How to Build a Storage Ottoman Use plywood, foam, and fabric to create a handsome custom piece The ottoman has had a long history of multifunctionality. It served as extra seating in early American households that had tight quarters and tighter budgets. Today, versions with under-lid storage, like the handsome example at right, push the utility ever further. It's the perfect place to stash blankets or store books, and the geometric design of the upholstery makes a bold statement. If you're thinking of buying one, look for lids that either lift off or have safety hinges. If you'd rather have the satisfaction and creative control of building your own piece, your primary materials will be birch plywood, 2-inch-thick high-density foam, and—the most variable expense—a fabric of your liking. Customize the upholstery to fit your household decor or needs: stain resistant for pets and children, or suede for a lusher feel. And vary the height and style of the off-the-rack legs to complement existing furniture.

Whether you build or buy, kick up your feet and enjoy your new focal point. Overview of How to Build an Upholstered Storage Ottoman CUT LISTDownload a printable cut list here. ¾-inch birch plywood top: one @ 27½ x 38¼ inches ¾-inch birch plywood bottom: one @ 26 x 36¾ inches ¾-inch birch plywood side pieces: two @ 11½ x 27½ inches ¾-inch birch plywood front and back pieces: two @ 11½ x 36¾ inches 1x1 pine cleats: two @ 26 inches 1x1 pine cleats: two @ 35¼ inches 1x1 pine corner blocks: four @ 10 inches Batting: 10 square feet Fabric: one piece @ 3¾ yards* Fabric: one piece @ 6¼ yards* 2-inch high-density foam rubber cushion: one @ 27½ x 38¼ inches *The amount of material needed may change depending on how the pattern needs to be situated on the piece. Cut ¾-inch birch plywood for the base, top, and bottom. Glue and clamp the four sides together to form the base box, then drill pilot holes and secure the pieces with screws.

Cut 1×1 pine cleats and install them around the base's interior, ¾ inch above the bottom edge. Replace String On Vertical BlindsAttach reinforcing pine blocks to each inside corner. House For Sale Old MeadowvaleGlue, drill, and screw the bottom piece to the cleats.Enjoi T Shirts Canada Cut batting and upholstery to wrap the base. Coat the back of the fabric with fast-drying spray adhesive, and stick the batting onto it. Spray the batting and, starting at the center rear of the box, wrap the material around the sides and overlap it at the seam by ½ inch. Fold the material over the top and bottom, and staple it in place. Trim 2-inch-thick high-density foam to cover the lid, and use spray adhesive to stick all but the perimeter to the plywood.

Then spray the foam's edges with adhesive and fold them down to meet the plywood. Wrap the top in fabric and staple it on the underside. Starting at the rear seam, line the perimeter with piping and staple it in place. Add the Top and Feet Join the upholstered top to the base with a continuous hinge and a toy-box lid support. Attach four 5-inch maple coronet bun feet, painted or stained to your taste.Tidy up in a hurry with these multipurpose, flexible furniture pieces that create a little extra storage where you need it the most. The Moto Storage Ottoman With Fill-Top Trays serves four functions in one: ottoman, storage, seating, and cocktail table! Stash extra blankets, set down your glass, rest your feet, or accommodate a surprise guest—this storage ottoman is the ultimate multitasker. Brighten up any room with the simple sophistication of the Chelsea Home Hi-Style Ottoman. Handcrafted of solid hardwood and upholstered in a soft cotton print fabric, this ottoman also features plush foam padding and ample storage space, all of which earn it a spot on our list of favorites.

You don't need to go full feng shui to add a little Zen to your space. With the Ying-Yang Storage Ottomans, you can tuck away errant items without sacrificing an ounce of your unique style. Whether you're going for an Asian-inspired look or just trying to add balance and harmony to your life, these ottomans are a perfect fit. No space for a home office? The taupe-covered Jonah Storage Office Ottoman from Bombay solves the problem handily by concealing a lap desk, accessories organizer, paper tray, and bars to accommodate hanging files. When work is done, close the lid, put your feet up, and relax. You're not traditional, so why should your storage be? This trio of ottomans from TAG features woven natural seagrass wrapped over hand-formed, powder-coated metal frames. With plenty of storage and lids that reverse into trays, these versatile pieces are even strong enough for seating. Whether you're looking for an impromptu coffee table, full-length footrest, or spare seating in a hall or entry, the Dylan Textured Leather Storage Ottoman fits the bill.

A solid wood frame, hinged lid, padded leather upholstery, and slim profile make it easily adaptable to many uses and appropriate for any room of the house. The Caden Leather Square Ottoman's open-shelf design keeps newspapers, magazines, and TV remotes within easy reach. Its slatted shelf and solid pine frame, crowned by a distressed-leather top, add rustic charm to any room! Tame your wild clutter with the Wilson Giraffe Storage Ottoman. Eye-catching giraffe-print faux leather and an anti-slam hinge let this piece bring out the animal in all of us—or at least keep it neatly stored away. Put everything in its place with the Chatham Black Leather Storage Cocktail Ottoman, which houses a spacious hidden storage drawer. The ottoman's sturdy hardwood construction and luxurious bonded leather tufted upholstery make it both handy and classy! Not only can you stow your stuff, but you can stash away the entire ottoman thanks to the fold-flat design of the Fold N Store Folding Storage Ottoman.

This space-smart ottoman provides roomy storage and a plush lid, and it's sturdy enough to use as a seat. Haven't seen an ottoman you like yet? Then make one of your own! With just four apple crates, a square piece of plywood, some paint, fabric, and foam rubber, you can assemble an ottoman like this and get the satisfaction of knowing you built it yourself. Add casters to give the piece easy mobility. This stylish bench hides two smaller ottomans, offering storage and seating tailor-made for small spaces. The three-piece set features brown faux leather upholstery, exposed solid wood feet, and a lid that converts to a tray. Imagine how functional this ottoman would be in a studio apartment or cozy family room. For more clever storage ideas, consider: 10 DIY Storage Ideas to Help Corral Your Kids' Clutter Closet Organization: 9 Pro Tips to End "Stuffication" 11 Sneaky Storage Ideas Bob Vila PER Week The latest in news, tips, & inspiration delivered right to your inbox.