Creating your own DIY ottoman with storage can be the perfect blend of style and function for your living space. Imagine having a chic piece of furniture that not only offers comfort but also a clever spot to stash away your treasures.
Drawer Delight
Repurpose an old drawer by adding a padded top and caster wheels for easy mobility. My old dresser drawer now serves as a stylish living room centerpiece. If you have smaller drawers left over, they also make excellent baseball card storage.
Repurpose an Old Crate
Transform an old wooden crate into a rustic storage ottoman by adding a cushioned top. I once used an apple crate I found at a flea market, and the result was a charming, unique piece that fit perfectly in my loft. You can also weatherproof similar crates to create clever outdoor storage boxes for your patio.
Rope Wrapped Ottoman
Wrap thick rope around a wooden base to create a nautical-themed ottoman. I once used this technique to craft a piece that reminds me of summer days by the sea. It’s one of my favorite nautical craft ideas for bringing a coastal vibe indoors.
Jute Placemat Magic
Sew several jute placemats together to form a natural-fiber ottoman. I love how this project brings an earthy vibe into my space and costs next to nothing.
Denim Dream
Craft an ottoman from upcycled denim and a wooden crate. I love how the patchwork of old jeans gives a laid-back yet stylish look to my DIY creations.
Old Trunk Revival
Transform a steamer trunk into a comfy ottoman by adding upholstery. This piece not only serves as seating but also as secret storage for my board games. This type of hidden compartment can even inspire other discreet gun storage solutions.
Milk Crate Marvel
Wrap a milk crate in sisal rope and add a cushioned lid for a rustic ottoman. This easy milk crate furniture project provides a sturdy seat and extra storage.
Dresser Top Transformation
Use the top of an old dresser to create a sleek ottoman with storage underneath. This is a great way to give new life to furniture destined for the curb. If you need more ways to hide bulky items, explore some clever suitcase storage ideas.
Plastic Bottle Pouf
Create a lightweight ottoman by stuffing plastic bottles into a fabric cover. It’s a surprising way to recycle and reduce waste while crafting new furniture. For another large-scale upcycling project, you can also repurpose an old mattress into useful home items.
Ottoman Coffee Table
Convert a small coffee table into an ottoman by upholstering the top with fabric. This dual-purpose piece is perfect for small spaces like my Austin loft. If you’re styling a reflective surface instead, explore these mirror coffee table decor ideas.
Suitcase Surprise
Upcycle a vintage suitcase into a stylish ottoman with storage. I adore how my old suitcase adds a touch of nostalgia while keeping my scarves neatly tucked away. If you’re looking to maximize space in other rooms, explore some clever DIY over-the-toilet storage ideas.
Laundry Basket Hack
Cover a laundry basket with fabric and add a cushioned lid for a quick storage ottoman. This hack is perfect for keeping my craft supplies organized yet accessible. It also works brilliantly as a kids craft storage idea to hide away messy art supplies.
Bucket Brilliance
Convert a basic bucket into a vibrant storage ottoman using a colorful rag rug. This quick no-sew project is perfect for adding a splash of color and extra seating. If you enjoy skipping the needle and thread, try some fun no-sew t-shirt cutting ideas to upcycle your wardrobe.
Tire Turned Ottoman
Use an old tire as the base for a coastal-style ottoman by wrapping it with jute rope. This eco-friendly project not only keeps tires out of landfills but adds a beachy vibe to any room.
Sweater Pouf
Use a thrifted sweater to cover a foam pouf for a cozy ottoman. This project is perfect for chilly evenings when you want to snuggle up with a book.
Bucket Pouf
Cover a plastic bucket with fabric and add a soft cushion for a cute and cheap ottoman. It’s perfect for small spaces and easy to move around.
Pallet Perfect
Stack and secure wooden pallets, then top them with a comfy cushion to make a sturdy ottoman with hidden storage. This is a great way to reuse materials and create extra space. It also works beautifully as an end of bed storage solution.
Recycled Soda Crate
Turn a soda crate into a charming ottoman by adding a padded top. This project is a fun way to incorporate vintage elements into modern decor. It makes a perfect, budget-friendly addition to your couples’ first apartment decor.
Vintage Wash Tub
Turn a vintage wash tub into a fabulous ottoman by adding a cushion top. This project combines practicality with a touch of farmhouse charm. If you have an extra one, they also make excellent galvanized wash tub planters.
Tool Box Ottoman
An old metal toolbox can double as a storage ottoman with the addition of a cushioned top. It’s a quirky, industrial piece that adds character to my studio. For more workshop organization, I also recommend exploring some DIY welding rod storage ideas.
Rug Pouf
Sew runner rugs into a large floor pillow style pouf. This idea is perfect for adding a bohemian touch to any room and is surprisingly easy to make.