Are you tired of cluttered living spaces and wish you had more storage? Building your own storage ottoman bench is an excellent solution to streamline your home while adding functionality and style. This DIY project is surprisingly easy and can be completed in a weekend. Let's dive into a step-by-step guide on how to build a storage ottoman bench.
Before you begin, gather your materials and tools. You'll need plywood, foam, fabric, a staple gun, and a few other basic DIY supplies. Measure your space to ensure the ottoman bench you build fits perfectly. Now let's get started!
Design and Planning
Before you pick up your tools, plan the design and dimensions of your storage ottoman bench. Consider the size, shape, and style that would best suit your space and complement your decor. Sketch out your design or find inspiration online to guide your project.
An ottoman bench typically consists of a base frame, hollow storage box, and upholstered top with a hinged lid. Remember to account for cushion thickness when determining the size of your storage compartment.
Choosing the Right Materials
Selecting the right materials ensures a sturdy, long-lasting ottoman bench. For the base frame, use hardwood like oak or pine, which provides strength and durability. Plywood is excellent for the storage box, as it's lightweight, sturdy, and easy to work with.
For the upholstery, choose a durable, easy-to-clean fabric that complements your room design. Foam for the cushion top should be firm but comfortable. Opt for a 4" to 6" thick foam depending on your desired cushion firmness.
Tool Gathering
Assemble your tools before starting. You'll need basic DIY items such as a saw, drill, sandpaper, staple gun, hammer, screwdriver, measuring tape, and a pencil. Safety gear including glasses and gloves is essential for protecting yourself while working.
Optional tools like a jigsaw, router, or pocket hole jig can simplify some steps and give your ottoman a more professional look. However, these are not necessary, and you can achieve great results with just the essential tools.
Building the Base Frame
Begin by constructing the base frame of your ottoman bench. Measure and cut your hardwood pieces according to your design. Ensure corners are square and joints are strong to support the weight of the storage compartment and cushions.
Assembly can be done using pocket hole joinery, which hides wood screws and provides a neat, sturdy connection. Alternatively, you can use wood glue and brad nails or screws for a simpler, yet effective method.
Creating the Storage Box
Using your cut plywood pieces, assemble the four sides of the storage box. Begin by attaching the bottom piece first, then the sides, ensuring they are square and flush. Use wood glue and brad nails or screws to secure the pieces.
Measure and cut the top panel. This lid will need to be slightly smaller than the box to ensure it fits properly and allows for hinges. Attach hinges to the back of the box and the lid, positioning them so that they line up and allow the lid to open and close smoothly.
Attaching the Base and Box
Position the storage box on top of the base frame, centered and flush with the edges. Attach the box to the frame using wood glue and screws. Ensure the box is securely attached, as this is the main support for your upholstered top.
Before moving on to upholstery, sand any rough edges or surfaces to ensure a smooth, safe finish. Apply wood filler to any gaps or imperfections, and sand again once dry.
Upholstering the Ottoman Top
With the base complete, it's time to upholster the top of your ottoman bench. Measure and cut your foam to fit the size of the storage box top. If your lid is slightly smaller than the box, trim the foam accordingly to ensure it doesn't rub against the sides when opening and closing.
Lay your foam on the fabric, right side down, and cut the fabric to size, leaving extra material for wrapping the edges. Secure the foam to the fabric using a staple gun, pulling the fabric taut as you go.
Wrapping the Lid
Fold the fabric over the edges of the foam, ensuring a smooth, wrinkle-free finish. Secure the fabric using a staple gun, pulling the material tight to eliminate any sagging. Trim excess fabric and staple any loose corners or edges.
Center the upholstered lid on the top of the storage box, ensuring the hinges line up properly. Secure the lid to the box using the hinge hardware. Add a handle or latch to keep the lid closed when not in use, if desired.
Adding the Cushion Top
Measure and cut foam for the cushion top, ensuring it's smaller than the storage box top to allow it to rest on the fabric-wrapped edges. Cut batting or another thin layer of foam to go between your cushion foam and decorative fabric.
Lay your decorative fabric right side down, and place the cushion foam and batting on top. Wrap the fabric over the foam and batting, pulling it taut as you go. Staple the fabric to secure it, trimming excess material as needed. Attach the cushion top to the lid using staples or non-slip Velcro strips to keep it in place.
Congratulations! You've now built your very own storage ottoman bench. Place it in your desired location, fill it with your favorite books, blankets, or other belongings, and enjoy your new, functional piece of furniture. The next time you need extra storage or a comfortable place to rest your feet, your DIY storage ottoman bench will be there to help.