Headboard How-tos

Renewed With Rope
You can teach an old bed a new trick. We took a tired-looking and slightly rusted metal frame and covered it in rope (a 200-foot spool of 5/8-inch-diameter rope cost around $150 at a home-improvement store). This technique works especially well on beds with center slats. For added interest, you can weave the rope in and out around the slats like a basket. Use a glue gun to secure the rope to the frame. Experiment to find a look that appeals to you.

Use gloves when working with the rope to protect your hands--and have patience. This project will take some time, depending on the size of the headboard and its intricacy. For added style, paint the rope in a color that matches your decor. We chose a warm brown that's found in the bedroom fabrics--a lively print and a simple ticking stripe.

Pretty in Upholstery
Upholstered headboards are quite the rage because they're attractive and comfortable. You can create a custom look without the high cost. We created one made of plywood and 2 x 4s, then covered it with foam rubber and fabric. For a special touch, a large monogram adorns the center.

Do-it-yourselfers and sewers can accomplish this project on their own. The shape and height of the board can vary to suit many styles. When deciding on the height, consider the size of decorative pillows as well as the distance from the ceiling.

Many fabrics will work, but avoid ones that are too flimsy or delicate. We chose a medium-weight linen. Other affordable options include cotton duck, denim, and matelassé. Once again, we used swing-arm lamps on either side of the headboard. They're the perfect choice for a tight space.