How to Make a Headboard With Storage

Maximize your bedroom's storage by building handy cubbies into your headboard.

Create storage and visual appeal with a DIY storage cubby headboard.

Headboard With Storage Cubbies

Create storage and visual appeal with a DIY storage cubby headboard.

Photo by: Wade Works Creative

Wade Works Creative

By: Chip Wade

Materials and Tools

  • (5) sheets 3/4" plywood
  • (8) 1x2 x 8' primed pine or poplar boards
  • (1) 2" x 2" x 3' walnut board
  • 7/8" diameter dowel, 1' long
  • chop saw
  • circular or table saw
  • trim nail gun
  • drill
  • 7/8" Forstner drill bit

Cut List

-Piece A - (3) bottom double and top inner horizontal stretcher: 2x10 x 7' plywood
-Piece B - (2) middle double horizontal stretcher: 8-3/4"  x 7' 1-1/2" plywood
-Piece C - (2) inner sides of top unit: 9-1/2" x 2' 5-3/4" plywood 
-Piece D -
(1) back inset panel of top unit: 2' 3-1/2" x 7' 1-1/2" plywood
-Piece E -
(2) outer sides of top unit: 9-1/2" x 2' 6-1/2" plywood, miter joint on one side 
-Piece F
- (1) outer skin of top unit: 9-1/2" x 7' 4-1/2" plywood, miter joints on both sides 
-Piece G
- (14) compartment dividers: 1" x 1' x 8-3/4" plywood 
-Piece H
- (1) face frame for center horizontal: 7' 1-1/2" poplar board 
-Piece I
- (2) face frame for top and bottom horizontal: 7' 4-1/2" poplar board 
-Piece J
- (2) face frame for side verticals: 2' 3-1/2" poplar board 
-Piece K
- (7) face frame for inside verticals: 1' 1" poplar board 
-Piece L
- (8) inner sides of base console table: 1' 8" x 1' 1-3/4" plywood 
-Piece M
- (2) back inset panel of console table base 1' 1" x 1' 1" plywood
-Piece N
- (8) outer sides of console table base: 1' 8" x 1' 4" plywood
-Piece O
- (8) face frame for console table base: 1' 2-1/2" poplar board 
-Piece P
- (8) leg for console table base: 2x2 x 4" walnut board 
-Piece Q
- (8) wooden dowel for console legs: 7/8" x 1" 

Cut + Assemble Top Unit

Pre-cut pieces A-P with a table or circular saw. Glue and nail two (Piece A) sections together, and then glue and nail that assembly to (Piece C) on each side. Both (Piece C) sections will cap the end of (Piece A) sections. Glue and nail back panel (Piece D) inside the frame, and cap with one more (Piece A) (Images 1 and 2). Glue and nail two (Piece B) sections together, and mount that assembly in the center of the box.

Finish Top Unit Frame

Glue and nail two (Piece E) sections on either side and a (Piece F) on top (Image 1). Take care to align miter joints closely, as this is the finished surface (Image 2). Place alignment marks for vertical dividers you will assemble in the next step (Image 3).

Assemble Storage Compartments

Glue two (Piece G) pieces together, and repeat for all pieces to make a total of seven (Image 1). Glue and nail the seven (Piece G) sections on the previously marked alignments (Images 2 and 3). Note: It is easier to finish this assembly separately, or you can finish at once at the end.

Attach Trim

Apply desired finish on (Pieces H-K),  and let dry. Glue and nail (Piece H), two (Piece I) sections, two (Piece J) sections and seven (Piece K) sections to front of unit, ensuring boards are flush on all sides. Set the unit aside.

Assemble Inner Table Frame

Glue and nail four (Piece L) sections in a pinwheel pattern, and inset (Piece M) flush against the back using glue and nails. Repeat to make a second console table (Images 1 and 2).

Assemble Around Frame

Glue and nail four (Piece N) sections around the table, taking care to align all miter joints as this is the finished surface. Repeat for the second console table (Images 1-3).

Attach Table Trim

Apply paint or finish to all (Piece O) sections if desired, and let dry. Glue and nail four (Piece O) sections in a pinwheel pattern, assembling flush on all sides. Repeat for the second console table (Images 1 and 2).

Mark + Drill for Table Legs

Measure and mark the center line for all console legs at 2-1/2" off the edges. Drill a 3/4" deep hole with a 7/8" Forstner bit at each mark. Repeat for second console table (Images 1 and 2).

Assemble Legs

Cut all (Piece P and Q) sections (Images 1 and 2). Measure and mark the center line of all legs, and drill a 1/2" deep hole with a 7/8" forstner bit (Image 3). Glue and set wood dowels in the holes in  the legs (Image 4). For an easier option, use premade legs and mounting plates.

Attach Legs

Glue and align legs in holes in bottom of the console table ensuring legs are parallel with edges of the box. Apply touch up finish as needed.

Assemble Headboard

Place top shelving unit over the two bottom console tables (Image 1). Fill compartments with your favorite books and other personal items (Image 2).

Next Up

Upholstered Headboard With Nail Head Trim

Create a dramatic focal point in your bedroom with a custom, upholstered headboard that extends to the ceiling.

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 Decorative Pegboard Shelf

Need wall storage but can’t find just the right shelving unit? Try this modern take on an old-school storage idea. It’s easy to build and you can customize the colors however you’d like.

I Tried Eight Sleep's Temperature-Regulating Mattress — Here's How It's Going So Far

Eight Sleep's high-tech mattress promises to improve your 'sleep fitness,' but does it work?

How to Build Rolling Garage Storage Shelves

Custom garage storage can cost a pretty penny. Luckily, we’ve got the perfect DIY garage shelves project for you.

How to Build Oversized Garage Storage Cabinets

Say goodbye to clutter for good with the addition of extra-large garage cabinets. Inexpensive and easy to assemble, this DIY storage solution is a perfect weekend project.

How to Build Banquette Seating With Built-in Storage

Optimize seating and storage with an L-shaped bench that will turn any corner into a cozy destination.

The Best Headboards for Every Style and Budget

Find your perfect match and transform your bedroom for the better.

10 Best Beds With Storage for Every Style

Sleep easy knowing your bedroom is clean and organized with these dreamy storage bed designs.

How to Make a Bench Cushion With a Removable Cover

Learn how to use a fabric shower curtain to sew an upholstered cushion for a kitchen banquette, window seat or patio furniture.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

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