My headboard is made of green alder branches. They were cut green and no more than 1-2" around. Strip them of their leaves. These small branches need to be up to 12' in length. Depending on your location, you can usually find branches or small trees near streams. Get the landowners permission. I have never had any person say no. Cut your 2x12 the width you want the headboard. Mine is 6'6" wide. Start with your largest in diameter and longest twig. Nail it to the outside of the 2x12" width wise. Keep adding you twigs toward the center of the 2x12". Cover your twig ends and the nails with the metal mesh (small diameter chicken wire).
With someone standing on the 2x12, bend your outside twig toward the opposite side of the 2x12 base and nail securely in place. Continue with all your twigs toward the center.
With all your branches nailed securely in place cover the nails with your metal mesh. This just help to keep the branches in place as they dry. Don't get to finicky. However it turns out it will be unique and fun to decorate.
Have fun with this. It's pretty for a child's twin size too. Twine silk greens into the branches. You can also mix in netting and little fairies for your little fairy princess.
I try to cut more branches than I will actually need. You can visit my website and see the other stuff I do...http://www.sksartell.com and http://www.yourhomedesigntutorial.com
