A Headboard Makeover

I’ve wanted a real headboard for my older son’s bedroom for a couple of years, but just haven’t been able to justify the expense. That doesn’t stop me from oogling and drooling over those beautiful pieces of furniture in the Pottery Barn catalogue.

When I saw this old headboard tucked in the corner of the Salvation Army, I knew I could make it work for my older son’s room. And at only $20, it was worth the risk even if it didn’t work. I used liquid sander on the whole thing to get rid of the shine. This was the first time I’ve used it and I was really happy with the results.

Since it was so plain, a little trim work seemed like a natural addition. I attached two rectangles of premade molding that is usually used to create wainscoting. They are in with the molding at Lowes or Home Depot. If I had any patience at all, I would have waited until The Hubster got home and let him use the miter saw to make my own. They’re attached with wood glue and a few finishing nails.

Then a couple of coats of Kilz primer. Oops! Forgot to take a picture before I started painting.

Can you believe that this Pottery Barn-ish bed only cost me $40 total? That’s the cost of the bed and the framing. I already had the paint.

Edited to add: The paint color is an Olympic color (from Lowes) called Star Spangled. It’s a perfect blue for this project…not too bright…not too navy.