Skip to main content
  • Custom Cushion Experts
  • Any Size
  • Any Color
  • Any Shape
  • Loved by 75,000+ Homes

How to Measure Your Cushions

Custom cushions only work if the measurements are right. This guide walks you through measuring every shape we make, from a simple rectangle to a fully custom template.

Before You Start

  • Measure the furniture, not the old cushion. Cushions that are sagging or misshapen won't give you an accurate measurement.
  • Measure edge to edge across the area where the cushion will sit.
  • Pick your thickness. Seat cushions and pads come in 2 to 12 inches, in 1-inch increments. Choose based on comfort and how the cushion will be used.
  • Write every measurement down in inches as you go, and label which side is which.
Diagram showing length and width measurements on a rectangle cushion

Rectangle & Square Cushions

  1. Measure the length and width of the area where the cushion will sit, edge to edge.
  2. Choose your thickness (2–12 inches, in 1-inch increments) based on comfort and intended use.

Note: Don't measure a cushion that's sagging or misshapen; it won't give you an accurate size.

Diagram showing the diameter measurement across a round cushion

Round / Circle Cushions

  1. Measure the diameter from one edge to the other, passing through the center point.
  2. Choose your thickness (2–12 inches, in 1-inch increments).
Diagram showing length, top width and bottom width on a trapezium cushion

Trapezium Cushions

  1. Measure the length from the middle, perpendicular to the top and bottom edges.
  2. Measure the bottom width from the widest edge, then the top width across the opposite side.
  3. Measure the thickness, based on your old cushions or the comfort level you want.
Diagram showing length, widths and ear extension on a T-shape cushion

T-Shape Cushions

  1. Measure the length from the middle, perpendicular to the top and bottom edges.
  2. Measure the top width from the widest edge, then the bottom width across the opposite side.
  3. Measure the thickness, based on your current cushions or the comfort level you want.
  4. Record the "ear" or extension, measuring from the top edge.
Diagram showing length, widths and ear extension on an L-shape cushion

L-Shape Cushions

  1. Measure the longest side of the cushion as the length.
  2. Measure the bottom width from the widest edge, then the top width from the opposite side.
  3. Choose your thickness, based on your old cushions or the comfort level you want.
  4. Record the "ear" or extension, measuring from the bottom edge next to the bottom width.
Diagram showing the side measurement on an equilateral triangle cushion

Equilateral Triangle Cushions

  1. All three sides are equal, so measure the length of any one side.
  2. Choose your thickness, based on your old cushions or the comfort level you want.
Diagram showing the two perpendicular sides on a 90 degree triangle cushion

90° Triangle Cushions

  1. Find the two perpendicular sides. Measure one as the length and the other as the width.
  2. Choose your thickness, based on your old cushions or the comfort level you want.
Diagram showing how to measure a throw pillow top to bottom and left to right

Throw Pillows

  1. Hold the top and bottom corners and gently pull the fabric tight.
  2. Measure from top to bottom along the edge of the pillow.
  3. Hold the left and right corners, pulling the fabric tight.
  4. Measure from left to right along the edge of the pillow.
Diagram showing length, height, top width and bottom width on a chaise lounge cushion

Chaise Lounge Cushions

  1. Measure the length, bottom width, height and top width of the chaise, edge to edge.
  2. Choose your thickness (2–12 inches, in 1-inch increments), depending on the cushion or pad you select.

Note: Don't measure a cushion that's sagging or misshapen; it won't give you an accurate size.

Tracing paper template being made for a custom shape cushion

Custom Shapes

If your cushion isn't one of the shapes above, make a paper template. Stuck? Our customer support team can walk you through it.

  1. Use tracing paper or chart paper large enough to cover the cushion area. If the area is too big for one sheet, tape several together into a single piece.
  2. Carefully trace along the edges of the area, using a ruler or freehand.
  3. Label each side with its measurement.

Comfort, Customized for You

Ordering cushions with ZIPCushions is straightforward. This short video walks you through building a cushion that fits your needs.

Why Order With Us

Custom shape cushion made to a customer template

Custom shapes

Choose from our pre-defined shapes, or send us your own. If you have a shape that isn't listed, message us and we'll help you create it.

Stack of cushion fabric swatches in different colours and textures

A fabric range to match any room

Indoors, outdoors, boats or vans, there's something here for every setting. We carry velvets, faux leather, faux linen, satins, acrylics and more.

Custom cushions with piping and tie detailing

Unique requests

We offer personalization such as ties and piping, and every cushion comes with a zipper opening so it's easy to remove the cover. Need Velcro snaps or branding? Talk to us and we'll make it happen.

Ready to Order?

Measurements in hand? Pick your shape, fabric and foam, and we'll build it to size.

Still deciding on materials? See our Foam Guide and Materials pages, or call +1 720-627-7225.