That one bed I upholstered a long time ago...

Hi guys! Happy weekend! Sorry about not posting yesterday - I was dealing with some technical difficulties that I think are all straightened out now.

More than a year ago, I was determined to make a gorgeous upholstered bed with a headboard, footboard and side rails.


I found this old (probably from the 30's or 40's) crate bed at a vintage furniture shop in Maryland for not a lot of money - maybe $50? $75? It was not much to look at, but it was the perfect base to build on.


I had two 2x10's cut to size at Home Depot and screwed in some metal mending plates on the front and the back to firmly connect the two pieces.


Then I upholstered the headboard, footboard and rails with this pretty suzani-inspired fabric I bought at Interior Alternative in Newark, DE.


I used a roll of brass nail head trim to detail the far edges. A little note: I don't really love the look of the nail head that comes on a roll. The finish varies a bit and the look is kind of cheap when you get up close. That said, I really HATE when nail head trim is not perfectly lined up - drives me crazy!! So since I had so much surface to trim out, I opted for the rolled trim with perfectly straight lines.


Since taking these photos I carefully rubbed a little bit of Buff N Rub on tops of the nail heads and that helped make the finish a little more uniform. (we also put on a mattress cover for the box springs)



I styled the room for the folding screen project, but never really decorated the space like I had planned to before we left Delaware for NYC.


The plan for our bedroom (if we ever get to it! It's lower on the priority list) here in our new apartment is to make the footboard really low by pulling off the 2x10 piece. Then we'll cut out a curved pattern on that board and add it to the headboard and then reupholster the whole thing. I think I'll do a solid color fabric, since we're wallpapering the room (yay!!).

As far as the headboard shape goes, I want something that doesn't scream Pottery Barn. I want it to look custom, but not ridiculous, so that it will stay fresh for at least a couple years. Here are some contenders:


Coastal Living


HB


Elle Decor



I like the width of the top curve here (same with the photo above - an exaggerated curve)...




Caitlin Moran


BHG

This sort of Deco-rounded-corners situation is the dark horse option of the group. I'm liking it more and more the longer I think about it. Love the first picture (from Brooke's blog) best.


Velvet and Linen


Lynn Morgan


Calico Corners

But then I look at this pretty bed with all those curves and that nail head trim pushed right to the edge!! Love it...


Domino

If you could get a new bed this weekend, what would you do or which one would you buy?
on

47 comments:

  1. VincentFebruary 26, 2011 at 1:34 AM

    I love your blog! It's always so awesome to see how you chronicle your projects from start to finish. You have such an innovative way of seeing the final product, I imagine seeing each finished piece must be so rewarding :)

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  2. BeckyFebruary 26, 2011 at 1:50 AM

    I would get (because my DIY projects start out good but I lose motivation before completion) an upholstered black headboard that was tall enough for my husband and I to lean against when we are reading in bed.

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  3. MillieFebruary 26, 2011 at 3:49 AM

    I would get the the Camden upholstered bed from Ballard Design in the wide black and white stripes.

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  4. AnonymousFebruary 26, 2011 at 4:32 AM

    Unfortunately upholstered doesn't work at our house. The hubs has really oily skin, which makes him look at least 10 years younger, but is not so good for fabric headboards. And no, no removable, washables for me. Waaay too much trouble for the shapes and look I prefer. So, it's back to smooth, easily cleanable surfaces for me. However, there is the guest bedroom...

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  5. Lisa @ Lisa MovesFebruary 26, 2011 at 7:17 AM

    I like the Pottery Barn York headboard (which kinda looks like a few that you posted.) It seems really big and dramatic, and I like the tufting. I just wish it came in other colors/patterns besides white and beige.

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  6. ChristyFebruary 26, 2011 at 7:42 AM

    The very first one. HEAVEN in a bed!

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  7. JamieFebruary 26, 2011 at 8:45 AM

    I would love to have something like the Colette bed from Crate & Barrel. However, I've got two kitties who put their claws in everything (one has a bad back leg so she can't jump as well). Hopefully one day...

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  8. LeahFebruary 26, 2011 at 9:36 AM

    your diy headboard is so pretty! i love the shape of the black headboard from Coastal Living.

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  9. OleanderFebruary 26, 2011 at 9:44 AM

    good job, it looks fantastic!

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  10. AnonymousFebruary 26, 2011 at 10:08 AM

    Love the shape of the coastal living bed, I wouldn't get tired of that one. I also love the headboard from Massucco Warner Miller West Hollywood flat and Mary McDonald whimsical gallery. I'm sure you'll do something great. Love your blog!

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  11. thelittlesisterFebruary 26, 2011 at 10:36 AM

    I would gladly take the bed you already made! The colours you have used suit the ones we are using so perfectly, only I have used very little pattern in our home.I have a hard time when it comes to choosing (and committing to) patterned fabrics, but you always make it look soffortless!

    We have recently purchased a secondhand headboard, and painted it an orangey, caramelly, sort of colour, but I already wanted to change it to a bluish green. Now, all I can think about is how great an upholstered screen would look behind it!

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  12. Barbara MatsonFebruary 26, 2011 at 11:14 AM

    The Caitlin Morgan one is by far my favourite! I can't believe you upholstered a whole bed and now are thinking of re-doing it!
    I made 2 diamond tufted {or french tufts} headboards for my daughters' room and there is no way I am re-doing them! Both are different, one is on my blog [and on the HGTV site}, the other I haven't photographed.

    The first was made with a honeysuckle pink faux silk, hard to work with. The other I made from a beautiful white cotton. They love them and they add such great drama to their room.

    If you are interested here is my how-to:
    http://hodgepodge-babselou.blogspot.com/2010/11/how-to-make-diamond-tufted-headboard.html

    Can't wait to see what brilliance you come up with!

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  13. Megan @ Megity's HandmadeFebruary 26, 2011 at 12:44 PM

    I like the Coastal Living, BHG and Calico Corners headboards. I'm so glad that you showed that previous project of yours. I've recently pulled up that post for the screens trying to figure out something for my little, tiny bedroom. I loved the fabric on the bed in that picture! I wish I could find it myself. You find the best fabric!

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  14. Married In ChicagoFebruary 26, 2011 at 1:43 PM

    What a beautiful collection of upholstered headboards! You have such fantastic taste.

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  15. Sheila ZellerFebruary 26, 2011 at 1:55 PM

    I would go for something like the one from 'Coastal Living'... decorative without being overdone.

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  16. blueskypieFebruary 26, 2011 at 2:01 PM

    I love the Coastal Living headboard (maybe because the colors area ll so perfect too). But I'm wondering how you supported your box spring ? Did you just use a standard metal bed frame inside your upholstered bed, or did you create some sort of support that was part of it? Just curious... I used your instructions for an upholstered headboard last summer and it's lovely - would love to create something like this now :)

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  17. Chelsea JungetFebruary 26, 2011 at 2:39 PM

    Your project came out SO amazing! As always, I am impressed with your DIY skills.

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  18. cafenoHutFebruary 26, 2011 at 2:42 PM

    Good job! I love your blog and your sharing... Thank you...

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  19. Jen @ RamblingRenovatorsFebruary 26, 2011 at 2:46 PM

    So many great options. But for something with a bit of longevity yet still looks interesting, I like the Caitlin Moran or BHG one. I love what you have now though too!

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  20. AAAmyFebruary 26, 2011 at 2:57 PM

    I have always loved the Calico Corners headboard you featured. I love the nail head trim in a rectangle shape and around the edges. I would go for this shape, too. It's curvy without being trendy or PB boring. If I had a million dollars........

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  21. KathyFebruary 26, 2011 at 4:29 PM

    I saw the Colette bed from Crate and Barrel a year ago and that's all I can think of! But I'm loving the pictures you posted too!

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  22. Carol@6WilsonBlog.comFebruary 26, 2011 at 5:24 PM

    The bed you did -- fantastic, I hate to see you change it! I love upholstered headboards, and am doing another one now for myself. You can't beat the warmth and drama that the fabric and details bring to the space. I have to say it was brilliant to do over an entire bed that way. I'm inspired!

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  23. UnknownFebruary 26, 2011 at 6:45 PM

    I love the look of nail head trim but HATE the roll. I did this on my headboard - maybe I was too impatient but the nailhead cut up my fingers and just wouldn't go on straight - it sort of curved between each actualy nailhead - probably used too much batting.

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  24. sarah@homeismoreFebruary 26, 2011 at 7:41 PM

    Love the bed from BHG- I may steal the idea for when I re-do our master. Can I ask you to please post a tutorial when you do make the new headboard? I would love to see how you make the fabric smooth over all the gorgeous curves of the wood.

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  25. noelle reginaFebruary 26, 2011 at 8:00 PM

    you never cease to amaze. seriously - where do you learn to do these projects? i can't wait to see it finished.

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  26. catherineFebruary 26, 2011 at 8:04 PM

    I have a curvy headboard for 3 years like the ones you are drawn to and I am sick of it. If anything I wish it was just one curve up and down without all the other small curves. Thus I would go with the deco one or a slight curve. Pus you will have wall paper and the really curvy ones may compete. (although I do not know which paper you have) Just my two cents and I have no doubt whatever you do will be fabulous

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  27. Houndstooth and NailFebruary 26, 2011 at 8:36 PM

    I wouldn't buy anything new, rework what you have, spend money on other fun stuff for the room! I can't wait to see the finished product. I love your work! :)

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  28. AnonymousFebruary 27, 2011 at 12:01 AM

    this is one of my all time fave upholstered headboards: http://pinterest.com/pin/1643963/ I love the shape and the black with white piping.... fabulous is all I can say.

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  29. Tammy@InStitchesFebruary 27, 2011 at 10:11 AM

    You did a really great job on your bed. I've been doing variations of #2 and # 5 for many many years and they are still some of my favorites.

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  30. bryn alexandraFebruary 27, 2011 at 4:14 PM

    oh jenny I wish I could get a new bed. I'm working with what we have for now because it's almost brand new... when I finally finish our master bedroom and post pictures I'd be interested to see what type of bed you'd suggest. :)

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  31. Jennifer of chambersstreet.blogspot.comFebruary 27, 2011 at 5:38 PM

    Hmm, The Coastal Living or the BHG... I have a tufted ivory headboard from Target...only $299, truly love it. Great Post Jenny!

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  32. MelissaFebruary 27, 2011 at 11:34 PM

    Jenny,

    That looks great! Can you please tell me how you did the back of the footboard? I believe on the footboard, both sides have to look relatively "finished?" Thanks for sharing so many wonderful projects!

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  33. UnknownFebruary 27, 2011 at 11:35 PM

    hooooooooow did you cover the footboard?!?!? it looks so professional!!!

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  34. PatFebruary 28, 2011 at 2:00 AM

    We went to Japan and stayed in a hotel in Kyoto. I took so many pictures of the room. The bed was simple, but gorgeous. The linens were pure white, but oh the headboard. The fabric was kimono fabric in rectangular strips of multiple fabrics.

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  35. HanaFebruary 28, 2011 at 7:10 AM

    i would love one of those big curvy headboards... can't wait to see that wallpaper!! xo

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  36. rachel @ Just a Touch of GrayFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:08 AM

    I love upholstered beds! I made one last summer with curves, similar to some of your photos, with a beautiful gray and ivory ikat (I think) fabric...

    http://rachelandryangray.blogspot.com/2010/08/at-it-again.html

    I the photo you posted of the green bed from Calico Corners... the nailhead placement is genius. Thanks for sharing! I LOVE READING YOUR BLOG!

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  37. Jen JFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:53 AM

    I'm curious how you plan to draw the shape of the headboard to cut it?? Please share. I want to paint a faux headboard of a similar shape on the wall behind my bed as a cheaper alternative, but I don't know how to draw the shape so that it's believable.

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  38. AlaynaFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:57 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

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  39. AlaynaFebruary 28, 2011 at 10:58 AM

    Hi, Jenny! WOW, I absolutely LOVE the bed you made! I'd like to upholster our current guestroom queen bed (the IKEA Hemnes bed, http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/S99849777) but am wondering, is it too flimsy?

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  40. Maggie RoseFebruary 28, 2011 at 11:56 AM

    First off, WOW, I'm loving the original DIY. So pretty. Second, I love the headboards in the photo with the faux bois pillow and the one with the leopard carpet/rug. One of our 2011 projects will be upholstering just a headboard (not a full bed)and I'm already dizzy with fabric options. I think that will be my favorite part because I want to go with a pattern and I'm a HUGE fabric nerd.

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  41. MerFebruary 28, 2011 at 4:17 PM

    how did you know i've been thinking about this every minute of everyday for the last 2 months?! i've had my eye on the collette bed from c&b, but cannot fathom spending that much dinero. i think i may just try to find cheap king frame on craigslist and diy. yours looks absolutely fabulous!! thank you!

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  42. Interior Design MusingsFebruary 28, 2011 at 9:30 PM

    If I could buy a headboard tomorrow, it would be this beauty http://www.shopgreige.com/catalog/products/furnishings/bedroom-furnishings/burlap-cut-bed
    I think is so different. It feels french and modern all at the same time. Good Luck! Can't wait to see what you come up with! M.

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  43. a' la modeMarch 1, 2011 at 10:06 AM

    A great upholstered tufted headboard for those on a budget can be found at ballards.com- like around $500. Not bad.

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  44. The 5 BickiesMarch 1, 2011 at 6:04 PM

    Funny you mention beds...I am waiting for a king size fabric headboard to be custom made and covered by my upholster. I photographed a bed on Candice Olsen's show with my iphone and emailed it to him. I was in luck because they only do headboards in the slow months of January and February.

    I love the bedside tables in your DE room. Any tips on finding a bombay like chest like yours?

    Thanks for the tips on fabric places. Haven't been to Interior Alternative in too long nor have I been to Philly stores. Will hit them soon. Thanks!

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  45. Liz StanleyMarch 4, 2011 at 1:19 AM

    this project sounds amazing (loved that headboard you reupholstered before! ahh!!) and is super inspiring, as always. go jenny!

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  46. Todd and RandiMarch 9, 2011 at 10:17 PM

    Could you post the direct link to the Deco headboard that's on Velvet and Linen? I couldn't find it.

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  47. Lindsay [rookie's nest]March 28, 2011 at 9:37 AM

    you seriously did an amazing job, it looks fantastic!

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I so appreciate hearing from you. Nice comments make my day! Thanks for keeping things light here, friends! :)