How to Paint Squares On a Headboard

Remove the headboard from the bed using the appropriate tools. The necessary tools will depend upon your bed, but a screwdriver is typically what you will need.

Find a place to lay the headboard where you can work on it. Either lean it against a wall and work on one side at a time or place it flat on cardboard.

Paint the base color on your headboard. Keep in mind this color will be the border for your squares, so if you want red squares with a white border, paint the headboard white first. This is easier if the base color is lighter, because you will be painting over it. Allow the paint to dry before you proceed.

Measure your squares with a tape measure. Use a non-permanent marker in a color that will show up on the headboard to indicate where you will place the tape to form your squares. For 5-inch by 5-inch squares, hold the tape measure against the wall both vertically and horizontally and place markings on the wall at 5-inch intervals. Have someone hold the tape measure for you if possible, which will make it easier to keep the tape measure straight while you mark the squares.

Place masking tape along your markings. The tape should run just outside of each of the markings to help you keep consistent sizing. Stand back and examine the wall to ensure the blocked squares appear in line with one another before you paint.

Paint the secondary color using a paint roller or brush. Apply the paint horizontally or vertically, but keep the same direction you start with. This secondary color will actually become the primary color of your squares.

Remove the tape after the second paint color has dried completely. Tape used for painting will come off without damaging the fresh paint. Touch up any uneven lines using a small paint brush with a narrow, course tip, then turn the headboard around and repeat the process on the other side, if desired.