Transforming raw materials or overlooked items into functional and beautiful pieces of furniture is an incredibly rewarding experience, and it’s a passion I deeply cherish. From crafting robust pallet couches that anchor a living space to designing bespoke entertainment centers, the possibilities within DIY furniture are endless. This creative journey allows for personalization, budget savings, and the immense satisfaction of building something with your own hands.
There’s a special comfort in settling down after a long day, propping your feet up on a soft, supportive ottoman, and losing yourself in a good book or simply enjoying a moment of peace. Ottomans are not just practical footrests; they’re versatile pieces that can add style, extra seating, or even hidden storage to any room. If you’re looking to introduce a new level of comfort to your home, refresh your décor, or simply embark on a fulfilling DIY adventure, you’ve come to the right place. This curated collection showcases 20 imaginative and accessible DIY ottoman projects that promise to spark your inspiration and help you create a piece that perfectly fits your space and needs.
Each project in this guide offers a unique approach to creating an ottoman, whether you’re starting from scratch with basic lumber, upcycling a vintage find, or repurposing everyday objects into something extraordinary. Get ready to discover innovative designs, learn simple techniques, and ultimately craft a stylish and comfortable ottoman that reflects your personal touch.
1. Repurposed Army Footlocker Ottoman
Give an old army footlocker a new lease on life by transforming it into a distinctive and functional ottoman. Its robust structure and ample internal space make it an ideal candidate for both seating and hidden storage. To begin, simply add a comfortable layer of padding to the top surface, ensuring a plush feel. You might choose to repaint the footlocker to match your interior decor or preserve its weathered charm for a rustic appeal. Finish the piece by covering the padded top with your chosen upholstery fabric and securing it with decorative nails or rivets for a touch of classic detail. This project is a fantastic way to introduce vintage character and practical storage into your living space.
Tutorial/Source: instructables
2. Easy To Build Rolling Ottoman
Construct a stylish and versatile rolling ottoman using just a few 2x4s and some additional basic supplies. This design masterfully blends a modern aesthetic with charming rustic elements, making it suitable for a variety of home styles. While the example showcases a sleek black finish, you have the freedom to stain or paint it any color that complements your existing furniture. The open, slatted design evokes a popular pallet-style look. Equipped with casters, this ottoman offers effortless mobility, allowing you to easily reposition it wherever needed. However, if you prefer a stationary piece, the casters can be omitted without compromising its appeal or functionality.
Tutorial/Source: morelikehome
3. DIY Ottoman From Scratch
Embark on the satisfying journey of building a completely custom ottoman from the ground up. Despite what you might imagine, this project is remarkably straightforward and accessible, even for those new to woodworking. A key feature of this design is its integrated storage, making it an excellent solution for decluttering and organizing items like magazines, remote controls, or throw blankets. You’ll construct the main body of the ottoman using sturdy wooden boards, then top it with a beautifully cushioned lid. This lid not only provides a comfortable seating or footrest surface but also lifts away to reveal the spacious storage compartment beneath, combining comfort with clever functionality.
Tutorial/Source: doityourselfdivas
4. Circular Bookshelf Styled Ottoman
This ingenious circular ottoman cleverly combines the functionality of a footrest with the expansive storage of a bookshelf. Its elegant design mimics the appearance of a high-end end table, yet you can proudly craft this impressive piece entirely yourself, saving a considerable sum. The integrated shelves provide ample space for books, decor, or other essentials, keeping them neatly organized and easily accessible. For added convenience, casters are included on the bottom, allowing for effortless relocation around your home. Imagine expanding on this concept by creating several more in varying sizes to form a cohesive set of matching end tables, further enhancing your living area’s aesthetic and practicality.
Tutorial/Source: bhg.com
5. DIY Structured Poof Footstool
Evoke a sense of nostalgia with this charming structured pouf footstool, reminiscent of beloved heirlooms. This cozy ottoman is ingeniously crafted using three full-sized comforters for plush internal structure, enveloped by yards of your chosen woven fabric for its exterior. To achieve its perfectly rounded shape, you’ll need a large circular stencil, which can be improvised using a round end table or a generously sized bowl. The construction process is surprisingly straightforward, guiding you step-by-step to a truly delightful and comfortable finished product. This pouf is not only a functional footrest but also a beautiful accent piece that adds warmth and character to any room.
Tutorial/Source: makingniceinthemidwest
6. Beautiful And Contemporary Faux Leather Ottoman
Elevate your living space with this exquisitely designed contemporary ottoman, boasting a sophisticated faux leather finish that exudes modern elegance. The ingenious construction involves simply arranging and stacking foam pieces to achieve your desired shape and dimensions, making the building process remarkably intuitive. Once the foam structure is complete, it’s covered with high-quality faux leather fabric. A few simple seams bring it all together, resulting in a sleek, elegant, and incredibly comfortable piece. This project offers an easy yet impactful way to introduce a luxurious and chic aesthetic into your home without the hefty price tag of designer furniture, perfect for a modern or minimalist decor scheme.
Tutorial/Source: lovelyindeed
7. Easy $10 DIY Ottoman
Prepare to be amazed by this incredibly budget-friendly DIY ottoman project, which allows you to create a fabulous piece for as little as $10. The core of this ottoman consists of round foam circles, carefully stacked to create a plush and inviting form. Once the foam layers are assembled, the entire structure is elegantly covered with your choice of fabric. While this project does involve a bit of sewing, the steps are designed to be straightforward and accessible, even for novice sewers. The result is a wonderfully soft, comfy, and surprisingly stylish ottoman that defies its humble cost, offering exceptional value and comfort.
Tutorial/Source: domesticadventure
8. Repurposed Antique Crate Ottoman
Unlock the charm of yesteryear by transforming an antique wooden crate into a magnificent ottoman that provides both character and ample storage. The process is remarkably simple: begin by thoroughly cleaning the crate to prepare its surface. Then, craft a comfortable padded top that fits securely over the crate’s opening. This project is ideal for those seeking to infuse their home with farmhouse charm or a touch of rustic elegance. Imagine this unique ottoman perfectly positioned in front of a cozy rocking chair, offering a warm and inviting spot to rest your feet, while discreetly storing blankets or magazines within its vintage confines.
Tutorial/Source: rescueddesign
9. Long Bench Like Storage Ottoman
This impressive storage ottoman is also a scratch-built project, meticulously crafted to offer exceptional length, making it a perfect companion for a large sofa or loveseat. Constructed from sturdy boards, possibly repurposed from other DIY endeavors, it’s crowned with a generously padded top ensuring superior comfort. Its extended design evokes the classic appeal of an old hope chest, providing abundant shared space for kicking up your feet. Beyond its comfort, this ottoman boasts significant internal storage, making it an invaluable addition for keeping living room essentials neatly out of sight while enhancing the room’s aesthetic with its elegant, elongated form.
Tutorial/Source: tdadecoratinganddesign
10. Easy DIY French Provincial Ottoman
For enthusiasts of French provincial style, this exquisite ottoman is designed to integrate seamlessly with your elegant furnishings and home décor. The project begins with a round pallet, which you can easily construct if one isn’t readily available. This base is then transformed into a decorative and incredibly comfortable pouf. The design is completed by adding casters, ensuring effortless mobility so you can easily reposition this charming piece anywhere it’s needed. This ottoman embodies timeless sophistication, offering both a plush footrest and a stylish accent that enhances the refined atmosphere of your provincial-inspired interior.
Tutorial/Source: akadesign
11. Quick And Easy No-Sew Round Ottoman
Discover the beauty of this stunning pleated fabric ottoman, a project that remarkably requires no sewing and exudes a wonderful vintage aesthetic. You’ll build this elegant piece from the ground up, utilizing sturdy pine boards for the frame and a wooden round tabletop to form its top. The intricate pleated fabric design, achieved without a single stitch, gives it a sophisticated, custom-made appearance. Once completed, this no-sew wonder will effortlessly rival the quality and style of high-end furniture store finds, proving that exquisite design can be both accessible and achievable without specialized skills.
Tutorial/Source: inmyownstyle
12. Trendy DIY Ottoman
The vibrant colors and captivating graphics of this trendy ottoman alone make it a worthwhile endeavor. Creating these stylish pieces requires only a basic understanding of upholstery, and the best part is, absolutely no sewing is necessary! This project focuses on visual appeal and ease of assembly, allowing you to personalize your ottoman with eye-catching designs. For added functionality and convenience, you have the option to attach casters, making these beautiful ottomans incredibly easy to move and rearrange throughout your living space. They’re perfect for adding a pop of color and modern flair to any room.
Tutorial/Source: bhg
13. Repurposed Coffee Table Turned Ottoman
If you’ve got an old coffee table that’s seen better days or no longer fits your décor, consider giving it an incredible transformation into a spacious and inviting ottoman. This resourceful project repurposes the sturdy frame of a coffee table, making it a sustainable and cost-effective DIY solution. The resulting ottoman is wonderfully roomy and boasts the perfect height for comfortably resting your feet. Crucially, it features a superbly comfy padded top, which is paramount for any relaxing footrest. This creative upcycling not only breathes new life into an unused item but also yields a functional, stylish, and comfortable addition to your living area.
Tutorial/Source: newlywedmcgees
14. DIY Ottoman Makeover
Perhaps you already possess a beloved ottoman that serves its purpose well but is simply in need of a fresh, updated look. Instead of investing in a brand-new piece, embarking on a DIY ottoman makeover is an intelligent and economical choice. With just the cost of some new fabric, you can completely revitalize your existing ottoman, making it feel brand new to you. By carefully selecting your fabric from the right stores, you might even find stunning options for under $10, depending on your desired material and design. This simple project is a fantastic way to refresh your décor on a budget and extend the life of a cherished piece of furniture.
Tutorial/Source: lifedesigncraft
15. Cheap DIY $20 Ottoman
Craft a fantastic square ottoman for an incredibly low cost, potentially $20 or even less, depending on the materials you might already have available. The process involves constructing a simple square box frame using wooden boards. Once the frame is complete, the entire structure is then meticulously covered with padding and fabric, transforming it into a soft and comfortable piece. While it might sound intricate, the steps are designed to be quite manageable. The reward is a genuinely cozy and remarkably inexpensive ottoman that provides both comfort and a stylish addition to your living space, proving that great design doesn’t have to break the bank.
Tutorial/Source: shanty-2-chic
16. Upcycled Milk Crate Ottoman
Embrace the power of upcycling by transforming a simple metal milk crate into a stunning and highly functional ottoman with minimal effort. This resourceful project turns an ordinary object into a gorgeous and surprisingly comfortable piece of furniture. The inherent rustic aesthetic of a milk crate makes it an ideal candidate for an outdoor patio footstool, perfectly complementing natural surroundings. Alternatively, with a touch more sophisticated fabric and detailing, it can be elevated to a chic indoor accessory. This project is a testament to how creative repurposing can yield unique and practical home furnishings, adding character to any setting.
Tutorial/Source: mysalvagedtreasures
17. Salvaged Spool Plaid Ottoman
Craft a distinctive plaid ottoman from a salvaged electrical spool, a unique base that can often be found at yard sales or by inquiring with local electrical companies for discarded smaller spools. The circular shape of the spool provides a perfect foundation for this project. You’ll add a layer of soft stuffing and cover it with your chosen plaid fabric, creating a cozy and inviting surface. To complete the look and ensure stability, simply attach four sturdy legs to the bottom. This lovely little footstool is surprisingly easy to construct, requiring far less effort than its polished appearance suggests, and adds a charming, rustic-industrial touch to any room.
Tutorial/Source: designsponge
18. Upcycled Galvanized Bucket Ottoman
An old galvanized bucket, regardless of its shape or size, offers a fantastic and readily available base for creating a charming ottoman. This particular project stands out for its minimal effort required. The primary steps involve thoroughly cleaning your old bucket or tub, then adding a generous amount of padding to its top. It’s crucial to ensure the padding is sufficiently high and comfortable to serve as an ideal footrest. The inherent rustic appeal of a galvanized bucket makes for a perfect farmhouse-style footstool that can effortlessly enhance both indoor and outdoor living spaces with its unique character and practical function.
Tutorial/Source: killerbdesigns
19. Contrasting Colors Ottoman Trio
Embrace dynamic styling with this brilliant idea: a trio of ottomans crafted in contrasting colors and designs. These versatile cube ottomans are not only incredibly easy to construct but also offer remarkable flexibility. You can select fabrics with bold, contrasting patterns for an eclectic look, or opt for coordinating designs to create a harmonious ensemble. Their cuboid shape allows them to be easily stacked, making them an excellent space-saving solution when not in use—simply tuck them away in a corner. When entertaining or needing extra footrests, they can be spread out, providing both functional seating and a vibrant pop of color and texture to your room.
Tutorial/Source: merrypad
20. Upcycled Utility Bucket Ottoman
This upcycled utility bucket turned ottoman is a prime example of imaginative repurposing, brimming with character and surprisingly simple to create. Those ubiquitous large plastic buckets, often found at flea markets, yard sales, or even lingering in your garage, serve as the perfect base. It’s truly inspiring to see how effortlessly an otherwise unremarkable bucket can be transformed into a beautiful and functional ottoman. With just a minimal amount of fabric and a few hours of dedicated work, you can achieve a stunning piece that offers comfort and a unique aesthetic, proving that hidden potential lies in the most unexpected places.
Tutorial/Source: designsponge
Conclusion
The world of DIY ottomans is rich with creativity, offering a diverse range of projects for every skill level and aesthetic preference. From starting entirely from scratch to ingeniously repurposing old furniture and overlooked household items, the possibilities are boundless. Many of these projects beautifully highlight the power of upcycling, transforming what might otherwise be discarded into unique, comfortable, and highly functional pieces. Whether you envision a sophisticated faux leather ottoman gracing your formal living room or a rustic footstool crafted from an old Army footlocker, this collection provides endless inspiration.
The beauty of building your own ottoman lies in the ability to create a piece that is as distinct as it is comfortable, perfectly tailored to your personal style and home decor. You’ll find designs ideal for indoors, and even several charming options perfect for enhancing your outdoor spaces, complementing other brilliant DIY backyard furniture ideas. My own passion for DIY projects is what drew me to these ottomans initially, and I’m continually impressed by their ingenuity and accessibility.
Many of these designs boast incredible simplicity, allowing you to complete them in just an hour or two, making them perfect for a quick weekend craft session. Others, while potentially more intricate and time-consuming, promise a deeply rewarding outcome that is undoubtedly worth the extra effort. For those seeking practical solutions, you’ll discover wonderful storage ottomans, providing discreet space to keep various items organized and your living area clutter-free. Additionally, the option of a versatile trio of cube ottomans offers flexible extra seating and ample room to truly kick up your feet and relax at the end of a busy day.
If your heart leans towards a cozy, country aesthetic, there are even several fantastic rustic ottoman ideas that will perfectly harmonize with the charm of these 55 gorgeous farmhouse furniture and décor ideas. If you’re looking to infuse your living room with a unique touch of charm, while also gaining valuable extra seating or a comfortable spot to rest your legs, these homemade ottomans are the ideal solution. Not only are they often easy to build or repurpose, but they are also stunning pieces that can be customized to perfectly complement any existing decor, regardless of your personal taste. I’m eager to hear which of these inventive DIY ottoman projects captures your imagination and becomes your next favorite creation!