You Can Actually DIY a Tufted Headboard in Just One Day—Here's How (2025)

Equipment / Tools

Materials

How to Make a DIY Tufted Headboard

1. Select and Cut the Wood

   Choose a 3/4-inch plywood board that is larger than the desired width and height for your headboard.

   Most hardware stores will cut the board to the correct size for free or a small fee. If you decide to cut it at home, a circular saw will help you make straight and clean cuts.
   

   

2. Map Out Button Holes

   Using a measuring tape and permanent marker, draw a small dot for each button spot. Start the first row about 2.5 inches below the top of the headboard. Determine how far apart you want each button.

   After marking your first row, line out another row about 4.5 inches below it. Off-set the buttons on this row, otherwise you will just form a grid.

   Repeat until you fill the span of your headboard and should end up with a diamond pattern.

   

3. Drill Button Holes

   Drill the button holes using a bit that is larger than the upholstery needle. You only need to be able to get the needle through the whole, not the entire button.

   

4. Cut and Apply Your Foam

   Cut the foam to the same size as the headboard. Use a straight edge and measuring tape to draw the template and a hot foam knife to cut it. Apply it to the plywood using spray adhesive and let dry.

   

5. Cover With Batting

   Lay your batting on a flat surface. Place the board on top with the foam side facing down. Wrap the batting around the board, and trim it down to where there is only six inches of excess fabric on all sides.
   

   

6. Staple the Batting and Fold Corners

   Begin stapling it to the plywood. Work your way from the center of the long sides out to the corners. Pull the batting tight between each staple. Then, attach staples on the short sides.

   For the corners, fold and tuck the fabric the way you would a present and apply a staple.

   

7. Cover With Fabric and Staple In Place

   Using the same method as the batting, attach the fabric. If you choose a fabric with a pattern, you'll need to make sure it lines up properly. Always make sure your fabric is clean and wrinkle-free before attaching it to the board.
   

   

8. Cover the Buttons and Grid It

   Using the scrap fabric, begin covering the buttons using the button cover kit. Next, draw a grid for the buttons on the fabric that aligns with the drill holes.
   

   

9. Add the Buttons

   Thread the needle with the florist wire, and insert it through the button, fabric, foam, and drill holes. On the back side of the plywood, tug the wire tight, and staple it into place against the board.

   Then, wrap the wire several times through the staple, and apply an additional staple for extra support. Repeat this process for each button.

   

How to Attach Your Headboard

Wall mounting is one of the best options for installing your headboard because it prevents it from moving and shifting. Additionally, you don't need to add legs to your headboard if you go the wall-mounting route.

You can securely attach the headboard to the wall using a French cleat system, which is available at most hardware stores.