Have an old 90s mirror lying around? Instead of tossing it, you can turn it into a headboard! I had one that originally came with a dresser set, and since it was almost the size of a twin bed, I decided to give it new life. This project was super budget-friendly and quick to do, and it’s been the perfect solution for my son’s room until he’s ready for a bigger bed.

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Materials You’ll Need for This DIY Upholstered Headboard

• Old mirror with frame (mine came from a 90s dresser set)
• Foam
• Batting
• Faux leather
• Staple gun & staples
• Backing board (I reused the mirror’s existing back, but thick cardboard could work)
• Hanging hardware (we used both the existing holes and a DIY French cleat for safety)

*Affiliate note: These are the exact or similar products I used, so you can recreate this look at home.

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Step-by-Step: How to Make a DIY Faux Leather Headboard

1. Prep the backing – I removed the mirror inside the frame and used the existing back as my base. If you don’t have one, sturdy cardboard or thin plywood works fine.
2. Layer foam + batting – I cut foam to size, laid batting over it, and stretched everything smooth.
3. Wrap with faux leather – Using a staple gun, I pulled the faux leather tight around the frame, securing it in place. The material is perfect because it wipes clean easily and doesn’t trap dust like fabric would.
4. Hang securely – While the frame already had holes for hanging, we reinforced it with a DIY French cleat. This step makes it much sturdier and safer, especially in a kid’s room.

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The Finished Look (and Why Faux Leather Works Best)

The finished headboard looks like an actual headboard, not an old mirror. It’s a quick, affordable upgrade that doesn’t seem “temporary,” even though I know my son will eventually outgrow his bed.

And bonus: faux leather is low-maintenance. No dust, no stains — just a quick wipe and it’s good as new.

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FAQs: DIY Headboard Ideas

DIY Headboard Ideas You Could Try Next

Turning a mirror into a headboard is just one way to save money and get a custom look. Here are a few more budget-friendly DIY headboard ideas you might want to try:

• Fabric Headboard: Use plywood, foam, and some fabric for a soft upholstered look. Grab some pegboard if you want a tufted look with buttons.
• Painted Headboard: No tools required — just repaint an existing headboard you have (or thrifted). I’ve painted the same headboard 3 times.
• Wood Slat Headboard: Cut and stain thin wood boards for a clean, modern style. Check out CB2 and All Modern for inspiration.
• Rattan or Cane Headboard: Add texture less wood with rattan webbing or cane material.
• Reclaimed Door Headboard: Flip an old door on its side, paint or stain it, add some trim and mount it behind the bed.