DIY Headboards With MDF

Measure your mattress to determine the width of headboard you will need. The headboard should extend 2 inches on either side of your mattress.

Trace the outline of your headboard design onto the MDF using a pencil. You can do a simple rectangular headboard or you may opt for a more elaborate design, but for simplicity sake, let's say we are making a rectangular headboard. Once you have your design, use the jigsaw to cut out your shape.

Lay the cut piece of MDF on top of your 2-inch foam. Using the electric knife, cut out a piece of foam in the same shape and size as your headboard.

Use your MDF cutout as a pattern to cut your fabric. Spread your fabric on a clean surface and lay the MDF on top of it. Cut the fabric around the MDF allowing 5 to 6 inches of extra fabric on each side.

Attach the 2-inch foam to the MDF using spray adhesive.

Center the MDF and foam face down on your fabric. At this point, your fabric should be right-side down with 5 to 6 inches extending out on all sides.

Attach the cloth to the headboard using a staple gun. Start by pulling the fabric tight and placing one staple in the center of each of the four sides, then work your way towards the edges. When you reach the corners fold the fabric into nice "hospital corners" before stapling.

Attach slot brackets to the wall and backside of the headboard for easy mounting.