There are a number of ideas for unique headboards that go beyond the traditional wood or wrought iron look. A unique headboard in a bedroom can be a great way to change the look of the whole room and make it look more stylish. One of the best ideas for unique headboards is to simply use paint or wallpaper to design a flat headboard on the wall; though this will not provide any additional support to the bedframe, it is very inexpensive and looks very interesting. Other ways to create a unique headboard might involve hanging things on the wall behind the bed, such as tapestries, shelves, or prints on the wall.
Most unique headboards are not attached to the bedframe, but are rather mounted on the wall. Painting a headboard on the wall, cutting one out of wallpaper, or purchasing a pre-designed wall decal that is designed to look like a headboard are some of the cheapest and easiest ways to create unique headboards. Stencils that may be used for painting a headboard can be purchased online, though decals may be a better choice for people who live in an apartment. They can often be simply peeled off the wall without causing any damage.
Fabric wall-hangings can make great unique headboards as well. These can be tapestries, for example, or even an old quilt. One easy way to create a sturdier headboard is to purchase a piece of plywood and then cover it with batting and upholstery for a unique padded headboard. More detailed instructions for this DIY project may be found online. Pre-made decorative panels, either painted or covered with fabric, can make unique headboards as well; in addition, a tri-fold screen may be placed behind the bed to function as a headboard, and this will not need to be mounted onto the wall.
Other ideas for unique headboards include mirrors, a large framed photograph or cluster of framed photographs, or shelving. When installing anything above the bed, it is extremely important to make sure that it is sturdily affixed and bolted to the wall. This is especially true in areas where earthquakes occur; in this type of area, it is best to avoid mounting anything on the wall above the bed at all. Of course, one might always choose to simply place the bed under the window in a room and eliminate the need for a headboard altogether.