Project time: 3 hours.Materials (headboard project)
Plywood
2x4s
"Stone" placemats
Heavy-duty adhesive
Expert tip: When a headboard is attached to the wall and not the bed, you may have trouble with the bed wanting to scoot across the floor. To prevent this, slip coasters or carpeting under the legs.
Steps
1. Measure the width of the bed to determine how wide the headboard will be. Make sure the plywood is 1" shorter than the width of the stone materials so it can wrap around the edges.
2. Subtract 3" from the length and 3" from the width of the first section of the plywood. That determines the length you'll cut the 2x2s.
3. We're trying to create a floating effect with the frame, so we're measuring in 1-1/2" all the way around so the frame is hidden.
4. To assemble the frame, attach the side pieces to the end pieces by predrilling with a countersink bit and screwing together. Continue until the frame is complete.
5. Attach the frame to the 1/2" plywood, again by predrilling all the way around the frame and then securing with 1-5/8" screws.
6. Flip the headboard over.
7. Place one "stone" placemat at the end of the headboard and make a tick mark: this will determine where you'll place the silicone.
8. Begin spreading the silicone using a 1/4" notched trowel and continue working until all mats are secured.
9. Repeat this process until you get the desired height. To secure the sections, butt all sides together and use a 2x2 on the ends to connect all the pieces.
10. We're going to raise the headboard 12", so we're measuring up 68" and making a level line.
11. Mark for studs along the level line. Predrill the 2x4 support and attach to the stud using 3" wood screws. Continue until the entire board is attached at each stud.
12. Rest the headboard on the 2x4 support. From the top, secure the headboard to the support.
Expert tips: To bring out the color of the stones and make the headboard easier to keep clean, spray it with clear varnish or polyurethane.
If you can’t attach anything to the wall, nail together two pieces of plywood at a 90-degree angle. Slip one under the head of the bed; screw the headboard to the upright.
Total time spent so far: 9 hours.
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