The Genius Way Shoe Lovers Should Be Repurposing An Old Headboard

Shoe lovers don't have it easy. Oftentimes, the obsession is simply too much for the average closet to handle. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and you may be tempted to pull a Carrie Bradshaw and stash your stilettos in the oven. Thankfully, this genius DIY will provide you with much-needed storage space for at least a dozen pairs.

This project requires some experience with power tools, but if that doesn't deter you, then you will love assembling this makeshift shoe rack. The centerpiece of this creation is an old headboard. If you already have one that you were planning to get rid of, you're ready to get started. Otherwise, you can take yourself on a fun excursion to source one. 

Once complete, you will have a new display case for your footwear that is more unique than any store-bought shoe rack that you will ever find. It feels good to repurpose an old piece of furniture to give it a second life. Plus, you will reap many mental health benefits from clearing the clutter out of your closet.

TikTok user @gayleimp demonstrates the brilliant way to repurpose an old headboard into a shoe rack. It's worth noting that this project is best suited for a sturdy wooden headboard so that the shelves can be securely installed. Depending on its size, you can install several rows of shelves. As shown in the video, the bottom shelf can be propped up using cans of paint or other bulky items such as books or blocks.

Before you begin, you may want to deep clean your wooden headboard using mild dish soap and warm water. Once you've restored it to sparkling shape, you can source some wooden planks that are suitable in length for your headboard. You should also consider the width of the shelves, as they will need to be wide enough to store your shoes comfortably. With a drill, some screws, and a level, the shelves can be installed in no time.

You can give your shoe rack a decorative upgrade by painting the headboard and shelves. You can also line the shelves with an absorbent material to prevent surface damage. Once you're happy with your creation, you can get started on the satisfying task of clearing your beloved shoes from your closet (or oven) and displaying them on your brand-new footwear holder.

Tidy storage spaces do wonders for your well-being. According to professor and psychologist Dr. Joseph Ferrari, clutter is linked to anxiety, stress, and overall unhappiness. "We found that there's a negative correlation between life satisfaction and clutter," said Dr. Ferrari in an interview with the American Psychological Association. "So the more clutter you have, the lower people report life satisfaction."

Cluttered spaces make it difficult to relax because our senses become overly stimulated, leading to feelings of anxiety and guilt for allowing the mess to accumulate, reports Psychology Today. The phrase "tidy space, tidy mind" exists for a reason. By taking the time to prevent clutter from accumulating in your home, you are creating an environment that is more supportive of relaxation, therefore boosting your mental health.

This clever DIY will allow you to indulge your passion for footwear and keep your shoe closet neat and tidy at the same time. Plus, with a little bit of creative flair, your repurposed headboard can become a one-of-a-kind decor piece that adds instant appeal to your space.