Is that a gorgeous white button-tufted headboard you see? Well, yes and no. This fabulous headboard is a trick of the eye, or trompe l’oeil, done with paint.

Starting with a white wall, use a level, tape measure and pencil to lightly outline shape of design onto wall. Make total width 4" wider than mattress, and height whatever you desire – ours is 58" high. Tape off headboard shape and paint outside a deep colour in flat finish (we used black). Mark inner lines of design in pencil, then go over them with paint marker. Using paint marker, draw on buttons to mimic tufting. To finish room, treat bedside table to two coats of bright white paint and a stylish new drawer knob – a no-fail furniture fix!

Tip: To make curved corners, use compass or trace around edge of large circular item. Draw on button tufting design at 8" intervals across width of headboard, staggering from top to bottom. Use pencil first, then go over final design with paint marker.

Download our button tufting design template.