How to Make a Tufted Ottoman

You can make a tufted ottoman with a few simple tools.

A tufted ottoman is a decorative piece that can add style to any room, and also acts as a comfy place to kick back and put your feet up. Making this item by hand at home can be a better option than buying an ottoman from a furniture store, where these pieces can sometimes be expensive. With some basic woodworking materials and tools, you can quickly and easily build your own custom tufted ottoman.

Things You'll Need

• 3-1/2 feet fabric 12-inch by 12-inch batting 4 buttons Needle Thread Scissors 6 12-inch by 12-inch plywood boards Hammer Nails Staple gun

Instructions

1. Lay a sheet of 12-inch by 12-inch batting on a table and then lay a 3-1/2-foot piece of fabric over the batting so the center of the fabric is directly over the center of the batting.

2. Lay four buttons in a square shape in the center of the batting. Attach each button with a needle and thread, sewing a stitch that goes through the button, fabric and batting. When the stitch is complete, pull the thread taut to create a small tuft at each button. Tie off a knot and cut the needle from the thread.

3. Hammer together four 12-inch by 12-inch plywood boards to make a four-sided, open-air box. Nail the remaining two boards on to act as a top and bottom to the box.

4. Lay the fabric and batting piece on top of the box, so the piece of batting is perfectly lined up with the top of the box. Wrap the ends of the fabric around to the bottom of the box as if you were wrapping a present, and attach in place with a staple gun. Trim off any excess fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• Use fabrics such as chenille or faux suede for a lush look.

• Make sure to use enough nails to keep the boards from coming apart.

References

• Better Homes and Gardens: Make Your Own Ottoman