Can I have a headboard without frame?

I’m making plans to spruce up my bedroom a bit and one of the main things I want to target is the area above my bed head. I don’t have a headboard and have been deliberating (for yyyears really…sigh overthinker much?) whether I should DIY a headboard or use large artwork or other decorative options instead as a headboard alternative.

So today, I’m rounding up some no headboard ideas for your bedroom that you can easily implement.

Can I have a headboard without frame?

I’m crushing on quite a few of these ideas.

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13 Ideas for Styling a Bed with No Headboard

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1. Create a Feature Wall with Wallpaper or a Wall Mural

These examples show how a full/sectioned accent wall using wallpaper, stencils or contact paper can easily replace the need for a headboard.

This wall mural would make the bedroom a calming oasis.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Murals Wallpaper

If you’re looking for some affordable easy-to-install wallpaper options for renters, check out these peel and stick wallpapers on Amazon.

These mural wallpapers are also gorgeous but do require some type of adhesive, which may require you to be creative if you’re renting.

I absolutely LOVE this stunning floral wallpaper as well as this black and white floral wallpaper a backdrop for the bed. So pretty and feminine!

2. Use a Giant Macrame Wall Hanging

These are really trending right now and this one makes a gorgeous statement against the navy walls.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Fond Willow

☑️ Shop Macrame Wall Hangings on Amazon here

3. Hang Tapestry behind the bed

An alternative of the wall mural is to hang a large piece of tapestry behind the bed. This idea also allows you to switch up your decor more easily. 

I really like this look from Urban Outfitters.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
Urban Outfitters via HGTV

The one above is no longer available but you can also shop for tapestries here.

This one, in particular, seems to be pretty popular.

4. Paint an Accent Wall in One Colour

This is not a new idea but, using just paint, you can make a bold statement like this black accent wall. I like how the stark contrast looks so if you’re not afraid of high contrast looks (or a wall of black paint), this could be a great option. 

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Domino

5. Create a Colour-blocked Accent Wall

Take things up a notch by using two colours for a colour-blocked accent wall. This one plays off of the asymmetry in the room and is a great option if your bed isn’t centered on the wall.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Home Style

6. Frame the Bedhead with a Painted Circle 

A can of paint and some simple materials are all that’s needed to recreate this look. I really love the idea of a painted circle behind the bed. (Find an easy YouTube tutorial here)

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Corina Koch

Although this other example has a headboard, you can easily picture the room without it as the pink circle can stand on its own.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Dwell

7. Make a Woven Headboard (using placemats and a table runner)

Ohhh this is a FAB idea!! Use placemats and a table runner to recreate this boho-chic look in no time at all. Check out the tutorial via the link below the pic.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Sarah Sherman Samuel

8. Use Curtains and Fairy lights for a dreamy backdrop

I love the dreamy effect this look creates using some curtain fairy lights and sheer fabric. Check out the link below photo for Mr. Kate’s full tutorial.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Mr. Kate

9. Use a Large Piece of Artwork

Artwork and wall decor centered above the bed head are popular options for headboard alternatives. One large framed piece of art can be used to make a statement.

Btw, if you’re looking for affordable artwork but not into DIYing, Society 6 has a huge collection of art prints for under $20.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Centsational Style


Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Coco Lapine Design

In this example from Mr. Kate, the artwork is placed above the side of the bed rather than the head. I loved the entire room makeover actually since has the popular “hygge” vibe.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
Mr. Kate

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Pinterest

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Pinterest

10. Use a couple of large framed prints

This idea works really well for word and typography prints.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Pinterest

Dig out some prints buried in your phone or laptop or DIY some simple art and create a gorgeous gallery wall like this.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via My Domaine

12. Place a shelf (or more) above the bed

In a small space, this is also a great storage hack since the shelf can be used to display and store personal items. Add some hanging plants for a chic boho vibe.

I’m not fully comfortable with the idea of a shelf above my head (or the picture frames), particularly since I live in an earthquake-prone country, but I do like how they look. 

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via The Interior Editor

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via The Sorry Girls

13. Nothing behind the bed

This final example shows that depending on how you decorate the rest of the room, having nothing at the head of your bed actually works.

In this photo, the artwork placed above the side table rather than above the centre of the bed provides enough visual interest in the space. The minimalistic look of the room is also amplified.

Can I have a headboard without frame?


Here’s another angle of the room.

Can I have a headboard without frame?
via Pinterest  

So many great ideas, don’t you think?

Looking for even more bedroom ideas? Check out my Bedroom Pinterest board for some inspiration.

Now tell me, what’s your take on the no headboard vs headboard scenario? Which of these no headboard ideas is your favourite look?

Can you just have a headboard?

There's no requirement that you have a headboard for your bed. However, headboards can provide extra support, prevent wall damage, and elevate your bedroom decor. So, do you need a headboard? Today, many headboards serve more of a decorative role than a functional one.

Can you just attach headboard to wall?

Yes, you can attach any headboard to the wall but you will need to buy mounting hardware. French cleats found in any hardware store are perfect for mounting heavy furniture like headboards or cabinets. Use a stud finder to locate studs behind your walls to which the French cleats can be secured.

Can I attach a headboard to any bed?

If you do not have a wooden bed frame or want to attach a headboard to a bed frame without any holes, you can use bolts or screws that do not require drilling. Mark where the bolts or screws should go on the headboard and bed frame, and then use a drill or wrench to tighten them.

How do you support a freestanding headboard?

Freestanding headboards can be supported by attaching them to the bed frame or by attaching them to the wall. Some headboards can stand alone without any support between the wall and the bed, but they need to have a depth to them that will allow them to stand without tipping.