How to Make a Covered Headboard to Attach to My Existing One

Give an existing headboard a new look with just a few yards of fabric.

Many people enjoy the look of covered or upholstered headboards, which can update a room's decor or cover up an unsightly or outdated headboard. With just a few yards of fabric and some simple sewing skills, an entirely new look can be created in a short amount of time. If you want a dramatic look, consider a color or pattern in complete contrast to the room color. If you want a coordinated look, use a color from the bed linens, curtains or artwork in the room. Here are some easy directions for both a slipcover for your existing headboard and a sham to go with it.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric for the headboard
• Fabric scissors
• Measuring tape
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Iron
• Ironing board
• Straight pins
• Hand sewing needle
• Lining material
• Fabric for the sham
• 4 oz batting
• Ribbon

Instructions

1. Measure the front of the headboard. Cut two panels from the selected fabric that are slightly bigger than the headboard. Allow a three-quarter-inch seam allowance for the top and the two sides. Allow a one-inch seam allowance for the bottom.

2. Measure the top and sides of the headboard, and cut narrow strips of fabric for them to create a three-dimensional box shape for the slipcover. The width of the strips should equal the top and sides of the headboard, plus a three-quarter-inch seam allowance on the top and side strips, and a one-inch seam allowance for the bottom strip.

3. Sew the top and side pieces together, making one long strip. Use a three-quarter-inch seam allowance. Press the seams open.

4. Pin the long strip to the front panel. Sew the pieces together, making sure the corners match. Do the same thing with the back panel.

5. Turn up and sew a double hem. This completes the basic headboard cover. Slide it over the headboard and hand slip stitch the opening at the bottom closed, or leave it open for easy removal for washing.

6. Measure the headboard's front panel and add a three-quarter-inch seam allowance to the sides and a one-inch seam allowance to the ends. Cut a piece of lining fabric and a piece of 4 oz. batting according to those measurements. Make the fabric and batting twice the height of the front panel. Cut out a piece of fabric in your desired color or pattern in the same size. Also cut 12 15-inch-long ribbons. These pieces are for a sham overlay.

7. Place the main fabric panel down on the batting wrong side up. Decide where you would like the ribbons to go. Pin them in place. Line up the ribbons and pin on all sides. Sew the sham together, leaving at least a 10 inch gap on one side to turn the sham right side out. Trim the batting and turn the sham right side out. Close the opening with a slip stitch. Tie the sham to the existing headboard with the ribbons.

References

• How To Make A Covered Headboard