22 Diy Upholstered Headboard Ideas

If you’ve ever thought about giving your bedroom a little upgrade without breaking the bank, a DIY upholstered headboard is one of the easiest ways to do it.

Not only do these headboards add style and texture, but they also make your bed feel cozy and inviting. The best part?

You don’t need to be a professional carpenter or seamstress to pull one off.

In this article, I’m going to walk you through 22 DIY upholstered headboard ideas that range from simple and minimal to bold and statement-making.

Consider this a friendly conversation between two home decor enthusiasts, sharing tips and inspiration you can actually use.

1. Classic Rectangular Upholstered Headboard

Sometimes simplicity wins. A classic rectangular headboard is timeless and works with almost any bedroom style. Choose a neutral fabric like linen or cotton, add some foam padding, and staple it all to a plywood base. This headboard works beautifully with a queen or king bed and can be as tall or short as your space allows.

2. Tufted Button Headboard

If you want a touch of luxury, tufted button headboards are perfect. You can create deep tufting by sewing or using upholstery tacks to pull the fabric inwards. Velvet or heavy linen works best for this design, and the result is a hotel-worthy look that feels sophisticated yet cozy.

3. Wingback Upholstered Headboard

A wingback design wraps around the sides of your bed, making it feel enclosed and comfy. It’s surprisingly doable at home with a little foam, fabric, and careful measuring. This headboard is great if you love reading or relaxing in bed because it creates a cocoon-like vibe.

4. Upholstered Headboard with Nailhead Trim

Nailhead trims add a classic, tailored look to an upholstered headboard. Simply add foam and fabric to your base and line the edges with decorative nails or tacks. This design works well for both traditional and modern bedrooms and can easily become the focal point of your space.

5. Panelled Upholstered Headboard

Panel designs allow you to get creative with geometry and textures. Divide your headboard into vertical or horizontal panels and upholster each separately. You can mix fabrics or colors for a unique, modern look. It’s also a good option if you want a modular feel that’s easy to change over time.

6. DIY Round or Curved Headboard

If you’re feeling bold, go for a rounded or arched headboard. Curves soften the bedroom and add visual interest. All you need is a curved plywood template, some foam, batting, and your fabric of choice. This design works especially well in cozy, romantic spaces.

7. Velvet Upholstered Headboard

Velvet instantly elevates a headboard. Its soft texture and rich colors make it feel luxurious. You can DIY a velvet headboard by stapling fabric over foam and plywood. Dark jewel tones like emerald, navy, or plum make a statement, while neutral velvet creates a more understated elegance.

8. Linen Upholstered Headboard

For a breezy, relaxed vibe, linen is perfect. Its texture feels natural and inviting. You can even leave the fabric slightly wrinkled for that effortless, lived-in look. Pair with light-colored bedding for a serene and airy bedroom feel.

9. Two-Tone Fabric Headboard

Two-tone designs are a fun way to incorporate color without overwhelming the space. You can split the headboard horizontally or vertically and use contrasting fabrics. For a modern touch, pick complementary colors or patterns that tie into your room decor.

10. Upholstered Headboard with Storage

Yes, you can combine comfort with practicality. Add small shelves or cubbies to your headboard design for books, alarm clocks, or decorative items. Padding the front with fabric ensures it stays cozy while serving a dual function. This is perfect for small bedrooms that need extra storage.

11. Geometric Upholstered Headboard

Geometric patterns are bold, modern, and surprisingly easy to DIY. Create shapes using plywood cutouts, foam strips, and fabric. Triangles, squares, or hexagons can all work beautifully, and you can even mix textures like velvet and linen for a dynamic effect.

12. Quilted Upholstered Headboard

Quilting adds texture and depth to a headboard. You can create a diamond or square quilted pattern with foam, batting, and fabric. It’s a cozy, tactile design that feels handmade and personal, and it’s perfect for a queen or king bed.

13. Boho Macramé Upholstered Headboard

For a bohemian vibe, incorporate macramé into your upholstered design. Use a simple fabric base for padding and layer on macramé patterns. This style adds texture, personality, and a handmade charm to any bedroom.

14. Upholstered Headboard with Built-In Lighting

Adding lighting to your headboard takes it from stylish to functional. You can attach LED strips or small reading lights to the frame. Upholstered panels soften the glow and create a cozy ambiance, making your DIY headboard both practical and chic.

15. Fabric-Wrapped Slat Headboard

If you like a more modern, linear look, try fabric-wrapped slats. Cover wooden slats with foam and fabric, and arrange them vertically or horizontally. This design is clean, minimal, and adds a subtle layer of texture to your bedroom walls.

16. Round Button-Tufted Headboard

Round button tufting is a playful twist on classic tufting. Instead of regular square patterns, use circular buttons arranged in a pattern across your upholstered headboard. Velvet or cotton blends work best for this design, creating a soft, inviting look.

17. DIY Headboard with Removable Covers

For flexibility, consider making your headboard with removable fabric covers. This way, you can easily swap out colors or patterns when your taste changes. It’s an easy DIY hack that adds longevity to your design without extra cost.

18. Upholstered Headboard with Fringe or Trim

Add personality with fringe, piping, or decorative trim. These little details make a simple DIY headboard feel custom and professional. You can choose a subtle trim for elegance or bold fringe for a playful touch.

19. Rustic Upholstered Headboard

Combine rustic wood elements with fabric for a warm, inviting feel. You can attach a soft upholstered panel to a wooden frame or mount the fabric directly on reclaimed wood. This style works beautifully in farmhouse or cottage-inspired bedrooms.

20. Headboard with Patterned Fabric

Why stick to plain fabrics when patterns can make a statement? Geometric, floral, or abstract prints can transform a simple upholstered headboard into a centerpiece. For a queen or king bed, a bold pattern draws the eye and adds instant personality to your room.

21. Upholstered Headboard with Storage Pockets

Extra functionality is always a win. Sew or attach pockets to the sides of your upholstered headboard for holding magazines, remotes, or other bedside essentials. This is a practical idea that keeps your bedroom tidy while adding a touch of DIY charm.

22. DIY Modular Upholstered Headboard

Modular designs let you mix and match fabric panels for a customizable look. You can rearrange the panels or change fabrics over time, keeping your bedroom feeling fresh. It’s also a great solution for renters or anyone who likes to update their decor frequently.

Conclusion

DIY upholstered headboards are one of those projects that are equal parts fun and functional. They allow you to personalize your bedroom, experiment with textures, colors, and patterns, and add a cozy, inviting touch to your bed. From classic tufted designs to boho macramé and modern geometric patterns, there’s truly a DIY upholstered headboard idea for every style and skill level. The beauty of making your own headboard is that it’s uniquely yours, and you can update it as your tastes change. With these 22 ideas, your bedroom can become a comfortable, stylish haven without ever stepping into a furniture store.