DIY: File Storage Ottoman

On instagram, I asked if you would like to see a video on how I made this DIY File Storage Ottoman? Many of you said yesss! I posted this DIY on the blog last year and since then I’ve been geting a lot of comments and questions on how I did it.  So let me show you.

 

Photo Credit (Ballard Design)

This Ballard Designs file storage ottoman was my inspiration for creating my own. It’s beautiful and very functional. There ottomans are expensive. The prices range anywhere from $221-$550, depending on the size and the fabric choice. Personally, I would never pay that. I love the concept but not the price. So, I chose to make my own version.

This is a quick file storage that I use daily. Then when it gets full I transfer my files to the larger file. This works for me. I came up with a better way to hang my files. Here I used curtain rods, which I found moves around a lot. I have a much better solution.

 

First find an ottoman with storage. The standard letter size hanging file is 11-3/4”W x 9-1/4”H. I recommend taking your hanging file with you while you shop to make sure you have the right fit. I purchased my ottomans from Ross Stores for only $40 each.

 

 

 The supplies you will need:

• 3/16 inch x 36 inch Round Bar
• 4  2” Mending Plates
• 4  8 3/8″ Pan Phillips Wood Screws
• Blue Painter’s Tape
• Bolt Cutter ( Local Hardware Store )

 Filing Set up: (You will need 2 people for this step)

First, measure where the brace will go, screw in the first brace. Be sure to make a pilot hole so you won’t split the wood. Next, hold the rod and other brace. Place the rod then drill the screw in the second brace. REPEAT the same steps on the other side.

 To make the message board: (optional)

 Here are the Materials:

• Fabric (your choice)
• No sew glue
• Foam board
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors
• Staple gun

Start by measuring the inside lid. Take your measurements and cut out your foam board from the measurement.

Take your fabric, cut out and leave about 1” to 1  1/2 inch over lap. Hot glue the fabric to the foam board.

Next, Take your ribbon, lay out which pattern you would like to use. You can choose diagonal or squares. It’s your choice.

After you have your pattern layed out staple the ribbon to the foam board. Hot glue your embellishments to cover the staples.

 

Your almost done! Take the finished board and use your no sew fabric and glue to the lid or you can staple the board to the lid.  I find using this glue adheres better than hot glue.

 

 It’s been almost a year and it’s still holding strong…..