Easy DIY Ottoman Coffee Table: Step-by-Step Guide

Tired of searching for that perfect coffee table that just fits your space and style? What if you could create a stunning, versatile centerpiece yourself? Building a do it yourself ottoman coffee table isn’t just a rewarding project; it’s a fantastic way to get custom furniture that perfectly blends comfort, style, and function without the hefty price tag. Many find standard coffee tables either too rigid or lacking in warmth, while ottomans alone might not offer a stable surface.

Building your own ottoman coffee table allows you to combine the best of both worlds: the plush comfort of an ottoman with the practicality of a coffee table, customized precisely to your living space, style preferences, and functional needs like storage or mobility.

This guide is your blueprint to success. We’ll walk you through everything from initial planning and material selection to step-by-step construction for both upholstered and wooden designs. You’ll discover clever customization ideas, learn how practical ottoman coffee tables truly are, and get answers to common DIY questions. Get ready to transform your living room with a piece you built yourself!

Key Facts:
* Dual Functionality: Ottomans primarily designed as footrests gained popularity as coffee tables in the late 20th century, offering softer lines and multi-use potential in living spaces.
* Material Versatility: DIY ottoman projects can utilize a wide range of materials, from basic plywood and foam for upholstered versions to reclaimed wood or new hardwood for solid table styles.
* Custom Sizing: A key DIY benefit is custom sizing; ottoman coffee tables are often built 1-2 inches lower than the seat height of the surrounding sofas or chairs for comfortable leg-resting.
* Storage Integration: Adding storage is a popular customization, often achieved with hinged lids or internal compartments, significantly increasing the furniture’s utility in smaller spaces.
* Surface Solutions: The challenge of surface stability on upholstered ottomans is commonly solved by using large, sturdy trays made from wood, metal, or acrylic to hold drinks and decor safely.

What Should You Consider Before Starting Your DIY Ottoman Coffee Table?

Before building a DIY ottoman coffee table, decide its primary function (seating, footrest, storage), choose a style (upholstered or wood), measure your space for appropriate dimensions, and determine if you need mobility features like wheels or casters for easy movement. Planning these elements upfront ensures your final piece perfectly suits your needs and living room layout. It prevents costly mistakes and guarantees a more satisfying result.

Think about how you live. Do you entertain often? Need extra seating in a pinch? Is hidden storage a priority? Answering these questions guides your design choices.

Defining the Purpose and Style

Determine if your ottoman will primarily be for soft seating, a footrest, storage, or a combination. Choose between a comfortable upholstered style or a sleek, durable wooden look based on your needs and existing decor. An upholstered ottoman adds softness and comfort, ideal for propping up feet or casual seating. A wooden ottoman coffee table offers a more durable, easy-to-clean surface, closer to a traditional coffee table feel.

• Upholstered: Offers plush comfort, endless fabric choices (colors, patterns, textures), and a generally safer profile (no sharp corners). Requires fabric care.
• Wooden: Provides a hard, stable surface, showcases wood grain (if desired), and is often easier to wipe clean. Can have sharper edges.
• Combination: Some designs incorporate both, perhaps a wooden frame with an inset upholstered top or vice-versa.

Consider your existing furniture. Do you want the ottoman to blend in or be a statement piece? The style you choose sets the tone for the materials you’ll need.

Measuring for the Perfect Fit

Measure your living room area, especially the space around your sofa. Ensure the planned ottoman dimensions allow for comfortable movement (typically 18 inches from seating) and are proportionate to surrounding furniture. Getting the scale right is crucial. An ottoman that’s too large can overwhelm the room, while one that’s too small looks awkward and offers limited utility.

Follow these steps:
1. Measure Sofa Seat Height: Your ottoman top should ideally be the same height or slightly lower (1-2 inches) than your sofa’s seat cushions.
2. Measure Available Space: Determine the maximum length and width you can accommodate, leaving adequate walkthrough space (at least 18 inches, ideally 24-30 inches) between the ottoman and other furniture like sofas, chairs, or media consoles.
3. Consider Proportions: A general guideline is that the ottoman’s length should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa.
4. Visualize: Use painter’s tape on the floor to mark out the proposed dimensions. This helps you visualize the footprint and ensure it feels right in the space.

Adding Mobility: Legs vs. Casters

Decide if you want your ottoman coffee table to be stationary with legs or easily movable with casters (wheels). Casters are ideal for flexible spaces, while legs offer a more fixed, traditional look. The choice depends on how you intend to use the ottoman and your room layout.

• Legs:
  • Pros: Stable, wide variety of styles (wood, metal, modern, traditional), creates visual space underneath.
  • Cons: Less easy to move for cleaning or rearranging.
• Casters (Wheels):
  • Pros: Easy to move, practical for vacuuming or reconfiguring the room, can sometimes be locked.
  • Cons: Can potentially mark floors (choose appropriate types), might slightly increase height, less formal look than some leg styles.

Installation for both is usually straightforward, involving screwing them into the underside of the base.

How Do You Build a DIY Ottoman Coffee Table Step-by-Step?

Building a DIY ottoman coffee table involves deciding the design, gathering materials, constructing a base frame (wood or plywood), adding upholstery (foam, wadding, fabric) or finishing wood, and attaching legs or casters. Follow specific steps for either upholstered or wooden styles. The process is manageable even for beginners, especially if you start with a simple box design. Precision in cutting and assembly is key.

Whether you envision a plush, fabric-covered centerpiece or a sleek wooden table, the core steps involve building a sturdy base and then applying the desired finish. Let’s break it down.

Gathering Your Materials and Tools

For an upholstered ottoman, gather plywood, timber, foam, wadding, fabric, adhesive, and a staple gun. For a wooden one, you’ll need hardwood/plywood, a saw, screws, wood glue, sandpaper, stain, and sealant. Having everything ready before you start makes the process much smoother.

For an Upholstered Ottoman:
* Base: Plywood sheet (for top/bottom), Timber (like 2x4s or 1x4s for frame sides)
* Cushioning: High-density upholstery foam (2-4 inches thick), Polyester wadding/batting
* Covering: Upholstery fabric (measure carefully, add extra for wrapping), Spray adhesive, Dust cover fabric (optional, for underside)
* Tools: Saw (circular or miter), Drill, Staple gun (manual or pneumatic) & staples, Measuring tape, Scissors, Marker
* Hardware: Wood screws, Legs or casters & mounting screws

For a Wooden Ottoman Table:
* Structure: Hardwood planks (oak, maple, pine) or high-quality plywood, Wood glue
* Finishing: Sandpaper (various grits: medium, fine, extra-fine), Wood filler, Pre-stain wood conditioner (optional), Wood stain, Polyurethane or other sealant
* Tools: Saw (miter, circular, or table saw), Drill, Sander (orbital or belt), Clamps, Measuring tape, Square, Safety glasses, Brushes or rags for finishing
* Hardware: Wood screws (consider pocket holes for hidden joints), Legs or casters & mounting screws

Key Takeaway: Always double-check your measurements before cutting any materials. Measure twice, cut once!

Constructing the Base Frame

To build the frame, cut plywood to size for the top and potentially a bottom base, adding timber supports for an upholstered base. For a wooden table, cut wood pieces (potentially with mitered corners) and assemble securely using wood glue and screws. This frame is the skeleton of your ottoman, so ensure it’s strong and square.

Option A: Upholstered Ottoman Base (Simple Box):
1. Cut your plywood top to the desired dimensions (e.g., 24″ x 48″).
2. Cut timber pieces (e.g., 1x4s) for the four sides of the frame. The length of two sides will match the plywood length, and the other two will be the plywood width minus twice the thickness of the timber.
3. Apply wood glue to the ends of the shorter timber pieces.
4. Assemble the four sides into a rectangle using screws. Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent splitting. Ensure corners are square.
5. Center the timber frame on the underside of the plywood top.
6. Attach the frame to the plywood top using wood glue and screws driven down through the plywood into the timber frame.

Option B: Wooden Ottoman Table Base:
1. Cut your wood planks to size for the top and sides. Consider the joinery method (butt joints, mitered corners, pocket holes). Mitered corners offer a cleaner look but require precise 45-degree cuts.
2. Apply wood glue to the joining edges.
3. Assemble the sides first, using clamps to hold pieces together while the glue sets and driving screws (use pocket holes for a hidden look if desired). Check for squareness.
4. Attach the assembled side frame to the underside of the tabletop plank(s) using glue and screws or appropriate joinery.
5. Add any internal supports or shelves as per your design.

Applying Upholstery (For Upholstered Ottomans)

Attach foam to the plywood base with spray adhesive. Wrap tightly with wadding, stapling underneath. Center the base on your fabric, pull taut, and staple securely underneath, folding corners neatly like wrapping paper. This is where your ottoman starts to take shape and feel plush. Work methodically for a smooth, professional finish.

1. Attach Foam: Cut the upholstery foam to the exact size of your plywood top. Spray adhesive generously on both the plywood and one side of the foam. Wait a minute for it to become tacky, then carefully align and press the foam onto the plywood.
2. Wrap with Wadding: Cut polyester wadding large enough to cover the foam top and wrap down the sides of the timber frame. Smooth it over the foam, pulling gently taut, and staple it securely to the underside of the timber frame or plywood base. Trim excess wadding. This softens the edges.
3. Position Fabric: Lay your chosen upholstery fabric face down on a clean floor. Center the foam-and-wadding-covered base upside down onto the fabric. Ensure any patterns are aligned correctly.
4. Staple Fabric: Starting in the middle of one long side, pull the fabric taut over the edge and staple it to the underside of the base. Place staples every few inches. Repeat on the opposite side, maintaining even tension. Then do the two shorter sides.
5. Fold Corners: Corners require neat folding. Think of wrapping a gift. There are several techniques (e.g., simple fold, double pleat). Pull the fabric snugly around the corner, fold any excess neatly, and staple securely underneath. Consistency across all corners is key. Trim any bulky excess fabric after stapling.
6. Add Dust Cover (Optional): Cut a piece of plain, inexpensive fabric (like cambric) slightly smaller than the base. Fold the edges under and staple it neatly over the raw fabric edges on the underside for a professional finish.

Tip: For a no-sew approach, ensure your fabric piece is large enough and focus on tight stretching and neat corner folds secured only with staples underneath.

Sanding and Finishing (For Wooden Ottomans)

Sand the wooden ottoman surface smooth with medium then fine-grit sandpaper. Fill any gaps or screw holes with wood filler and sand again. Apply wood stain evenly, let dry, and seal with polyurethane for protection. Proper finishing protects the wood and brings out its beauty.

1. Initial Sanding: Start with medium-grit sandpaper (e.g., 120-grit) to smooth out any unevenness, remove mill marks, and slightly round sharp edges. Always sand with the grain of the wood.
2. Fill Imperfections: Apply wood filler to any screw holes, knots, or gaps using a putty knife. Overfill slightly, as it may shrink. Let it dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Final Sanding: Sand the filled areas smooth. Then, go over the entire piece with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 220-grit) for a silky-smooth finish. Wipe away all dust with a tack cloth or damp rag.
4. Condition (Optional but Recommended for Stain): Apply a pre-stain wood conditioner, especially on softer woods like pine, to prevent blotchy stain absorption. Follow product directions.
5. Stain: Apply your chosen wood stain evenly using a brush or rag, following the grain. Let it penetrate for the time specified on the can, then wipe off any excess with a clean rag. Allow it to dry completely (often 24 hours). Apply a second coat if needed for deeper color.
6. Seal: Apply a protective top coat like polyurethane (oil-based for durability, water-based for less yellowing and faster drying). Apply thin, even coats using a quality brush, sanding lightly with very fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 320-grit) between coats (usually 2-3 coats are sufficient). Follow drying times carefully.

Attaching Legs or Casters

Flip the completed ottoman base upside down. Mark the positions for each leg or caster near the corners. Pre-drill pilot holes if needed, then securely attach the legs or casters using the provided screws. This is the final assembly step!

1. Positioning: Place the legs or caster mounting plates on the underside of the base, typically about 1-2 inches in from each corner for stability. Ensure they are consistently placed. Use a measuring tape and square for accuracy.
2. Marking: Mark the screw hole locations with a pencil.
3. Pre-Drilling (Recommended): Especially in hardwood or near edges, pre-drill pilot holes slightly smaller than the screw diameter. This makes driving screws easier and prevents wood splitting. Be careful not to drill all the way through the ottoman top!
4. Attaching: Align the leg or caster plate with the marks and pilot holes. Drive the screws in securely until the leg/caster is firmly attached. Repeat for all corners.
5. Flip and Admire: Carefully turn your completed DIY ottoman coffee table upright!

How Can You Customize Your DIY Ottoman Coffee Table?

Customize your DIY ottoman by adding hidden storage underneath, choosing unique fabrics (like wool or patterned textiles), selecting stylish legs, building an “over ottoman” tray table, or opting for a different shape like round or hexagonal. Customization is the beauty of DIY! Go beyond a basic box to create something truly unique that reflects your style and meets specific functional needs.

Think outside the square (or rectangle!). Consider tufting the top, adding decorative nailhead trim, using contrasting fabrics, or painting the base a bold color.

Incorporating Storage Solutions

Add storage by building taller frame sides and attaching the top with hinges for a lift-up lid, or design a removable top. A simpler option is adding a lower shelf to a wooden ottoman table. Storage ottomans are incredibly practical for stashing blankets, remotes, magazines, or kids’ toys.

• Hinged Lid: Build the base frame taller (e.g., using 1x6s instead of 1x4s). Attach the upholstered or wooden top using specialty hinges (like stay-open lid supports) before final upholstery or finishing. You’ll also need to add a solid bottom panel inside the frame.
• Lift-Off Top: Build a base box with a solid bottom. Create the top as a separate, slightly oversized piece that rests securely on the base frame edges.
• Bottom Shelf (Wooden Ottomans): Add supports lower down on the legs and install a solid wood or plywood shelf.

Choosing the Right Fabric

Choose durable fabrics like performance blends, tightly woven cottons, or wool for high-traffic use. Consider stain resistance if used often for drinks/snacks. Select colors and patterns that complement your room’s decor. Fabric choice significantly impacts the look, feel, and longevity of an upholstered ottoman.

• Durability: Look for fabrics with a high Martindale rub count (over 20,000 is good for general domestic use). Performance fabrics often have built-in stain resistance.
• Texture & Style: Consider velvet for luxury, linen for a relaxed feel, cotton blends for versatility, or leather/faux leather for durability and ease of cleaning. Some DIYers get creative, even using sturdy tablecloths or deconstructed rugs!
• Pattern & Color: A bold pattern can make the ottoman a focal point, while a neutral solid blends seamlessly. Consider kids and pets when choosing color (mid-tones often hide dirt best).

Tip: Order fabric swatches before committing to yards of material. This lets you see the true color and feel the texture in your home’s lighting.

Exploring Alternative Designs: Over-Ottoman Tables

An over-ottoman table provides a stable surface on top of your upholstered ottoman. Build a simple wooden tray, a C-shaped table that slides over, or a “waterfall” style table that drapes over the top and sides. If you love the softness of an upholstered ottoman but miss a consistently hard surface, an over-ottoman table is the perfect solution.

• Simple Tray: A large, sturdy wooden tray placed on top. Easy to make or buy.
• C-Table: A table shaped like a ‘C’ where the base slides under the ottoman, and the top extends over it.
• Waterfall Table: Often made from a single piece of wood (or joined pieces) that bends or is constructed to flow over the top and down one or both sides. Creates a sleek, modern look.
• Sled Table: Similar to a waterfall but typically has two “legs” like a sled, spanning the width of the ottoman.

These can be DIY projects themselves, often using simple lumber or plywood, finished to match your decor.

Are Ottomans Practical as Coffee Tables?

Yes, using an ottoman as a coffee table is practical and stylish. It offers versatility as a footrest, extra seating, and, with a tray, a stable surface for drinks or decor. Ottomans remain popular for their comfort and multi-functionality. They bridge the gap between casual comfort and living room necessity, offering benefits traditional coffee tables can’t match.

Their softness makes them kid-friendly (no sharp corners!), and their multi-use nature is ideal for modern living, especially in smaller spaces where furniture needs to work harder.

Pros and Cons of Ottoman Coffee Tables

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages helps you decide if this style is right for your lifestyle.

Styling Your Ottoman Coffee Table

Style your ottoman coffee table by adding a large serving tray to create a stable surface. Decorate the tray with items like books, a small vase of flowers, or candles. Keep it uncluttered for practicality. Styling an ottoman coffee table is about balancing aesthetics and function.

• The Tray is Key: Choose a tray large enough to be useful but not so large it overwhelms the ottoman. Wood, metal, mirrored, or lacquered trays all work well.
• Group Items: Arrange items on the tray. A common formula is something vertical (vase, small plant), something horizontal (stack of books, decorative box), and something textural or sculptural (candle, small object).
• Vary Heights: Use items of different heights to create visual interest.
• Keep it Practical: Don’t overfill the tray; leave space to actually place a drink or remote.
• Consider Color & Texture: Choose tray items that complement the ottoman fabric and the room’s overall decor.

Are Ottomans a Lasting Trend?

Ottomans are considered a lasting trend rather than a fleeting fad. Their versatility as seating, footrests, and coffee tables ensures they remain a practical and stylish choice for many living spaces. Unlike some furniture fads, the ottoman coffee table’s inherent multi-functionality gives it enduring appeal.

Interior design trends consistently favour pieces that offer flexibility and comfort. As living spaces often serve multiple purposes, furniture that can adapt – like an ottoman used as a coffee table – remains highly relevant and desirable. They don’t really seem to go out of style because their core benefits transcend specific design aesthetics.

FAQs About DIY Ottoman Coffee Tables

How much does it cost to build a DIY ottoman coffee table?

Costs vary widely based on materials. A simple plywood/foam/basic fabric upholstered ottoman might cost $50-$150. Using hardwood, premium foam, and high-end fabric for a larger or storage version could push costs to $200-$400 or more, still often less than retail.

Is it difficult to build your own ottoman coffee table?

For beginners, a simple square or rectangular box frame (upholstered or wooden) is manageable. Projects involving complex joinery, tufting, or intricate shapes require more woodworking or upholstery skill. Start simple if you’re new to DIY. Following plans helps immensely.

How long does it take to make a DIY ottoman?

A basic ottoman could take a weekend (4-8 hours of work, plus drying times for glue/finishes). More complex designs with storage, tufting, or detailed finishing could take longer, spread over several days or weekends.

Can I make a no-sew upholstered ottoman?

Yes, absolutely. Most basic DIY upholstered ottomans are “no-sew.” Fabric is attached by stretching it tightly over the foam and wadding and securing it underneath the base using a staple gun, focusing on neat corner folds.

What’s the best wood to use for a wooden ottoman table?

For durability, hardwoods like oak, maple, or walnut are excellent choices but more expensive. Pine is affordable and easy to work with but softer and prone to dents. High-quality plywood (like Baltic Birch) is stable and paints well.

How do I choose the right size ottoman for my couch?

Aim for an ottoman height that’s 1-2 inches lower than your sofa’s seat height. Lengthwise, about two-thirds the length of the sofa is a good starting point. Ensure at least 18 inches of clearance between the ottoman and sofa.

Can I convert an existing coffee table into an ottoman?

Yes, this is a popular DIY project. You can often add foam and batting to the top of an old wooden coffee table and upholster it. Ensure the table base is sturdy enough. Some people even cut down the legs if it’s too tall.

What kind of foam is best for an ottoman top?

High-density upholstery foam is recommended. It holds its shape better and provides comfortable, firm support. A thickness of 2-4 inches is common, depending on the desired plushness and overall height needed. Avoid softer craft foams.

How do I clean and maintain my upholstered ottoman?

Vacuum regularly with an upholstery attachment. Treat spills immediately following fabric care instructions (check the fabric bolt or sample). Some performance fabrics can be cleaned with water or mild soap. Consider professional cleaning for deep stains.

Where can I find DIY ottoman coffee table plans?

Many DIY and woodworking websites offer free or paid plans (e.g., Ana White, Woodshop Diaries, Kreg Tool’s BuildSomething). Pinterest and YouTube are also great sources for visual tutorials and inspiration. Search for specific styles like “DIY storage ottoman plans.”

Can I add wheels to any DIY ottoman design?

Generally, yes. You can attach casters to the bottom of most sturdy wooden or plywood bases. Ensure the base structure is strong enough to support the weight and the stress of movement. Choose casters rated for the appropriate weight.

Is an ottoman coffee table safe for kids?

Upholstered ottomans are often considered safer than traditional coffee tables for homes with young children due to their soft surfaces and lack of sharp corners, reducing the risk of bumps and bruises during playtime.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Your DIY Project

Building your own ottoman coffee table is a deeply rewarding project that results in a custom piece perfectly suited to your home. Remember these key points:

• Plan First: Define the purpose, style (upholstered vs. wooden), size, and mobility features before you buy materials. Measure carefully!
• Gather Everything: Assemble all your tools and materials beforehand for a smoother workflow.
• Build a Strong Base: Whether wood or plywood, ensure your frame is square and sturdy – it’s the foundation of your ottoman.
• Upholstery Precision: For fabric ottomans, focus on tight, even stretching and neat corner folds using a staple gun. High-density foam and wadding are crucial.
• Wood Finishing Matters: For wooden tables, proper sanding, staining (if desired), and sealing protect the wood and enhance its look.
• Customize: Don’t be afraid to add storage, choose unique fabrics or leg styles, or even build a complementary over-ottoman table.
• Embrace Versatility: Enjoy your new piece as a footrest, extra seat, and stylish coffee table (with a tray!).

This project empowers you to create functional, beautiful furniture tailored exactly to your needs.

Feeling inspired? What kind of DIY ottoman coffee table are you planning to build? Share your ideas or questions in the comments below!