One of the design projects I’m working on involves a makeover for the guest bedroom. And one of the elements were adding to the space is an upholstered headboard. The client didn’t want to invest in a custom piece so I’ve been on the hunt for headboard that can be ordered and delivered within a couple of weeks.
After some research I’ve discovered some pros and cons with buying a ‘stocked’ upholstered headboard.
CONS
♦ You can’t get the feel for the quality of a headboard when you’re ordering online. And in many cases the product description that’s provided by retailer leaves a lot to the imagination. Some stores will send you a fabric swatch so you can see the fabric before ordering but when that’s not an option, you’re taking a chance. One tips I have when a swatch is not available is to search for the headboard on Pinterest. You can usually find an image where someone has the headboard in their home and their photos can tell you a lot about the item.
♦ The true size of a piece is not always reflected accurately. You’ll want to double-check how the measurements are listed and maybe even call the company to confirm. Companies will sometimes list the width from the widest points on the headboard frame and that may not always be the actual headboard.
♦ Color is definitely in the eye of the beholder. Before I started working with my clients, they ordered a headboard in a ‘grey’ color. When the piece arrived it was actually more of a brown-taupe. This is another area where a fabric swatch is beneficial. You’ll be able to see the true color and ensure that it works in your space.
♦ The last negative to ordering can be the perceived value related to the price. Last year I had a client that didn’t want to spend a lot of money on headboards for their guest bedrooms so we ordered headboards from Wal-Mart. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and finish work for headboards that were less than $125. And in another instance, I was shocked at the poor workmanship of a piece ordered through a high-end furniture store that cost $1200.
PROS
♦ It’s Raining Money! Ordering ‘stock’ inventory can save you money and time. If an item is in stock you can have in delivered within a week or two versus a custom piece that can sometimes take a few weeks to a month to get.
♦ Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder. Since many home décor catalogs also have physical storefronts, you may have the opportunity to experience the product first hand. If the item is carried in the store, you can touch, feel and determine the true size and quality before you purchase or place an order.
♦ Immediate Satisfaction. When I’m decorating a space, I don’t mind taking the time need to execute the big elements like painting, space planning or buying key furniture pieces. When it come to accessorizing the space, that’s a whole different matter. I like to shop, find what I need and use it right away.
So now that’s I’ve given you a spill on the good and bad of buying stocked upholstered headboards, I think it’s time I share my favorite ones with you.
My Favorite Upholstered Headboards
1// Concord Upholstered Headboard from Home Decorators–multiple color options available as well as free fabric swatches. $549
2// Bryant Upholstered Headboard from Home Decorators–multiple color options available as well as free fabric swatches. $999
3// Skylar Upholstered Headboard from Wayfair–available in three colors. No fabric swatches available. $114.99
4// Portman Upholstered Headboard from Wayfair–available in one color only. No fabric swatches available. $151.99-$191.99
5// Barton Upholstered Headboard from Target–available in one color only. No fabric swatch available. $407.99-$519.99
6// Seville Linen Upholstered Headboard from Target–available in 6 colors. No fabric swatches available. $239.99-$319.99
There are lots of other headboard styles from the sources I’ve listed above so you’re sure to find what you like. Another unexpected place to find quality headboards at a good price is Costco. When buying online or at big box stores, make sure they have a return policy that allows you to return the item in case it not what you expected.
Happy Decorating!
