How to create a wooden shoe storage ottoman

How to Create a Wooden Shoe Storage Ottoman

A wooden shoe storage ottoman is a stylish and practical piece of furniture that serves a dual purpose: it functions as a comfortable seat or footrest while offering valuable hidden storage for shoes and accessories. Whether you want to keep your entryway neat or create extra seating in a living room, this DIY project will guide you through creating a functional and attractive wooden shoe storage ottoman.

Here’s how you can build one yourself:

Materials and Tools Required

Materials:

• 1-inch thick plywood (for the base and sides)
• ½-inch thick plywood (for the top and dividers)
• Foam padding (2-3 inches thick)
• Upholstery fabric (your choice of color/pattern)
• Wood screws
• Wood glue
• Hinges (2-3)
• Upholstery staples or a staple gun
• Stain or paint (optional, for finishing)

Tools:

• Saw (circular or jigsaw)
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Staple gun
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Sandpaper
• Paintbrush (if staining/painting)
• Clamps

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Pieces

Before you begin cutting your wood, measure the space where you plan to place the ottoman to ensure the right fit. Typically, a shoe storage ottoman will be about 18-20 inches tall, 24-30 inches wide, and 15-20 inches deep, but you can adjust these dimensions to fit your needs.

1. Cut the Base and Sides: Start by cutting the plywood for the base and four sides. You’ll need one piece for the base and four pieces for the sides, two of them being the length of the ottoman and two being the height (depth).

   • For example, if you’re making a 24×16-inch ottoman, you’ll cut:
     • 1 base piece (24×16 inches)
     • 2 side pieces (24×16 inches)
     • 2 end pieces (15×16 inches)

2. Cut the Top Piece: The top piece should be slightly larger than the base. This will be the lid that opens, so you’ll want a good overlap to create a clean edge. Cut the top to the dimensions of your base plus an inch on all sides. For a 24×16 base, your top piece will be 26×18 inches.

3. Cut Dividers (Optional): If you want to add dividers inside the storage compartment to organize your shoes better, measure and cut strips of ½-inch plywood. These can be the same height as the sides of the ottoman and will run along the inside, splitting the space into smaller sections.

Step 2: Assemble the Frame

1. Attach the Sides to the Base: Use wood glue and screws to attach the side pieces to the base. Begin with the long side pieces (the ones you cut at 24 inches) and screw them into the base. Use wood glue along the edges where they meet the base to ensure a strong bond. Then, attach the shorter end pieces (the ones cut at 15 inches).

   • Tip: Drill pilot holes before driving in the screws to prevent splitting the wood.

2. Add the Dividers (Optional): If you decided to use dividers, attach them at this point. Use wood glue and screws to secure the divider pieces inside the box. Arrange them based on how you want the internal sections to be.

3. Check for Stability: Ensure everything is square and stable. Use clamps if needed to hold pieces in place while the glue dries.

Step 3: Prepare and Attach the Top Lid

1. Attach Hinges: Position the hinges along one side of the ottoman. Ideally, these should be placed at the back, allowing the lid to lift open with ease. Screw the hinges into place on both the lid and the base. If the lid overlaps the base, make sure the hinges are installed so the lid will open and close smoothly.

2. Add the Foam Padding: Lay your foam padding on top of the lid. Use a utility knife to trim it to fit the shape of the lid. This will provide extra comfort for when the ottoman is used as seating.

3. Upholster the Top: Once the foam padding is in place, stretch the upholstery fabric over the foam and secure it tightly with a staple gun. Start stapling from the center of each side and work your way out to avoid wrinkles. Fold the corners neatly like wrapping a gift, and staple them securely.

   • Tip: Pull the fabric tightly to ensure a clean, smooth finish. If you’re using a patterned fabric, make sure it’s centered.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Sand and Finish the Wood: Sand all the exposed wood surfaces until they are smooth. If you prefer a natural wood look, apply a stain or wood finish of your choice. This step will protect the wood and enhance the grain.

2. Attach the Lid with Hinges: Once the finish is dry, attach the lid to the base using the hinges. Ensure the lid opens and closes easily.

3. Optional: Add Feet or a Decorative Element: If you want to add some height or style to the ottoman, you can attach wooden feet to the base of the ottoman. Simply screw in pre-made furniture feet or create your own by cutting small pieces of wood into blocks.

Step 5: Enjoy Your New Wooden Shoe Storage Ottoman

Once your ottoman is assembled, you now have a functional and attractive piece of furniture that serves as both a storage unit and extra seating. Store your shoes inside, and use the top as a comfortable place to sit or rest your feet.

Final Thoughts

Building a wooden shoe storage ottoman is a rewarding project that not only adds storage but also enhances the look of your home. The best part is that you can customize the design, fabric, and finish to fit your personal style and home decor. Whether you need to store shoes in your entryway, keep them out of sight in your living room, or add extra seating to your bedroom, this piece of furniture will do the trick!

For more woodworking projects and step-by-step guides, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.