Upcycling a Strandman Poof into a Stylish Piano Stool

Updated at: 17/05/2025

Tired of your old Strandman poof gathering dust in the corner? Imagine transforming that humble, often overlooked piece of furniture into a stunning, bespoke piano stool, a stylish addition to your home and a testament to your creativity. This project showcases the power of upcycling, breathing new life into something discarded and transforming it into a functional and aesthetically pleasing piece. The satisfying blend of practicality and design makes this a rewarding DIY endeavor, perfect for those seeking a unique and personalized touch for their music room or home studio.

This guide will take you through a detailed, step-by-step process of upcycling a Strandman poof into a sophisticated piano stool, complete with helpful tips and tricks along the way. From assessing the poof's condition to choosing the right upholstery and adding finishing touches, we'll ensure your transformation is both successful and enjoyable, leaving you with a piece you’ll be proud to display.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
Safety Guidelines
  • Always disconnect the power supply to any electrical components within the Strandman poof before starting any modifications. Improper handling can lead to electric shock.
  • Use appropriate safety equipment such as gloves and eye protection when using sharp tools or working with potentially harmful materials. Be mindful of sharp edges on the poof's frame.
  • Ensure the final piano stool is structurally sound and stable before using it. Properly secure all attachments and ensure the height is suitable to prevent falls.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Poof

    • Remove staples and corner bits from the Strandman poof to prepare for leg attachment.
    • Peel off the existing fabric cover, leaving the foam padding.
    • Trim the excess foam padding to achieve a flat top surface.
    Trim the excess foam padding to achieve a flat top surface.Trim the excess foam padding to achieve a flat top surface.Trim the excess foam padding to achieve a flat top surface.
    Prepare the Poof

  2. Cover the Top

    • Cut a new fabric piece to cover the top, tuck it in, and staple it to the base.
    Cut a new fabric piece to cover the top, tuck it in, and staple it to the base.
    Cover the Top

  3. Create and Attach Side Panels

    • Create side panels using new fabric pieces, attaching piping/cord and studs.
    • Attach the side panels, tucking and stapling them for a clean finish.
    Attach the side panels, tucking and stapling them for a clean finish. Attach the side panels, tucking and stapling them for a clean finish. Attach the side panels, tucking and stapling them for a clean finish.
    Create and Attach Side Panels

  4. Attach the Legs

    • Attach the legs using wood glue and screws, ensuring stability.
    Attach the legs using wood glue and screws, ensuring stability. Attach the legs using wood glue and screws, ensuring stability.
    Attach the Legs

  5. Refine the Finish (Optional)

    • Create 3D-printed caps for the leg bottoms for a flush fit.
    Optional: Create 3D-printed caps for the leg bottoms for a flush fit.Optional: Create 3D-printed caps for the leg bottoms for a flush fit.
    Refine the Finish (Optional)

Read more: DIY Piano Bench Cushion: A Comfortable Upgrade

Tips

  • Consider the amount of fabric needed; leftovers may be unsuitable for covering the entire stool.
  • A simpler, flat-top design might be easier than a Chesterfield style if you lack sufficient fabric.
  • Use battens to raise the bottom if needed for leg attachment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrectly Assessing the Strandman Poof's Structure

Reason: Not properly evaluating the poof's internal frame and materials before starting the upcycling process can lead to structural instability in the finished piano stool.
Solution: Carefully examine the poof's construction to ensure it can support the weight of a person before proceeding with modifications.

2. Neglecting Proper Height and Seat Stability

Reason: Failing to accurately measure and adjust the poof's height to meet the standard piano playing height or not adequately securing the seat can result in an uncomfortable and unsafe piano stool.
Solution: Use accurate measurements to ensure the correct height and reinforce the seat base for optimal stability.

FAQs

What kind of upholstery fabric is best for a piano stool made from a Strandman poof?
Durable fabrics like vinyl, faux leather, or heavy-duty cotton are ideal. They need to withstand regular use and potential spills. Consider a fabric with a subtle texture or pattern to add visual interest without being distracting.