A custom cushion is a gift people use every day: the window seat they finally sit in, the hallway bench that gets comfortable, the breakfast nook that stops being hard wood. The catch is that it has to fit. Here is how to get it right when the cushion is for someone else.
Step 1: get the measurements without spoiling the surprise
- Width side to side, and depth from the wall to the front edge of the seat.
- For a bay window, measure each section separately. Our bay window seat guide shows how.
- If you cannot measure in secret, ask a partner or roommate to do it, or give a gift note and let them order with the measurements later.
Our full guide on how to measure for custom cushions covers the details.
Step 2: pick a fabric for how they live
| If they have... | Choose |
|---|---|
| A cat or dog that owns the window seat | Anti-scratch crystal velvet |
| Kids, or a seat by the kitchen | Waterproof chenille or vegan leather, which wipe clean |
| A reading nook | Faux lambswool or Dutch velvet for a soft, warm seat |
| A neutral, airy room | Linen-look fabric |
| A porch or patio bench | Waterproof Oxford |
Not sure about color? Neutral greys, creams and soft greens fit most rooms. Or order fabric samples for free first. More detail in our cushion fabric guide and best fabric for cats and dogs.
Step 3: choose the thickness
For a seat used every day, 2" to 3" is the safe pick. A 4" cushion feels plush and makes a great reading spot, as long as it still clears the window sill. See how thick should a bench cushion be.
Other gift ideas
- A replacement cushion cover with a zipper, to refresh a cushion they already have.
- Custom-cut foam for a DIY upholstery project.
When to order for the holidays
Every cushion is made to order in 1–3 business days and ships within 3–7 business days. That can add up to about two weeks, so for a Christmas gift we suggest ordering by December 10. Ordering earlier gives you room to spare.
Browse all custom cushions.
