How to Make a Headboard for a Boy's Room

Measure the height, width and length of the mattress. If the mattress uses a box spring, include that in the measurement, as well as the bed frame.

Draw the shape of the headboard on a piece of 1/2-inch plywood. Choose a shape that matches the room's theme. For example, choose a boat shape for a pirate room or a dinosaur for a prehistoric room. Make the shape at least 24 inches taller than the top of the mattress. Make the width the same as the width of the mattress or larger. The exact dimensions depend on the shape you choose.

Cut the drawn shape out of the plywood, using a jigsaw. Sand the cut edges of the plywood using medium-grit sandpaper. Brush away the sawdust using a damp cloth.

Paint the plywood cutout. Use a flat wall paint or acrylic paint. Start by painting the base coat. Let the base coat dry between three and five hours. Then, paint on any details. For example, for a dinosaur theme, paint it green. Then, add yellow spots, eyes and a mouth. Leave the paint to dry overnight.

Position the headboard on the wall where you want the bed positioned. Hammer one nail every 6 to 8 inches along the edge of the cutout. Place the nails 1 inch in from the edge.

Place the mattress and the bed frame, if using one, in front of the headboard.