Issue 145 Online Extra

Arch-Top Headboard

There's so much to like about this headboard — its arched rail and molding, the curved panels, and the sturdy posts — but what I really get excited about is how it's built. Even though the headboard looks traditional, it's not your typical case construction. No mortise and tenon joints to cut. No dovetails to rout. Just some rabbets, a few grooves and splines, and three solid-wood panels. Even the assembly of the frame and posts is done in small steps. The cutting diagrams and materials list are available to download in this Online Extra. (See download link above)