How To Use A Thrifted Headboard For A Custom Fireplace Surround

When it comes to thrifting furniture, the options are truly endless — and that doesn't just mean with readymade items. Buying vintage and antique furniture is an amazing way to get a curated and custom feel in your home without blowing your budget, and you aren't limited to just finding the perfect piece in perfect condition — sometimes the greatest finds are something that can be repurposed. One of the best items to find and reuse is a vintage headboard. Not only are they generally sturdy and well made, but there are various size options (anywhere from a twin through king), and they are a great way to add some gorgeous wood detailing to your space that will appear significantly more expensive than it actually is. Though recently it seems that one of the most popular ways to reuse a headboard has been as a hood vent in the kitchen, there is another hot DIY project you may want to use it for that would add a decorative touch to your living room or bedroom — a fireplace surround. 

Headboards are surprisingly ideally shaped for this project, but there are actually a ton of ways to repurpose an old headboard around the house, so your opportunities are endless, especially if you have access to more than one. Although it will take some power tools and patience, this is a pretty novice-appropriate DIY, especially if you start with a headboard that fits well around your fireplace. If you aren't too comfortable with tackling this blindly, there are a decent amount of tutorials online that you can follow along with, but here is what you need to know to get started. 

In order to try this DIY for yourself, the first step will be to find your headboard. If you want to keep cost-effective, try Facebook Marketplace, ReStore, or other second-hand furniture re-sellers. Some lucky ducks may even have a family member that squirreled one away in their basement. Though you may be able to get away with just using the materials you have, you may have to purchase some additional pieces of wood to create the appropriate shape. If you want to make the process as cheap and easy as possible, make sure that you choose a headboard that fits generously around the fireplace opening. This allows you to cut away excess wood instead of adding more on — and you can even use your cut piece to create a display shelf. Even if you have a contemporary style, there are many ways to create a tasteful blend of old and new furniture.

When choosing a headboard, you will want to find a piece that is made with solid wood that fits with the aesthetic you are looking to achieve. Since headboards are such a common item, there is truly a wealth of options out there that span all types of designs, sizes, looks, and styles, so no matter what you are looking for, there's a good chance you will be able to find it if you search long enough. There are variations that range from minimalistic to ornate designs, and those that may even offer some shelving opportunities. You will also want to be sure to use heat-safe paint in and around your fireplace to prevent toxins and peeling.

You don't need a fireplace to bring the warmth with this DIY. In fact, mantels or empty fireplaces are often used as a method of bringing some warmth and charm into a space without requiring any permanent installation. If you already have an open fireplace but it is non-functional or you do not plan on using it, you can still learn to decorate your fireplace like a professional. Candles (real or faux) are a great option if you want to mimic that fiery glow, but you aren't limited to light-up options. If you want to make a statement piece of your fire-less fireplace, you can fill the interior with books, faux candles, or plants for a cozy and easily transportable alternative. Some people even use it as an opportunity for some additional built-in storage and add shelving that can hold books, trinkets, and seasonal decor. You could also make it into a luxurious bed for a furry friend, or create your own mini-wine cellar to keep your favorite bottles within reach. 

Coincidentally, if you happen to have a mantel at your disposal that doesn't fit your fireplace vision, there are quite a few DIYs that work in the opposite way too, allowing you to turn a mantel into a headboard, or you could use mantels to DIY a shelf or medicine cabinet. If you are already in the building process, consider elements to add around your fireplace. This is a great opportunity to install something like window seats if it has windows on either side or flanked shelving, as you are already doing a project in that general area — so once you're done, you're done.