Learn the steps to sew and upholster professionally!
An attached cushion ottoman is exactly what it sounds like: a cushion sits on top of the footstool, but it is attached to the frame and cannot be lifted off. It’s a traditional style and is best paired with a chair in the same style. If you’ve ever shied away from trying to upholster an attached cushion ottoman, this article and video will explain in detail why the process is more simple than it at first appears!
Sewing is a Must
If sewing is still a challenge for you, that’s ok. Projects such as ottomans are an excellent opportunity to practice your skills of sewing piping and borders, seam allowances, pattern matching and more. Don’t be nervous to try new advanced projects!
These are the tools I’m using for this project:
- Upholstery Stapler
- Sewing Machine
- Scissors
- Regulator
- Staple Puller
- Pliers
- Plier Stapler
- Oscillating Saw
- Steamer
- Curved Needle
- Hot Glue Gun
These are the supplies I’m using for this project:
Watch the Video to See the Whole Process!
I highly recommend watching this descriptive and informative 20 minute video to see every step involved.
Purchase the video for $4.95 to get access
Don’t Throw Anything Away!
We will definitely want to keep the old pieces to use as a pattern. Use a blade to carefully cut the old ottoman apart. You will use the old pieces when cutting, and also to figure out how it gets put back together. You can mark the pieces generously to allow you to recognize where they fit again. Just think of it like a puzzle!
Use a Stapler
Using a plier stapler is key when sewing in upholstery. I can’t stress enough the importance of this little tool! It will saves a bunch of time and aggravation in lining up seams, and keeping them lined up as you sew. Remember to remove all the staples after you’ve made your seam however. The staples could cut you, or rust if they ever get wet.
Follow the Old Pattern
Follow the old pattern closely when cutting. Use allocation marks to get the center marks correct. Having everything lined up is the key to a perfect end result!
Stripes? Pattern?
If your ottoman has stripes or a pattern, make sure to line them up. This is not as difficult as it may seem, it just takes proper planning. If your stripes are not properly lined up, your job will look sloppy and unprofessional, so it pays to take the extra time to make sure you’re getting it right on every side.
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