Mastering Ottoman Reupholstering: Transform Your Legged Ottoman

Transforming an old, worn-out ottoman into a stylish and functional piece of furniture is a rewarding DIY project that's surprisingly achievable. Reupholstering an ottoman with legs not only gives it a fresh look but also extends its lifespan. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you through the process, from gathering materials to the final touches.

Before you start, ensure you have the right tools and materials. You'll need fabric, scissors, staple gun, staple remover, pliers, screwdriver, upholstery foam, utility knife, and a pencil. Safety glasses and gloves are also recommended. Choose a fabric that complements your space and is durable enough for frequent use.

Preparation and Disassembly

Begin by removing the old fabric and padding. Use a staple remover to take out the staples holding the fabric in place. Be careful not to damage the wood frame. Once the fabric is off, remove the old foam padding and set it aside for reference when purchasing new foam.

Next, disassemble the ottoman. Use a screwdriver to remove the legs. If the legs are attached with dowels, you may need to use a drill to remove them. Set the legs aside for later use. You should now have the wooden frame and the seat cushion separated.

Replacing the Padding

The seat cushion is typically made of foam. Measure the cushion and purchase new foam of the same thickness. Cut the foam to size using a utility knife. If the foam is too thick, you can cut it in half lengthwise to create two layers of padding.

Place the new foam on the wooden frame, ensuring it fits correctly. If the foam is too large, trim it to fit. If it's too small, you may need to purchase additional foam to create a thicker cushion.

Choosing the Right Fabric

Select a fabric that complements your space and is durable enough for frequent use. Heavy-duty fabrics like denim, canvas, or leather are ideal for ottomans. Consider the pattern and color scheme of your room when making your choice.

Measure the ottoman to determine how much fabric you'll need. Add an extra inch or two on each side for stapling. When purchasing fabric, always buy a little extra to account for any mistakes or adjustments.

Cutting the Fabric

Lay the fabric out flat and place the ottoman on top. Trace around the edges of the ottoman, adding an extra inch or two for stapling. Cut along the lines, ensuring you have enough fabric to wrap around the sides and staple in place.

If your fabric has a pattern, make sure to match it up as you cut. You may need to make adjustments to ensure the pattern lines up correctly on all sides of the ottoman.

Reupholstering the Ottoman

Start by placing the fabric on the ottoman, ensuring the right side of the fabric is facing down. Wrap the fabric around the sides of the ottoman, pulling it taut as you go. Use a staple gun to secure the fabric in place. Start in the middle of one side and work your way out, placing staples about an inch apart.

Once you've stapled one side, move on to the next. Continue working your way around the ottoman until all sides are stapled in place. Trim any excess fabric with scissors. Be careful not to staple your fingers!

Attaching the Legs

Before reattaching the legs, sand any rough edges on the wooden frame. This will help prevent the fabric from snagging or fraying. Wipe the frame clean to remove any dust.

Reattach the legs using the original hardware. If the legs were attached with dowels, you may need to use wood glue to secure them in place. Allow the glue to dry completely before using the ottoman.

Finishing Touches

Inspect your work to ensure all staples are secure and the fabric is taut. If necessary, trim any loose threads or excess fabric. Your ottoman is now ready to be placed back in your living room, adding a fresh, stylish touch to your space.

Enjoy your newly reupholstered ottoman! Remember, this project not only saves you money but also allows you to customize your furniture to your unique style. Happy DIY-ing!