Quick answer: Measure the seat surface in inches: width from side to side and depth from front to back, at the widest points. For a window seat or built-in bench, measure the depth at both ends and use the smaller number. Then pick a thickness: about 1 to 2 inches for chair pads, 2 to 3 inches for benches and window seats, and 3 to 4 inches for deep seating. Enter those numbers as the finished size of your cushion.
A custom cushion only looks right if it fits edge to edge. A cushion that is half an inch too wide bulges against the wall; one that is an inch too short slides around and leaves a gap. The good news is that measuring takes five minutes and a tape measure. Here is exactly how to do it.
What you need
- A metal tape measure (cloth tapes stretch).
- A pencil and paper, or your phone's notes app.
- For odd shapes: a large sheet of paper or cardboard to make a template.
Step 1: Measure the width
Measure the seat from side to side at the widest point, in inches. On a window seat or a bench between two walls, measure wall to wall at the front and at the back and use the smaller number, so the cushion drops in without forcing it. If the bench has arms, measure between the arms.
Step 2: Measure the depth at both ends
Measure from the back (wall or seat back) to the front edge of the seat. Do this at the left end and the right end. Walls and built-ins are often not perfectly square, and the two numbers can differ by half an inch or more. Use the smaller number so the cushion does not hang over the front edge.
Step 3: Choose a thickness
Thickness is mostly about comfort and how the cushion sits against the seat height:
| Use | Typical thickness |
|---|---|
| Dining chair pads | 1 to 2 in |
| Benches, window seats, breakfast nooks | 2 to 3 in |
| Deep seating, daybeds, reading nooks | 3 to 4 in or more |
Remember that a thicker cushion raises the seat. For a breakfast nook or dining bench, check that the seat plus cushion still sits comfortably below the table. Our custom size cushion and custom cut foam come in 1 to 4 inches, and the window seat cushion comes in 1.8, 2.6, 3.8 or 4.5 inches.
Step 4: Replacing a cover only? Measure the foam
If your foam is still in good shape and you only need a new cover, take the old cover off and measure the foam insert itself: width, depth and thickness. Old covers stretch and shrink over time, so their size is not reliable. Our custom cushion cover is sewn to the foam size you enter and fits cushions 1 to 10 inches thick. If the foam has gone flat, replace it with 70D cut foam or order a complete cushion.
Step 5: Odd shapes
For L-shaped benches, rounded corners, bay windows or cut-outs around posts, make a paper or cardboard template of the seat, then measure each side of the template and photograph it next to the tape measure. Send us the sketch through chat, at support@shademart.zendesk.com or by calling 888-777-2538 and we will quote it.
Pick a fabric for where the cushion lives
- Indoor everyday seating: imitate linen or chenille.
- A richer, cozy look: Dutch velvet, faux lambswool or vegan leather.
- Patio, porch or sunroom: waterproof Oxford.
- Kids and spills: waterproof chenille.
- Cats and dogs: anti-scratch PetOwner crystal velvet.
Colors look different on screen than in your room, so it is worth ordering the fabric sample set before a large order. For a fabric-by-fabric comparison, read our cushion fabric guide.
Common measuring mistakes
- Measuring only one end of a window seat. Always check both ends.
- Measuring the old cover instead of the foam. Covers stretch; foam does not.
- Adding extra "just in case". Enter the finished size you want. Extra width makes the cushion bulge.
- Forgetting the seat height. A 4 in cushion on a dining bench can push you too high for the table.
FAQ
Should I round my measurements up or down?
Round down to the nearest quarter inch for cushions that fit between walls or arms, so the cushion drops in without bowing. For a cushion on an open bench, use the exact measurement.
Can I use the cushion outdoors?
Yes, choose the waterproof Oxford fabric. It sheds spills and light rain. Bring the cushion inside during long rainy periods and over the winter to keep the foam dry.
Is the cover washable?
Yes. Every cushion has a heavy-duty zipper so the cover comes off for machine washing. Wash on a gentle cold cycle and air dry.
How long does a custom cushion take?
Every cushion is made to order in 1 to 3 business days and ships within 3 to 7 business days. Standard shipping is free to the 48 contiguous US states. Because each cushion is made to your size, custom items are final sale, so double-check your numbers before ordering.
