Antique Paint Finish for a Cheap Headboard

Love the look of antique paint finishes, but cannot afford real antiques. Well, I always come across super cheap headboards at Goodwill and flea markets. So grab up one of those cheap headboards and turn them into a unique looking masterpiece in one weekend.

Creating an antique Headboard on a budget is an easy project that can be accomplished in one weekend. To start this antiquing project you will need to find an inexpensive Headboard that you don't mind painting.

Those cheap plain fake woods Cheap Headboard found at discount stores are perfect for antiquing. If you have an old wood Headboard and just want to change the color or look this paint process is also good.

Here is a list of supplies you will need to start antiquing you old Cheap Headboards:


· Primer
· Paint (2 colors)
· Roller paint brushes
· A variety of 2", 3", or 4" paint brushes
· Wood stain
· Glaze
· Sandpaper
· Drop clothes
· Cheap Headboard

For additional antique inspired embellishments to a very plain Cheap Headboard try attaching some pre cut wood embellishments. You can find them at any home improvement store.

This will completely change the look of your inexpensive Cheap Headboard and instantly give and antique feel.

Now, start sanding the surface of your plain Headboard. The entire surface. Wipe away any dust when you have finished.

Now, you are ready to put a coat of primer. If you are using a cheap fake wood Headboard this is a very important step. Your antiquing painting technique will not stick to your Headboard surface if you don't sand and then prime.

Allow your primer to dry completely.

Put on a coat of your base paint. This paint should not be the actual color you want your desk to end up, but the color you want to show through when you antique the Headboard.

Let this base coat dry.

Now you are ready to paint your antique Headboard with the real color you wish it to be. I always recommend painting a color that goes with your existing décor.

Once your Headboard color has dried you are ready to apply the antique paint finish.