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Mom of two Geneva Vanderzeil is constantly finding surprising ways to turn would-be messes into decorative magic, particularly when it comes to kids’ accessories. Inspired by a photo she saw years ago on Pinterest, the DIY maven just tackled her most impressive transformation yet: hiding a mini trampoline inside a custom pillow-top ottoman. “I love the mix of nostalgia, play, and practicality,” Vanderzeil says. “Trampolines are such an eyesore but so good for you as a daily practice, and perfect for giving kids something to do. This is a great project for making them look so much nicer!”
Vanderzell’s two-piece fabric cover is ingeniously simple: a skirt, which covers the trampoline’s frame, springs, and legs, and a large round pillow-top that can be plopped over the frame, transforming it into an ottoman. “I wanted this project to feel playful and achievable,” Vanderzeil says, assuring readers that if they can sew a basic seam and are comfortable using a sewing machine, they will be able to replicate her design.
The topper initially gave Vanderzeil pause, as she couldn’t decide whether to go for a hard foam pillow—the standard on many real ottomans—or a more plush feel. Since this ottoman is anything but ordinary, and already whimsically oversized, she went for a squishier fill by stuffing the case with a polyester stuffing. Now the mini trampoline doubles as a comfortable lounge for the kids when they’re watching TV. And with its pleated skirt and custom fabric, the disguise truly looks like an expensive ottoman—no one would ever know it’s hiding such a fun surprise. Lots of DIY projects are satisfying, but this one pretty much comes with bragging rights.
Vanderzeil’s DIY resonated strongly with viewers when she posted it, far outpacing her other videos in terms of views. “I think people are craving projects that spark joy,” Vanderzeil says. “This one is playful, a little bit silly, completely charming, and practical enough to justify making it.” If you already have a mini trampoline, create a cover to give it a second use.
For anyone ready to head to their local fabric store, Vanderzeil’s entire pattern and instructions for this DIY can be found in her collection of online sewing courses. And if you’re charmed but not up for a huge sewing project, stay tuned: Vanderzeil is looking into fabricating her design so you can buy it.