How to Make a Metal Headboard Look Antique

Mix salt and water together in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle around in your hands until the salt dissolves in the water. Lift the bottle up and look at the bottom -- if any salt crystals cling to the bottom of the bottle, keep mixing.

Carry the metal headboard outside and spray the saltwater mixture on the metal. The saltwater begins the oxidization process, which creates a deep red rust color on the metal. Spray the solution on the headboard every two to three days until it reaches the color you want.

Sand the headboard with fine-grit sandpaper. The sandpaper removes any rust debris clinging to the metal and gives the headboard a smooth surface.

Coat the smooth metal with a thin layer of metal spray primer.

Paint the metal headboard with a paint designed for metal surfaces. After the paint dries, gently rub the sandpaper over the metal, peeling off layers of the paint and primer. As you peel off the paint, it lets the rusty areas pop through.

Apply a coat of clear sealant to the entire headboard. The clear sealant keeps the primer and paint from peeling away and protects against future rusting. Once the sealant dries, attach the headboard to your bed frame.