In the third installation of our “Measuring Upholstery” series, we’ll be talking about how to get the correct dimensions for an upholstered ottoman. Despite being small, this furniture creates a beautiful impact in your room, being versatile in many ways. It can be used as a seat, a footrest, and sometimes, a mini table. Because of its use, it can be easy for your ottoman to wear out. However, refurbishing it can be fun. Unlike chairs and sofas, a DIY upholstery project for an ottoman is more straightforward.
A Few Things To Take In Mind:
Ottomans come in various shapes, with no standard repair chart for them. Your method of refurbishing your ottoman will rely on its form. Some are shaped like a nugget, while others are in cylindrical, round forms.
Also, when choosing a fabric, we recommend materials that will endure wear and tear for a long time. A leather ottoman will be a classic addition to your room, but you can also choose fabrics which offer a nice pop of color to make your interiors more modern and contemporary.
Ready To Take On The DIY Project? Let’s Begin
You will need measuring tape, scissors, tape, staples, or a tack hammer. Use chalk to indicate positioning. An iron may prove useful, especially if your fabric is a bit crumpled. Once you have your materials, you can easily start reconstructing your furniture. Follow the steps below.
- Measure your ottoman. Some ottomans have legs and bases that do not require covering. If your furniture shape is a square, measure one side and multiply it by two. Use the same procedure for rectangular-shaped ottomans. If your ottoman has a roundish, circular form, you need to get the diameter and height. Add an extra 3-4 inches to the fabric you will purchase. One rule of thumb is that it is better to overestimate the material and never underestimate it.
- When cutting the fabric, measure the exact dimensions and add three extra inches, whether square-ish or round. Before installing it on the furniture, lay the pattern pieces on the ottoman without permanently stapling them. This will give you an idea of how your new reupholstered ottoman will look.
- Check the appearance by taping it on the sides before attaching the new covers. Ironing out the wrinkled parts of the fabric gives it a polished, smooth look.
- It is easy to attach the new fabric to square ottomans with legs. Fold the edges to the underside of the furniture. Secure the folds with tape on the edge, and begin stapling half an inch away from the ends of the fabric. Place staples about 1/8 of an inch apart. Staple twice on each side to secure the fabric.
- For circular ottomans, install the fabrics for the top and bottom first before stapling the sides. Secure the round covers with tape and staple them with the same measure as above. After you finish the top and bottom parts, it’s time to install the covers for the sides. This way, the furniture will have a cleaner, seamless look.
Image Source: Posh Pair, Wolf Furniture