Do you tend to bring home project pieces from the thrift shop simply because you can't pass up a good deal? We must be related. I adopt pieces of furniture even if I don't have space for them. When I saw this unloved little ottoman, I knew I had to bring it home. See how this ottoman went from sad to glad after the jump!
A close-up of the ottoman before it's overhaul.
Supplies:
1 Old Ottoman-$15
1 Can of Spray Primer-$2.99
1 Can of Sunburst Yellow Spray Paint -$3.29
1 Borrowed Staple Gun with 20 staples-free!
1/2 Yard of Vintage Fabric-$1.50
Total $22.78 plus tax
The Process:
First, I cleaned the undercarriage of the ottoman, to ensure the spray primer would cover well and set. Next, I sprayed the the undercarriage with the spray primer and let it dry for about 30 minutes. (If you're patient, you may want to follow the directions and wait one hour.) Then I sprayed the undercarriage with the sunburst yellow paint. In the sunlight, I didn't notice I'd missed a few spots until I brought it inside...luckily it won't be hard to touch up later.
Lastly, I used my staple gun to cover the existing cushion with my vintage fabric. I used what I call the "wrap a present" method, where you fold the corners in and staple underneath. I don't love how this turned out on the ends and I may retry with the "tiny tuck and staple" method if I feel like locating my pliers, removing the staples and starting over.
The Result:
In the end, I'm happy with the ottoman and that I have enough change in my pocket to adopt another stray along the way!
Images: Alisha Peterson-Irwin
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Thanks for reminding us that thrift store finds can be improved upon, unlike rude commentary. It's always good to find some inspiration!
what's pathetic and dreadful is how the anonymity of the internet allows people to be so nasty.
Good lord people. It's 5 o'clock. Have a drink or a pot of tea and chill.
The base is cute. Just turn the folded end to the side until you decide to redo it. I have recently discovered fabric glue. It's a wonder!!
For $22.78 it's a fine piece. Kudos for color!
i would have picked a black and white fabric, but to each his own. You could probably find a great fabric cheap on Ebay and take it to a professional upholsterer who might be willing to do it on the cheap.
THAT SAID... to try this on your own deserves kudos. It's through practice that we learn how to reupholster our furniture. Some of you sour-pusses need to chill the hell out. This person isn't positioning this piece of furniture as part of a segment on Elle Decor. SHEESH!
It'd be fab on a cozy little terrace.
You guys are so fu*king rude, it's unbelievable.
I think that it's really sweet! Works well with the chair and the rug! Kudos to you, Alisha! Oh, and mean people suck!
I like the rug.
Very cute color choice. I use the same tuck and staple technique on simple items. Obviously one would do something more elaborate if wanting to refabric a big chair... but this works great for this.
The fabric probably just needs to be tucked a bit tighter.
Love it!
I think the colours are very bold. They aren't speaking to me, but I can see why they were chosen for that room. I see what you mean, about the end of the fabric. Thanks for posting your trial and letting us see what "present wrapping" looks like - I've often thought of using the technique when I haven't wanted to invest the time. if you redo it, i'd love to see it.
I think it looks endearing, perhaps not "perfect" by others standards....but its all yours. Only you have to like it.
That ottoman needed love, attention, and a home! I bet it would give you a big hug if it had arms. Don't let judgement get to you!
Also, I love the color scheme to this living space!
Holy shazbot - some of y'all can really dish out the snark. So the execution wasn't what you would have done but she clearly indicates she doesn't quite like it either, so it's a moot point to point out the obvious. However, I do applaud the color selection -- I think the chevron pattern is a bold choice and the yellow base is really nice improvement over the original base.
I side with the compliment folks.
You came up with a great color solution.
You don't need sewing lessons. Haven't tried the fabric glue yet. But if anyone doesn't have a staple gun, you can always use upholstery tacks. Or whatever tacks are at the hardware store. And then choose a tucking option -- there are several.
Yay, for adopting strays.
Cute makeover! I have a fondness for faux bamboo and think you did a nice job on rescuing this piece.
I think it's adorable! And such a great value too.
I like it. But I also like it better turned to the side in the the second pic. Instead of the last pic position as it looks like a gift sitting there.