Footstool Makeover: From Neutral to Knockout

I found this footstool labeled “FREE” outside a home in the neighborhood.

I don’t usually grab furniture roadkill, but the owners were clearly in the middle of a major move and giving away tons of good furniture. Who am I to pass that up? This gem had potential for something creative in its future.

Step One: The Frame

I unscrewed the cushion from the base and gave the frame a good sanding with 120 grit. Since the finish was glossy, it needed to be scuffed up a bit for the new paint to adhere properly.

Then I applied a couple of coats of “Black Noir” from Farmhouse Paint®. Since I was using a very dark paint, it wasn’t necessary for me to use primer first.

Step Two: The Cushion

I removed the cream fabric from the foam, which involved prying out dozens of staples on the underside. Fortunately, the decorative trim along the edges consisted of strips meant to look like individual studs, so I could pull it up in one piece instead of having to remove studs one by one.

The foam was still in great condition, so all I needed to do was add a fresh striking fabric. I rummaged through my collection of upholstery fabric and found a perfect remnant from a previous chair project (https://serendipitysequels.com/?p=43).

I wrapped the fabric around the foam and attached it to the bottom of the cushion base using my favorite tool, my Surebonder® pneumatic staple gun. Then I added custom piping I created from the same fabric between the cushion and the frame for the finishing flourish.