How to Reupholster a Cube Ottoman: A Step-by-Step Guide

Transforming a tired, old cube ottoman into a stylish and comfortable seating option is a rewarding DIY project that can significantly enhance your living space. Reupholstering not only gives new life to your furniture but also allows you to customize it to match your unique decor. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the process of reupholstering a cube ottoman, from gathering materials to the final touches.

Before you begin, assess the condition of your ottoman. If the frame is sturdy and the filling is still in good shape, you're ready to start. Gather your materials, including fabric, foam, scissors, staple gun, staple remover, screwdriver, and measuring tape. Having these tools and materials on hand will ensure a smooth and efficient reupholstering process.

Preparation and Planning

Start by disassembling your ottoman. Remove the legs and any other detachable parts using a screwdriver. Next, carefully remove the existing fabric, cutting away any staples with scissors or a staple remover. This will give you a clear view of the ottoman's structure and help you understand how the fabric was originally attached.

Measure your ottoman to determine how much fabric you'll need. Since cube ottomans have six sides, you'll need to calculate the fabric for each panel. Don't forget to account for seam allowances, typically around 1/2 inch on each side. Once you have your measurements, add an extra 10-15% to account for any errors or waste.

Choosing the Right Fabric

Selecting the perfect fabric is crucial for the overall look and feel of your reupholstered ottoman. Consider the style and color scheme of your room, as well as the fabric's durability and ease of cleaning. Some popular choices include cotton, linen, velvet, and microfiber. Remember that lighter colors can make a space feel more open and airy, while darker hues create a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

When shopping for fabric, keep in mind that the width of the material will affect how many panels you can cut from a single piece. Standard fabric widths range from 45 to 60 inches, so plan your cuts accordingly to minimize waste. Additionally, consider the pattern of your fabric, if any, to ensure it flows seamlessly across the ottoman's panels.

Gathering Necessary Tools and Materials

In addition to the fabric, you'll need foam to replace any worn-out cushioning. Choose a foam density that suits your preferences – firmer foam provides more support, while softer foam offers plusher comfort. You'll also need a staple gun and staples to attach the new fabric to the ottoman's frame. A staple remover will come in handy when disassembling the ottoman and removing the old fabric.

Other essential tools include scissors or a sharp craft knife for cutting fabric and foam, a measuring tape to ensure accurate cuts, and a screwdriver to disassemble and reassemble the ottoman. Having these tools and materials ready will streamline your reupholstering project and help you achieve professional-looking results.

Reupholstering the Cube Ottoman

With your materials gathered and your ottoman disassembled, it's time to start reupholstering. Begin by cutting your fabric panels according to the measurements you took earlier. Make sure to leave enough fabric for seam allowances and to wrap around the edges of the ottoman.

Start with one side of the ottoman, placing the fabric panel face down on a flat surface. Position the ottoman's frame on top of the fabric, centering it as best as possible. Using your staple gun, secure the fabric to the frame, starting in the middle and working your way out to the edges. Pull the fabric taut as you staple, but be careful not to stretch it too tightly, as this can cause wrinkles or unevenness.

Attaching the Fabric to the Frame

Once you've stapled the center of the panel, work your way around the edges, pulling the fabric taut and securing it with staples every inch or so. As you approach the corners, fold the fabric neatly and staple it in place, creating a clean, finished look. Repeat this process for each side of the ottoman, ensuring that the fabric is securely attached and evenly stretched.

After all six sides are reupholstered, check for any loose staples or wrinkles in the fabric. Tuck in any excess fabric and secure it with additional staples if necessary. This step ensures a polished, professional appearance and helps prevent wear and tear on the new fabric.

Reassembling the Ottoman

With the fabric securely attached, it's time to reassemble your ottoman. Start by reattaching the legs using your screwdriver, ensuring that they are securely fastened and level. Next, replace any other detachable parts, such as cushions or trays, making sure they are properly aligned and functioning correctly.

Give your reupholstered ottoman a final once-over, checking for any missed staples or uneven fabric. Vacuum or gently clean the ottoman to remove any dust or debris from the reupholstering process. Now that your cube ottoman has a fresh, new look, it's ready to be enjoyed in your beautifully decorated space.

Embracing the satisfaction of a DIY project, you've successfully transformed an old cube ottoman into a stylish and comfortable seating option. By following this comprehensive guide, you've not only saved money but also added a personalized touch to your living space. As you enjoy your reupholstered ottoman, consider tackling other furniture projects to further enhance your home's unique character.