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The Best DIY Projects for Antique Bedframes

Antique bedframes are more than just beautiful pieces of furniture. They can also serve as the foundation for a variety of creative and functional DIY projects. These developments are perfect if you have an old bedframe that's seen better days. Or if you've found a charming piece at a flea market, there are many ways to repurpose and give it new life. Here are some of the best DIY projects using antique bedframes that can add vintage charm to your home.



1. Garden Bench

A popular DIY project involves converting antique bedframes into garden benches. The headboard and footboard can serve as the backrest and armrests. For this project you'll of course need a spare antique frame. You'll want extra wooden plans, screws and brackets. Optionally, for a nicer finish, consider adding paint or sealant to your supply list.


  1. Prepare the Frame: Clean the bedframe and remove any rust or old paint. Sand it down if necessary. Once the bed looks good on close inspection, move on.

  2. Cut the Planks: Measure and cut wooden planks to fit the width of the bedframe for the seat.

  3. Assemble the Bench: Attach the planks to the bedframe using screws and brackets. Ensure the seat is fixed and secured.

  4. Finish: Paint or seal the bench to protect it from the elements. Paint also gives you the freedom to choose whichever color you desire.


2. A New and Elegant Daybed

Transform an antique bedframe into a stylish daybed for your living room or guest room. This project combines comfort with vintage aesthetics. These work best with twin or 3/4 antique bedframes. Also ensure you've procured a mattress as well as pillows and throws for decoration.


  1. Prepare the Bedframe: Clean and paint or stain the bedframe if desired.

  2. Assemble the Frame: Set up the bedframe in the desired location.

  3. Add the Mattress: Place a mattress or daybed cushion on the frame. You can order a custom made 3/4 mattress online from our showroom today.

  4. Decorate: Add decorative pillows and throws to create a cozy, inviting space.


3. Headboard Wall Art

Repurpose an antique headboard can as a stunning piece of wall art. A wall mounted feature that will add character and history to your home decor. If you want to take on this artistic endeavor, you'll want an antique headboard to start. You'll also need wall mounting hardware and some paint or varnish for visual appeal.


  1. Clean the Headboard: Remove any old paint or finish and sand it down if necessary.

  2. Finish the Headboard: Paint or varnish the headboard to match your decor.

  3. Mount the Headboard: Use sturdy wall mounting hardware to hang the headboard on your wall. Ensure it is securely fastened.


4. Vintage Mirror Frame

Repurpose an antique bedframe into a unique and elegant mirror frame. A perfect addition for adding a touch of vintage style to any room. For this one you'll want your antique frame's headboard or footboard. You'll also need to make sure you have a mirror that will fit on the frame you've decided on. You’ll also need any adhesives, tools and pieces for wall attachment. This will vary from home to home so you may want to speak to a local contractor if you’re unsure. Butterfly pins will be your best friend if you can’t find any studs.


  1. Prepare the Frame: Clean and sand the bedframe. Paint or stain if desired.

  2. Attach the Mirror: Apply mirror adhesive to the back of the mirror and carefully place it on the bedframe. Allow it to set according to the adhesive’s instructions.

  3. Hang the Mirror: Attach hanging hardware to the back of the frame and mount it on the wall.


5. Chic Chalkboard

Turn an antique headboard into a chic chalkboard, perfect for a kitchen, office, or kids’ room. Gather your antique headboard as well as some standard chalkboard paint. You'll also want a paintbrush or roller, as well as whatever pieces you need for wall mounting.


  1. Clean and Sand: Prepare the headboard by cleaning and sanding it.

  2. Paint with Chalkboard Paint: Apply several coats of chalkboard paint to the central panel of the headboard. Stop and allow ample time between each coating for the paint to dry completely.

  3. Hang the Chalkboard: Attach hanging hardware to the back of the headboard and mount it on the wall.


6. Decorative Shelving

Use parts of an antique bedframe to create decorative shelves. They'll be great for displaying books, plants, or other items. You'll want the headboard, footboard and side rails from an antique frame. You'll also want extra wooden planks, as well as some other misc. pieces. Consider paint or stain as well for a clean but optional finish.


  1. Prepare the Frame: Clean and sand the bedframe parts.

  2. Cut and Prepare Shelves: Measure and cut wooden planks to fit between the bedframe parts.

  3. Assemble the Shelves: Attach the wooden planks to the bedframe parts using brackets and screws.

  4. Finish: Paint or stain the shelves to match the bedframe.


7. Towel Rack

An antique footboard can be repurposed into a charming towel rack for your bathroom. For this gather screws, wall anchors, as well as towel hooks or bars.


  1. Clean and Prepare: Clean the footboard and sand if necessary.

  2. Attach Hooks or Bars: Secure towel hooks or bars to the footboard using screws.

  3. Mount the Rack: Attach the footboard to the wall using screws and wall anchors. Double check to ensure it is securely fastened.


Antique bedframes are versatile creations. Transform them into a variety of beautiful and functional pieces for your home. These DIY projects not only breathe new life into old furniture but also add character to your space. Ideas like creating a garden bench, a daybed, or even a decorative mirror. Whichever you choose, repurposing antique frames allows you to create unique furniture. Creative pieces that stand out while allowing you to unleash your creative side. These creations will let you have both vintage elegance and modern functionality. Embrace your creativity and try building your next DIY project with an antique frame. You might end up surprised by what you can create.

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