Low Modern Cutout Headboard
A simple low headboard with a cutout made from 1x3s and 1/4" plywood. You can build it for about $30 with just power basic tools. Related: We love it paired with our modern platform bed frame base.
Specifications
| Project type | Beds and Bed Frames |
|---|---|
| Room | Bedroom |
| Style | Modern Style Furniture Plans |
| Difficulty | Beginner Projects |
| Estimated cost | $20 - $50 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 1 Sheet of 1/4″ Hardwood Plywood or MDF (for painting)
- 4 – 1×3 Boards, 8′ Long (Furring Strips would work fine and are about $1.50 a stick)
Cut List
- 3 – 1×3 @ 55″ (Lateral Frame Pieces) *
- 2 – 1×3 @ 35 1/4″ (Inside Leg)
- 1 – 1×3 @ 61 1/2″ (Top) *
- 2 – 1×3 @ 36″ (Outside Leg)
- 2 – 1×3 @ 12 3/4″ (Leg Front)
- 2 – 1/4″ Plywood @ 24″ x 63″ (Front and Back Panels)
* For other widths, simply add to these dimensions to make the headboard wider as noted below:
- 38" x 75" Twin: Subtract 22"
- 54" x 75" Full: Subtract 6"
- 76" x 80" Standard King: Add 16"
- 72" x 84" California King: Add 12"
Tools
- measuring tape
- square
- pencil
- hammer
- safety glasses
- hearing protection
- jigsaw
- nailer
- sander
Step-by-step Instructions
FRAME ASSEMBLY
Assemble your frame as shown above, marking the legs where the joints go. Use 2″ nails and glue. Check for square.
TOP
Mark the top board 2 1/2″ in from the ends on both ends. Attach to the top of the frame as shown above with 2″ nails and glue. Check for square.
SIDES
Attach the sides to the top as shown above, keeping your outside edges flush. Use the 2″ nails and glue. Check for square.
LEG FRONTS
Attach the leg fronts as shown above, using 2″ nails and glue. Adjust for square.
Step 5
Step 6
SIZE MODIFICATIONS
It’ easy to convert this headboard to a king or full or even twin. Measure your mattress overall width and for numbers larger than 60″, subtract 60″. Add this number to the cut length of all of the pink boards shown above. Also cut your plywood accordingly. For overall measurements under 60″ (fulls and twins) subtract the measurement from 60″. Now take this number and subtract it from the cut length of all boards shown above in pink. Cut your plywood accordingly.
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/low-modern-cutout-headboard