DIY Ottoman: Your Ultimate Guide to Building a Custom Footrest or Storage Solution

Embarking on a furniture-making project can seem daunting, but I’m here to tell you it’s far more accessible and rewarding than you might imagine! Building your own ottoman is a fantastic entry point into the world of DIY furniture, offering a unique blend of creativity, practicality, and cost savings. This project personally transformed my perception of what I’m capable of creating, and I’m eager to share that empowering experience with you.

One of the greatest advantages of crafting your own ottoman is the unparalleled ability to customize every detail. You get to select the precise dimensions to fit your living space perfectly, choose a fabric that complements your existing decor, and define a style that truly reflects your personal taste. Beyond the aesthetic benefits, a DIY ottoman often costs significantly less than a store-bought equivalent, allowing you to achieve a high-end look without the hefty price tag.

In this comprehensive guide, I will meticulously walk you through each and every step of building a custom ottoman. We’ll cover everything from the initial material selection and meticulous planning to the intricate upholstery process and adding those crucial final touches. My aim is to demystify furniture construction, breaking it down into manageable and understandable stages.

Even if you’ve never picked up a power drill or a staple gun before, rest assured, you absolutely can achieve this. I’ll be sharing invaluable tricks I’ve learned along the way, highlighting common pitfalls to watch out for, and providing expert tips to help you create a piece of furniture you’ll not only be proud to display but also cherish in your home for years to come. Let’s transform your vision into a functional and beautiful reality!

Understanding Ottomans and Their Versatile Features

Before diving into construction, it’s beneficial to understand the diverse types of ottomans available and how their features cater to different needs and styles. Choosing the right type for your project ensures your finished piece is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Types of Ottomans:

Standard Ottomans: These classic pieces are true multitaskers. During quiet evenings, they serve as comfortable footrests, allowing you to relax and unwind. When guests arrive, they effortlessly transform into extra seating, providing a comfortable spot without cluttering your space. Their straightforward design and various upholstery options make them a versatile addition that seamlessly blends with most room styles.
Storage Ottomans: A practical solution for busy or smaller homes, storage ottomans are lifesavers when it comes to decluttering. The cleverly hidden compartment beneath the lid provides ample space to tuck away blankets, children’s toys, books, magazines, or remote controls, keeping your living area tidy yet making essentials easily accessible. They are an absolute must-have for maximizing space where every inch counts.
Poufs: Offering a more casual and laid-back vibe, poufs are characterized by their soft, unstructured, and low-slung shape. They are wonderfully adaptable, perfect for creating a relaxed seating area in a living room, adding a playful touch to a child’s bedroom, or providing an impromptu seat for a board game night. Their lightweight and portable nature means they can be easily moved between rooms as needed, offering flexible seating wherever it’s required.
Coffee Table Ottomans: These innovative ottomans brilliantly combine comfort with high functionality. Featuring a firm, flat top, they can reliably hold drinks, books, and decorative accents, performing all the duties of a traditional coffee table. At the same time, their upholstered surface maintains the soft, inviting look and feel of an ottoman, making them an excellent choice for homes with young children or in spaces where sharp corners are undesirable.

Key Considerations When Planning Your Ottoman:

Careful planning is the cornerstone of a successful DIY project. Before cutting any wood, consider these essential points to ensure your ottoman perfectly meets your expectations:

Main Purpose: Clearly define the primary function of your ottoman. Will it primarily be a footrest, extra seating, a hidden storage solution, or a combination of these? Your answer will dictate its design, size, and even the type of fabric you choose.
Room Size and Layout: Evaluate the available space. A large ottoman might overwhelm a small room, while a tiny one could get lost in a spacious area. Consider traffic flow and ensure there’s ample room to move around comfortably once the ottoman is in place.
Shape that Fits the Space: Ottomans come in various shapes – square, rectangular, round, or even custom designs. A square or rectangular shape is often easier for beginners, while a round shape adds a softer visual element. Choose a shape that complements the existing furniture and room geometry.
Height that Works with Nearby Furniture: The ideal height for an ottoman is typically commensurate with the seat height of your sofa or armchair. For a footrest, it should be just slightly lower or the same height. If it’s serving as a coffee table, it should be approximately the same height as your sofa’s seat for comfortable access to items placed on it.
Style Matching Other Room Elements: Your ottoman should integrate seamlessly with your existing decor. Consider the overall style of your room – modern, traditional, bohemian, minimalist – and choose fabric colors, patterns, and leg styles that enhance, rather than clash with, your current aesthetic.
Budget and Skill Level: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on materials and honestly assess your comfort level with woodworking and upholstery. This will help you decide on the complexity of your design and material choices.

Stepwise Guide for Your DIY Ottoman Construction

Now that you have a clear vision for your ottoman, let’s gather the necessary materials and tools, and prepare for the exciting construction phase. Precision and patience are your best allies here.

Essential Materials You’ll Need:

Wood Boards: Four pieces cut to your desired length and width for the frame. For a common size, consider 24×24 inches (or 60×60 cm) for a square ottoman. Opt for sturdy lumber like pine or plywood for the frame, ensuring it can withstand use.
Corner Posts: Four 4×4 inch (or 10×10 cm) wooden blocks. These provide crucial structural integrity at the corners and serve as solid attachment points for the legs.
Center Support Board: One piece of wood, cut to fit across the middle of your frame. This prevents the top from sagging over time, especially for larger ottomans or those intended for heavy use.
Plywood for the Top: One piece, cut to the exact outer dimensions of your frame. This will be the base for your cushioning and fabric. Ensure it’s thick enough (e.g., 1/2 inch or 12mm) to be sturdy.
High-Density Foam: A piece slightly larger than your plywood top. High-density foam is vital for comfort and durability, ensuring your ottoman maintains its shape over time.
Batting for Padding: Polyester batting or cotton quilt batting. This material provides an extra layer of softness and helps smooth out the foam’s edges, giving your ottoman a plush, professional finish.
Your Choice of Fabric: Select a durable upholstery fabric that suits your aesthetic and intended use. Consider factors like pattern, color, and cleanability.
Ottoman Legs: Four decorative or functional legs. Choose a style and height that complements your design and ensures stability.
Screws:
- 1.5-inch screws: For attaching side boards to each other.
- 3-inch screws: For securing corner blocks, the center support, and attaching the legs.
Staples for Fabric: Upholstery staples, typically 1/2 inch (12mm) to 5/8 inch (16mm) in length, suitable for your staple gun.

Indispensable Tools for the Job:

Power Drill: Essential for pre-drilling pilot holes and driving screws quickly and efficiently.
Staple Gun: A heavy-duty electric or pneumatic staple gun is highly recommended for securely attaching fabric, ensuring a tight and professional finish. Manual staple guns can work but require more effort.
Measuring Tape and Pencil: For precise measurements and marking cuts. “Measure twice, cut once” is a golden rule!
Sharp Scissors: Specifically for cutting fabric cleanly and accurately.
Basic Saw: A hand saw, circular saw, or miter saw for making accurate wood cuts. If you don’t have one, many hardware stores offer cutting services for a small fee.
Utility Knife: Useful for cutting foam and batting cleanly.
Level: Crucial for ensuring your frame is square and your ottoman sits evenly.

Before Getting Started: Meticulous Planning and Safety First

Planning Your Ottoman:

The success of your DIY ottoman hinges on thorough preparation. Don’t rush this stage!

Draw Exact Plans: Sketch your ottoman from multiple angles. Clearly label the length, width, and height of the finished piece. This visual aid will be invaluable throughout the build.
List Every Cut Needed for the Wood: Create a detailed cut list for all wood components (side boards, corner blocks, center support, plywood top). Include exact dimensions for each piece. This minimizes waste and ensures accuracy.
Write Down Your Final Measurements: Double-check all measurements against your plans. Ensure they correspond with the space the ottoman will occupy.
Pick a Spot Where It Will Fit Well: Visualize the ottoman in its intended location. Consider how it will interact with other furniture, how much space it will take up, and if its size and shape are proportionate to the room.
Source Quality Materials: Invest in good quality wood and fabric. High-density foam is crucial for longevity and comfort.

Safety First:

Safety is paramount when working with tools. Always prioritize your well-being.

Keep All Fingers 6 Inches from the Saw Blades: This is a critical safety rule for preventing serious injuries. Always use push sticks or guides when making cuts, and never operate a saw when distracted.
Put on Safety Glasses Before Any Cutting: Wood chips, sawdust, and even flying staple fragments can cause severe eye damage. Eye protection is non-negotiable.
Clean Your Work Area Fully: A cluttered workspace is a dangerous workspace. Clear away any obstacles, scraps, or tripping hazards before you begin. Ensure good lighting.
Check All Tools Work Properly: Before each use, inspect your tools for any damage, loose parts, or frayed cords. Ensure blades are sharp and guards are in place.
Wear Appropriate Clothing: Avoid loose clothing that can get caught in machinery. Tie back long hair.
Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Especially when cutting wood, as sawdust can be an irritant.

The Building Process: Step-by-Step Construction

With planning complete and safety measures in place, it’s time to bring your ottoman to life!

Step 1: Making Your Base (The Frame)

This is the foundation of your ottoman, so precision here is key for stability and a professional look.

Connect Side Boards: Lay out two adjacent side boards to form a corner. Ensure their edges are perfectly flush. Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting, then secure them together with at least three 1.5-inch screws at each corner. Repeat this process for all four corners until you have a sturdy, square or rectangular frame.
Set 4×4 Blocks in Each Inside Corner: Place one 4×4 inch wooden block flush against the inside of each corner of your frame. These blocks are vital for structural reinforcement and will serve as solid mounting points for your ottoman legs. Secure each block with at least two 3-inch screws, driving them through the side boards into the block.
Put a Support Board in the Middle: Position your center support board horizontally across the middle of your frame. This central support is crucial, especially for larger ottomans, as it prevents the plywood top from sagging or bowing under weight over time. Secure it firmly to the side boards with 3-inch screws.
Use a Level to Check All Sides: Once the frame is assembled, use a carpenter’s level to check that all sides are perfectly square and that the top edges are flat. Adjust as necessary by slightly loosening and re-tightening screws. A square frame ensures a stable and attractive final product.

Step 2: Creating The Top (Cushioning)

This step focuses on creating the soft, comfortable surface of your ottoman.

Line Up Foam Edges with Plywood: Place your high-density foam squarely on top of the plywood base. Ensure the edges of the foam align perfectly with the edges of the plywood. You can use a spray adhesive to temporarily bond the foam to the plywood, preventing it from shifting during the next steps.
Cover Fully with Batting Material: Drape your batting material over the foam and plywood, ensuring it extends several inches beyond all edges of the plywood. Batting softens the edges of the foam and creates a smooth, plush surface. Pull it gently but firmly around the edges, and staple it to the underside of the plywood, starting from the center of each side and working outwards. Don’t pull too tight yet, just enough to secure it.
Pull the Fabric from the Center to the Edges: Now, drape your chosen upholstery fabric over the batting and foam. Start by pulling the fabric taut from the center of one side, over the edge, and staple it to the underside of the plywood. Repeat this for the opposite side, then the remaining two sides. This method ensures even tension and prevents wrinkles.
Put Staples Close Together, 1/4 Inch Apart: Continue stapling the fabric to the underside of the plywood, working from the center outwards on all sides. Place your staples very close together, ideally about 1/4 inch (6mm) apart, to create a strong, clean, and durable hold. When you reach the corners, carefully fold the fabric as if wrapping a gift, creating neat pleats, and secure them firmly with additional staples. Trim any excess fabric.

Step 3: Side Coverage (Upholstering the Base)

This step brings the fabric to the visible sides of your ottoman frame.

Start Batting at One Corner: Cut strips of batting to cover the sides of your wooden frame. Starting at one corner, wrap the batting around the side of the frame and secure it temporarily to the top edge (where the plywood will sit) and the bottom edge with a few staples. Repeat for all sides. This adds softness and a smooth profile to the frame.
Pull the Fabric Tight While Wrapping: Cut your main upholstery fabric for the sides. Starting from the middle of one side, pull the fabric tightly over the batting and the wooden frame, ensuring there are no loose areas or wrinkles. Begin stapling the fabric to the inside top edge of the frame and the inside bottom edge of the frame. This technique hides the staples on the finished exterior.
Fold Corners Like Gift-Wrapping: When you reach the corners, meticulously fold the fabric to create crisp, clean lines, much like wrapping a present. Ensure the folds are even and neat on both sides of the corner. Secure these folds firmly with multiple staples on the inside edges.
Keep Staples in Straight Lines: Continue to staple the fabric to the inside of the frame, ensuring your staples are consistently placed in straight lines. This not only looks tidier if any staples are visible but also contributes to the fabric’s even tension and durability. Trim any excess fabric neatly.

Step 4: Last Touches (Assembly and Finishing)

The final steps involve assembling the top to the base and adding the legs and decorative elements.

Attach the Upholstered Top to the Base: Carefully align your upholstered plywood top onto the upholstered wooden frame. Ensure it sits evenly and squarely. Use 1.5-inch or 2-inch screws (depending on plywood and frame thickness) to attach the top to the frame from the underside, driving them through the frame into the plywood. Distribute screws evenly for a secure attachment. For a storage ottoman, you would attach the lid using hinges at this stage.
Screw in All Four Legs Tightly: Turn your ottoman upside down. Align each leg with the corner blocks you previously installed. Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent splitting, then secure each leg firmly using 3-inch screws (or the hardware provided with your legs). Ensure they are tightened completely to prevent wobbling.
Check that the Ottoman Sits Flat on the Floor: Once the legs are attached, carefully flip the ottoman over onto its feet. Test its stability. If it wobbles, check the leg attachments or consider adding felt pads or shims under the legs to even it out on an uneven floor.
Add Trim to Hide Staple Lines (Optional): For a truly polished look, you can add decorative trim along the bottom edge of the ottoman or where the top meets the base. Options include decorative gimp, cording, or nailhead trim. This helps conceal any visible staple lines and adds a touch of elegance.

Common Problems with Ottomans and How to Fix Them

Even with careful planning, small issues can arise. Here’s how to troubleshoot and fix common problems, ensuring your DIY ottoman remains functional and beautiful.

Fixing Frame Issues:

Loose frame? If your frame feels wobbly, it likely means some joints aren’t as secure as they should be. Identify the loose points and add more 1.5-inch screws at each joining point, ensuring they penetrate deeply into both pieces of wood. Consider adding wood glue for extra strength before re-screwing.
Uneven bottom? If the base of your ottoman isn’t perfectly flat, it can lead to wobbling. Use shims (small thin wedges of wood or plastic) under the shorter legs to level the ottoman. You can also carefully sand down the bottom of the longer legs if the unevenness is minor.
Squeaky parts? Squeaking often indicates friction between wooden components that are not perfectly tight. Locate the source of the squeak and tighten all screws around corner blocks and joints. If the squeak persists, a little wood glue injected into the joint can help eliminate movement and sound.
Is the frame not square? An out-of-square frame will cause problems with the top fitting correctly and the ottoman sitting evenly. Measure the frame diagonally from corner to corner. The measurements should be identical. If they’re not, gently push or pull the frame until the diagonal measurements are equal, then tighten all screws to lock it into position.

Making Fabric Look Right:

Wrinkles showing? Wrinkles are usually a sign of insufficient tension in the fabric. Carefully remove the staples from the wrinkled area, pull the fabric significantly tighter, smoothing it out as you go, and re-staple it securely, placing staples closer together.
Bunched corners? Untidy corners are a common challenge. Undo the staples around the corner. Re-fold the fabric meticulously, creating neat, flat pleats that resemble an envelope fold. This technique reduces bulk and creates a clean line. Secure with fresh staples.
Loose fabric? If the fabric feels loose or baggy anywhere, it requires more tension. Remove staples from the affected section and re-stretch the fabric, pulling it firmer than before. Add more staples, placed more closely together (e.g., 1/8 to 1/4 inch apart) to maintain consistent tension.
Is the pattern not straight? If you’re working with a patterned fabric, an off-kilter pattern can be frustrating. It’s best to start fresh from a prominent entry point (e.g., the center of one side). Align the pattern perfectly from that point, then work outwards, constantly checking the alignment before stapling. This might mean removing and re-stapling entire sections.

Dealing With Legs:

Wobbling? The most common cause of a wobbly ottoman is loose legs. Turn the ottoman over and use a screwdriver or wrench to ensure all leg attachment screws or bolts are completely tight.
Still shaky? If tightening the screws doesn’t help, the screw might be stripping the wood or the hole is too large. Add washers under the screw heads to provide a better grip and distribute pressure. Alternatively, you might need to insert wood plugs or wood filler into the screw holes and redrill.
Uneven floor? Sometimes the ottoman is perfectly built, but your floor isn’t flat. Use adjustable leg pads (furniture glides with adjustable height) on the bottom of the legs. These allow you to fine-tune the height of each leg, ensuring a perfectly level and stable ottoman on any surface.
Scratching floors? To protect your beautiful floors, always apply felt protectors to the bottom of each leg. These self-adhesive pads prevent scratches and make it easier to move the ottoman without damage.

Keeping It Clean:

Spot clean spills right away: The quicker you address a spill, the less likely it is to set and stain. Blot (don’t rub) with a clean, dry cloth. Follow manufacturer instructions for your fabric type for specific cleaning solutions.
Brush fabric weekly to remove dust: Regular light cleaning prevents dust and dirt buildup, which can abrade fabric fibers over time. A soft-bristled brush or a lint roller works well.
Test cleaners on hidden spots first: Before applying any cleaning solution to a visible area, always test it on an inconspicuous spot (like the underside or back) to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage to your fabric.
Vacuum seams to prevent dirt buildup: Use your vacuum cleaner’s brush attachment to gently clean along seams and crevices where dust, crumbs, and pet hair tend to accumulate.

Making It Last:

Turn the ottoman often to wear evenly: If your ottoman receives heavy use in specific areas, rotate it periodically (e.g., once a month) to distribute wear and tear evenly across its surface.
Keep out of direct sun to prevent fading: UV rays can cause fabric colors to fade over time. Position your ottoman away from direct sunlight or use curtains/blinds to protect it during peak sun hours.
Check legs monthly for tightness: Regular quick checks of the leg attachments can prevent minor wobbles from becoming major issues. Tighten any loose screws promptly.
Fix small issues before they grow: Don’t ignore minor tears, loose threads, or small frame wobbles. Addressing them quickly prevents them from escalating into more significant, harder-to-fix problems.

Conclusion: Your Journey to a Custom Ottoman

Congratulations! This comprehensive guide has meticulously walked you through every stage of creating your very own custom ottoman. From the initial spark of an idea to the satisfying placement of the finished piece in your home, you’ve gained invaluable skills and created something truly unique.

Key Takeaways from Your DIY Ottoman Project:

Planning and Measuring Carefully Saves Time and Materials: The hours spent sketching, measuring, and creating cut lists are an investment that pays dividends in accuracy and efficiency, preventing costly mistakes.
Safety Comes First – Proper Tools and Workspace Matter: Always prioritize your well-being. Using the right tools correctly and maintaining a clean, well-lit workspace are non-negotiable for a safe and successful project.
Building Happens in Clear Stages: Frame, Top, Sides, Finishing: Breaking down the construction into logical, manageable steps makes the entire process less intimidating and easier to execute effectively.
Regular Maintenance Keeps Your Ottoman Looking Good: A little ongoing care, from cleaning spills promptly to rotating the piece, ensures your handmade ottoman retains its beauty and functionality for years.
Simple Fixes Can Solve Most Common Issues: Don’t be discouraged by minor setbacks. Most problems, from wobbly legs to wrinkled fabric, have straightforward solutions that you can handle yourself.

Remember, the beauty of DIY furniture making lies in its empowering nature. It allows you to create exactly what you want, tailored precisely to your needs and aesthetic preferences, all while often saving a significant amount of money. Your custom ottoman is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a testament to your creativity, patience, and skill. It will be a practical, personal, and much-loved addition to your home, a conversation starter, and a source of enduring pride. So go ahead, enjoy your new creation, and perhaps even inspire your next DIY adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions About DIY Ottomans

What is the Difference Between an Ottoman and a Footstool?

While often used interchangeably, there are distinct differences. Ottomans are typically larger, more substantially padded, and often designed to serve multiple purposes. They function not only as comfortable footrests but also as extra seating, storage units, or even as an alternative to a coffee table. Footstools, on the other hand, are generally smaller, less padded, and primarily designed with the sole purpose of supporting feet for relaxation. An ottoman usually makes a grander statement in a room.

How Many Yards of Fabric Do I Need to Upholster an Ottoman?

For a standard 24×24-inch (approximately 60×60 cm) square ottoman, you will typically need around 2 to 2.5 yards of upholstery fabric. If you are using a patterned fabric with a large repeat or directional design that needs to be perfectly aligned, it’s wise to purchase an extra half to full yard to allow for pattern matching and cutting errors. Always measure your specific ottoman dimensions and account for wrapping the fabric around edges for stapling.

Can I Build an Ottoman without Sewing?

Absolutely, yes! The method outlined in this guide is specifically a no-sew approach. All fabric is securely attached using a heavy-duty staple gun. With careful cutting, precise folding of corners (much like gift-wrapping), and consistent stapling, you can achieve incredibly professional-looking results without needing any sewing skills whatsoever. This makes it an ideal project for beginners.

What is the Standard Height for an Ottoman?

The standard height for an ottoman designed primarily as a footrest or extra seating typically ranges from 16 to 18 inches (40 to 46 cm) high. This height usually aligns well with the seat height of a typical sofa or armchair, making it comfortable to rest your feet or sit upon. For coffee table ottomans, a slightly lower height of 14 to 16 inches (35 to 40 cm) is often preferred for easy access to drinks and decorative items without obstructing views.

How Long Does It Take to Build a DIY Ottoman?

The time required can vary significantly based on your experience level, the complexity of your design, and whether you need to make all wood cuts yourself. For a beginner following this guide, expect to spend anywhere from 6 to 12 hours of active working time, spread over one or two days. This includes time for planning, cutting, assembling the frame, upholstering, and adding the final touches. Gathering materials and allowing for drying times (e.g., if using wood glue) would be additional.