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Wondering how to make a DIY headboard bench? In this post, I’ll share with you how I made a bench from an old headboard.
We were given these two twin size headboards for free, and I wanted to make some benches with them.
I’ll show you how I made these and how you can make your own DIY headboard bench, too!
How to Make a DIY Headboard Bench
Have an old headboard you don’t know what to do with?
You can make a wooden bench for your entryway, dining room, porch, or back patio.
I’ll show you how I made my benches and how you can make one, too.
Materials Used:
Headboard – mine was a twin size
2 ” X 4″ X 8″ – I used about 3 per bench
2″ X 10″ X 8″
Wood glue
Screws
Stain – I used Early American
White paint – I used Valspar Perfect White
Sealer – I used Helsman Clear Satin
220 grit sandpaper
Directions:
1. Build a frame
To build a frame, you will just want to cut two pieces of 2″ X 4″ the length of the headboard.
Then, cut 3 pieces of 2″ X 4″ at 11″ to connect those 2 pieces, creating a frame for the bench top to sit on.
Wood glue and screw those pieces together.
To make your legs, you can trace the leg of the headboard on a 2″ x 4″. You will want your legs to be 15″ long, so the whole bench will be 18″ tall.
Wood glue and screw the legs to the bottom of the frame.
If you need more support, cut two 2 X 4″ pieces to attach to both sides between the headboard and the legs.
2. Paint headboard and frame
I used the same white paint to paint two coats on the frame and headboard.
3. Cut wood for bench top
For the bench top, you will cut the 2″ X 10″ to have about 1″ overhang on all sides. Cut two of these.
4. Stain bench top
You can stain the two pieces before you attach them to your bench to make this a little easier.
I love to use Early American stain.
5. Attach bench top
Apply wood glue and screw the two pieces of 2″ X 10″ to the frame from underneath.
6. Seal bench top
Once your top is attached, you can seal the stained pieces for a nice, smooth finish.
I love to use Helsman Clear Satin for this. Apply one coat, let it dry, sand lightly with 220 grit sandpaper, and apply a second coat.
This will give you a smooth finish and a lasting bench top.
That’s how to make a DIY headboard bench! If you have an old headboard, try this fun project to make a new piece!