How to Make a Headboard From a Fireplace Mantel

Buy a fireplace mantel. For a country or shabby chic look, shop garage sales, flea markets and antique shops for vintage mantels. Find more contemporary designs at fireplace design stores or home improvement stores such as Lowes or Home Depot.

Refinish the mantel. If the mantel's finish fits your decor, simply clean it by dusting with a soft cloth and wiping it down with a damp cloth. If not, paint or stain the mantel to complement the colors in your room.

Measure the mantel opening. Use a tape measure to determine the dimensions of the mantel opening. Buy a piece of plywood that is 1 inch larger than your measurements all the way around. You can have the plywood cut to order or cut it yourself with a jigsaw.

Lay the piece of plywood on a piece of upholstery foam or quilt batting. Cut around the plywood, adding 5 to 6 inches to the original dimensions. Fold the batting or foam over the plywood and staple it to the back.

Place the padded plywood on the wrong side of the fabric you have chosen for the headboard. Cut around it, adding another 5 or 6 inches to the original dimensions so that it fits over the padding. Fold it over and staple it to the back, stretching the fabric as you go to eliminate wrinkles.

Secure the padded plywood to the mantel. Lay the mantel right side down on the floor. Place the padded plywood into the mantel's opening face down so that the stapled side is facing you. Screw the board to the mantel using wood screws and a power screwdriver. Put a screw in each corner and three evenly spaced on each side.

Attach the mantel. If your bed frame has existing holes for attaching a headboard, align the mantel with the holes and screw or bolt it into place, or hang the headboard on the wall by securing it with L-brackets.