How to Slipcover a Headboard

Slipcover your headboard for a cozier bedroom.

Transform your bedroom by making a slipcover for your headboard. Choose fabric that suits the mood you want to create. A punchy cotton print can energize the room; a neutral linen weave creates a peaceful atmosphere; lush velvet says sensuality. Slipcovering a headboard requires only basic sewing skills -- taking accurate measurements is the most difficult step of the process. Be certain to choose fabric that is opaque. Thin fabrics can transmit light, allowing the headboard to show and creating a distracting finished appearance.

Things You'll Need

• Rule
• Fabric
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Dress pins
• Sewing machine
• Thread

Instructions

1. Measure your headboard. Take precise measurements of its width and height. Measure the height according to where you want the finished slipcover to end; in most cases, exposing the legs of the headboard results in a neater finished appearance.

2. Add 1 inch to each measurement to create a 1/2-inch seam allowance on all sides of the slipcover. You will use the seam allowance at the bottom of the slipcover for the hem.

3. Measure two pieces of fabric to create the slipcover. Mark the back of the fabric with a pencil as a cutting guideline, including the seam allowance.

4. Cut out the fabric.

5. Place the fabric pieces with their front sides together and their edges aligned. Pin them into place with dress pins.

6. Sew all around the top three sides of the slipcover 1/2 inch from the edge of the fabrics, leaving the bottom open.

7. Turn the slipcover right side out.

8. Fold the bottom edge of the slipcover under 1/2 inch.

9. Sew the bottom hem in place, creating a neat edge at the bottom of the slipcover.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to align the fabric correctly if it contains a directional pattern such as stripes; crooked stripes look awkward on a headboard.

• For a curved headboard, make a pattern by tracing its shape onto a large piece of paper. Transfer this to the fabric when you mark your measurements, then add the 1/2-inch seam allowance.

References

• Apartment Therapy: DIY Idea: Slipcovered Headboard
• Country Living; House Tours: Linen Slipcovers; Jill Kerchner Simpson