No-Sew Ottoman Fabric Cover Tutorial: Easy & Stylish

Transforming an ottoman into a stylish and cohesive piece of furniture doesn't always require sewing skills. No-sew fabric covering is a simple, cost-effective, and time-saving method to update the look of your ottoman. Whether you're aiming for a quick refresh or a complete makeover, this guide will walk you through the process of covering an ottoman with fabric without sewing.

Before you begin, gather your materials and ensure you have a well-ventilated workspace. You'll need fabric, spray adhesive, scissors, a measuring tape, a foam brush, and a sharp utility knife. For this project, we'll focus on using a slipcover approach, which is an easy no-sew method that provides a snug fit and a polished look.

Preparing Your Ottoman and Fabric

Begin by measuring your ottoman to determine the amount of fabric needed. Measure the length, width, and height of the ottoman, as well as the depth of the seat. Add a few inches to each measurement to account for overlap and ensure a secure fit.

Choose a fabric that complements your room's decor and is suitable for the intended use. Upholstery-grade fabrics, cotton duck, or canvas are excellent choices for ottomans due to their durability and ease of cleaning. Once you've selected your fabric, pre-wash it to prevent shrinkage and ensure a proper fit.

Cutting the Fabric

Ottoman Top

Measure and cut the fabric for the ottoman top, allowing for a 2-3 inch overlap on all sides. This overlap will be used to secure the fabric to the underside of the ottoman.

To create a clean, finished edge, use a sharp utility knife and a straight edge to cut the fabric. This will help prevent fraying and ensure a professional look.

Ottoman Sides and Legs

Measure and cut four pieces of fabric for the ottoman sides, one for each side. Each piece should be the height of the ottoman plus a 2-3 inch overlap, and the width should be the depth of the seat plus a 2-3 inch overlap.

For the legs, measure and cut four pieces of fabric, one for each leg. Each piece should be the height of the leg plus a 2-3 inch overlap. You can either cut these pieces as rectangles or, for a more tailored look, cut them on the bias (at a 45-degree angle) to create a diamond shape.

Applying the Fabric

Begin by applying spray adhesive to the underside of the ottoman top. Work in small sections, applying the adhesive evenly and allowing it to get tacky before attaching the fabric. Carefully position the fabric onto the ottoman top, smoothing it out to remove any wrinkles or bubbles. Use a foam brush to press the fabric onto the adhesive, ensuring a secure bond.

Fold the overlapping edges of the fabric onto the underside of the ottoman top and secure them with staples or upholstery tacks. This will create a clean, finished edge and help prevent the fabric from shifting or peeling.

Attaching the Sides and Legs

Starting with one side of the ottoman, apply spray adhesive to the corresponding fabric piece. Carefully wrap the fabric around the side of the ottoman, smoothing it out to remove any wrinkles or bubbles. Use a foam brush to press the fabric onto the adhesive, ensuring a secure bond.

Fold the overlapping edges of the fabric onto the underside of the ottoman and secure them with staples or upholstery tacks. Repeat this process for the remaining sides and legs, ensuring that the fabric is taut and evenly distributed.

Finishing Touches

Once all the fabric pieces are attached, use a sharp utility knife to trim any excess fabric from the underside of the ottoman. Be cautious not to cut the fabric that is securing the slipcover in place.

To create a more polished look, you can choose to add trim or fringe to the edges of the ottoman. This can be done using a no-sew adhesive or by stitching it in place with a sewing machine. However, this step is entirely optional and depends on your personal preference.

Now that your ottoman is covered with a fresh, new look, it's time to enjoy your updated space. Regularly clean and maintain your ottoman to keep it looking its best for years to come. Happy decorating!