How to Measure Fabric for Sofa Cushions
- 1). Determine if the sofa cushions need replacement foam or padding. If so, purchase the replacement material and include its depth in the calculation of all fabric measurements.
- 2). Decide if the entire cushion will be covered with the same fabric or if a cheaper fabric will be used for the area that is not seen. That would include the underneath side and bottom one-third of the sides and back.
- 3). Choose whether to make standard or reversible cushions. Keep in mind reversible cushions offer twice the staying power. However, non-reversible cushions make the best use of fabric by allowing splicing to take place on the underneath side.
- 4). Measure the width of the sofa cushion from side to side including any replacement foam or padding. Add 3" to 4" to each side for precaution as well as seam allowance.
- 5). Calculate the thickness of the sofa cushion from top to bottom including any replacement foam or padding. Add 3" to 4" to the measurement as a precaution as well as for seam allowance.
- 6). Measure the complete length of the sofa cushion from front to back including any replacement foam or padding. Measure L-shaped cushions from the edge of the L to the the opposite side. If the couch is curved or has one or more cushions that are longer than the others, use the longest cushion for measuring length. Add 3" to 4" to the measurement as a precaution and for seam allowance.
- 7). Calculate how much of the total measurement is for the top portion of the cushion including two-thirds down each side and back. Subtract that measurement from the overall total. This will determine how much upholstery fabric that will be seen is required as well as how much cheaper fabric can be used.
- 8). Add an extra 4" to 7" of extra fabric in every measurement for fabrics that require alignment such as patterns, plaids, or stripes.
- 9). Cut out a soft cushion pattern using brown paper, muslin or other cheap fabric. Wrap each pattern form around the intended cushion. Double check to make certain the overall measurements are correct. If so, move to the next step. If not, go back to Step 4 and begin again until the pattern dimensions work properly.
- 10
Write down and take the written measurements and pattern forms with you to purchase fabric. This will help you determine the best upholstery fabric for the job to be done. Keep measurement requirements for patterned fabric separate from those of plain fabrics to avoid purchasing more material than necessary.