Give your country bedroom a fresh look with these rare and functional headboard ideas!
Intro
Pinterest is bursting with headboard ideas—but let’s be real, how many times have you seen that same oversized macrame or barn door headboard? Been there, done that. 😅
If you’re ready for something a little more unique (and maybe even thriftier), I’ve got a collection of alternative headboard ideas that’ll make your country bedroom stand out. These pieces are so easy to find secondhand, and you might even have one or two of them stored in your own house already! So let’s skip the basic and dive into some actually original headboard alternatives that’ll make your space shine.
Just a note, the internet is full of creative geniuses who have already come up with these ideas before me. You think you have an original idea and, alas, no, a jillion people have done it. Still, these brilliant ideas need a signal boost. May this post help stem the tide of ubiquitous barn door headboard spam!
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1. Old Shutters
Old shutters are everywhere in thrift stores, and for good reason! They add texture and rustic appeal without the need for a whole lot of DIY. Whether they’re distressed or painted in a soft color, shutters can create a beautiful focal point for your country bedroom.
- How to Use: Stack two or three shutters vertically, or create a wider look by securing multiple shutters side by side.
- Pro Tip: Add a bit of extra flair with string lights or faux greenery to make it feel even more cozy.
How to Use – Director’s Cut Special Edition(!): Here’s an idea I couldn’t find on the internet, but I know would work amazingly: one shutter! Yes! Just one, mounted horizontally. Alas, it doesn’t seem like anyone thinks this is a good idea, so I used my *sarcasm* Photoshop genius to make a mock-up. Tada!
There’s something elegant and minimal about this, and you save money since you’re not buying several shutter sets (say that three times fast). A tall shutter would work great for a larger bed, or you, if you are like me and have twins(!), could take a set of two and place one above each bed for a cute, matchy-matchy twin motif. Look, they’re not going to let me do everything matching forever!
Product Recommendations
If you aren’t having luck secondhand, here are some alternates that came up in my research.
These customizable star shutters are handmade by a small business in the US. Again, can you imagine these above two twin beds in a beautiful country-chic bedroom? They’re on my wishlist, for sure.
These new shutters have been convincingly distressed and could add just the perfect amount of rustic charm to a bed (or two)
Existing Window
Ever considered using a full window as a headboard? It’s a fantastic way to incorporate architectural elements into your space without needing to build something from scratch. Old windows offer a touch of country charm with their frame and panes, and they obviously are the original and best when it comes to keeping your space light and airy.
- How to Use: This one is pretty self-explanatory. When you place your bed, center it in front of a window. Tall or short, it doesn’t matter! Don’t be afraid to let the bed cover up the bottom part of the window.
- Pro Tip: There’s something so very country about patterned curtains. Dress your window and create a faux-canopy vibe with cozy curtains in a check or floral print.
Product Recommendations
Well, I can’t recommend any windows to you (you’ll have to source that yourself 😉), but I can recommend curtains! These gingham curtains have a gorgeous trim on the sides that really elevates the country charm.
If you want something a little more gender neutral than gingham, lace or floral prints, these handsome checked curtains fit the bill quite nicely.
3. Round Rag Rug(s)
Rag rugs are usually used on floors, but when hung vertically behind the bed, they make a playful and soft headboard alternative. The texture is perfect for adding a pop of color or pattern to your country bedroom.
- How to Use: You can use one large round rag rug, or layer a few smaller ones for extra interest. Two similar rugs side by side would make a lovely, symmetrical design. Secure them to the wall with adhesive strips, hooks, or nails.
- Pro Tip: Look for rag rugs that match your room’s color palette, or go for a vintage mix of colors for a relaxed feel.
Product Recommendations
There’s something so country about denim! This handsome rug exudes homestead charm, and the material is firm enough that the fringe will stand out, even when mounted to a wall!
This lovely rug is a convenient half-moon shape that will work nicely above a bed. You could buy one in large size, or place two side-by-side to create a full-length headboard.
4. Folded Quilt on the Wall
This one is a true country classic—take a quilt (preferably one passed down or found at a flea market) and hang it on the wall behind your bed. The rich textures and intricate stitching of a quilt add warmth and character in a way that most headboards simply can’t.
- How to Use: Drape the quilt over a rod or secure it directly to the wall with rug clips or nails for a tailored, clean look.
- Pro Tip: Try using a quilt with a bit of history—vintage quilts have the best stories and will add an extra layer of charm to your room.
Product Recommendations
Again, I stand by the idea of grabbing an old quilt secondhand or giving an heirloom quilt pride of place in your room. However, if you are struggling to get a new (old) quilt, you can do well with a new new quilt like this lovely patchwork design.
If you want to mount a quilt or rug to the wall without damaging it (I get you!) then it’s best to use a rod or a ready-made quilt clip like this one. These quality clips are made of wood and have rave reviews!
5. Metal/Wooden Signs
If you’re into the country aesthetic, why not bring in some rustic signs? Old farm signs, vintage advertising signs, or even homemade wooden plaques can make a fun, quirky statement behind your bed.
- How to Use: Hang the sign(s) at the center of the bed’s width, or use a combination of smaller signs for a more eclectic vibe.
- Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to go bold—whether it’s an old “Farm Fresh” sign or a whimsical wooden piece, let your personality shine through. I saw a great sign that said, “Shenanigans in Progress.” Talk about a bold statement! Unfortunately, the seller was too poorly reviewed for me to recommend it here. Still, don’t be afraid to add a touch of wry humor!
Product Recommendations
Placing a single one of these beautiful arabesque wall signs would make a gorgeous statement above your bed.
Striking, gorgeous and well-reviewed, this rustic wooden art echoes a popular quilt pattern. Place one in the center for a nice finishing touch above the bed, or place two side by side for a lovely, symmetrical statement.
6. Fake Windows/Old Window Frames
This alternative is a fun, whimsical take on the “window headboard” idea. Old, worn window frames can bring the illusion of lightness and space to your room, even if your bed is positioned in a windowless corner.
- How to Use: Hang a large window frame vertically behind the bed, or layer several frames to create a fuller look. You can leave the frames empty or add glass for a more authentic look.
- Pro Tip: Hang fairy lights within the frames to create a soft, dreamy ambiance.
Product Recommendations
These chicken wire frames come in a pair that can help maximize how much space you cover. They are lightweight, poke-free and are just begging for you to personalize them with silk plants, fairy lights or small trinkets attached with clothespins.
These cathedral-shaped rustic window frames are small but visually potent. You could center one above your bed for an elegant, minimal statement. They’re lightweight, making them easy to attach to your wall and move around!
Conclusion
And there you have it—six creative headboard alternatives that are perfect for your country bedroom. These ideas are functional, unique, and totally doable with a little imagination (and some thrift store hunting). Happy decorating—and may your next furniture find be your best yet!
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