materials:

11 untreated pickets (3-1/2" wide)
150-grit sandpaper
drill
tape measure
screws
primer
paint
paintbrushes
nails
hooks
saw

Steps:

1. Prime pickets and let dry.
2. Measure from the top of the picket down and saw nine into graduated lengths : one 50 inches, two 46 inches, two 42 inches, two 38 inches and two 34 inches. Measuring the two remaining pickets from the bottom up, saw two 41- to 42-inch lengths for the cross boards. Reserve the two leftover picket tops for the rack project below .
3. Arrange the pickets on a flat surface 3/4 inches apart with the lower edges aligned. Position a cross board one inch (or 5-1/2 inches if bolting to bed frame ) and the other board 27 inches from the bottom edge. Secure the cross boards with two screws to each picket.
4. Paint the headboard as desired, sanding between coats. For a weathered look, sand more after the final coat. Bolt to wall or bed frame.

1. Cut the two picket tops to 14 inches in length and a board 28 inches long (or the desired length) for the cross brace.
2. Lay the pickets flat and position the cross board on them at a right angle. Secure it with two screws on each picket.
3. Prime and paint the rack, sanding between coats. Attach the hooks (figure A). Mount using nails or screws.