Weekend Projects: 5 Very Versatile DIY Ottomans

We all know that ottomans are handy to have around—they're a convenient place to rest your feet or seat an extra guest. But did you know how easy it is to make one?

By Tracy Anderson | Updated Apr 11, 2014 3:15 PM

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Available in all shapes and sizes and with or without built-in storage features, ottomans are among the most versatile pieces of furniture that a person can own. In a space with limited seating, an ottoman can accommodate extra guests, and if there’s not enough storage, the right ottoman may be used to hold magazines, remote controls, and countless other accessories. In fact, some ottomans are large enough to substitute for the traditional coffee table. The very best part is that if you’re handy, it’s easy to make a DIY ottoman that meets your needs exactly. Don’t know where to start? Scroll down now to see our five favorite DIY ottoman projects.

 

1. FINE FUR-NITURE 

DIY Ottoman - Fur

Photo: abeautifulmess.com

Look no further if you’re searching for a DIY ottoman idea that’s in line with current trends. Faux fur is hot right now, and when covering a compact footstool, it’s a wonderfully cozy, eye-catching accent. Start with a round piece of precut wood. Layer foam and batting on top, then finish by attaching the fuzz and screwing on legs.

 

2. CRATE WORK

DIY Ottoman - Crate

Photo: littlestvillage.com

From Littlest Village, here’s a DIY ottoman that multitasks. While the crate base stows throw blankets and pillows, the tufted top provides a comfortable perch for sitting. If you choose, add caster wheels to make the ottoman yet more practical. You can even paint the wood in a color that coordinates with your chosen fabric.

 

3. SWIFT RE-COVERY

DIY Ottoman - Fabric

Photo: bhg.com

If you no longer love the ottoman you already have, why not go ahead and give it a brand-new look? Believe it or not, you can do so with zero sewing. After stapling a decorative textile over the existing fabric, proceed to glue on any embellishments you choose, such as beads or sequins. That’s it! Piece of cake, right?

 

4. RE-TIRE NOW

DIY Ottoman - Rope

Photo: thatwasawhat.blogspot.com

Although it looks like it came directly out of a high-end home decor catalog, this rope-covered DIY ottoman owes its existence to a repurposed rubber tire. The project requires no special skills or materials—only sisal cord, strong adhesive, and a tire in whatever diameter you have available that’s appropriately sized for your space.

 

5. NO BAGGAGE

DIY Ottoman - Suitcase

Photo: silverpennyinhershoe.blogspot.com

Did you find a great-looking vintage suitcase at your local thrift store? With plywood, foam, and fabric as well as four wooden legs, you can transform that old baggage into a unique, conversation-starting DIY ottoman. Light enough to be portable, this seat is easy to carry anywhere you want (except maybe on an airplane).