The lowly footstool has been steadily moving up in the world. Now popularly referred to as an ottoman, this oh-so mobile piece of furniture touts many forms and functions. Treat it as a coffee table, a cocktail table, a side table, a casual dinner-on-the floor table. Glide it over to the fireplace as a cozy seat for two. Use its level surface for playing board games or piecing a puzzle. And by all means, slide it up to the sofa, loveseat, or club chair, to elevate your feet.

This fun-to-place furnishing is fun to make too. We've provided a simple version using plywood, foam, and prefabricated wooden feet. We've also included instructions for a slipcover, which makes it easy to keep your ottoman clean and to give it a fresh look.

Buy the plywood and wooden feet at a home-supply store; purchase the foam, muslin, batting, slipcover fabric, and thread at an upholstery fabric store. You'll also need a staple gun, a drill, and maybe a pad and pencil to list all the other ottoman uses you'll dream up while putting it together.