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How to make a D.I.Y. 3D plaster wall headboard

Bedroom with Pink bedhead, navy blue doona cover with green walls and cane chair

Overview

Plaster isn’t just for patching up mistakes – the texture of this fixer-upper can be used to create on-trend interior features. Here’s how we used plaster to make this stylish headboard.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves and a mask) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Prepare the plywood sheet

    Smooth around the edges of the plywood sheet with 120-grit abrasive paper, then wipe with a damp cloth. Use a 230mm roller to apply primer over the plywood, including the edges.
    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: We used the full plywood sheet for a double bed, but you can have it cut in store for a smaller bed.
    A person uses a 230mm roller to apply primer to a plywood offcut
  2. 2

    Scuff the primer then start applying plaster

    Position the plywood on a flat surface at a working height that is easy for you to move around. Lightly scuff the surface with abrasive paper to prepare it for the plaster. Scoop the plaster onto an offcut using a pointing trowel, mixing it in a back-and-forward motion to remove any air bubbles.
    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: We set the sheet of plywood on a pair of saw horses to make it easy to access from all sides.
    A person wearing a black plastic glove spreads plaster over a plywood offcut
  3. 3

    Add plaster until the layer is 5mm thick across the entire plywood surface

    Scoop the plaster onto the plywood in small quantities, smoothing it over the surface. Use the trowel to create uniform coverage that is about 5mm thick.
    A person wearing a black plastic glove uses a trowel to even out plaster over a plywood offcut.
  4. 4

    Create the wave pattern

    Using the notched trowel and beginning at the top corner, move the trowel across the sheet to create a wave pattern. Begin the second wave at the same point, moving in the opposite direction. Repeat to cover the sheet.
    A person wearing a black plastic glove uses a notched trowel to create a wave pattern in white plaster.
  5. 5

    Smooth over and leave to cure

    Lightly smooth over the surface with 120-grit abrasive paper to remove loose plaster and prevent it from flaking. Leave to cure completely for 48 hours, then wipe with a slightly damp cloth to remove dust.
    A person smoothing over a plaster D.I.Y. project with 120-grit abrasive paper
  6. 6

    Paint over the plaster and attach to the wall

    Using a small roller with a long nap that can reach into the textured grooves, apply primer and leave to dry. Apply two coats of paint, leaving to dry after each coat. Position the headboard against the wall and secure using fixings suitable for your wall type.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Before drilling into walls, use a stud finder to check for wiring and pipework, and turn off the power.
    A person using a small roller to paint over a plaster board
  7. 7

    Want more headboard inspiration?

    Check out our guide to learn how to paint an arched headboard on a wall.

     

    * Timbers vary by state and territory; contact your local store for further information.

    Photo Credit: Belinda Merrie and Sam van Kan.

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.