How to Give a Basic Toddler Bed a Designer Look

Some simple do-it-yourself tricks can take toddler beds and bedding from basic to stunning, designer-caliber showstoppers.

By Brian Patrick Flynn, Decor Demon
Filed under: Kids' Bedrooms, Beds, How To, Handmade, Bedrooms

Add Tape Trim to Pillow With Glue Gun

Dress up a standard white pillow case by cutting a piece of tape trim to size, then attaching with a glue gun and glue sticks (Images 1 & 2). For best adhesion, run a bead of glue along the inside and outside edges of trim. Tip: Gluing trim to pillows is ideal for those strictly used for decorative purposes (Image 3). For pillows that receive heavy use, it's best to sew trim either with a machine or by hand-stitching to ensure proper durability.

Add Tape Trim to Pillow With Iron-On Adhesive

An alternative way to add trim to a standard white pillowcase is to roll out iron-on adhesive tape underneath the trim, cut it to size with scissors, then adhere with an iron set on medium heat (Image 1). Simply place the iron on top of the trim and slowly move along from the top to the bottom of the pillow (Image 2). Lightly pull the edges of the trim to ensure proper adhesion. Tip: Iron-on adhesive tape is best for pillows strictly used for decorative purposes. For pillows that receive heavy use, it’s best to sew trim either with a machine or by hand-stitching to ensure proper durability.

Add Coordinating or Contrasting Nightstands

To carry on the one-of-a-kind, designer-grade look, pair nightstands that coordinate or contrast with the color of the bed frame, yet do not match. Lacquered plastic nightstands in a neutral color, such as white, work well with any color bed or bedding.