A round ottoman is a versatile and stylish piece of furniture that can elevate the look of any room while serving multiple functions. Whether used as a footrest, an extra seat, or even a small side table, it is both practical and decorative. Making your own round ottoman can be a fun and rewarding DIY project, allowing you to customize the size, fabric, and design to match your personal style and home décor. In this blog post we will show you how to make a round ottoman so that it functions properly. Read on to learn more about which components and tools are needed for the job as well as detailed instructions on completing the task!
What is a Round Ottoman?
A round ottoman is a versatile piece of furniture that combines functionality with style. Typically circular in shape, it can serve multiple purposes in a home. Whether used as a comfortable footrest, an additional seating option, or even a chic centerpiece for a living room, round ottomans are both practical and aesthetically pleasing. They come in a variety of sizes, fabrics, and designs, making them a perfect addition to any interior décor. These pieces are often padded for comfort and can include additional features like storage, making them even more useful for small spaces.
Tools and Materials Needed
When incorporating a round ottoman into your living space or creating a DIY version, having the right tools and materials is essential. Here are some key items to consider:
- Fabric or Upholstery Material: Choose a durable and stylish fabric that complements your room’s décor.
- Foam Padding: Ensures the ottoman is comfortable and adds a plush finish.
- Wooden Base or Frame: Provides structural support for stability and durability.
- Screws and Nails: Essential for assembling the frame and securing parts.
- Staple Gun and Staples: Used for attaching fabric to the base securely.
- Measuring Tape: Helps ensure precise measurements for fabric and materials.
- Scissors or Fabric Cutter: For cutting fabric to the desired size and shape.
- Optional Storage Components: Containers or sections to include hidden storage functionality.
Having these materials and tools on hand will make the process smoother and ensure your round ottoman serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose.
10 Methods How to Make a Round Ottoman
Method 1: Planning and Selecting Materials
The first step in making a round ottoman is careful planning and material selection. Decide on the diameter and height of the ottoman based on its intended use—whether as a footrest, extra seating, or decorative piece. Choose sturdy materials for the base, such as plywood, MDF, or hardwood, to ensure the ottoman supports weight. For padding, foam with at least 2–4 inches of thickness provides comfort, while batting adds softness and smoothness to the upholstery. Finally, select durable fabric that complements your room décor, keeping in mind wear resistance and ease of cleaning.
Method 2: Creating a Circular Base
Constructing a stable and accurate circular base is essential for a round ottoman. Use a piece of plywood or MDF and draw a perfect circle using a compass, string, or a large circular object as a template. Cut the circle carefully with a jigsaw or router to achieve a smooth edge. Sand the edges to remove any splinters or rough spots. A precise base ensures that the ottoman is symmetrical and stable, which is crucial for both aesthetics and structural integrity.
Method 3: Building the Ottoman Frame
The frame provides height and structural support for the ottoman. Use plywood or MDF to cut a circular ring matching the diameter of the base and the desired height of the ottoman. Attach the ring to the base using wood glue and screws, ensuring it is perfectly vertical and secure. Reinforce the frame by adding internal support braces if necessary, especially for larger ottomans. A well-built frame prevents wobbling and supports the weight of anyone sitting on it.
Method 4: Adding Padding with Foam and Batting
Comfortable padding is key to a functional ottoman. Cut foam to the same diameter as the base, and layer it to achieve the desired thickness. Attach the foam to the base using spray adhesive or double-sided tape to keep it in place. Cover the foam with a layer of batting to soften edges and create a smooth surface. Secure the batting with staples or adhesive, pulling it taut to avoid wrinkles. Proper padding ensures a comfortable sitting experience and a polished look for the finished ottoman.
Method 5: Upholstering the Ottoman
Upholstery transforms the ottoman into a visually appealing furniture piece. Cut your chosen fabric with an allowance for folding and stapling. Drape the fabric over the padded ottoman, making sure it is centered and aligned. Start stapling the fabric to the underside of the base, working your way around evenly and pulling the fabric taut as you go. Smooth out wrinkles and adjust as necessary. Upholstery requires patience, but properly stretched and secured fabric results in a professional and aesthetically pleasing finish.
Method 6: Creating a Tufted Look (Optional)
For added elegance, consider tufting the ottoman. Mark the locations for buttons on the top surface, ensuring even spacing. Drill small holes through the foam and base, thread the buttons, and pull them tight to create indented sections. Secure the buttons underneath the base with washers or knots to maintain tension. Tufting adds texture and sophistication to the ottoman, elevating its design and making it a striking centerpiece in any room.
Method 7: Adding a Skirt or Decorative Trim
A fabric skirt or decorative trim can enhance the ottoman’s style and conceal the base or staples. Measure the circumference of the ottoman and cut fabric accordingly, allowing for pleats or folds if desired. Attach the skirt to the base using a staple gun or fabric adhesive. Alternatively, add decorative piping, nailhead trim, or ribbon along the edges to highlight the shape and add a finishing touch. Decorative elements give the ottoman a polished and cohesive appearance that complements your décor.
Method 8: Attaching Legs or Casters (Optional)
Depending on your design, you may want to add legs or casters for mobility and elevation. Wooden or metal legs can be attached to the base using screws or brackets. Casters provide easy movement and versatility, especially if the ottoman will double as a coffee table. Ensure that the legs or casters are evenly spaced and securely attached to support weight evenly. Properly installed legs or casters enhance both functionality and the overall aesthetic of the ottoman.
Method 9: Finishing Touches
Finishing touches make the ottoman look professionally made. Trim any excess fabric, hide staples, and smooth all edges. For a glossy or protective finish on wooden legs or exposed surfaces, consider painting, staining, or applying a clear coat. Inspect the ottoman for symmetry, alignment, and smoothness, making adjustments as needed. Finishing touches ensure the ottoman is visually appealing, durable, and ready for everyday use.
Method 10: Styling and Placement
Once complete, style your round ottoman to enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Use it as a footrest, extra seating, a coffee table with a tray on top, or a decorative accent in a bedroom or living room. Coordinate it with surrounding furniture, textiles, and décor elements to create a cohesive design. Proper placement maximizes both practicality and visual impact, turning your handmade ottoman into a centerpiece of the room.
Maintenance and Upkeep
To ensure your round ottoman remains in excellent condition over time, establish a regular maintenance routine. For fabric-covered ottomans, vacuum the surface periodically to remove dust and debris. Spot clean any spills immediately using a gentle cleaner appropriate for the material to prevent stains. If your ottoman features a removable cover, wash it according to the manufacturer’s instructions or the fabric type.
For wooden or metallic elements, wipe them down with a damp cloth and apply polish or protectant as needed to maintain their luster. Rotating the ottoman occasionally can also help distribute wear evenly, especially if it doubles as a footrest or additional seating. By following these simple steps, your handmade round ottoman will stay functional and stylish for years to come.
Safety Considerations
When using a handmade round ottoman, it is important to prioritize safety to prevent any potential accidents or damage. Always ensure that the ottoman is placed on a stable and level surface to avoid tipping or wobbling, especially when it is being used as seating. Avoid overloading the ottoman with excessive weight beyond its specified capacity, as this could compromise its structure. If children are using the ottoman, supervise their activities to ensure safe use and prevent climbing or jumping, which could lead to injury. Lastly, regularly inspect the ottoman for loose screws, weakened joints, or other signs of wear and repair them promptly to maintain both safety and functionality.
Conclusion
Making a round ottoman is a rewarding project that combines woodworking, upholstery, and creative design. From planning and material selection to constructing the base, frame, padding, and upholstery, each step contributes to a durable, comfortable, and visually appealing piece. Optional techniques like tufting, adding skirts or trim, and attaching legs or casters allow for further customization. Follow these simple instructions outlined in this blog post about how to make a round ottoman, and you’ll be able to get the job done with ease.
