How to Build an Upholstered Ottoman

There are countless ways to make an ottoman. You can make ottomans out of end tables, old trunks or just about anything. But even if you don't have any of these things, you can still build an ottoman. Building an ottoman from scratch sounds intimidating, but it's actually a simple process. This also gives you the freedom to make your ottoman in any style, shape and size you desire.

1/2-inch by 4-foot by 8-foot piece of plywood
4 table legs with pre-installed hanger bolts (5 inches to 12 inches tall)
4 table leg quick mount surface plates with screws
4-inch 1.8 density foam
Batting
Decorator fabric of your choice (minimum of 3 yards of 54-inch wide fabric)
Staple gun with 3/4-inch staples
Scissors
Screwdriver
Tape measure
Glue

Instructions

- 1
  Lay the plywood--cut to your specifications--on a flat surface. Measure 6 inches in from each corner and mark it.
- 2
  Center the mounting brackets on the marked spots. Attach all four brackets to the plywood using the enclosed screws.
- 3
  Screw in all four legs. Be sure they are secure.
- 4
  Stand the ottoman upright. Glue the foam to the top of the ottoman. Allow to it dry.
- 5
  On a flat surface, layer the fabric (wrong side up) and the batting. Be sure the materials are centered. Turn the ottoman upside down. Center the foam in the middle of the batting. Fold the batting over the edges of the foam and plywood. Staple the batting to the plywood.
  
  Fold the fabric over the batting and staple it to the plywood. Be sure the fabric is taut but not pulled. Keep the material smooth and even as you staple. The corners can be overlapped or folded if necessary.
  
  Cut off any excess material beyond the staples.
- 6
  Stand the ottoman upright and enjoy.

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