How to Make a Slat Headboard

To add sophistication to your bedroom, consider a dark-stained slat headboard. This simple design is easy to complete and should take about half a day. A trip to the local hardware store for supplies will set you back about $100 in materials and you'll need some tools to complete it. However, this decorating project gives instant charm and a touch of chic to your room.

Things You'll Need

• Clear pine slats
• Measure
• Saw, either hand or electric
• 180-grit sandpaper
• Dark stain
• Paintbrush
• Rags
• Uniform-sized wood scrap blocks
• Drill/driver
• Wood screws
• Hammer drill
• Fischer wall plugs and screws

Instructions

1. Measure and cut the appropriate number of stats to the desired length. Save two pieces for vertical support. Typically, a headboard is the same length as your bed, but you may decide to make it slightly longer.

2. Cut the two remaining slats set aside for vertical pieces. The length is up to you, depending on how much space you want between each slat. Simply calculate the width of the slats, the number you are using and the amount of space your want. For example, 10, 1-inch slats with 1-inch spacing between them will need vertical support of at least 19 inches. You might cut the vertical slats at 20 inches to be safe.

3. Use the sandpaper to sand all the pieces until smooth. Sand the edges so they are rounded. Wipe the surface of the wood clean.

4. Stain all pieces, using the dark wood stain and a brush. Be liberal on the ends to allow the stain to be absorbed. Leave them to dry completely.

5. Wipe the slats down again and repeat staining two more times. Make sure they are completely dry before you apply the next coat.

6. Line up the pieces for your headboard. Use uniform scrap blocks between each slat to ensure even spacing.

7. Lay the two vertical pieces across the slats. Screw them to each piece using wood screws. Make sure the screws are not too long; you don't want them coming out the front of your headboard.

8. Drill a hole at the top of each vertical section. Place the headboard against the wall at the correct height and push a small drill bit through the hole to mark the wall.

9. Using a hammer drill, insert a Fischer wall plug.

10. Put the screws through the vertical slats of each headboard to fasten it to the wall.

References

• Home Dzine