An upholstered ottoman is a versatile piece of furniture that can serve as a footrest, extra seating, or even a coffee table. While store-bought options can be expensive, making your own allows you to customize the size, fabric, and design to fit your personal style and space. Best of all, it’s a fun and rewarding DIY project that doesn’t require advanced carpentry skills!
In this guide, we’ll take you step by step through how to make your own upholstered ottoman, offering tips and tricks along the way to ensure professional-looking results.
1. Gather Your Materials and Tools
Before starting, you’ll need to collect all the necessary materials and tools. The items you need will depend on your design, but here’s a basic list for a standard upholstered ottoman:
Materials:
- Plywood or MDF (for the base)
- Foam (2–3 inches thick for cushioning)
- Batting (to smooth the foam and create a plush look)
- Upholstery fabric (durable and suited to your decor)
- Upholstery staples (or staple gun staples)
- Legs (wooden or metal, based on your design)
- L-brackets (for leg support, if needed)
- Screws (to attach the legs)
- Optional: Buttons or tufting kit for a tufted design
Tools:
- Staple gun
- Drill and screws
- Scissors or fabric cutter
- Spray adhesive (to secure foam)
- Measuring tape
- Screwdriver
- Pencil
Pro Tip:
Choose a fabric that’s both stylish and durable, such as a tightly woven cotton blend, velvet, or faux leather.
2. Design Your Ottoman
Size and Shape:
Decide on the size and shape of your ottoman based on your space and intended use.
- Square or Rectangular: Great for coffee table-style ottomans or footrests.
- Round: Perfect for a softer, contemporary look.
- Oversized: Works well as both seating and a centerpiece.
Legs or No Legs?
- Ottomans with legs have a more structured, elevated appearance.
- Floor-style ottomans are more casual and better suited for bohemian or minimalist spaces.
3. Build the Base
The base is the foundation of your ottoman and determines its sturdiness.
Steps to Build the Base:
- Measure and Cut: Cut your plywood or MDF to the desired size and shape using a saw. If you’re not comfortable cutting wood, many hardware stores will cut it for you.
- Attach Supports: If you’re adding legs, drill and attach support brackets or plates to the bottom of the plywood.
- Secure the Legs: Screw in the legs or use L-brackets to ensure they are firmly attached. Test for wobbliness and tighten screws if necessary.
Pro Tip:
For extra durability, use thicker plywood (½ inch to ¾ inch).
4. Add Foam for Cushioning
The foam is what gives the ottoman its comfort and shape.
Steps to Add Foam:
- Cut the Foam: Lay the plywood on top of the foam and trace its outline with a marker. Use a sharp knife or electric carving knife to cut the foam to size.
- Secure the Foam: Spray adhesive on the top of the plywood and place the foam on top, pressing firmly to bond the materials together.
- Optional: Round the Edges: For a softer look, use batting to wrap over the edges of the foam.
Pro Tip:
Choose high-density foam for better durability and comfort.
5. Wrap the Base with Batting
Batting smooths out the foam and provides a plush appearance to your ottoman.
Steps to Add Batting:
- Cut enough batting to cover the top of the foam and extend a few inches around the edges of the plywood.
- Pull the batting tightly around the foam and plywood, then staple it to the underside of the base using a staple gun.
- Trim any excess batting to ensure a clean finish.
Pro Tip:
Keep the batting even and taut to avoid lumps or wrinkles.
6. Cover with Upholstery Fabric
The upholstery fabric is the star of your ottoman’s design, so choose a material that complements your space and holds up to wear and tear.
Steps to Add Upholstery Fabric:
- Lay the fabric flat, right side down, and place the base (with the foam and batting) upside down on top of it.
- Pull the fabric over one edge of the base and staple it to the underside, starting in the middle and working toward the corners.
- Repeat on the opposite side, pulling the fabric tight as you go.
- Fold the corners neatly (similar to wrapping a gift) and staple them securely.
- Trim off any excess fabric for a clean, professional finish.
Pro Tip:
For patterns, make sure to align the fabric design (e.g., stripes or florals) before stapling to maintain a polished look.
7. Add Optional Tufting
Tufting adds a touch of elegance and dimension to your ottoman, giving it a high-end look.
Steps to Add Tufting:
- Mark where you want the buttons on the fabric using a ruler and pencil.
- Use a long upholstery needle to thread buttons through the fabric, batting, and foam, securing them tightly to the plywood base.
- Staple the thread or use a washer to secure it underneath the base.
Pro Tip:
For DIY tufting, cover buttons with matching fabric for a cohesive look.
8. Attach Final Touches
After upholstering, it’s time to finalize the assembly.
Steps to Finish:
- Flip the ottoman over and ensure the fabric is tightly secured.
- Screw in the legs if you haven’t already.
- Attach any additional hardware, like corner brackets, for extra stability.
- Inspect the ottoman for any loose fabric, batting, or screws and make adjustments as needed.
9. Style and Showcase
Now that your ottoman is complete, it’s time to style it in your home.
Where to Use It:
- Place a tray on top to double it as a coffee table.
- Pair it with a sofa or armchair for a comfortable footrest.
- Use it as extra seating in a living room or bedroom.
Pro Tip:
Add a throw blanket or decorative pillow to enhance the cozy vibe.
10. Customize Your Design
DIY ottomans are endlessly customizable, so feel free to get creative with your design!
Ideas for Customization:
- Add Storage: Build a hinged top to create a hidden compartment inside the ottoman.
- Change the Legs: Swap out standard legs for hairpin legs, casters, or carved wooden feet.
- Mix Textures: Use leather, velvet, or faux fur fabric for added luxury.
- Paint or Stain: Customize wooden legs or the base with paint or wood stain to match your decor.
FAQs: Making Your Own Upholstered Ottoman
1. How much does it cost to make a DIY ottoman?
It depends on materials, but a basic ottoman can cost as little as $50-$100, much cheaper than store-bought options.
2. What type of fabric is best for upholstering an ottoman?
Durable fabrics like upholstery-grade cotton, velvet, linen, or faux leather are ideal since they hold up well to wear and tear.
3. How do I make a tufted ottoman?
To tuft, mark your fabric where buttons will go, use an upholstery needle to thread buttons, and secure them tightly to the base.
4. Can I use recycled materials for the ottoman?
Yes! Repurpose old furniture, wooden pallets, or fabric scraps to reduce costs and create an eco-friendly ottoman.
5. How do I ensure the ottoman is sturdy?
Use thick plywood or MDF for the base, attach legs securely, and test the ottoman before regular use.
6. What’s the easiest shape to make?
A square or rectangular ottoman is easiest for beginners, as it requires minimal fabric cutting and simpler assembly.
7. How can I add storage to my ottoman?
Build a wooden box with a hinged lid as the base and upholster it. This creates hidden storage space inside.
8. What tools do I need for tufting?
You’ll need an upholstery needle, strong thread, and buttons. A tufting kit can simplify the process.
9. Can I make an ottoman without legs?
Yes! Floor ottomans, poufs, or cushions work well for casual spaces and are easier to assemble.
10. How long does it take to make an ottoman?
Most ottomans can be completed in a day or over a weekend, depending on the complexity of the design.
With this step-by-step guide, you’re well on your way to creating a beautiful DIY upholstered ottoman that fits perfectly in your home. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have a custom piece of furniture that showcases your creativity and style. Happy crafting!