A guide on how to paint a headboard

Does your old headboard look dull or worn out? Are the colors outdated and no longer matching your interior? This short and easy guide shows you how to refresh an old wood and metallic headboard using spray paint – for a fresh new look without a large investment. Easy and affordable with great results. Let’s dive in!

Watch a short 43s video or read the step-by-step guide on how to paint a headboard

What tools do you need?

• Degreaser spray (Maston Degreaser 400006)
• Primer (e.g. Maston Anti-Rust Primer White 260013 / Wood Primer 400525)
• Decoeffect Clear Lacquer (830332)
• Sandpaper (grit 180)
• Desired topcoat color, e.g. Decoeffect Gold (830431) and Modena Black (604001) brush-on paint
• Masking tape
• Protective paper or plastic sheeting
• Screwdriver or Allen key
• Protective equipment (mask, gloves, safety goggles)

7 steps for a successful paint job

1. Preparation

• Choose a well-ventilated area for painting.
• If necessary, remove metal parts and paint them separately, depending on the material and color used.
• Label the removed parts to make reassembly easier.
• Cover areas you do not want to paint and protect the surroundings from paint overspray.

2. Clean and sand the surface

• Thoroughly clean all surfaces to be painted to remove grease and dirt.
• Lightly sand the surface with 180-grit sandpaper to improve paint adhesion.
• Wipe the surfaces with Maston Degreaser.

3. Priming

• A light-colored primer enhances the brightness of the topcoat and helps you see areas that need more paint.
• For metal surfaces, Maston Anti-Rust Primer is recommended; for wooden surfaces, use Maston Wood Primer or Maston ONE Primer.
• Test the paint first on a small, hidden area.
• Apply 2–3 coats of primer and allow to dry according to the instructions.

4. Topcoat painting

• Spray the paint lightly and evenly in several thin coats.
• Allow each coat to dry before applying the next one.
• Usually 2–3 coats are sufficient for good coverage.
• Follow the instructions shown by the icons on the back of the can.

5. Painting metal parts and finishing

• Metal parts can be painted with a brush, for example using Maston Modena paint, as shown in the video.
• Wooden parts with many small details are easiest to paint with spray paint, such as Maston Decoeffect Gold.
• To improve durability, we recommend applying 2 coats of Maston Decoeffect Clear Coat over the topcoat. Follow the lacquer’s own instructions.

6. Drying

• Allow all painted surfaces to dry completely before reassembly to ensure a durable and clean result.
• Drying times can be found on the icons on the can.

7. Reassemble the headboard

• Reattach all parts only after the paint is fully dry.
• Remove all protective coverings and clean up the workspace.

Tips for the best result

• Always work in a well-ventilated area.
• Test the spray paint on a small, inconspicuous area first.
• Take your time with each step – careful work results in a high-quality finish.

By following these instructions, you can easily and cost-effectively refresh the look of an old headboard. Spray painting is a simple and efficient way to update furniture without major investments.

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