How to Measure for Custom Cushions

Getting the right fit starts with accurate measurements. Follow this guide to measure your outdoor furniture frames before placing your order.

Always measure the frame, not an existing cushion — old cushions may have compressed or shrunk.

Measure twice. Even a small difference can affect fit, especially on shaped or contoured frames.

Note any curves, notches, or tie-hole locations — include them in your order notes.

What You'll Need

A measuring tape.
A notepad or phone to record measurements
A helper for large pieces like chaise lounges or benches
Good lighting so you can see the frame edges clearly

Seat Cushions

Seat cushions sit on the horizontal surface of your chair or sofa frame. Measure the open area where the cushion will sit.

Width: Measure the base of the seat left to right. If armchair measure from inside edges of armrest.

Depth: Measure from the front edge of the seat frame to the back rail.

Thickness: It is recommended that you measure your actual cushions seam to seam thickness not overall thickness.

Custom Shapes: For Custom shapes request guidance from our team providing photos of frame.

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Loveseats & Sofas: If measuring a loveseat, divide the total width by 2 to get the width of each individual seat cushion. For sofas, divide the total width by 3.

Back Cushions

Back cushions attach to or rest against the vertical back frame of your chair or sofa.

Width: Measure the base of the seat left to right. If armchair measure from inside edges of armrest.

Height: Measure from base of seat to the top of back rest frame rail.

Thickness: It is recommended that you measure your actual cushions seam to seam thickness not overall thickness.

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Important: We recommend deducting seat thickness from back height measurement to avoid back cushion overlapping your chair frame too much. Once you deduct seat thickness, add 1-2 inches for a small overlap. Example: if height measured is 26" and seat thickness is 5", your recommended cushion height is 22"–23".

Chaise Cushions

Chaise cushions are long, full-length cushions that cover the entire reclining surface of a chaise lounge.

Width: Measure the inside width of the chaise frame at its widest point.

Length: Measure the full length of the chaise frame from the top of the head section to the bottom of the foot section.

Hinge / Break Point: If your chaise has an adjustable back, measure the length of the lower flat section and the upper reclining section separately.

Thickness: Chaise cushions are typically 3" to 4" thick for comfort over long use.

Bench Cushions

Bench cushions cover the full seat of an outdoor bench. Measure the entire seating surface.

Width: Measure the full width of the bench seat from end to end left to right.

Depth: Measure from the front edge to the back edge of the seat surface.

Thickness: If your seating allows it we recommend 3" thick for extra long benches. For bench seats for loveseat, sofas or smaller benches we recommend measuring your cushions actual thickness seam to seam not overall thickness.

Special Shapes: We recommend requesting guidance by our staff for any special shapes.

Ottoman Cushions

Ottoman cushions top a square or rectangular ottoman frame. Measure the top surface of the frame.

Width: Measure the top of the ottoman frame from inside edge to inside edge, left to right.

Depth: Measure the top of the ottoman frame from edge to edge, front to back.

Thickness: We recommend measuring your cushions actual thickness seam to seam and not its overall thickness.

Shape: Note if your ottoman is square, rectangular, round, or has a shaped top, include a photo in your order notes if possible.

Still Not Sure? We're Here to Help.

If your furniture has an unusual shape, multiple sections, or you're just not confident in your measurements, reach out before you order. We'd rather help you get it right the first time.

Ready to Order Your Custom Cushions?

Once you have your measurements, head to our shop to choose your Sunbrella fabric and place your order — handcrafted in the USA and shipped to your door.

Shop Custom Cushions