Stow and Go

Don’t toss out an old throw pillow just because it’s past its prime—repurpose it into a useful storage footstool that’s a perfect addition to a living room seating arrangement. Many pillows have a removable cover with a zipper on the back, which makes it easy to create this piece.

Choose a wood box or crate relative to the size of your pillow. Add a set of decorative legs using the appropriate hardware, both available at home improvement or hardware stores. Install decorative handles on opposite sides of the box.

Attach a large round button in the center of the pillow by sewing from the front of the cover completely though to the back of the pillow insert.

Cut a piece of sanded plywood 1/4" smaller than the inside dimensions of the box. Insert the cut piece of wood into the back of the pillow cover through the zippered opening, center on the pillow, and zip the cover closed (see photo below). Place the pillow on top of the box, pushing the wood piece down until the pillow rests on the box frame. Place the finished piece near your favorite chair. It’s ideal for resting your feet, but remember that it’s probably not sturdy enough to use as a seat.