Deep Buttoning Headboard Upholstery: A Step-by-Step Guide

Updated at: 24/03/2025

Transform your bedroom from ordinary to extraordinary with a stunning, deep-buttoned headboard. This classic upholstery technique adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space, instantly elevating the aesthetic appeal of your bed. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner looking for a rewarding project, creating a deep-buttoned headboard is achievable with the right guidance and a little patience. The satisfying result – a luxurious and personalized piece of furniture – is well worth the effort.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step approach to crafting your own deep-buttoned headboard, walking you through each stage of the process from selecting your materials to the final finishing touches. Let's dive in and begin creating the headboard of your dreams; follow along as we meticulously detail each crucial step in achieving perfectly plump and evenly spaced buttons.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Bosch GSG 300 or 600 (or electric kitchen knife)
  • Skewer
  • Marker pen
  • 30mm drill bit
  • Buttoning needle
  • Staple gun
  • Regulator tool
  • Fabric
  • Foam
  • Foam glue
  • Buttons
  • Twine
  • Dacron
  • Metal gripper
  • Hammer
  • Cardboard strips
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp, well-maintained upholstery tools to avoid injury and ensure clean cuts. Dull tools require more force, increasing the risk of accidents.
  • Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying staples, fabric scraps, and other debris during the upholstery process.
  • Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when using spray adhesive or other potentially strong-smelling products. Good ventilation prevents inhaling harmful fumes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Headboard

    • Measure and cut foam to headboard size
    • Glue foam onto the headboard using foam glue
    • Cut away excess foam using a cutting tool (Bosch GSG or similar)
    Cut away excess foam using a cutting tool (Bosch GSG or similar)Cut away excess foam using a cutting tool (Bosch GSG or similar)Cut away excess foam using a cutting tool (Bosch GSG or similar)
    Prepare the Headboard

  2. Mark and Drill

    • Mark diamond pattern using a skewer and marker pen. Account for extra fabric needed for pulling into holes (1 1/4 inch allowance)
    • Drill holes using a 30mm drill bit in reverse
    • Drill small pilot holes for twine and buttons
    Drill small pilot holes for twine and buttonsDrill small pilot holes for twine and buttonsDrill small pilot holes for twine and buttons
    Mark and Drill

  3. Prepare and Cut Fabric

    • Measure and cut fabric, adding allowance for diamond pleats
    Measure and cut fabric, adding allowance for diamond pleats
    Prepare and Cut Fabric

  4. Buttoning Process

    • Button the headboard, starting from the center diamond. Push twine through using buttoning needle. Staple after each button is secured. Keep pleats straight.
    • Use regulator tool to smooth and flatten fabric
    • Staple excess fabric to secure the finished diamond pleats
    Staple excess fabric to secure the finished diamond pleatsStaple excess fabric to secure the finished diamond pleatsStaple excess fabric to secure the finished diamond pleats
    Buttoning Process

  5. Finishing Touches

    • Cut away excess fabric and button twine. Add extra fabric to the back if needed.
    • Shape and staple fabric around curved edges; use plates to shape if needed.
    • Add Dacron and staple down, using a metal gripper to secure. Use regulator to smooth fabric.
    • Finish by stapling fabric on the back. Add lining if desired.
    Finish by stapling fabric on the back. Add lining if desired.Finish by stapling fabric on the back. Add lining if desired.
    Finishing Touches

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Tips

  • Use a high-quality foam glue for strong adhesion.
  • Always drill holes in reverse to prevent tearing the foam.
  • Allow extra fabric for pleats to ensure proper fit and prevent pulling.
  • Keep pleats neat and straight while buttoning.
  • Tidy up after each diamond to maintain a clean workspace and ensure a professional finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Button Spacing

Reason: Inconsistent measurements or pulling the fabric too tightly in some areas leads to uneven spacing between buttons, creating an unprofessional look.
Solution: Use a measuring tape and marking tool to ensure consistent spacing between buttons before attaching them.

2. Wrinkles and Fabric Bunching

Reason: Insufficient fabric or improper stretching during the buttoning process results in wrinkles and bunching, detracting from the headboard's appearance.
Solution: Ensure you have enough fabric and carefully stretch it evenly while securing the buttons, working in sections to avoid pulling the fabric too taut in one area.

FAQs

What type of fabric is best for deep buttoning?
Medium-weight fabrics like linen, velvet, or upholstery-weight cotton work best. Avoid overly stretchy or delicate materials as they won't hold their shape well.
What tools do I need for this project?
Essential tools include a staple gun, upholstery tacks or buttons, strong thread, scissors, a measuring tape, and possibly a button-tufting tool. A sewing machine is helpful but not always essential.
How do I ensure evenly spaced buttons?
Use a fabric marker to mark the button placement points on your headboard backing before starting. Measure carefully and maintain consistent spacing between each button for a professional finish.