How would you like to have a brand new queen size headboard for under $100? How would you like to build it yourself, without any special tools and just a few simple cuts – cuts you should be able to get done at the big box store if you ask on the right day. These free DIY rustic headboard plans will give you just that. This project is great for the beginning woodworker or hobbyist, or even the more advanced woodworker who doesn’t have a lot of free time to fuss with making a headboard for the guest bed.

You should be able to complete this entire headboard in one weekend, if not in just one afternoon (minus the finish work).

Required Tools:

• Saw: miter saw, circular saw, table saw, or even a hand saw
• Hammer or nail gun
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Paint or stain.

Materials List:

• 2 – 1x2s, 8’ long
• 7 – 1x3s, 8’ long
• 4 – 1x4s, 8’ long
• 6 – 1x6s, 8’ long
• 1 – 2×4 stud, 8’ long

Step 1: Build the legs

The first step in these DIY rustic headboard plans is to layout the legs. This consists of taking two of the 55″ 1×3 boards and attaching a 55″ 1×2 to each one, keeping the edges flush as in the below diagram. Use wood glue down the entire length of the 1×2, and either wood screws or 1″ nails to secure the boards (these fasteners will be hidden later).

Step 2: Lay out and attach the planks

Now it’s time to run the 60″ horizontal planks between the two legs. The 1×2 boards on each leg act as a stop to bury the planks up against on each side. Attach the top board first, ensuring it is flush and square with the top of both legs, and use that as a guide for laying out the rest of the planks.

In my drawings I show six 1×6 planks, however you can also use varying widths to give a more rustic look. You just need to go down at least 32″ from the top.

Step 3: Attach the backs of the legs and the inner trim

Now that you have the planks in place it’s time to attach the 55″ 1×3 backs of the legs. Use wood glue and 2″ nails or wood screws. You will have to come back and wood fill these holes later.

After attaching the backs of the legs, now it’s time to attach the four 58″ inner trim pieces – two on the front and two on the back. Here again you’ll be using wood glue and nails or wood screws – but you’ll want to use trim or finishing nails/screws so the holes are easily hidden later. Don’t worry about using a lot of either, as the wood glue is what will be providing the actual bond once it dries.

Step 4: Attach outer trim

You’re now onto the final steps of construction, attaching the outer trim pieces! In this step you’ll be attaching a 55″ 1×3 to the outside of each leg. Note that a 1×3 is actually 2.5″ wide, and your legs should be about 2.25″ thick. This means you can either have a 1/8″ overhang on both the front and back, or you can attach the side trim flush to either the front or back depending on your preference. Use wood glue and finish nails or screws.

Once the side trim is attached, attach the top 1×3 trim board. Again using wood glue and nails (these fasteners will not be exposed).

Step 5: Attach the top rail

This is the last step of construction, attaching the 2×4 top board. This board should over the 1×3 trim board you just attached by 1/2″ on all four sides. Use wood glue and 2.5″ nails or wood screws to attach this board. You’ll have to come back and wood fill these holes later.

Step 6: Sand, stain or paint

This is always the best part – the finishing details to make it your own. Start by sanding the whole piece, progressing through 120, 150, and 180 grit sandpaper (and even 220 if you want an ultra smooth stained surface). You can also add some distressing to the piece now if you want to give it an older look.

Finally, stain or paint it as you choose.

We also have an alternate build plan for this same headboard available, and many other free DIY furniture plans!

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