Q: I have just finished making a comforter and skirt for our master bedroom but I am confused about the fabric for an upholstered headboard.  The bedding is silk and I really don't want to put silk on the form.  What do you think about a textured fabric such as microfiber or chenile?

~ Rosie

A: I can understand how you don't want to use silk for the headboard... the headboard will get more wear and may not be the best option for you.

So, what other fabric to use?

Well, first... I want to make sure that you don't use too many fabrics in your room. Whatever fabric you choose for your headboard, it needs to tie into the room. Perhaps use the same fabric as your curtains?

I'm going to assume that your comforter and bed skirt are in a solid silk? If so, why not try a stripe for the headboard. It does not have to be silk at all. It can be a cotton... a microfiber... the wonderful thing about fabric is that you can create a wonderful palette with textures and print.

You have your main color in your silk. Now, go and find a wide striped fabric that has the silk color in it. The fabric does not have to resemble silk at all. You don't have to do a stripe, of course. Just find a fabric you like that has the main color of your silk in it.

Then be sure to try to use this headboard fabric at least one more time in your bedroom. A pillow... or just the ruffle on a pillow. Bedroom curtains... lamp shade...

Keep the overall "feel" of the room and stay within your color palette and your headboard will look great!