I'm sharing this easy headboard bench tutorial from back in the early days. It really is the easiest way to make a headboard bench from a twin bed! It may be the perfect option for beginners, or someone who just wants to complete a project quickly.
If you've been wanting to make a headboard bench, but have limited skills and tools, this might be the best option for you to build that bench you've been wanting!
This was one of the first benches I ever made with my friend Cathy.
See how easy it is to repurpose a headboard into an extra seating option? The headboard bench could be used outdoors on your patio, at the end of your bed for shoes and socks, or even as extra seating for a long dining table.
When we first started making headboard benches, we would cut the foot board in half, and drill from the back of the post into the narrow edge of the newly cut foot board section.
Does that make sense? See how narrow the foot board sections are? We would use a very long drill bit, through the post, into the cut section of the foot board. It was laborious and I hated doing it. (this image is solely for the purpose to explain how we attached the foot board back in the early days)
Easy Headboard Bench
So, for this easy headboard bench, I asked her to make it this much easier way. Well, actually I begged her!
This twin bench is one of the easiest and fastest to make. You can see the simple construction. After cutting the foot board in half, attach each piece to the side of the headboard. There are two screws at the top of the armrest (in the back) and three screws for the larger bottom section.
How Do You Cut a Headboard in Half?
That depends on the saw(s) you may have. You could even use a handsaw. But if you're just starting out, and can't afford high end tools, I recommend using a jigsaw. You could also use a circular saw, or ask a friend or family member to cut it for you.
Here's another view. This is seriously an easy headboard bench anyone can make.
After that, we added scrap wood to support the seat. Again, attaching the screws from the outside of the armrest section into the 2x4.
Back then we used drywall screws. However, I now use wood screws when I'm not using my Kreg Jig pocket hole screws.
For another option--using dowels, check out this tutorial from Addicted to DIY
This bench does sit a little low (it would make a nice child's bench). Scrap pieces of flooring were used for the seat. I've actually used scrap oak flooring for many headboard bench seats. A friend once gave me random boxes of leftover pieces of flooring--all shapes, sizes and colors.
Looking for a full tutorial on this and other benches? Of course now, I find it easiest to use a Kreg Jig when making all of my headboard benches. After all these years, they are by far my favorite projects to make.
gail See my favorite Mission Style Headboard Bench with Storage-The Complete Tutorial
Sharion Wycosky
I have seen benches made from bed frames but never had a frame to make one.
I am a crafter and see things to make from everything, junk, trash, etc, I have taken a lot of teasing. I am 76 and don't have the health to do a lot. of crafting., now. I had a twin bed frame that I wanted. My son put it on the curb., I had a fit. It wasn't in the best condition, so with my age and ability, I let it go..I got a look from my son (she actually let it go!!!) HEY DAD!! He has never understood the crafty side of me.
A few days later I saw the bench in your newsletter and showed him so he could understand where I was coming from. so as not to see me as a hoarding nut. He hugged me and said he would buy me a bench. Geszzs,!!! he missed the point. Oh well!!! It is a shame that I am not able to do the wonderful things I use to do. I enjoy your newsletter. It takes me back to another time. Keep it coming, THANK YOU!!!!!!!
Gail Wilson
ohhh, how I understand how you feel. I'm 65 and wonder how much longer I'll be able to do what I love. How I wish you had seen the newsletter before he put the bed to the curb. It may have been a nice project for you two to work on together.
I appreciate your kind note.
thank you!
gail
Lisa
Your benches are quite a collection. I’ve always wanted to make one but still looking for the right headboard. Can I use larger size headboards following your instructions? Also wonder if you’ve ever made one as a swing seat? That would be cool hanging under a big shade tree! Then it being kind of short wouldn’t really matter!
Gail Wilson
Lisa,
Yes, I've made queen benches, and my friend Mindi made a king size bench! https://www.myrepurposedlife.com/kingsize-headboard-bench/
No, I've never made the swing seat. In my opinion, these benches shouldn't be subjected to the elements long term. The only way that would be advisable is to use a marine varnish to seal it every few years. I suppose if it was a small bed, it could be brought into an outbuilding during the winter months. 🙂
gail
Virginia
I have an antique cradle made of sold wood from the late 1800's-early 1900's. The base is wire with slats. I want to keep it, but it only serves as open storage (blankets/pillows/clean laundry) while taking up a fair amount of space. The only idea I have thought of is to create a couple of quaint seats-- a mismatched, matching pair. Any ideas for repurposing, how-to recommendation videos, ANYTHING at all. I have no clue where to start or if I even feel confident enough to do it myself... not to mention, "who"/what to type into google to find a fairly priced crafts-person who specializes in such a thing. I hope you see this & reply back. 🦧 -ᵛ
Gail Wilson
Virginia,
I hope you see this comment. I apologize for the delay, I was out of town without internet service.
I would love to help you out, but without seeing any pictures, it's very difficult to advise you. You can email me at MyRepurposedLife@gmail.com
gail
I Play Outside The Box
That turned out great!!