How to Cut Down a King-Sized Wood Headboard

Cut the Headboard’s Width

• 1

  Measure the width of the headboard. Mark the exact center of the headboard.

• 2

  Measure to both sides of the first mark to indicate where to cut. Mark the cut lines by drawing a line from the top edge to the bottom edge of the headboard, using a yardstick to keep the line straight. For example, to cut the headboard to a queen size, which is 16 inches smaller, measure eight inches on both sides of the center line. For a full size bed frame, which is 22 inches smaller, measure 11 inches on both sides. For a twin, which is 37 inches smaller, measure 18.5 inches on both sides.

• 3

  Cut along the drawn cut lines using a jigsaw. If you prefer, you can use a handsaw; however, it will be more difficult to keep the line straight. Discard the center cutout section.

• 4

  Sand the edges of the cut headboard using medium-grit sandpaper to remove any rough edges.

Cut the Headboard’s Height

• 5

  Inspect the headboard. Depending on the style headboard, it might be easier to cut from the feet of the headboard. Or, if you want to cut the top of the headboard to create a flat edge, determine if the headboard will lend itself to even cuts.

• 6

  Measure the headboard from the floor to the top of it. Mark the posts where you want to cut. If you will be cutting across the entire width of the headboard and not just the posts, mark across the headboard as well.

• 7

  Cut the marked locations using a jigsaw. Sand the area with medium-grit sandpaper to remove potential splinters.