How to Reupholster a Headboard

A headboard is the focal point of any bedroom, and reupholstering it is one of the most impactful bedroom upgrades you can make. Whether your existing headboard fabric is worn, stained, or simply outdated, this project can completely transform your bedroom in a single afternoon. Here's how to do it.

What You'll Need

• Upholstery fabric: TinaKim Upholstery Fabric, Linen Type, 1 Yard
• Staple gun: Metabo HPT Narrow Crown Stapler, 18 Gauge
• Upholstery foam: GoTo Foam 2" x 24" x 72" Firm Upholstery Cushion
• Batting: PLANTIONAL Natural Cotton Batting
• Putty knife: Rerdeim 5-Piece Putty Knife Set
• Screwdriver set: CRAFTSMAN Screwdriver Set, 8-Piece
• Rubber mallet: YIYITOOLS Rubber Mallet, 24 oz

Step 1: Remove the Headboard

Detach the headboard from the bed frame — usually held by bolts through the legs. Lay it flat on a clean work surface. Working flat makes the whole process much easier and gives you better control over fabric tension.

Step 2: Remove the Old Fabric

Use a putty knife or flathead screwdriver to pry out all staples from the back of the headboard. Remove the old fabric and batting. If the headboard has decorative buttons, note their positions before removing — you'll need to replicate the pattern.

Step 3: Inspect and Replace Foam

Press the existing foam — if it's compressed or crumbling, replace it. Cut new GoTo Foam to the exact shape of the headboard panel using an electric carving knife. Attach to the headboard with spray adhesive and let cure.

Step 4: Add Batting

Cut cotton batting slightly larger than the headboard. Lay it over the foam and wrap around to the back, stapling in place. Batting softens the foam edges and gives the headboard a luxurious, rounded appearance. For an extra-plush look, use two layers of batting.

Step 5: Cut the Fabric

Cut your upholstery fabric so it's 5–6 inches larger than the headboard on all sides. This gives plenty of fabric to wrap around and staple at the back. Center any pattern before cutting.

Step 6: Staple the Fabric

Place the fabric face-down on a flat surface. Center the headboard foam-side down on top. Starting at the center of the top edge, pull the fabric taut and place 2–3 staples with the Metabo HPT stapler. Move to the center of the bottom edge, pull taut, and staple. Repeat for the sides. Work outward from each center point, pulling firmly and stapling every inch. At corners, fold neatly and staple flat.

Step 7: Handle Curves (If Applicable)

For headboards with curved or arched tops, make small relief cuts in the fabric every inch or so around the curve. This allows the fabric to lie flat without bunching. Pull each section taut and staple before moving to the next.

Step 8: Add Buttons (Optional)

For a tufted headboard, use a long upholstery needle from the upholstery sewing kit to pull buttons through the fabric and foam from front to back, tying off at the back. Mark button positions on the fabric before stapling for accurate placement.

Step 9: Reattach to Bed Frame

Once fully stapled and trimmed, reattach the headboard to the bed frame. Step back and admire your transformed bedroom!

Pro Tips

• Velvet and linen are the most popular headboard fabrics — both look luxurious and are durable enough for bedroom use.
• For a king headboard, you'll need approximately 3–4 yards of 54"-wide fabric.
• A thicker foam (3–4 inches) creates a more luxurious, hotel-style headboard.
• Piping or trim along the edges gives a very professional, custom look.