Looking to upcycle something big, bold, and built to last? These DIY car tyre stools are the perfect blend of sustainability, function, and creativity.
With just a few tools, some upholstery materials, and a discarded car tyre, we can create a stylish seat that keeps waste out of landfills and brings character into any room.
Why This Plan Works
- Eco-friendly reuse: Keeps tyres out of landfills
- Affordable materials: Uses scraps and common tools
- Customizable look: Choose your own fabric and style
- Sturdy and durable: Reinforced interior frame
- Functional and decorative: A unique stool with seating or storage potential
What You Will Need
Materials:
- 1 old car tyre
- 3 pieces of plywood (cut to fit)
- Heavy-duty faux leather fabric
- Additional fabric (outer wrap)
- 4 oz polyester wadding
- 2-inch thick foam
- Spray adhesive
- Furniture legs or feet (e.g., from old sofas)
- Staples
- Screws
- Felt (for base)
Tools:
- Staple gun
- Jigsaw
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Utility knife
- Pencil
Step 1: Measure the Tyre
Measure the inner diameter of your car tyre, then add about 1 inch (25mm) to ensure the plywood rests snugly on the inner lip.
Step 2: Cut the Plywood Circles
If you don’t have a large compass, create your own with a nail, string, and pencil. Mark a circle based on your measurement and cut out two identical discs using a jigsaw.
Step 3: Build the Internal Frame
Cut four pieces of 2×3 (50mm x 75mm) wood to fit between the two plywood discs. Attach them to one disc using 1.5-inch screws to create a solid frame. This reinforcement allows for secure leg attachment later.
Step 4: Insert Frame into the Tyre
Place the plywood-and-wood frame into the tyre, aligning it so that it sits securely inside without wobbling.
Step 5: Add Wadding
Using spray adhesive, apply 4 oz polyester wadding to the sides and top edge of the tyre. This helps smooth out imperfections and gives a softer finish for the upholstery layer.
Step 6: Create the Padded Seat
Cut a third plywood circle the same size as the others. Attach 2-inch foam to the top using spray adhesive. Trim excess foam with a hacksaw blade or utility knife for a clean edge.
Step 7: Upholster the Seat
Lay heavy-duty faux leather over the foam-covered seat. Stretch and staple it evenly onto the plywood underside, smoothing out wrinkles and cutting away extra material for a tidy finish.
Step 8: Cover the Tyre with Fabric
Choose a fabric that suits your décor. Wrap it tightly around the tyre, aligning any patterns if necessary. Use iron-on hem tape for clean seams, then hand-stitch for added durability. Slide the cover over the tyre and staple the edges inside the top opening.
Step 9: Attach the Seat
Flip the upholstered seat upside down. Place the tyre frame on top, then screw through the plywood into the base of the seat from inside the tyre—this keeps screws hidden.
Step 10: Finish the Upholstery
Attach the third plywood disc to the base. Add wadding over it, stretch the bottom edge of your fabric, and staple it tightly in place. Trim any loose or bulky areas.
Step 11: Add a Felt Base
Staple a black felt circle to the bottom to cover the construction and create a professional, clean appearance.
Step 12: Fit the Legs or Feet
Repurpose feet from old furniture or buy a new set. Three legs are ideal for stability on uneven ground. Screw them into the reinforced base with 30mm screws.
Note: If you want a storage version of this stool, modify the internal support frame to be removable or hinged.
Other Details Display
- Seat Foam Thickness: 2 inches
- Internal Support Size: Four pieces of 2×3 wood
- Plywood Count: Three circles total
- Top Fabric Type: Heavy-duty black faux leather
- Outer Fabric Source: IKEA (or similar material)
- Tools Required: Jigsaw, staple gun, spray adhesive
- Base Finish: Black felt
- Optional Variation: Leave tyre visible or turn into storage
Summary
This upcycled DIY car tyre stool transforms a waste product into a stylish and functional piece of furniture.
It’s easy to customize, surprisingly durable, and a great weekend project for anyone who wants to add eco-conscious flair to their home. Give it a try and see how creative you can get!
This plan is a contribution by [eamonwalshdiy]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here. If you have a plan to share, we welcome your submissions!
