How to Upholster a Cocktail Ottoman

Create a cocktail ottoman from any regular-size cocktail table, or cut the legs off a dining table. Draw out the design for your ottoman on a piece of paper.

Decide whether you want a flat-topped ottoman or one with tufts. Determine the depth of the foam you will use on the tabletop; 1 or 2 inches will be most stable. Measure and cut fabric the size of your tabletop plus 6 inches in each dimension.

Select a fabric type that will embody the look you want for the room. Choose a heavyweight upholstery fabric that coordinates with your sofa. Use microfiber fabrics to make the ottoman cozy and cleaning easy. Look for bright colored polished cotton fabrics to upholster an ottoman for a beach house or sunroom. Select leather or suede to create a "club" look for a living room cocktail ottoman.

Cut the foam to fit the table top, adding 2 inches to each dimension so that it will curve around the edge of the table top. Spray the top of the table with spray adhesive and lay the foam on top. Press down lightly.

Lay the fabric right side down on the floor or a firm surface, and center the table, upside-down, on the fabric. Pull the fabric taut to one side underneath the tabletop; hold with a single staple. Do the same with the opposite side, then the other two sides. Go back to the first side and continue stapling from the center out to the corner, pulling the fabric taut and stapling every inch or two. Fold corners neatly and staple in place. If desired, glue trim over the staples underneath for a finished look. Turn the ottoman right side up.