DIY Pool Noodle Headboard – The Budget-Friendly Bedroom Glow-Up You Need!

Hiii! 💕 I’m SO excited you want to try this amazing DIY! Making this headboard was one of my favorite projects for my bedroom, and trust me, it makes a huge difference. It’s chic, cozy, and ridiculously budget-friendly. Plus, it only cost me about $20 using Dollar Tree pool noodles, foam board, and an old blanket I had lying around.

This guide includes everything you need—a supply list, step-by-step instructions, and even links to grab your materials online. Let’s get crafting! 

Supplies You’ll Need:
Tip: Check your local Dollar Tree first to save $$ on supplies!

Main Supplies:

• Hot Glue Gun 
• Fabric Scissors 
• Fabric Spray Adhesive 
• Bread Knife or Exacto Knife (for cutting pool noodles)
• Staple Gun (optional but helpful!)

Measurements for Different Bed Sizes:

For a Queen Bed:

• Foam Poster Board: 60" (W) x 30" (H)
• Fabric or Blanket: 66" (W) x 36" (H) (for wrapping around the foam board)
• Pool Noodles (cut in half): 12 total, each 60" (L)

For a King Bed:

• Foam Poster Board: 76" (W) x 30" (H)
• Fabric or Blanket: 82" (W) x 36" (H)
• Pool Noodles (cut in half): 14 total, each 76" (L)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Set Up Your Workspace
Find a clean, flat space to work—your living room floor is perfect! I moved my coffee table and spread out all my materials before getting started.

2. Measure & Prepare the Foam Board

• Lay out the foam poster boards side by side with no gaps between them.
• Use shipping tape to secure them at the seams on both sides for extra strength.
• If needed, trim to match your bed size.
  

3. Cut & Prep the Fabric

• Lay your fabric or blanket flat.
• Cut it 6 inches larger than the foam board on all sides (this gives you enough to wrap around!).
• Set the fabric aside for later.

4. Cut & Prep the Pool Noodles

• Use a bread knife or Exacto knife to cut the pool noodles in half lengthwise.
• Work slowly and try to keep the cuts even (I just eyeballed it!).
• If you want extra hold, use all-purpose glue to reinforce the foam inside.

5. Attach the Fabric & Glue the Pool Noodles

• Lay your fabric over the foam board, making sure there’s enough to wrap around the edges.
• Spray fabric adhesive glue 6-8 inches away from the foam board/pool noodles.
• Press the fabric between the noodles using the back of a bread knife to create that tufted look.
• Work in small sections so the glue doesn’t dry too fast.
• Smooth out wrinkles as you go!

6. Wrap the Edges & Secure

• Flip the board over and fold the excess fabric over the edges.
• Use a hot glue gun to secure it on the back.
• Work one edge at a time to keep it neat.

7. (Optional) Reinforce with a Staple Gun

• If you want extra durability, use a staple gun to secure the fabric along the back edges.

8. Mount Your Headboard

• If you’re renting (like me!), you can just place it between the mattress and the wall—no drilling needed! 🙌
• If you prefer, mount it directly to the wall using brackets or attach it to your bed frame with screws. 

And that’s it—you have a gorgeous, luxe-looking headboard for under $20! This DIY is totally customizable, so play around with different fabrics, colors, or patterns to make it fit your space.

Tag me in your pics—I’d love to see how yours turns out! 💕