Decoration Ideas for a Bookcase Headboard

Books

• An obvious way to decorate a bookcase headboard is with books. However, don't fill all of the available shelves only with books. Bookshelves often look the most attractive when a mix of books and accessories are used. Fill one shelf about one-third full of books placed upright to the left. On another shelf, lay two or three books on their side, and stack them in the middle of the shelf, placing a decorative bowl on top of the books. On another shelf, place only accessories, such as a picture frame of your favorite family photo or a wicker basket. This method keeps the bookshelves from looking overcrowded with books.

Accessories

• When decorating a bookcase headboard with accessories, choose items you may need before you fall asleep or early in the morning. These items may include an alarm clock or a telephone. Other items you may like to have by your bed include a small bowl of your favorite candy for a snack before bed, a wicker basket filled with your favorite lotions to rub on your hands or a decorative tissue container should you have allergies. Accessories are best used when in groups. For example, don't just place a small bowl of candy on the shelf. Place the small bowl on top of stacked books.

Potpourri

• If you love to have relaxing smells soothe you to sleep, place some potpourri in a small bowl or vase on the shelf. Don't use too much as you don't want the scent to overwhelm you as you try to sleep. Lavender, chamomile, bergamot and sandalwood are particularly known for their ability to calm the nervous system, relax and enable sleep.

Kids' Rooms

• Bookcase headboards can be especially useful in kids' rooms as kids tend to have a lot of toys. In a child's room, fill the bookcases with toy cars or airplanes, stuffed animals, his favorite books, sports pictures, baseball glove or football. As kids like to move around a lot, ensure none of the items are heavy or breakable so that they won't injury the child if they fall.