OK, Patriots:  A neighbor has asked me to attach an antique headboard to their standard steel bedframe.  A major issue for me is the headboard is double (full?), and the existing frame is queen, but they are ok with the difference.

 

It will all be covered, but I'd like to do it without major damage to the headboard.  I was wondering about a 1x3 hardwood board attached to the frame, then attach the headboard to that.  They do have the side rails with the appropriate hardware to attach to the headboard.  

 

Anyone have a better idea?

Not sure if this home improvement is the right spot for this question.  Please move as necessary.  

Pics below.  Thank you, Jim

 

If I picture this correctly, in my mind, the headboard will be not as wide as the frame. If the frame is self supporting, your idea sounds workable. But if the headboard actually holds up the end of the frame, you might want to consider something a little beefer than a 1x3.

36 minutes ago, lew said:

the headboard will be not as wide as the frame

Thank you, Lew.  That's exactly what it is!

 

The frame sits on the floor and supports the entire bed.  The headboard is just decorative.

Jim

To avoid damaging to antique headboard, maybe you could remove the its bed rail hardware. Use the old hardware mortice area for the screws to hold the 1x3.

I am thinking embrace the current hardware and attach the board to it the same way it was originally.  This way you don't damage anything, just add the board and it uses same hardware.  Your only expense and real work is the 1x3.