How can I convert a door in to a tufted headboard?

HELLO Susan,

I would make your buttoned headboard using Foam and fabric and then stick it on to flat board or direct onto door to be used as headboard. To fix headboard either to wall via screws and slots or via legs on the back of headboard with wing nuts. You can buy these headboard fixings. I did this years ago when I could not match a headboard with the carpet I had... best wishes.

I have reupholstered two headboards and except for the tufting this is the way to do it. First though I will start with the tufting. Mark on the door where you want the buttons, drill holes there. Then take a large piece of paper and mark where the holes are. Now cover the door first with a layer of foam, then with layer of a thin cotton, next use batting, t hen another layer of thin cotton, then the top fabric. Fasten by stapling fabric around the door, starting in the middles of each end, then each long part and then alternating so your fabric holds in place. Now you can either pull a thread through each hole or use the paper to mark the space on the fabric where you want the buttons. Use very strong thread on the fabric covered buttons (if you choose to cover buttons) pull as tightly as you can so you get an nice fat "poof" This is an ambitious project but one you will be very proud of and it will look really professional.

Hi Susan, this should help you

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naPaEO30AWg

First of all, you should know that making a tufted headboard is not a "quick and easy DIY". I've done it, but it is hard and probably cost at least $200 by the time we were finished. Anyway, I would be much more inclined to use plywood than an old door because you need to be able to drill A LOT of holes in it, put a lot of staples in it, and thread upholstery thread through it.