Headboard Alternatives: DIY Ways to Fake a Headboard
Think outside of the bed frame.
Take your bedroom style to the next level by thinking outside of the traditional frame – no headboard required. You can fake a headboard with paint, wallpaper, decals, hanging artwork, or a tapestry. Each option adds style and acts as a visual headboard without bulky furniture. Read on for creative headboard alternatives that will elevate the look of your bedroom and give it a unique edge.
1. Substitute With Upholstered Wall Panels
If cozy texture is your style, consider installing upholstered wall panels on the wall behind your bed. You can arrange the panels however you want and can add as many panels as your wall allows. This brings an inviting yet modern feel to any bedroom. For more inspiration, check out these 12 Above-Bed Decor Ideas That Are Sure to 'Wow'.
This headboard alternative will add padded comfort to the head of your bed frame. Backrest pillows come in rectangular designs – perfect for recreating the look of a headboard. Depending on the style, some have built-in pockets for you to stash your bedside essentials.
If you want an endless amount of color, pattern, and style options, we recommend creating a wallpaper headboard! For this fake headboard idea, we recommend using peel-and-stick wallpaper, as it's easy to apply and remove. Cut it to match the width of your bedframe and decide how tall it should be – it can go up to the ceiling if you want! For a bit more structure, you can cut the wallpaper in the shape of a traditional headboard.
This might look like a bed with a leather-paneled headboard, but it's actually a room divider! If you're looking for an alternative headboard idea, you should definitely consider repurposing a room divider. Room divider headboards add a layer of privacy to studio apartments or beds positioned in front of windows. From breezy rattan, leather, or wood panel designs to rice paper or large-scale art prints, there are so many room divider options to choose from! The best part? You can fold it up and reuse it even after the time comes for a new bed.
Hang up a bed canopy at the head of your bed so you can surround your sleeping space in cozy fabric. This creates a stunning floor-to-ceiling look that you can't get with an average headboard.
Mimic the look of a wood headboard with wood wall paneling instead. For this DIY headboard idea, you can use faux wood paneling, shiplap, or even beadboard. You can also extend the "headboard" as much as you want by adding more panels. If you have a wooden bed frame, you can even match the wood tones of the wall panels to the bed frame. This will create a seamless look.
Wall murals or decals are another great substitute for headboards because you can easily install or remove them and they don't take up any extra room. Not to mention, they come in all sorts or styles and designs, from nature scenes, to abstract patterns, or floor-to-ceiling artwork.
This clever substitute echoes the structure of a headboard and takes it one step further for an eye-catching statement. To master the effect of this headboard alternative, the artwork should cover the same width on the wall as the width of your bed (or just a tad wider). Opt for long rectangular pieces, or select a set of multiples to fill in that same space. Be sure to measure carefully before hanging to ensure there’s enough height between your pillow and the bottom of the piece so it doesn’t interrupt your sleep. We recommend leaving at least 18" – 28" from the top of your mattress, depending on your clearance preferences.
This headboard substitute is all about breezy boho style and comforting textures – the perfect backdrop for your bed pillows. Opt for lengthy or oversized macrame wall hangings to ensure they can span the width of your bed frame. Check out these 20 Macrame Decor Ideas to Infuse Your Space With Breezy Boho Style.
Love a bedroom illuminated by natural light? Create the illusion of a sunny window framing your bed by combining a smartly shaped mirror with airy, sheer curtains. Look for mirrors with metal or wood-paneling details that mimic the look of a window frame. Hang the mirror first, mount the curtains to hang from the ceiling to the floor, then partially draw them to enhance the quaint look of a real, curtain-framed window. Read our guides on How to Hang Wall Mirrors and How to Hang Curtains from the Ceiling to get started.
Create the look of a floating headboard with stylish wall decor panels. You may only need one decorative panel installed horizontally, but you can also add a bit of height and drama with three vertical panels. Add to the look by weaving fairy lights through the panels.
By far the most dynamic and functional of these fake headboard ideas, shelving units bring necessary structure above the bed with infinite styling options. Cluster them together and mount slightly off-kilter above each pillow, or stagger floating shelves above each other. If a ready-made formation is more your thing, look for larger, pre-grouped geometric shelving units. Just as with wall art, measure to make sure your bottom shelf will clear your head when sitting in bed. Get more inspiration with these 20 Ways to Use Shelving Over Your Bed.
DIY Headboard FAQ
How do you fake a headboard with paint?
Paint a rectangle, arch, or panel directly behind the bed in a bold color.
What can I use instead of a headboard?
Use art, wallpaper, or a fabric panel to frame the bed.
Is a headboard necessary?
No — a headboard is optional and decorative.
Can a tapestry be used as a headboard?
Yes, hang a large tapestry behind the bed for a soft, boho look.
Tip!
Looking for more headboard inspiration? Check out Refresh Your Bedroom With Unique Headboard Ideas or take a look at Your Guide to Headboard Styles to explore different options.
