How to Build Headboards for Single Beds

Measure the wall space behind your single bed mattress to determine the dimensions of your headboard. Single-bed mattresses are 39 inches wide, but you can make the headboard any size you like. Widen it to encompass the night tables or extend it to the ceiling, based on your design style. You'll hang the headboard on the wall behind the bed, so begin your height measurement 2 inches below the top rim of your mattress.

Cut a 3/4-inch sheet of plywood to fit your headboard dimensions. Cut a section of upholstery foam to fit the face of your plywood. The simplest way to cut upholstery foam is with an electric knife.

Place the plywood face up on a flat surface. Spray adhesive generously over the face of the plywood. Press the upholstery foam on top of the plywood so that the edges are flush around the perimeter. Allow the adhesive to dry according to the manufacturer's guidelines.

Cut a section of batting and a section of fabric to fit over the face and sides as well as 6 inches along the back perimeter of your headboard.

Place the fabric face down on a flat surface. Place the batting on top of the fabric; make sure the edges are flush around the perimeter.

Center the foam-covered plywood on top of the batting, foam-side down.

Beginning at the center of any side, pull the batting up over the sides of the plywood and attach it to the back with a staple gun. Starting at the center makes it easier to keep the edges from wrinkling. Work your way around the perimeter of the single headboard, stapling every 2 inches or so. When you reach a corner, stop and begin in the center of another side. When all the sides are stapled, overlap the material at the corners as if you were wrapping a gift. Staple them in place. Cut away the excess batting.

Repeat Step 7 with the fabric.

Locate the wall studs behind your single bed. Attach two wall hooks to the wall; at least one should be in a wall stud. Attach the remaining section of the wall hanger to the corresponding point on the back of your headboard. Hang the headboard on the wall.