Creating a unique piece of furniture doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity and some basic materials, you can craft a stylish rope ottoman that adds a coastal flair to your living space. This DIY project transforms a used tire into a functional and eye-catching accent piece. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making your own rope ottoman, from preparing the base to adding the finishing touches.
Materials Needed for Your Rope Ottoman
Before diving into the project, gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need.
Essential Tools
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Drill with screwdriver bits
- Hot glue gun
- Caulking gun
- Palm sander
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or marker
Required Materials
- Used tire (cleaned and sanitized)
- Two pieces of plywood (cut to size)
- ⅜-inch manila rope (amount varies based on tire size)
- Construction adhesive
- Hot glue sticks
- Caulk
- Flathead screws
- Wood furniture feet (four)
- Sandpaper
Preparing Your Tire Base
We’re using an old tire for the foundation of our rope ottoman. It’s an easy way to recycle something you or a friend may already have lying around. Start by thoroughly cleaning the tire to remove any dirt, grime, or road debris. Use a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to scrub the tire inside and out. For a deeper clean, you may want to rinse off yours with diluted bleach. This extra step ensures your ottoman base is sanitary and odor-free.
You’ll then need to create a smooth surface. Inspect the tire for any sharp edges or protruding wires and remove them carefully. Use caulk to fill in the tire treads, creating an even surface for the rope to adhere to. Allow the caulk to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Constructing the Ottoman Frame
With your tire prepped, it’s time to build the frame that will transform it into a sturdy ottoman.
Cutting and Attaching Plywood Circles
First, measure the diameter of your tire. Cut two circles of plywood one and a half inches smaller than the tire’s diameter. Sand the edges of the plywood circles with a palm sander to create a slight taper. Position one plywood circle on top of the tire and one on the bottom. Secure the plywood to the tire using six flathead screws for each circle, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
Adding Furniture Feet for Height
To elevate your ottoman to coffee table height, choose four wood furniture feet, which can be found at most home centers. Mark the positions for the feet on the bottom plywood circle, ensuring they’re evenly spaced. Pre-drill holes for the feet to prevent splitting the wood. Screw the feet into place, making sure they’re securely attached.
Wrapping the Ottoman
The rope wrapping is what gives this ottoman its distinctive coastal look. This step requires some patience and attention to detail.
We recommend a manila rope because it’s durable and has a natural appearance. The amount of rope needed depends on the size of your tire, so it’s best to buy more than you think you’ll need to avoid running short.
Gluing Techniques for Secure Attachment
Begin by spreading a layer of construction adhesive on the plywood surface. Then, use a hot glue gun to secure the end of the rope to the center of the plywood.
Start coiling the rope tightly around the center point, using hot glue to secure each round. Continue wrapping and gluing until you reach the tire’s edge.
Wrap the rope around the sides of the tire, maintaining tight coils. Once you reach the bottom, secure the end of the rope with hot glue and trim any excess. Allow the glue to dry completely before using your ottoman.
Finishing Touches and Styling Your Ottoman
Your rope ottoman is nearly complete, but a few final touches can elevate its appearance and functionality. Consider personalizing your homemade ottoman with decorative accents, such as tying your rope into nautical knots, adding a braided rope trim, or incorporating rope handles for easy moving.
Adding Cushioning (Optional)
For added comfort, consider creating a cushioned top. This involves cutting a circle of high-density foam to fit the top of your ottoman. Cover the foam with fabric that complements your decor. Secure the cushion to the ottoman using velcro strips for easy removal and cleaning.
Tips for Customizing Your Ottoman
While natural manila rope offers a classic look, you can experiment with different colors. You can paint the rope before wrapping for a bold, solid color. Or, use dip-dye techniques to create an ombre effect. You could also mix colored ropes for a striped or patterned appearance.
You can customize the size as well. Use a smaller tire for a compact ottoman or side table. Choose a larger tire to create a statement piece or coffee table. Stack two tires for a taller ottoman or unique storage solution.
Creative Alternatives To Enhance Your Rope Ottoman
Adding to your rope ottoman’s functionality and style can make it even more versatile. Here are some ideas.
Storage Solutions
Make your rope ottoman storage-friendly by adding a hinged top. Use piano hinges to attach the plywood circle to the tire. Ensure the fit is snug to keep dust out. Use the space inside the tire to store items such as magazines, toys, or throws.
Convertible Designs
Consider a design that allows your ottoman to serve multiple purposes. Add a removable tray to the top, converting the ottoman into a serving table when needed. You could also incorporate a lift-top mechanism, making your ottoman useful as a small workspace or dining surface.
Eco-Friendly Options
Go green by choosing sustainable materials. Opt for eco-friendly manila rope made from renewable resources. Select reclaimed wood for your plywood circles. Use organic and nontoxic adhesives to ensure your project is environmentally friendly.
Styling Your Rope Ottoman
Your new rope ottoman can be styled many ways to blend with your home décor. Below are some ideas to inspire you.
Coastal Living Room
Create a serene and inviting coastal living room by pairing your rope ottoman with neutral colors, such as whites, beiges, and soft blues. Nautical-themed accessories such as seashells, driftwood art, and maritime-inspired throw pillows also pair well.
Rustic Charm
To incorporate your rope ottoman into a rustic-themed room, use warm, earthy tones and wooden furniture pieces. Accent with vintage items such as old lanterns, weathered signs, and repurposed wood. Add cozy throw blankets and pillows in natural, textured fabrics.
Modern Aesthetic
Enhance a modern space with the unique texture of your rope ottoman. Choose sleek, minimalist furniture with clean lines. Opt for a monochromatic color palette, adding subtle pops of color through accessories. Use metallic accents such as brass or chrome for a touch of sophistication.
Combining these design elements can help your rope ottoman stand out as both a functional piece and a decorative focal point.