Making a footstool from a coffee table is a great way to upcycle an old piece of furniture and create a functional addition to your living space. With a few simple steps, you can transform a coffee table into a comfortable footrest that can also serve as extra seating or storage. 
To begin, select a sturdy coffee table that is the right size and shape for your footstool. You will also need some basic tools and materials, including foam padding, fabric, a staple gun, and some decorative trim if desired. Once you have gathered your supplies, you can get started on the transformation process. For more details, check out this guide on making a footstool out of wood. One of the key steps in making a footstool from a coffee table is upholstering the top with foam padding and fabric. This will provide a comfortable surface for resting your feet and create a cohesive look for the piece. With a little bit of creativity and some basic DIY skills, you can create a unique and functional footstool that will be a great addition to your home decor.
Understanding the Basics
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iaec7lmdFzU&embed=true
Distinguishing a Coffee Table from a Footstool
Before we begin, it’s important to understand the difference between a coffee table and a footstool. A coffee table is a low table that is typically placed in front of a sofa or armchair and used for holding drinks, snacks, and other items. A footstool, on the other hand, is a small upholstered piece of furniture that is designed to be used as a footrest. When making a footstool from a coffee table, it’s important to ensure that the table is sturdy enough to support the weight of a person’s feet. Additionally, the table should be low enough to the ground so that it can be comfortably used as a footrest.
Materials Needed
To make a footstool from a coffee table, you will need the following materials:
- Coffee table
- Upholstery foam
- Batting
- Fabric
- Staple gun
- Scissors
- Sewing machine (optional)
The type of fabric you choose will depend on your personal preference and the overall aesthetic of your space. It’s important to choose a durable fabric that can withstand regular use and is easy to clean. When selecting upholstery foam, it’s important to choose foam that is dense enough to provide adequate support but not so dense that it becomes uncomfortable to rest your feet on. In addition to these materials, you may also need additional tools such as a measuring tape, ruler, and pencil to ensure that your footstool is the correct size and shape.
Preparation Steps
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ash7bTP-_pA&embed=true Before starting the process of making a footstool from a coffee table, it is important to prepare and plan the project thoroughly. In this section, I will outline the preparation steps required to ensure a successful project.
Measuring the Coffee Table
The first step in preparing for this project is to measure the coffee table that will be used as the base for the footstool. Measure the length, width, and height of the coffee table, and record these measurements. If the coffee table has raised edges, make sure to measure the height of the edges as well.
Planning the Design
Once the measurements have been taken, it is time to plan the design of the footstool. Consider the style of the room where the footstool will be placed and choose a fabric that complements the room’s decor. It is also important to decide on the size and shape of the footstool. Next, create a list of materials required for the project, including the fabric, foam padding, batting, and any hardware needed to attach the footstool to the coffee table. It may also be necessary to purchase additional tools, such as a staple gun or fabric scissors. Finally, create a rough sketch of the footstool design, including measurements and fabric choices. This will help to ensure that the project stays on track and that all necessary materials are purchased before beginning the project. By taking the time to measure the coffee table and plan the design of the footstool, the project will be much more likely to succeed. With these preparation steps completed, it is time to move on to the next phase of the project: creating the footstool.
Execution Process
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8s4ulin076Y&embed=true To execute the footstool project, I followed these two main steps:
Assembling the Footstool
- First, I gathered all the necessary materials, including an old coffee table, foam padding, batting, fabric, and tools like a staple gun, scissors, and measuring tape.
- Next, I removed the legs of the coffee table and sanded it down to remove any rough edges.
- I then measured the top of the table and cut a piece of foam padding to fit. I added batting on top of the foam to give it extra cushioning.
- I wrapped the fabric around the foam and batting, making sure it was tight and secure. I then stapled the fabric to the underside of the table, starting in the middle and working my way outwards.
- Once the fabric was secure, I reattached the legs to the coffee table.
Finishing Touches
- To add some extra flair to my footstool, I decided to add some decorative touches. I used a hot glue gun to attach some decorative trim to the bottom of the table.
- I also added some decorative buttons to the top of the footstool by sewing them onto the fabric.
- Finally, I added some non-slip pads to the bottom of the legs to prevent the footstool from sliding around on my floors.
Overall, this project was a fun and easy way to upcycle an old coffee table into a functional and stylish footstool. With a few basic materials and some creativity, anyone can create their own unique footstool that perfectly fits their style and needs.
Maintenance Tips
As someone who has made a footstool from a coffee table, I know how important it is to keep it in good condition. Here are some maintenance tips to help you keep your footstool looking great:
- Clean it regularly: Use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean your footstool regularly. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the fabric or wood.
- Protect it from spills: To prevent stains, use a waterproof cover or cloth to cover your footstool when you’re not using it. If a spill does occur, clean it up immediately with a damp cloth.
- Rotate the cushions: If your footstool has cushions, rotate them regularly to prevent uneven wear and tear. This will help your footstool last longer and maintain its shape.
- Check the legs: Check the legs of your footstool regularly to make sure they’re secure. If they’re loose, tighten them with a screwdriver or contact a professional to repair them.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade the fabric or wood of your footstool. To prevent this, keep your footstool out of direct sunlight or use curtains or blinds to block the sun.
By following these maintenance tips, you can keep your footstool looking great for years to come.
