Do you adore the look of faux fur? I confess, I have a secret passion for it! I’m the person who eagerly searches the remnant bin at the fabric store, hoping to find any and all furry fabrics. I may not always have a specific plan for them, but they’re simply so much fun to have! Right now, the faux fur pouf is definitely trending, but some of the more stylish options available for purchase can easily cost over $100. As the back-to-school season approached, I challenged myself to find a way to create one of these delightful and furry ottomans without breaking the bank. Read on to discover how I made this one for less than $40!
The key to keeping this pouf project affordable lies in the treasure trove of your local thrift store. If you’ve ever purchased foam, pillow forms, or stuffing, you’re already aware of how quickly those materials can drain your budget. Determined not to spend a fortune on filling, I ventured to my nearest thrift store with the intention of repurposing some textiles.
The pouf’s filling consists entirely of old bedding that I acquired for just $7. You might even find that you have enough unused bedding tucked away in your own home to stuff your ottoman completely free of charge! Almost any textile will work: comforters, pillows, old towels, and more. Check your closets for linens that are ready for retirement, and supplement your collection with a trip to Goodwill or the Salvation Army if needed.
Materials You’ll Need
- Faux fur fabric (1.5 yards with at least a 36-inch width) – Choose a color and texture that complements your decor. Consider a high-quality faux fur for a luxurious feel.
- Felt (18 inches with at least an 18-inch width) – The felt will serve as the base of your pouf, providing stability and structure.
- Old bedding – Repurpose comforters, pillows, towels, or blankets to fill the pouf. This is a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to give these items a new life.
- Polyester fiber filling – Use polyester fiber fill to even out the shape and add extra cushioning, especially in the corners and edges.
- Sewing machine and notions – Essential for assembling the pouf, including thread, scissors, pins, and a measuring tape.
- Upholstery thread (a little tougher than regular thread) – Upholstery thread is stronger and more durable than regular thread, making it ideal for sewing the pouf closed and ensuring it can withstand regular use.
Step 1: Prepare the Felt Base
To begin, cut a square piece of felt measuring 18 inches in length and 18 inches in width. This square will form the bottom of your ottoman, providing a sturdy and stable base.
Step 2: Cut the Faux Fur Squares
Using the felt square as a template, cut five additional squares from your faux fur fabric. This will give you a total of six squares – one felt square for the base and five faux fur squares for the sides and top.
Step 3: Assemble the Pouf Shell
Now, it’s time to assemble the shell of your faux fur pouf. The ottoman is cube-shaped and composed of six squares. You’ll sew each side together one at a time. Start by sewing one of the furry panels to the felt panel, which will serve as the bottom.
Pin the fabrics together with right-sides facing each other. Since faux fur backing can be slippery, use plenty of pins to keep the fabric from shifting. Use a straight stitch 1/2 inch from the edge to join the pieces together. Begin the seam 1/2 inch away from the top and end 1/2 inch from the bottom. Continue using this method to join the panels together, as illustrated below.
The diagram above shows which sides should be sewn together, but it doesn’t dictate the order in which you sew them. You’re free to sew the sides together in any order you prefer. The key is to go slowly and double-check that you’re sewing the appropriate panels together to form the cube shape.
Remember to leave one side of the felt panel open for stuffing. Once all the sides (except this one) have been sewn together, turn the shell of the faux fur pouf inside out. This will conceal the seams and give the pouf a finished look.
Step 4: Stuffing the Pouf
Now comes the fun part – filling the pouf! The density of your pouf will depend on how much filling you use. The more tightly packed the materials, the firmer the pouf will be. You can fill the pouf with a variety of materials, such as old blankets, towels, pillows, and more. To ensure an even shape, fill any holes and corners with polyester fiber fill. This will give your pouf a smooth and consistent appearance.
Experiment with different types of filling to achieve your desired level of comfort and support. For a firmer pouf, use denser materials like tightly rolled towels or blankets. For a softer, more plush pouf, use more polyester fiber fill or shredded foam. The possibilities are endless!
Step 5: Closing the Pouf
Using upholstery thread, stitch the opening along the bottom of the pouf closed. Be sure to use a strong and durable stitch to prevent the pouf from bursting open with use. A blind stitch or a whip stitch are good options for creating a seamless and secure closure.
And that’s it! Your DIY faux fur pouf is complete. Step back and admire your creation – a stylish, comfortable, and affordable addition to your home decor.
I simply love this squishy, furry cube! And I’m thrilled with how affordable it was to make. Are you as obsessed with faux fur as I am? Let me know in the comments below! What color or type of faux fur would you use for your own pouf? Would you change anything about the design or construction? I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas!
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this DIY faux fur pouf is also incredibly versatile. Use it as a footrest, an extra seat, or even a side table in your living room, bedroom, or home office. Its lightweight design makes it easy to move around and adapt to your changing needs.
Moreover, this project is a fantastic way to reduce waste and embrace sustainable living. By repurposing old bedding and using thrift store finds, you’re giving new life to materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill. It’s a win-win situation for your wallet and the environment!
This DIY faux fur pouf project is not only budget-friendly and environmentally conscious but also a great opportunity to unleash your creativity and personalize your home decor. With a little time, effort, and imagination, you can create a unique and stylish piece that reflects your personality and adds a touch of warmth and comfort to any space.
Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a complete beginner, this tutorial is designed to be easy to follow and accessible to all skill levels. So gather your materials, fire up your sewing machine, and get ready to create your own fabulous faux fur pouf!
And if you’re looking for even more creative ideas and inspiration, be sure to explore the vast world of DIY home decor projects. From simple crafts to more elaborate undertakings, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and transform their living spaces into personalized havens.
The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to DIY home decor. With a little bit of ingenuity and resourcefulness, you can create stunning pieces that are both functional and beautiful, all while staying within your budget and expressing your unique style.
So don’t be afraid to experiment, try new things, and let your imagination run wild. The journey of DIY home decor is an exciting and rewarding one, filled with endless opportunities to learn, grow, and create a home that truly reflects who you are.
Happy crafting, and I can’t wait to see the amazing faux fur poufs you create! Remember to share your finished projects with me in the comments below or on social media. I’m always eager to see what you come up with!
If you’re looking for more great sewing projects, check out this collection of Simple Sewing Projects for All Skill Levels.
Looking to decorate your room beyond a faux fur pouf? Check out 10 more DIY dorm decor ideas!
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