This project was built and designed by Bruce A. Ulrich. If you’re looking for woodworking projects that combine style and practicality, be sure to check out his YouTube channel for more builds like this one.
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Why Choose a Wall-Mounted Headboard?
Wall-mounted headboards are perfect for smaller bedrooms where saving space matters. By attaching directly to the wall, this style eliminates wobble and keeps the room feeling clean and open.
Bruce’s design provides a stable, low-profile solution that works well with any bed frame. It also offers a chance to add character to your room without the bulk of traditional headboards.
Tools and Materials Overview
Bruce used common tools for this project, including a miter saw, brad nailer, level, and tape measure. Materials included pre-finished shiplap boards, adhesive, and a few fasteners to simplify the installation.
If your headboard needs to account for wall outlets, a jigsaw or coping saw comes in handy. Since the boards are pre-finished, there’s no need to paint or stain, which speeds up the entire process.
Planning and Setup
Bruce began by measuring the space and sketching out the headboard layout. Proper planning ensures the frame and boards are level and aligned from the start.
He installed the outer frame pieces first, which acted as a guide for placing the shiplap. Using adhesive and nails, he secured each section while ensuring everything stayed plumb and flush.
Installing the Shiplap
Bruce started at the top and worked downward, locking each shiplap board into the one below it. The tongue-and-groove system made this part of the project straightforward and secure.
He staggered the end cuts to create a visually appealing pattern. This technique also helped make the most of board lengths and reduced visible seams.
Nails were driven through the tongue area to minimize visible holes. The result was a cleaner finish without distracting hardware marks.
Making Room for Outlets
When installing boards near electrical outlets, Bruce marked and measured the areas that needed to be cut. Using a jigsaw, he created clean openings without damaging the rest of the board.
This step added just a bit of complexity but ensured the headboard fit snugly and looked intentional. Small adjustments like this make a big difference in the final appearance.
Final Touches and Results
After all boards were secured, Bruce stepped back to review the alignment and overall look. The pre-finished boards gave the headboard a polished appearance right out of the gate.
This project added warmth and texture to the room without occupying any floor space. It’s a great example of using simple materials and a thoughtful layout to elevate a space.
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