This dated ottoman leaps from dull to delightful as verdant vinyl gives way to purple plush and polka dots.

Here's how:
1. Remove the original cover to use as an approximate guide for the new one. If necessary, now is a good time to replace the worn foam and batting with new.

2. To assure a snug fit chose fabrics with a bit of stretch - lightweight twill and denim in white and three shades of purple. Cut and piece squares from the different fabrics so when sewn together in a strip they fit around the top third of the ottoman. For the bottom two-thirds cut a rectangle from lavender fabric to the same length as the pieced strip and add an extra 10cm to the width for wrapping underneath the ottoman. With right sides together, sew the pieced strip and lavender rectangle together lengthwise, then sew the ends together to form a tube.

3. For the top, trace the circumference of the ottoman, adding 12mm for a seam allowance, and cut a circle that size from purple fabric. With right sides together, sew the circle to the pieced tube, clipping the seam allowance around the curve when finished.

4. For the decorative circles, iron Heavy Duty fabric fusing to the back of each fabric colour. Trace the circles on paper and cut them out. One at a time peel the paper backing from a circle, centre it in a square on the ottoman cover, and iron in place. When all circles are ironed on, slip the new cover over the ottoman, pull the extra 10cm of lavender fabric snugly underneath, and secured it in place using a staple gun.

Design Tips:
To complete the look, make small throw pillows from matching fabrics and more iron-on circles.

Use your ottoman for more than just a footrest. It can provide an extra seat when entertaining or serve as a snack table during movie night.