Reupholstering Corner Ottomans

Tools

• A hammer or pry bar helps you separate the ottoman cushion from its base. A seam ripper or scissors helps you remove the existing fabric from the ottoman. You will need either a staple gun or furniture tacks to secure the fabric to the ottoman. If your ottoman had tacks in place, you may be able to reuse these.

Technique

• First, remove the ottoman cushion, which may be stapled or nailed to the frame. Lay the cushion face down on the back side of your fabric and then pull the fabric up and around the ottoman cushion so it covers the sides. Mark the fabric where the sides end, using a pencil. Cut the fabric so it covers the ottoman face and sides, allowing for one extra inch around all sides so you can staple the fabric to the cushion. Fold the fabric over the cushion and attach it with staples placed one inch apart. Pull the fabric taut to end up with a wrinkle-free cover. When you finish redoing the fabric, attach the cushion to its legs again.

Considerations

• Choose patterns carefully. Plaids, stripes and other geometric patterns look off if not put on just right. If your ottoman requires lots of tucking around the corners, any off-centered patterns will be more evident than floral, paisley or abstract designs.

Tips

• Fabric can make or break the cost of this home project. If you're on a tight budget, shop around and shop carefully. Alternatively, look for material you already own that can be repurposed into a cover for the ottoman. Old tablecloths, old sheets, and other home goods work well for small projects like this. If you love the idea of redoing your ottoman but don't have time to tackle the work yourself, purchase fabric and hire an upholsterer to perform the job.