DIY Ottoman Cover with Elastic: Step-by-Step Guide

Transforming a plain ottoman into a stylish and functional piece of furniture is easier than you think with a custom-made cover. Adding elastic to your ottoman cover not only enhances its appearance but also ensures a perfect fit. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of creating an ottoman cover with elastic.

Before we begin, gather your materials: fabric of your choice, scissors, measuring tape, sewing machine, thread, elastic, and a pen for marking. Also, ensure your ottoman is clean and dry to prevent any staining or slipping.

Measuring and Cutting Your Fabric

Accurate measurements are key to a well-fitting cover. Measure the length, width, and height of your ottoman, then add an extra inch on each side for seam allowance.

Cut your fabric according to these measurements. If your fabric has a pattern, ensure you cut the pieces in such a way that the pattern aligns when the cover is assembled.

Creating the Base

Start by sewing the base of your cover. Place the two large pieces of fabric (length and width) right sides together. Sew around the edges, leaving the top open. Reinforce the corners by clipping the seam allowance and pressing them flat.

For a neat finish, you can add piping along the edges. Cut a strip of fabric 2 inches wide, fold it in half lengthwise, press, and sew along the edge. Insert this into the seam allowance of your base piece before sewing it together.

Adding the Height

Measure and cut four pieces of fabric for the sides of the ottoman. These should be the height of your ottoman plus the seam allowance. Sew these to the base piece, right sides together, creating a bag-like shape.

To create a smooth transition between the base and the sides, you can add a curve to the corners. Measure and mark a curve about 2 inches from the corner, then sew along this line. Once sewn, clip the seam allowance and press the curve flat.

Attaching the Elastic

Elastic is crucial for keeping your cover in place. Measure and cut four pieces of elastic, each the circumference of the ottoman at the top, plus an inch for overlap.

Sew a channel along the top edge of your cover, about 1/2 inch from the edge. This will house your elastic. To create the channel, fold the fabric over, press, and sew along the edge, leaving an opening to insert the elastic.

Inserting the Elastic

Insert one end of the elastic into the channel, using a safety pin or a chopstick to guide it through. Once the elastic is fully inserted, sew the opening closed.

Repeat this process for the other three sides. Ensure the elastic is taut but not too tight, allowing the cover to stretch over the ottoman but not be too loose.

Adding the Top

Cut a piece of fabric for the top of your ottoman, adding seam allowance. Sew this to the top edge of your cover, right sides together. Reinforce the corners by clipping the seam allowance and pressing them flat.

Your ottoman cover with elastic is now complete! Slip it over your ottoman, and enjoy your newly transformed piece of furniture.

Remember, the key to a successful ottoman cover is in the measurements and the fit. Don't be afraid to try again if it's not perfect the first time. Happy sewing!