Materials and Tools
- Chop saw
- Jigsaw
- Electric drill
- Nail gun
- Headboard
- Flat drawer
- Oak planks 1x6
- Rice paper
- Thumbscrew
- Nails
- Fluorescent lamps
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Using a chop saw, cut the headboard legs flush with the bottom bracket for a clean base.
- Cut all other vertical posts with a jigsaw, then carefully remove loose pieces—these will be reused later.
- Cut rice paper to fit directly behind the headboard header and staple it securely to the back.
- On the chop saw, cut four vertical posts to 17 inches and four to 13-1/2 inches. From scraps, cut 10 small pieces to fit perpendicularly between the header posts.
- Glue and screw the 10 small post pieces between the header posts, alternating heights in a brick-like pattern for stability and style.
- Cut three 1x6 oak shelves to 40-1/2 inches long. Glue and nail the first shelf perpendicular to the bottom of the headboard.
- Glue and nail the four 17-inch vertical posts to the bottom shelf—mount two directly to the headboard and the other two flush with the shelf ends, about two inches from the front.
- Position the next shelf on these supports and secure it firmly.
- Glue and nail the four 13-1/2-inch posts to the middle shelf—attach two directly to the headboard, with the others flush to the outer edges and front.
- Glue and nail the top shelf to the headboard and posts for a solid finish.
- Remove the drawer handle with a screwdriver, then pry out the front face using a putty knife.
- Sand the drawer to strip away old paint, prepping for a fresh look.
- Position three 18-inch fluorescent lights, mark the mounting holes, pre-drill, wire them, and bolt securely through the holes.
- Apply 3/4-inch hook-and-loop tape around the perimeter of the shelf's connecting edge and the matching headboard surface for easy attachment.
- Sand all wood surfaces and stain to match the headboard's dark tone. Finish with polyurethane for lasting protection.
Project Cost
Headboard: $10
Rice paper: $10
Light fixtures: $20
Wood and materials: $15
Total: $55
