Upholstering an ottoman can breathe new life into a piece of furniture and is a manageable DIY project. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make an ottoman:
Materials Needed
- Fabric of your choice (soft chenille, smooth cotton, or textured linen)
- Staple gun and staples
- Screwdriver (if the legs are removable)
- Foam (if you want to add extra padding)
- Batting (optional for a smooth finish)
- Scissors
- Upholstery tacks or decorative trim (optional)
- Measuring tape
- Hot glue gun (optional)
Steps
1. Prepare Your Ottoman
- Remove any detachable parts: If your ottoman has removable legs or other components, take them off to make the upholstering easier.
- Clean the surface: Wipe down the ottoman to remove dust or dirt.
2. Evaluate and Replace Padding (if needed)
- Check the current foam or padding for wear. If it’s worn out, replace it with a new piece of foam cut to size.
- Wrap the foam with batting to create a smooth surface. Secure the batting underneath using a staple gun.
3. Measure and Cut Fabric
- Measure the ottoman, including its height, width, and depth. Add an extra 4–6 inches to these measurements to allow for folding and stapling.
- Lay the fabric on a flat surface and cut to size.
4. Cover the Ottoman
- Center your fabric on top of the ottoman.
- Pull the fabric taut and start stapling it to the underside of the ottoman frame. Begin with one side, then move to the opposite side, pulling the fabric tight as you go. Repeat for the remaining sides.
- Fold the corners neatly, like wrapping a gift, and staple them securely.
5. Reattach the Legs
- If you removed the legs, carefully cut small slits in the fabric where they need to go. Reattach the legs using a screwdriver.
6. Add Decorative Details (Optional)
- Attach upholstery tacks around the edges for a polished look.
- Apply decorative trim with a hot glue gun for added flair.
Tips
- Choose a durable fabric, especially if the ottoman will experience heavy use.
- For patterned fabric, align the pattern before cutting to ensure it looks symmetrical.
- Use a rotary cutter for precise fabric cuts.
- If reupholstering over existing fabric, ensure the old material is smooth and free of lumps.
This DIY process can be tailored to your skill level and creativity, resulting in a refreshed piece that suits your style.