How to Cut a Curve for a Headboard

Curved headboards add a softened appearance to the bed. You can make your own curved headboard out of furniture-grade hardwood plywood. Hardwood plywood is ideal for a headboard because it can be finished to match your existing woodwork. Cut a graceful curve on the top edge of the plywood headboard using a jigsaw. The jigsaw will allow you to cut a flowing curve. Take your time when laying out the curve and cutting it -- so that you will have a smooth and flowing curve.

3/4-inch hardwood plywood; 48-by-96-inch panel
Flexible curve ruler
Jig saw
Detail sander, fine-grit pad

Instructions

- 1
  Lay the plywood panel flat on a work surface. Orient the board horizontally, lengthwise. Select one 96-inch side at the top of the headboard.
- 2
  Form the flexible curve ruler into a graceful, aesthetically appealing curve along the top edge of the headboard. Experiment with different curves until you are satisfied with the overall appearance of the curve.
- 3
  Trace along the flexible curve ruler with a pencil to transfer the curve to the top edge of the headboard. Set the flexible curve ruler aside.
- 4
  Place a jig saw flat at one 48-inch side of the top edge of the panel. Align the blade with the outside edge of the pencil mark. Guide the saw along the pencil line, moving just fast enough to allow the blade to cut through the plywood until the cut is complete.
- 5
  Sand the cut edge with a detail sander equipped with a fine-grit pad. Move the sander along the curved edge in a smooth motion, allowing the sander to do the work without pressing it too hard against the surface. Continue sanding until the cut edge is completely smooth.

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