Updated on June 5, 2024
How to Make an Outdoor Pouf Ottoman. Learn how to sew a square pouf ottoman in the fabric of your choice. Can be used indoors or outside.
One of my favorite places in our new house is the front porch. I have always wanted a nice big covered front porch to sit and read and watch the sunsets. We have been getting a lot of use out of our front porch this summer.
We have the reupholstered glider and ottoman, along with my husband’s grandma’s rocking chair on the porch to sit on. I have been wanting a fabric ottoman to go with the rocking chair but they are pretty expensive.
I found an outdoor ottoman I liked at Target, but I didn’t want to spend $85.
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase something through the link, I may receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. Please read my full disclosure policy here. Thank you to Fairfield World for providing some of the materials for this post.
Supplies:
I found this fabric at Walmart, but Jo Ann’s often has sales on upholstery fabric, as well. You only need one yard or less for this project, depending on how big you want your ottoman to be.
You will need six equal size squares to create your ottoman cube.
My fabric is 54″ wide and 36″ long. I was able to cut out six 18″ squares using my rotary cutter, cutting mat, and ruler.
Then, start pinning and sewing. Sew each section with the right sides together. I suggest using an upholstery thread or an outdoor thread. This will help to ensure that your pieces don’t rip under the pressure.
Start by sewing four of the squares together in one long row.
I used a 1/2″ seam allowance and pressed each seam flat after sewing using my Cricut Easy Press Mini.
Once you have your long strip sewn, you will need to attach the other two squares to the second square in your line. See the diagram below. I color-coded which seams will be sewn together, as well as the order in which you will attach each side.
After you are done sewing and pressing your seams, you should have one giant piece of fabric in the shape of a lowercase t.
Related: Other Easy Sewing Tutorials
Now, start attaching the sides together to form a cube. Use plenty of pins to keep the edges lined up and press the seams flat after each side is done. Make sure to line up the outside of the seam with the new fabric side you are sewing.
For the last seam, be sure to leave a wide enough opening to turn the fabric right side out and for stuffing. Around 6 inches seems to be enough room to do both of these tasks easily.
Note: You could also completely hand stitch the final side. I wanted to make sure this ottoman was as secure as possible, and I know my sewing machine can create a stronger seam than I can hand stitching.
Once you have your pouf fabric turned right side out, add your desired filling. I used Fairfield World Poly-Fil Fiber Fill. This filling is perfect for using the ottoman solely as a footrest. It took two 32-ounce bags to completely fill my 18″ x 18″ x 18″ pouf.
You could also use Poly-Fil Bean Bag Filler (2 Cubic Feet for $39.99) in place of the Fiber Fill. This would be the best option if you want to also use your pouf as an extra seat.
I wanted to be able to flip my pouf around on any side, but you could also add Poly-Pellets on the bottom to give your ottoman more stability.
Hand stitch the opening closed and enjoy your new ottoman!
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This patio craft is part of the Fairfield World Summer Patio Party. The summer patio party is hosted by Me and My Inklings, Creatively Beth, and Bella Crafts. Thank you to Fairfield World for sponsoring the party! Some of your favorite crafters come together to create crafts around a specific theme! Be sure to check the other fun summer patio projects and enter to win a fun prize pack!
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arbaz says
Thanks for sharing nice informative and interesting post. This information are very useful.
shabaz ahmad says
this one is very good. keep it up bro.
ok says
Nice
Linda says
Thanks for easy to follow directions – was able to make a new outdoor ottoman/pouf using one yard of fabric. Appreciate your help!
Laura Silva says
So glad it helped! Have a great week. I would love to have you share your finished project in our Creative Community. https://www.facebook.com/groups/laurascraftylife
xo,
Laura
glad432 says
Thanks alot for this :)
Burke Junk says
Love this.
Laura Silva says
Thank you.
Residential says
This one is very good.
Delia says
it looks great but is it strong enough to handle a 220pound mama?
Laura Silva says
Delia,
If you are just putting your feet up, I would say yes! If you wanted to use this more as a seat, I would add Poly Pellets to the bottom and then really stuff the remainder tightly with Poly-Fil.
Laura