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How to make a header out of old t-shirts

Introduction

The possibilities are endless with this simple and inexpensive headboard project. Use fabrics with floral patterns, old concert shirts, souvenir shirts, or beach towels.

Step 1

How to make a header out of old t-shirts

Cut the Luan to size

Cut the full sheet of plywood close to the size of the bed, but make it slightly larger than you need in case you need to adjust the size later, and leave plenty of room for trimming.

Step 2

Prepare the pieces

Miter cut the trimmed pieces. Paint them and set them aside to dry. Apply a second coat if necessary.

Step 3

Cut the squares

Cut the half sheet of plywood into twelve 10" x 10" squares.

Stage 4

How to make a header out of old t-shirts

Cover the squares

Cut the batting into twelve 11" x 11" squares. Cover each of the wooden squares by batting, wrap the edges around the back and use hot glue to hold them in place.

Step 5

How to make a header out of old t-shirts

Cut the t-shirts

Cut the jerseys slightly larger than the batting squares. Wrap each t-shirt around one of the squares and use hot glue to adhere it to the back of the square.

Step 6

How to make a header out of old t-shirts

Place the squares

Place the t-shirt squares on the large piece of luan. Check the size to see if you need to cut anything, but remember to leave enough room at the edges for trimming.

Step 7

Fasten trim to plywood

Attach the molding to the luan panel using wood glue and small nails. Weigh the trim and let sit for 24 hours if necessary.

Step 8

How to make a header out of old t-shirts How to make a header out of old t-shirts

Attach the shirts

Add one side of the hook and loop strip to the back of each t-shirt gusset, then pin the other side of the hook and loop strip to the luan panel. Push them all into place.

Step 9

How to make a header out of old t-shirts

Cover the background

Add an additional shirt below the squares to cover the bottom of the luan panel.

Step 10

Fix the panel to the wall

Attach the t-shirt panel to the wall by finding the rivets and placing the t-shirt squares over the screws.

Joanne Palmisano is the author of Salvage Secrets (W.W. Norton, September 2011). Visit her blog, also called Salvage Secrets ..