Fixer Upper's Joanna Gaines Turns An Old Window Into A Bedroom Statement Piece
If you're on the hunt for an easy DIY headboard to upgrade your bedroom, Joanna Gaines has you covered. The host of HGTV's "Fixer Upper" recently shared more details about the unique headboard from Season 10, Episode 3 of the series. "On the day I was decorating the Whyte house the master bed did not make it and I didn't have time to go out and purchase another bed. This old window fit this queen bed just perfect!" she said in an Instagram post.
Wondering how to recreate this bedroom statement headboard? First things first: Figure out how wide of a window frame you need. The general rule is to keep the headboard width near the same size as your mattress. Twin and twin XL beds are typically 41 inches wide, full-size beds are 56 inches, queens are 62 inches, California kings are 74 inches, and kings are 80 inches. That being said, if you find a stunning window frame that both looks good behind your bed and fits your home's style, feel free to toss the rules out the window.
Next, pick your frame. You can head to the local hardware store to pick out a pretty window, but for a little more personality, head to an antique shop, flea market, vintage shops or — even better — an architectural salvage yard. If you're not sure what architectural salvage is and how to use it in your home, think of it like a thrift shop for building materials, like shutters, doors, and yes, windows, making this a great stop to check out on your hunt for a bedroom statement piece.
How to turn a window into a DIY statement headboard
Got your window? Time to get started. If your window still has glass, whether it's full panes or just pieces stuck in the glazing, remove it safely first. Put on goggles, thick gloves, closed-toe shoes (boots are ideal), and long pants and sleeves, then lay out a dropcloth over your work area. Cover one side of the glass completely with masking tape —this keeps it from splintering — then use a hammer handle or mallet to gently tap the glass loose. Use a putty knife to scrape away any glazing, caulk, or other adhesive to pull the glass loose.
Next, let's prep and paint. Scrape away any old paint, and sand down any rough patches. Apply a primer if preferred, especially if you're painting on bare wood. Once dry, apply your paint. Let it dry, and add more coats as needed — you'll likely need two for cohesive, smooth color. Once it's dry, move it in your bedroom. Scoot your bed back, slide the new headboard behind the bed frame, and slide forward again to secure. For more security, add zip ties around the legs of the bed frame and headboard.
Do you have to use a window for this DIY? Nope. There are so many home items that can be repurposed into a gorgeous headboard. One of our favorite DIY headboard hacks upcycles a fireplace screen to make a stunning statement piece, but the possibilities are truly endless, especially if you're willing to get creative with the items you already own.