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How to Cover a Square Ottoman

Think about sewing a new cover for your old ottoman, instead of throwing it to the curb. If you have basic sewing skills, you can make a cover for a square ottoman using decorator upholstery fabric available at fabric and craft stores. Ottomans come in a variety of sizes, making it cost effective to sew a cover instead of purchasing one that might not fit properly.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Fabric
  • Scissors
  • Pin
  • Sewing machine
  • Iron
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the length, width and height of the square ottoman. If it is a true square, all the dimensions will be the same. Add 1-1/2 inches to each measurement; this will accommodate a 1/2-inch seam and space to pull the cover over the ottoman.

    • 2

      Cut five squares of fabric using the adjusted measurement, so there is one square for each side and one for the top of the ottoman.

    • 3

      Sew the four side pieces together with a 1/2-inch seam on the side edge; you will make one long strip from these pieces. Match the right sides of the fabric pieces together so that the seams will be on the inside of the cover.

    • 4

      Sew the long strip together on its two short sides, with a 1/2-inch seam. This will create a continuous loop of fabric.

    • 5

      Iron all the seams to make them lie flat.

    • 6

      Pin one edge of the top ottoman piece to one of the sides of the loop, so that the right sides of both piece of fabric match together. Sew the fabric together with a 1/2-inch seam. Press the seam open. Repeat this process with each side of the top piece to attach the sides.

    • 7

      Pull the cover over the ottoman to verify that the fit is correct. Adjust any seams, if needed.

    • 8

      Remove the cover from the ottoman, and fold the bottom edge 1/4 inch to the wrong side of the cover for a hem. Iron the fabric to hold it in place. Fold the hem another 1/2 inch, and iron to hold. Sew the hem with a straight or decorative stitch to complete the cover.