I have published this post in the past, and decided it was worth “updating” and publishing again!
1. Purchase an ottoman from a discount store or Thrift store, or make one out of plywood. The plywood box I made measures 20” wide x 16” tall, finished. I used ¾” shop grade, good one side, maple plywood.
2. If you are using a plywood box, first wrap it in batting to give it some softness. I sprayed adhesive onto my box, one side at a time, wrapped all 4 sides and then the top. I made the side pieces long enough to wrap under the box, so it wouldn’t scratch my floors when I move it. You could also attach small round feet to each bottom corner.
3. Make the cover. I used 55% hemp/45%cotton corduroy, but any sturdy fabric will do. I make my covers ½” bigger all around than the box, so it will slide on easily. I use 1/2″seam allowances. For this box that measures 20″ x 20″ x 16″ high, I cut out 4 pieces of fabric 17 1/2″ x 18 1/2″ (2″ hem) and 1 piece 17 1/2″ square for the top. Sew your 4 side pieces together, finish the edges, then attach the top piece, making sure all the seams fall exactly at the corners. I like to “round” my corners a little, so the slipcover will lie smoothly on the top. Try the slipcover on the ottoman or box, pin the hem, press and stitch and you’re done!
4. Optional: Make a cushion to match your ottoman. Using 4” foam, wrapped in batting, I made a cushion with a removeable cover to sit on top of the ottoman. This way the cushion can also be used elsewhere when you need extra floor seating! You could also have a piece of glass cut to size and place it on top of the box to make a perfect night table or end table. Or make 2 ottomans and place them side by side at the end of your bed, or in an entrance as a bench.
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| Custom cube slipcovers |
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| Custom box cushions |
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| Add some bolster pillows for a finished look. |
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| Slipcovers I made for a client – fabric from fabric.com |
wow! What a great tutorial. My husband and I just bought an ottoman, and we got a “cheap” one for under $150…this is much better. It would also look cute to use a different (coordinating) fabric for the cushion.
{I found you via the I Made It! Blog Party}
Hi Kelly – good idea, using a coordinating fabric for the cushion, I like that these ottomans can have their look changed easily.
Hmm I want to make one! I think I’ll go hit up some thrift stores next week 🙂
Looks great! 🙂 My dad made one once because they couldn’t find one to match their new YELLOW leather couch.
~Kim