"DIY Square Ottoman Cover: Step-by-Step Guide"

Transforming a plain ottoman into a stylish and functional piece of furniture is a rewarding DIY project. One way to achieve this is by creating a square ottoman cover that not only protects your ottoman but also adds a touch of elegance to your space. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of making a square ottoman cover, ensuring a perfect fit and a professional finish.

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let's gather our materials and tools. You'll need fabric (enough to cover all sides of your ottoman with a bit of extra for seam allowance), scissors or a rotary cutter, straight pins, sewing machine with a universal needle, thread that matches your fabric, and a measuring tape.

Measuring and Cutting Your Fabric

Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-fitting cover. Start by measuring the width, length, and height of your ottoman. Since we're making a square cover, these measurements should be equal. Add 2 inches to each measurement for seam allowance.

For example, if your ottoman is 18 inches wide, you'll need to cut a piece of fabric that's 20 inches wide. Repeat this process for the length and height.

Cutting the Main Pieces

Using your measurements, cut four pieces of fabric. These will be the top, bottom, and two sides of your ottoman cover. Remember to include the seam allowance in your measurements.

For instance, if your ottoman is 18 inches wide and you've added 2 inches for seam allowance, each of your main pieces should be 20 inches wide and 20 inches long (since we're making a square cover).

Cutting the Corner Pieces

To create a neat, square cover, you'll need to add corner pieces. Measure the height of your ottoman and cut four pieces of fabric that are 2 inches wide and this height plus 1 inch (for seam allowance). These will be your corner pieces.

For example, if your ottoman is 12 inches high, your corner pieces should be 12 inches high and 3 inches wide.

Sewing the Main Pieces

Now that you have all your pieces cut, it's time to start sewing. Begin by sewing the top and bottom pieces together. Place them right sides together, align the edges, and sew along the two adjacent sides, leaving the other two sides open.

Repeat this process with the two side pieces. You should now have a large, square piece of fabric with an open top and bottom.

Attaching the Corner Pieces

With the right sides still together, place a corner piece along one of the open sides of your large square. The 1-inch seam allowance should be on the inside, and the 2-inch width should be along the edge of your square.

Sew along the 2-inch width, then press the seam open. Repeat this process with the remaining three corner pieces.

Finishing the Cover

Turn your cover right side out and press the seams. Your cover should now be a perfect square, ready to fit snugly over your ottoman.

To ensure a smooth finish, topstitch around the top edge of your cover. This will help keep the cover in place and give it a polished look.

Adding Extra Features (Optional)

If you'd like, you can add extra features to your ottoman cover to make it even more functional. For example, you could add buttons or Velcro to secure the cover in place, or add a zipper to make it easier to remove and clean.

Adding Buttons or Velcro

To add buttons, mark where you want them to go on the inside of your cover. Sew the buttons onto one side, then create corresponding buttonholes on the other side. Alternatively, you can use Velcro strips for a quick and easy closure.

For example, you could place buttons or Velcro strips at the corners of your cover to keep it securely in place.

Adding a Zipper

If you want to be able to remove your cover for cleaning, adding a zipper is a great option. Sew a zipper along one of the seams, making sure to leave enough room for the zipper tab to move freely.

For instance, you could sew a zipper along the bottom seam, allowing you to easily remove the cover when needed.

There you have it! With these steps, you've transformed a plain ottoman into a stylish, functional piece of furniture with a custom square cover. Enjoy your new ottoman and the satisfaction of a job well done. Happy crafting!