Cushioned Headboard Ideas

Decorative Headboards

• Headboards that are intended for decorative use require little or no padding. They are normally made from a piece of plywood or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) cut to shape and covered with a thin layer of wadding. The whole headboard is then covered with decorative fabric, which is stapled tightly into place and fixed to the wall above the bed. A similar decorative effect can be produced by mounting thin curtain rails above the bed and hanging thick padded curtains from an ornamental heading.

Cushioned Headboards

• Cushioned headboards provide support for the back when sitting up in bed. They are normally deeply padded and are sometimes upholstered. Upholstering involves covering the headboard with a thick layer of foam, then driving in upholstery nails to pin the foam to the board at intervals, which creates a luxurious, cushioned effect. The head of the nail is then covered with a decorative button or bead. Any remaining material can be used to make throw cushions for the bed to give a cohesive effect.

Storage Headboards

• You can incorporate cushioned headboards with storage units or bedside tables to make full use of space. The wooden frame of the headboard is made in a U shape, with a wide top and narrow arms. The middle section of the headboard, the area directly above the head of the bed, is padded or upholstered. The arms of the U, which are positioned on either side of the head of the bed, serve as a support to mount storage cupboards or tables. You could also mount shelves up the side of the headboard and join them to a large shelf running along the top of the board.

Novelty Headboards

• Novelty headboards are particularly useful in children's rooms. They provide protection and support for a child and can also be tied in to the theme of the room. For a girl's room, make a headboard look like a fairy castle, with the middle section padded in pink satin and the sides painted to look like turrets. For a boy's room, pad the headboard in dark blue fabric and glue on silver stars; then paint the sides of the headboard with rocket ships and space monsters. Alternatively, cover the board in your child's favorite color and applique her name across the top of the board.