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        How to Build a Padded Headboard/Convertible Desk

        Carter Oosterhouse shows how to build a padded headboard that also turns into a desk, perfect for a guest room that can also serve as a home office.

        More in Decorating

        • Time

          Day

        • Price Range

          $50 - $100

        • Difficulty

          Easy to Moderate

        Highlights:

        Step 1: Cut the Plywood

        Cut down the plywood to the desired headboard size.

        Step 2: Cut the Batting

        Cut the batting to fit on one side of the plywood and lay the batting in place.

        Step 3: Place the Fabric

        Center the fabric around the batting, and pull the excess around to the other side, which will be the back of the headboard. For this project, an eco-friendly hemp fabric was used. Besides being environmentally healthy, the fabric is also soft and versatile.

        Step 4: Staple the Fabric

        Make sure the fabric is taut and staple liberally near each of the edges. Cut off the excess fabric with scissors.

        Step 5: Add a Belt or Other Accessory

        Now that the basic headboard is finished, it's time to dress it up. Adding some belts makes for a simple accent. Simply staple the belts to the front of the headboard and cut off the excess length in the back where they won't be seen.

        Step 6: Add Another Plywood Layer

        To complete the project, tack on another layer of plywood to the back side. You can also add extra trim so the headboard fits snugly inside and has a decorative border. In this project, stained plywood to was attached to serve as a desk for everyday use. When the home office needs to be converted to a guest bedroom, simply pull out the futon and flip up the desk so it becomes the headboard.

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