How-to: Picture Frame Headboard

Create this fun DIY from the pages of HGTV Magazine.
Re-purposed picture frame as a twin headboard in kid's room.

Craft a Headboard from an Old Picture Frame

HGTV Magazine: An upholstered headboard made using a 39-inch-by-50-inch frame from a local thrift store took Miss Dylan's bed to princess-like status. First, mother Mandi Gubler painted the frame white. Next, she wrapped a piece of plywood with batting, covered the front in fabric, and fit it into the frame. To get a tufted look, she stapled down the fabric in 14 places, then hot-glued a fabric-covered button over each staple. Check out HGTV Magazine for step-by-step instructions on this project.

Photo by: David A. Land

David A. Land

By: Mandi Gubler

Materials Needed:

  • paint
  • paint brush
  • picture frame (39" x 59" works for twin bed)
  • 1/2-inch plywood (sized to fit inside frame)
  • batting
  • fabric
  • staple gun
  • hot glue
  • buttons

Step 1

Paint a 39-inch-by-50-inch frame and let dry.

Step 2

Wrap a ½-inch thick piece of plywood with batting and cover the front with fabric. Staple fabric taunt in back.

Step 3

Fit the plywood into the frame and mark spots for tufts, then staple each one and hot glue a button over each.

For the original step-by-step tutorial with pictures, visit vintagerevivals.com.

Next Up

How to Make a Bulletin Board Headboard

Short on space? No problem! Create a beautiful headboard that does double duty as a bulletin board or jewelry display in your dorm room.

How to Make a DIY Tufted Headboard From Pool Noodles

Pool noodles in the bedroom? Yes, it sounds sketchy but trust us — if you can handle a staple gun, you can make this dreamy DIY headboard. Dive on in!

How to Make a Nautical-Inspired Headboard With a Sail

Create an industrial-style headboard with a nautical touch by using PVC pipes to form the bed frame and stringing a sail in between the pipes.

DIY Rainbow Headboard

This whimsical headboard is budget-friendly, renter-friendly and so incredibly cute.

How to "Dye" a Pillow Cover With a Marker

Following the instructions below to create this fun DIY project from HGTV Magazine.

Add Pattern to Makeup Bags With Sharpies

Following the instructions below to create this fun DIY project from HGTV Magazine.

Stencil a Tray With Sharpies

Following the instructions below to create this fun DIY project from HGTV Magazine.

Upcycle an End Table Into a Cute and Cozy Dog Bed

Transform a thrifted table into a comfy retreat for your pup that’ll look great in your living room or bedroom.

DIY Stockings From HGTV Stars

HGTV hosts shared their ideas for made-from-scratch stockings with HGTV Magazine.

How to Make a Giant Chalkboard Calendar

Follow the steps below to create this giant chalkboard calendar from the pages of HGTV Magazine.

What's New in Handmade

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.