Looking for creative DIY ottoman ideas from recycled items? You’re in the right place. Instead of spending a fortune on store-bought furniture, you can turn everyday objects into stylish and practical ottomans that fit perfectly in your home.
An ottoman is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture you can own. It doubles as a footrest, extra seating, or even hidden storage, making it an ideal addition to living rooms, bedrooms, and beyond.
In this collection, you’ll find 18 inspiring ways to repurpose items like tires, crates, barrels, and even suitcases into unique ottomans.
Each idea is simple enough to try at home, no matter your DIY skill level. Get ready to save money, reduce waste, and add a personal touch to your decor with these fun and functional ottoman projects.
#1 Galvanized Bucket Ottoman
If you’ve got an old galvanized bucket lying around, you can easily give it a second life as a charming ottoman. With just a cushioned top covered in fabric, this bucket transforms into a practical and stylish piece that works indoors or outdoors.
It’s sturdy enough to serve as extra seating and lightweight enough to move around wherever you need it.
To create this look, simply cut a round wooden base to fit the top, add foam padding, and wrap it with fabric of your choice before securing it.
The rustic metal mixed with a soft cushion adds a cozy farmhouse feel, making it perfect for a patio, balcony, or even a casual living space. This is one of the easiest and most budget-friendly ottoman projects you can try.
#2 Repurposed Wooden Cable Spool
A wooden cable spool is one of those items that can turn into something special with just a little creativity. Its sturdy build makes it an excellent base for an ottoman that doubles as storage.
To get started, sand down the rough edges and give it a fresh coat of paint or stain for a smoother finish. Next, cut a round cushion to size, cover it with fabric you love, and secure it on top.
You can even use the hollow space inside for storing books, blankets, or small baskets. This project is both practical and stylish, bringing rustic charm and function into your living space.
#3 A Drawer Ottoman
An old drawer can be transformed into a charming ottoman with just a few tweaks. Its boxy shape makes it perfect for turning into a compact footrest that also adds character to your space.
Start by attaching four sturdy wooden legs or even wheels to the bottom for support. Then, create a padded top by cutting foam to fit and covering it with fabric that suits your style.
You can even keep the drawer handle for a fun, vintage look. This project is simple yet rewarding, giving you a unique piece of furniture that feels both creative and practical.
#4 Old Industrial Bin Ottoman
This clever idea turns an old industrial bin into a sturdy and stylish ottoman. Its solid structure gives you a reliable base, while the padded cushion on top adds comfort for lounging outdoors or indoors.
To recreate this look, simply clean the bin, add a coat of paint if you’d like, and top it with a fabric-covered cushion. A plaid or patterned fabric can bring warmth and personality to the piece.
You’ll love how this ottoman doubles as extra seating or a casual footrest in your yard. It’s a fantastic way to breathe new life into a forgotten item while keeping your décor unique and functional.
#5 Wooden Crate Ottoman
A wooden crate makes the perfect base for a rustic ottoman that feels both charming and practical. The aged wood adds a farmhouse touch, while the padded top brings comfort and style.
To make one yourself, start with a sturdy crate, sand it smooth, and line the inside if you’d like to use it for hidden storage. Add a cushion covered in your favorite fabric to create a cozy seat or footrest.
Handles cut into the sides make it easy to move around the room. This project proves that something as simple as an old crate can be transformed into a beautiful and useful piece of furniture.
#6 Old Tire Into an Ultra-Chic Ottoman
Turning an old tire into an ottoman is one of the most creative ways to give new life to something that would otherwise be discarded. The coiled rope design instantly brings texture and a natural vibe to your space.
To make this, clean the tire thoroughly, cut a round wood base for the top and bottom, and then glue sisal or jute rope tightly around the entire piece. Add a soft cushion on top if you want extra comfort.
This ottoman is sturdy enough to use as a seat, a footrest, or even a small coffee table. It’s proof that with a bit of effort, you can transform an ordinary tire into a stylish piece of furniture that looks like it came straight from a home décor store.
#7 Wine Barrel Ottoman
An old wine barrel can be turned into a gorgeous ottoman that feels both rustic and elegant. The natural wood paired with a tufted cushion creates a striking focal point that instantly elevates any room.
To make one, start by cutting the barrel to your desired height, sanding it smooth, and sealing it with a clear coat. Add a padded top with upholstery fabric of your choice to match your décor style.
You can leave the barrel whole for a statement piece or add hinges to the lid for hidden storage inside. This ottoman not only adds character but also tells a story, making it a conversation starter whenever guests come over.
#8 DIY Bucket Ottoman
This little ottoman is proof that even a plain bucket can be transformed into something stylish and practical. Wrapped in soft fabric with a fun tassel trim, it instantly becomes a charming accent piece for your reading nook or bedroom corner.
To make one, start with a sturdy bucket and add a padded cushion to the lid for comfort. Cover the entire piece with fabric that complements your space, securing it neatly with glue or a staple gun.
You can also choose a washable cover if you want easy cleaning. The result is a lightweight, budget-friendly ottoman that doubles as a conversation-worthy DIY project.
#9 Log Ottoman
This log ottoman brings a rustic charm to your home while being incredibly sturdy and practical. By simply adding a padded, upholstered top to a smooth log base, you create a cozy spot for your feet or even a small extra seat.
To start, sand the log so the surface is clean and smooth. Then cut a round cushion and cover it with fabric that matches your décor, securing it with upholstery tacks or a staple gun.
You can even add felt pads underneath so it doesn’t scratch your floors. It’s a perfect project if you love natural textures and want to bring a bit of the outdoors inside.
#10 DIY Drawer Ottoman
This ottoman turns an old drawer into something stylish and practical, giving it a whole new life. By attaching sturdy legs and adding a cushioned top, you instantly have a unique piece that doubles as seating and décor.
Start by painting or refinishing the drawer so it blends with your room’s style. Then, cut foam to fit the top, wrap it with fabric, and staple it securely underneath for a soft, polished look.
Adding legs not only gives it height but also makes it feel like a real piece of furniture. It’s a fun way to recycle while adding a pop of personality to your living space.
#11 Water Trough Ottoman
An old water trough can be transformed into a rustic yet functional ottoman that makes a statement in your space. Its sturdy shape and vintage charm give you a solid base to work with.
To create this look, simply cut a piece of foam to fit the top, then cover it with burlap, canvas, or any fabric you love. Staple or glue the fabric securely underneath so it stays in place.
The trough itself can even double as hidden storage if you leave the top removable. This piece adds a farmhouse vibe to your room while giving you extra seating or a cozy spot to rest your feet.
#12 DIY Ottoman Bench from a Repurposed Coffee Table
Turning an old coffee table into a padded ottoman bench is a smart way to give furniture a second life. The sturdy frame of the table makes the perfect base for a comfortable seat.
To recreate this, add a thick cushion or foam cut to the tabletop size, then cover it with fabric that matches your style. Use a staple gun to secure the fabric neatly underneath for a polished finish.
You can even paint or refinish the legs and frame to fit the look of your living room. The result is a long, elegant ottoman bench that works well as seating, a footrest, or even a stylish coffee table substitute.
#13 Fabric Pouf Ottoman
A fabric pouf ottoman is the perfect blend of casual comfort and playful style. It can brighten up any room with its fun patterns and cozy design.
To make one, cut fabric panels into squares or rectangles and sew them together to form a cube or round shape. Leave an opening to stuff the pouf with old clothes, fabric scraps, or beanbag filling, then stitch it closed.
Choose a fabric with a bold print to add character and color to your space. This lightweight ottoman is easy to move around and makes a charming seat or footrest for any corner of your home.
#14 Upcycle Old Books into Ottomans
This creative ottoman idea gives a second life to old books while adding a unique conversation piece to your home. Instead of letting unused books collect dust, you can stack them tightly together and transform them into a sturdy base.
Secure the stack with straps or glue to keep it from shifting. Add a firm cushion or upholstered pad on top, and you instantly have a functional and stylish ottoman.
You can even cover the books with clear varnish for extra durability and shine. This project is not only practical but also a fun way to showcase your love for reading in your home décor.
#15 DIY Pallet Ottoman
This DIY pallet ottoman is the perfect blend of rustic charm and comfort. By repurposing a wooden pallet, you can easily build a sturdy base that doubles as storage if you leave the lower section open.
Sand the pallet smooth, paint or stain it in a color that matches your room, and then add a thick cushion on top for comfort. You can sew your own cover with fabric that suits your style or buy a ready-made cushion to keep it simple.
Attach casters to the bottom if you want the ottoman to be mobile and easy to move around. This project is affordable, fun, and creates a cozy focal point for your living space.
#16 Recycled Plastic Bottle DIY Ottoman
Who knew empty plastic bottles could turn into such a creative piece of furniture? This ottoman is made by arranging bottles tightly together, securing them with tape or rope, and then wrapping them with foam for comfort.
Once you add a fabric or faux leather cover, it instantly transforms into a modern and stylish cube. To make your own, start by collecting bottles of the same size so the base feels even.
Then, add a thick cushion layer on top before sewing or stapling the cover in place. It’s budget-friendly, eco-conscious, and gives you a lightweight ottoman that’s easy to move around your home.
#17 Wooden Box DIY Ottoman
If you’ve got an old wine crate or sturdy wooden box lying around, this idea turns it into a charming ottoman with storage. The box provides a solid base, and all you need to do is add a padded cushion on top for comfort.
To create your own, start by sanding the box so it looks neat and smooth. Attach small legs or casters to the bottom if you’d like to move it easily.
Then, make a cushion by wrapping foam in fabric and securing it with a staple gun or strong adhesive. The finished piece gives you a rustic yet polished ottoman that doubles as extra storage.
#18 Suitcase DIY Ottoman
An old suitcase can become a stylish ottoman that also tells a story. The hard shell provides a ready-made base, and with just a little work, you can turn it into something practical and eye-catching.
To make one, add four sturdy legs to the bottom for support. Then, place a padded cushion on top of the suitcase and secure it with fabric that matches your decor.
You can even use the inside for hidden storage, making it as functional as it is beautiful. This project adds vintage character to your living space while giving you an extra seat or footrest.
