DIY Network

Custom Tile Headboard with Columns: Column Arch and Headboard Construction From "Weekend Remodeling" episode WKR-307

	Before the Weekend Remodeling project, this bedroom needed a focal point.
	After: the bedroom boasts more than just a bed. It now has a work of art that was created in only two days!

With the columns complete, it's time to create the arched custom headboard.

On a difficulty scale of 1-5, this project ranks 4.
Estimated time of completion: 16 hours over 2 days (if materials bought in advance).

Materials:

Several types of tile (smaller pieces for base and capitals; porcelain stone chair rail pieces; metal tiles for accents)
Mastic
Tile spacers
Caulk
Tile grout (both non-sanded latex-modified grout and sanded grout)
Drop cloth
2 x 4
1/2" drywall
Screws
Notched trowel
Wet saw
Circular saw
Sponge and bucket
Soft rubber float
Tape measure and pencil
Level
Reciprocating saw
Utility knife
Speed square
Rubber gloves
A drill and bits

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E
	Figure F
	Figure G

1. Draw a pleasing arch design on drywall, then cut two of the design out using a utility knife.

2. Locate wall studs, then use screws to attach drywall arches onto the wall (figure A) and elevate the area for tilework. In this example, the two layers elevate the surface 1" from the underlying wall.

3. Use wet saw to cut chair rail and metal accent liners in half.

4. To set the arch design, begin by setting the bottom row of chair rail (figure B). Apply mastic to the back of each tile and position, pressing gently into place.

5. After setting a few of the tiles, use a sponge to wipe away excess mastic.

6. Set metal liners, starting in the middle to center the medallion, then working way out to the sides (figure C).

7. To complete the arch, add another row of chair rail at the top. Finish working way down, set the last of the porcelain stone and metal tiles (figure D).

8. Drop down, leaving a portion of exposed wall between the arch and the headboard and create an open look. This will also prevent the need for making angled cuts along the line.

9. To construct the headboard, begin with the same technique used to build up the mounting surface used for the arch and capitals. This will not only create depth, but also allow for easy removal of the entire project with little damage to the surrounding wall.

10. To set the headboard, first mark a center point. Next, place the first piece of quarter round on the center line and work towards the columns. Cut final piece of the run to fit and set into place.

11. Cut all tiles to be used for the top, bottom and sides. Cut in half from corner to corner to create a diagonal pattern.

12. Apply mastic to about half of the headboard using a 3/8" notched trowel. Set the first metal accent tile. Place four porcelain stone tiles together, then set a metal tile in the center, trace around it and cut tiles on wet saw.

13. Set the first four cut tiles into position and use 3/16" spacers to keep evenly spaced (figure E). Set first metal tile into place (figure F), then continue setting tile across the headboard (figure G).

14. Nearing the first column, finish the end off by placing the last few tiles on the wall, then adhere the remaining half-tiles along top, bottom and sides.

15. Work from center of headboard outward toward opposing column.

Next: Applying grout to columns and headboard.