Measurement Guide

Getting the right measurements is crucial for a comfortable, well-fitting cushion. This easy-to-follow guide will help you measure your furniture accurately, ensuring your new Rulaer cushions fit perfectly the first time.

What You'll Need

Before you start measuring, gather these basic tools for accurate results:

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Measuring Tape

Flexible measuring tape works best for curved surfaces

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Notepad & Pen

Record all measurements as you go

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Smartphone

Take photos of your furniture for reference

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String (Optional)

Helpful for curved or irregular shapes

How to measure a dining chair for cushions

How to Measure Dining Chair Cushions

Measure the Width

Measure from one side of the chair seat to the other at its widest point. For chairs with arms, measure the inside distance between the arms.

Measure the Depth

Measure from the front edge of the seat to the back of the chair. For chairs with a curved back, measure to where the seat meets the back.

Determine the Thickness

Decide how thick you want your cushion to be. Standard dining chair cushions are usually 2-3 inches thick. For comfort without raising your seated position too high, 2 inches is often ideal.

Note Special Features

Check if your chair has rounded corners, a curved front, or requires ties to secure the cushion in place.

Pro Tip:

For dining chairs, cushions should be slightly smaller than the chair seat (about 1/2 inch on each side) to prevent overhang and ensure a clean look.

How to Measure for Bench Cushions

Measure the Length

Measure the entire length of your bench from end to end.

Measure the Width/Depth

Measure from the front edge to the back edge of the seating area.

Consider Thickness

For dining benches, 2-3 inches is standard. For window seats or reading nooks, 3-4 inches provides more comfort.

Account for Corners

Note if your bench has squared corners, rounded corners, or custom cutouts that should be reflected in the cushion design.

Important:

For built-in window seats or benches with walls on multiple sides, subtract 1/2 inch from your width and length measurements to ensure the cushion fits easily into the space.

How to measure a bench for cushions
How to measure deep seat cushions

How to Measure for Deep Seat Cushions

Measure Seat Width

Measure the width of the seating area from side to side.

Measure Seat Depth

Measure from the front edge to where the seat meets the back of the chair.

Measure Back Height

For the back cushion, measure from where the seat meets the back up to the top edge or desired height.

Measure Back Width

Measure the width of the back area, which may be different from the seat width.

Determine Thickness

Deep seat cushions are typically 4-5 inches thick for the seat and 2-3 inches thick for the back.

Standard Cushion Sizes Reference

While custom is always best for a perfect fit, here are some common standard sizes for reference:

Furniture Type Typical Width Typical Depth Recommended Thickness
Standard Dining Chair 16-18 inches 16-18 inches 2 inches
Kitchen Chair 15-17 inches 15-17 inches 1-2 inches
Dining Bench 14-18 inches 48-72 inches 2-3 inches
Window Seat 15-24 inches Varies 3-4 inches
Deep Seat Patio Chair 24-26 inches 24-26 inches 4-5 inches
Outdoor Chaise Lounge 21-25 inches 72-80 inches 3-5 inches
Bar Stool 12-15 inches 12-15 inches 1-2 inches
Rocking Chair 17-19 inches 17-19 inches 2-3 inches

How to Measure Unusual or Shaped Furniture

Measuring Round Seats

Measure the Diameter

Measure straight across the widest part of the circle.

Verify with Second Measurement

Measure across at a perpendicular angle to confirm it's truly round.

Measuring Curved or Irregular Shapes

Create a Template

Use paper, cardboard, or newspaper to create a template of the exact shape.

Trace and Measure

Trace the template onto paper and measure the dimensions at their widest points.

How to measure unusual shaped furniture for cushions

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I measure my existing cushions or the furniture itself?

We recommend measuring the furniture itself rather than old cushions, which may have compressed or deformed over time. This ensures your new cushions will fit perfectly.

How do I measure for cushions with ties?

Measure as normal for the cushion dimensions. For tie placement, measure from the front edge to where you want each tie, and from the side edge to each tie. Standard placement is 2-3 inches in from each corner.

What thickness should I choose for my cushions?

The ideal thickness depends on your furniture type and usage. Dining chairs work best with 1-2 inch cushions to maintain proper table height. Lounge seating is more comfortable with 3-5 inch cushions. Consider how the thickness will affect the overall seating height relative to other furniture.

Should my cushion be exactly the same size as my furniture seat?

For a clean, tailored look, we recommend making cushions approximately 1/2 inch smaller on each side than your furniture dimensions. This prevents overhang and creates a more finished appearance.

How do I measure for a boxed or welted cushion?

Measure the width and depth as normal, then decide on the desired thickness. For boxed cushions, we'll add the appropriate boxing strip to create clean, squared edges. If you want welting (piping), this will be included at the seams for a tailored finish.

Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

Not Measuring at the Widest Points

Always measure at the widest or longest points of your furniture to ensure proper fit.

Forgetting to Account for Arms or Edges

For chairs with arms, measure the inside width between arms, not the outside dimensions.

Not Considering Thickness Impact

Remember that thicker cushions will raise your seating height, which may affect comfort at tables or desks.

Only Measuring Once

Always double-check your measurements to avoid costly mistakes. Measure twice, order once!

Common cushion measurement mistakes to avoid
Rulaer measurement consultation service

Still Not Sure? Try Our Measurement Consultation Service

For complex shapes or if you're uncertain about your measurements, our experts are here to help. Our measurement consultation service includes:

  • One-on-one guidance with a cushion specialist
  • Review of your photos and measurements
  • Professional recommendations for your specific furniture
  • Guarantee that your custom cushions will fit perfectly
Schedule a Consultation
Ready to Order Your Perfect Custom Cushions?
Now that you know how to measure correctly, it's time to transform your furniture with comfortable, beautiful cushions made just for you. At Rulaer, we create premium custom cushions with expert craftsmanship and high-quality materials.

Use code PERFECT-FIT for 10% off your first order!

Measurement Tips Summary

  • Measure at the widest points for accurate dimensions
  • For a clean look, make cushions about 1/2 inch smaller than furniture on each side
  • Consider how cushion thickness will affect overall seating height
  • Take photos of your furniture to reference when ordering
  • When in doubt, round up to the nearest 1/2 inch
  • For cushions with ties, specify tie locations when ordering