Installing a wallpapered headboard is a smart way to add a focal point and personality to your bedroom without the cost of a custom-upholstered piece. You can achieve a professional look with the right materials and a bit of patience. The first decision you’ll face is how you’ll attach the wallpaper: directly to the wall behind the bed, or to a separate board that then mounts to the wall or rests on the floor.
Attaching wallpaper directly to the wall
This is the simplest method. You’ll be treating the area behind your bed as you would any other wall section. Measure the width of your bed and extend the wallpaper pattern at least 6 inches beyond each side. The height should be enough to clear your mattress and allow for a visual impact, typically 3 to 4 feet. Ensure the wallpaper pattern is centered behind the bed. This method works best with removable wallpaper, as it allows for easier updates and avoids potential damage to your drywall if you decide to change the look later.
Creating a separate headboard panel
For a more structured and finished look, consider building a simple panel. This involves attaching a piece of plywood or MDF to the wall and then wallpapering over it. The panel can be as simple as a rectangle or shaped for more visual interest. Use a 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch thick sheet of plywood or MDF. Cut it to your desired dimensions – typically extending 2-4 inches beyond the width of your mattress on each side, and reaching the desired height. Mount the panel securely to the wall studs using wood screws. Once the panel is firmly attached, you can proceed with applying the wallpaper. This method provides a more substantial feel and can hide imperfections in the wall behind it.
Choosing the right wallpaper
The type of wallpaper you choose significantly impacts the final look and ease of installation. Vinyl wallpaper is durable and scrubbable, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas or if you have pets or children. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is ideal for DIYers as it’s repositionable and doesn’t require messy paste. It’s also a great option if you rent or want the flexibility to change your decor frequently. Traditional paper-backed wallpaper offers the widest range of patterns and textures but requires paste and more careful handling.
- Vinyl wallpaper: Durable, washable, good for busy rooms.
- Peel-and-stick wallpaper: Easy to install and remove, repositionable, great for renters.
- Traditional paper-backed wallpaper: Wide pattern selection, requires paste, more skill to apply.
Consider the scale of the pattern in relation to your room size. A large, bold pattern can make a small room feel smaller, while a subtle pattern might get lost in a large space. Think about the overall aesthetic you want to achieve – romantic, modern, minimalist, or bohemian.
Tools and materials you’ll need
Gathering all your supplies before you start will make the installation process much smoother. You will need:
- Your chosen wallpaper
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Utility knife or craft knife with extra blades
- Straight edge or ruler
- Smoothing tool (plastic smoother or wallpaper brush)
- Bucket of water (if using paste-activated wallpaper)
- Wallpaper adhesive or primer (depending on wallpaper type and wall surface)
- Screwdriver or drill (if mounting a panel)
- Wood screws (if mounting a panel)
- Drop cloth to protect your floor
- Ladder or step stool
For a wallpapered headboard panel, you’ll also need a sheet of plywood or MDF, a saw to cut it to size, and sandpaper to smooth the edges.
Installation steps: Direct to wall
1. Prepare the wall: Clean the wall surface thoroughly to remove any dust, grease, or old adhesive. If the wall is glossy, lightly sand it and wipe clean to ensure good adhesion. Apply a wallpaper primer if recommended by the wallpaper manufacturer.
2. Measure and cut your first strip: Measure the width of your desired headboard area. Cut your first strip of wallpaper, adding about 4-6 inches extra at the top and bottom for trimming. If your wallpaper has a pattern repeat, ensure you account for it when cutting subsequent strips.
3. Apply the wallpaper: For peel-and-stick, simply peel off the backing and carefully apply the strip to the wall, smoothing out any air bubbles as you go. For paste-activated wallpaper, apply the adhesive to the back of the paper or directly to the wall according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Align the strip carefully, starting from the top, and smooth it onto the wall using your smoothing tool, working from the center outwards.
4. Trim the excess: Once the strip is in place and smoothed, use your utility knife and straight edge to carefully trim the excess wallpaper at the top and bottom edges. Overlap seams slightly if necessary and smooth them down.
5. Continue with subsequent strips: Apply the next strip, ensuring the pattern matches the previous one. Overlap the seams by about 1/8 inch if using unpasted wallpaper, or butt the edges together for most peel-and-stick varieties. Continue this process until the entire headboard area is covered.
Installation steps: Separate panel
1. Build and mount the panel: Cut your plywood or MDF to the desired size. Sand any rough edges. Securely mount the panel to the wall studs using wood screws. Ensure it is flush and stable.
2. Prepare the panel surface: Prime the panel if necessary, especially if it’s MDF, to prevent the wallpaper adhesive from soaking in too quickly. Allow the primer to dry completely.
3. Apply wallpaper to the panel: Treat the panel like a large wall surface. Measure, cut, and apply the wallpaper following the same principles as for direct wall application. Pay close attention to wrapping the edges of the panel smoothly. Trim excess wallpaper carefully around the edges of the panel.
4. Finishing touches: For a very clean look, you can add a thin trim piece around the edges of the panel to cover the raw wallpaper edge. Paint or stain this trim to match your room’s decor.
Common mistakes to avoid
One of the most common mistakes is not properly preparing the wall surface. Dirt, grease, or an uneven surface will lead to poor adhesion and a peeling wallpapered headboard. Another pitfall is rushing the process. Take your time to align patterns and smooth out bubbles. Using a dull blade on your utility knife will result in ragged edges, so always use a sharp blade and change it frequently.
Latest from instagram
Instagram is a treasure trove of inspiration for wallpapered headboards. Users are showcasing bold geometric patterns, delicate floral designs, and even textured wallpapers that mimic grasscloth or linen. Look for accounts that focus on interior design, DIY projects, and small space makeovers. Many users share their process and the specific wallpapers they used, which can be incredibly helpful.
Archives
Exploring past design trends can offer unique ideas for your headboard. While maximalist styles with bold, busy patterns were popular in certain eras, the current trend leans towards more curated and intentional designs. Consider vintage-inspired patterns or subtle textures that add depth without overwhelming the space. Older posts might highlight different application techniques or materials that have since been improved upon, offering a historical perspective.
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Have you successfully created a wallpapered headboard? Share your experiences, tips, and photos with us! We’d love to see how you’ve transformed your bedroom space. Tag us on social media or send us a message – your project could inspire others.