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Old car tyres have long been a favourite for homemade, outdoor garden swings, but they can also be used in indoor décor. We’re sharing a step-by-step guide to transform a tired tyre into a chic sisal ottoman. Use it as a side table, low seat or a footstool.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 
On the MDF panel, measure 300mm from each end and the sides to mark the centre of two circles that will be just over 590mm in diameter.
On the length of pine, measure 155mm from one end and centre a hole using an 8mm drill bit. From the other end, measure 50mm to centre a hole using a 4mm drill bit.
Use a 20mm screw to secure the pine to a centre mark through the hole closest to the end. Put a pencil through the hole on the opposite side and push the pine to mark out a circle; repeat on the other end of the panel.
Position the panel on a stable surface to cut the circles with a jigsaw, ensuring there is unobstructed space for cutting underneath.
Position the four pieces of framing timber evenly inside the tyre. Centre one of the circle cut-outs on top.
Secure the circle cut-out to each timber with two 40mm screws.
Flip it over to centre and secure the remaining circle cut-out. Round over both circle cut-outs using a random orbital sander to smooth off any sharp edges.
Apply adhesive to the end of the sisal rope and the centre of the top circle cut-out, securing with three 20mm screws, ensuring they’re flush with the surface. Leave to dry.
Begin coiling the sisal rope over the screws to create a tight coil that will neatly cover the circle cut-out. Work in sections of five rounds of rope. Apply adhesive first in a zigzag pattern and then coil. Hold each section with masking tape and leave to dry for about five minutes, or until the adhesive becomes tacky and holds the rope.
Work over the circle cut-out and down the side of the tyre, flipping the assembly over at halfway to work towards the base. About 10 rows under, cut the rope, apply adhesive to the end and secure with a 20mm screw, leaving to dry thoroughly before use.
Photo credit: Sam van Kan and Larnie Nicolson.
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
