I have found a full size headboard that measures 60" at it's widest. My bed is queen size. The guy in the thrift store told me it wouldn't work, but it is exactly what I want. Can I make it work?

In north america, full size bed across is 54 in. queen is 60 in. So I guess you got yourself a headboard if the one in the shop measures 60 in. but take a tape measure with you next time to make sure.

Tick

Headboard attaches to the bed frame. Usually there are slots on both the frame and the headboard where its bolted to the frame. These slots need to line up. Its possible the headboard extend out over the legs, giving you some leeway.

However, you can jury rig something by screwing a piece of board to legs of the headboard and drilling holes to line up with the frame. How this will look in your bedroom is up to you.

You may have to purchase a different type of bed frame, ( one that stands alone without use of the head board.

But if you watch any DIY TV you will see that often head boards are fastened to the wall and not even actually attached to the bed frame, They make them out of old doors, cloth covered items and more.

Most newer headboards are set up for full or queen with a set of holes 3" apart on each side. If there are none, carriage bolt a 1X6 behind the bed, connected to the angle tabs. Then, connect your headboard to the 1X6. I just made a headboard for a queen from a very ornate inlaid dresser top. Looks great.

I am with Fr_Chuck on this, mount it like a hotel headboard, right to the wall free from the frame