Attaching headboard to bedframe questions...

So, I have been on a spree lately, and am redoing my entire bedroom! LOL. It' s been on my list for a while now. I finished the bed about two weeks ago--the West elm chunky leg one--king size. I just finished my version of the low modern headboard today, and it's drying.
I should be able to attach it this weekend.

My headboard uses 2x3s for the ends(and one in the center as well), and has the plywood on top of that, like Ana's plan shows(with the internal frame).
I used 2X6s on my bedframe-mostly because they were straighter and way cheaper than any 1x6s that I could get. I've got a massively solid bed here. Would it be best to use long bolts and try to bolt from the inside of the bed into the frame legs? If so, any recommendations on size?
Theoretically we would like to be able to disassemble it, although we have only ever moved once and probably won't ever again, but you never know.

TIA!
Beth

claydowling

Tue, 04/19/2011 - 10:40

The attachment of a headboard to a frame that already supports itself doesn't need to use very big bolts.  1/4"-20 bolts are holding my rather large headboard, two on each side.

groovymom2000

Tue, 04/19/2011 - 12:12

Thanks a lot! I still haven't gotten to the store, so this comes at a good time. As of right now, it is leaning against the wall, behind the bed, but I need to get it finished.

tholthe

Sat, 04/23/2011 - 06:47

Rockler and Lee Valley both have some great bed hanger options making the bed easy to take apart if you ever have to move it.

tncraftsman

Sat, 04/23/2011 - 08:21

Have you thought about attaching them with a pocket hole screws, i.e. Kreg.  Also look up "Headerlok" screws.  I'm using them for my beds and very pleased with the results.  They produce a much better look than lag bolts.

claydowling

Sun, 04/24/2011 - 17:39

The Rockler hangers are nice, although I seem to recall that that style of hanger can rattle a bit under the proper influences. No such problems with bolts.

The bolts I'm talking about are a 1/4" bolt with a machine head, and secured to the bed frame with a large washer and a nut. It sits pretty tight to the headboard and isn't really noticeable. Lag bolts, in addition to being ugly and calling attention to themselves, aren't strong enough for a headboard. They'll loosen and tear out under the exact same influences that cause metal hangers to rattle.

The bolt option is also easy to tear down if you move. My headboard is in fact sitting against the wall, away from the bed, at this moment, because I just moved.