How to Turn a Thrifted Stool Into a Colourful Woven Masterpiece

Colourful stool next to a beige curtain and window — Maca Atencio

Are you ready to give a second-hand stool a makeover that’s so spectacular it looks much harder than it actually is? In this DIY project, we’re going to show you how to completely revamp an old stool using a simple woven method. The silver lining is that this DIY only requires nylon belt straps, so it’s truly so simple (and fun to do!)

@hgtvcanada
Up-cycling will always go hard 🫶 #upcycling #reupholsteredfurniture #diyreupholster #thriftflip

♬ original sound – Empire State Building

Let’s dive in and start giving this old piece of furniture a new colourful new life, shall we?

Tools required to make a colourful stool DIY — Maca Atencio

Materials Required:

A thrifted stool
Rolls of nylon belt straps (various colours)
Wood staple gun
Staples
Fabric glue
150 grit sandpaper
Scissors
Exacto knife

An exacto knife taking the seat off of an old thrifted stool — Maca Atencio

Step One: Prepping the Thrifted Stool

Before we begin, here are some tips on selecting the perfect thrifted stool:

First, consider the overall style you want and where you will place it in your home
When you are shopping, test the stool’s stability, durability and the material. Is it wood? Metal?
Measure the height and the exact dimensions to ensure it will fit in your space

The thrifted stool we chose was covered in suede, so using an exacto knife we removed the suede and cut the fabric off which exposed the beautiful wood base.

If it’s necessary, you can give the stool a once-over with 150 grit sandpaper. Be sure to remove the dust after you finish.

Progress being made on an old stool that is receiving a makeover using colourful nylon straps — Maca Atencio

Step Two: Weaving the Stool Base

When it comes to weaving a stool, you can use different materials depending on the look you want to achieve. Consider materials like rattan, jute, cotton cords and nylon belt straps – the last choice being our pick for this colourful project. Nylon belts are very durable, flexible and they’re available in various fun colours.

Start the weaving process by attaching your first nylon strap in the corner of the base using a wood staple gun. Tense the nylon and when you reach the other side of the stool staple it onto the base. Repeat this process by stapling vertical nylon belt straps in alternating colours until you’ve finished covering the stool.

Close-up image of a repurposed stool using colourful nylon straps — Maca Atencio

Step Three: Create a Pattern

Once your thrifted stool base is covered with the nylon belt straps, you can have fun creating a pattern. We chose to weave the nylon belt straps over and then under, making sure to always alternate the different colours. For each strap you weave, add pressure and tighten them to maintain tension during the process. Finish by wrapping and trimming the nylon straps and adding a bit of fabric glue to secure them underneath the base.

Close up shot of a repurposed stool using colourful nylon straps — Maca Atencio

And voila… that’s it! Can you believe we transformed this thrifted stool into a colourful and modern accent piece that easily? We’re positive this repurposed beauty will steal the spotlight in your living room or little one’s nursery.