How to Repurpose an Ottoman

Convert the ottoman into a storage cube by removing the covering, attaching hinges to the top so it serves as a lid, and reupholstering the ottoman. Attach wheels so the handy storage cube is easy to move.

Use an ottoman as a seat for a child’s play area, or turn it into an upholstered toy box for older children. Cover the ottoman in a fabric of your child’s favorite character, add wheels or legs, and line the inside with vinyl or adhesive paper.

Create a hidden snack tray with the removable top of the ottoman. The removable top should not have hinges, and the tray side of the top should have raised edges. Paint the inside of the tray with shiny acrylic paint. In addition, the hollow ottoman can be used to store books or magazines.

Turn the removable ottoman lid into a game board, and store games in the ottoman bottom. When flipped, the rimless and flat underside of the ottoman top should be painted with black and white squares to play chess and checkers.

Design a planter by removing the padding and fabric from the ottoman, removing the top, and applying a decorative covering to the four sides. Wood panels, glass tiles or a natural material such as bamboo will make a beautiful accent piece for inside or outdoors.

Place a small round glass on top of the ottoman, and use it as an end or accent table. Attach long legs to the ottoman to raise the height.