I started with the very cheapest IKEA bed frame available. However, I found a brand new one on Craigslist, and saved even more money!
Then I primed and painted. That sounds easier than it actually was. I'm a bit heavy-handed with spray paint, and if I had to do it again, I'd just use a brush!
After the paint was dry I made it into a "princess bed" by adding crystal knobs to the posts and making an upholstered back for the headboard. Sadie helped pick out the knobs and the fabric. The upholstery was done using a piece of plywood, a layer of dense foam, some cotton batting I already had, and the fabric. I used a staple gun to secure the batting and fabric on the back of the board. Then I attached that whole piece to the headboard using a pneumatic nail gun. I was planning on trimming out that piece, but I skipped that when I realized that it wouldn't be visible from the side.
Sadie has done really well sleeping in her bed, although she still occasionally wakes up and comes in our room. But overall it was a good change for her!
