IKEA Hack: Marius Stool

In this instalment of our IKEA hacks series, we look at how to revamp the much-loved Marius stool. A firm favourite thanks to its low cost, it invites customisation in all sorts of ways, from spray paint to custom seat elements. If you'd rather keep it simple, the Marius stool can be easily upholstered to your taste, all on a small budget without compromising on quality.

Which foam for the seat?

There are various types of foam to consider for the seat top. As the stool is firm plastic, we recommend a thin high-density polyurethane foam cut to the exact seat dimensions using our cut to size tool. If you're happy for the cushion to be thicker, perhaps as part of your design, a medium or medium-high density foam of greater thickness works well. For a plush, luxurious feel, memory foam is also an option, though for best results order a high-density polyurethane base topped with a thin memory foam pad.

How to upholster a Marius stool

1. To change the leg colour, unscrew the seat, prime the legs with a plastic- and metal-safe primer, apply your spray paint, and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
2. Order foam at least 33cm by 33cm and 5cm deep, place the seat on it, trace around leaving 1cm extra at the outer edge, and cut out the circle with a craft knife.
3. Place a 20cm by 20cm piece of foam board (also known as Foamcore) over the screw holes on the seat's underside, and make matching holes to align with them.
4. Place the seat on the foam cut-out, then on the underside of your chosen 1m by 1m fabric sheet, ready to upholster.
5. Gently fold the fabric in around the circle, trimming excess as you go, and use a staple gun to fix it, scrunching to tighten it close to the stool shape. Neaten the edges, then reattach the legs through the fabric, foam board and original seat.

Using faux fur

If you'd like a plush material such as faux fur, consider ordering a domed circular piece of foam to give the seat added dimension. Faux fur can be notoriously difficult to secure, so it's worth affixing it with both a staple gun and fabric glue if it isn't stitched to the furniture. For another seating project, see our guide to the IKEA foam bench, or browse our circular bar stool foam.

For personal help ordering upholstery foam cut to size, please contact one of our friendly advisers.

Frequently asked questions

What foam should I use for a Marius stool seat?

As the stool is firm plastic, a thin high-density polyurethane foam cut to the seat dimensions works well. For a fuller cushion, use a thicker medium or medium-high density foam, or for a plush feel, a high-density base topped with a thin memory foam pad.

How do you upholster a Marius stool?

Cut foam (at least 33cm square and 5cm deep) to the seat plus a 1cm margin, add a 20cm foam board over the screw holes, wrap it all in a 1m fabric sheet stapled taut, then reattach the legs through the fabric, board and seat.

Can you use faux fur on a stool?

Yes. For added dimension, consider a domed circular foam piece. Faux fur is notoriously difficult to secure, so fix it with both a staple gun and fabric glue, or stitch it to the furniture.