🛋 Bench Cushion Size Calculator
Calculate bench cushion top size, cover cut size, and fabric yardage for a snug bench fit
| Cushion Size | cushion thickness | 1 Cushion | 2 Cushions | 4 Cushions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16″ x 16″ | 2″ | 0.75 yd | 1.5 yd | 3.0 yd |
| 18″ x 18″ | 3″ | 1.0 yd | 2.0 yd | 4.0 yd |
| 20″ x 20″ | 3″ | 1.25 yd | 2.5 yd | 5.0 yd |
| 24″ x 24″ | 4″ | 2.0 yd | 4.0 yd | 8.0 yd |
| 28″ x 28″ | 4″ | 2.5 yd | 5.0 yd | 10.0 yd |
| 48″ x 18″ | 4″ | 2.75 yd | 5.5 yd | 11.0 yd |
| 60″ x 20″ | 4″ | 3.25 yd | 6.5 yd | 13.0 yd |
| 24″ x 24″ | 6″ | 2.5 yd | 5.0 yd | 10.0 yd |
| Perimeter | cushion thickness | Strip Area (sq in) | Approx. Yards (54″ fabric) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64″ (16x16) | 2″ | 128 sq in | ~0.25 yd |
| 72″ (18x18) | 3″ | 216 sq in | ~0.35 yd |
| 80″ (20x20) | 3″ | 240 sq in | ~0.40 yd |
| 96″ (24x24) | 4″ | 384 sq in | ~0.60 yd |
| 112″ (28x28) | 4″ | 448 sq in | ~0.70 yd |
| 132″ (48x18) | 4″ | 528 sq in | ~0.85 yd |
| 96″ (24x24) | 6″ | 576 sq in | ~0.90 yd |
| 160″ (60x20) | 4″ | 640 sq in | ~1.0 yd |
| Cushion Size | Perimeter | Seams x2 + Join | Piping Yardage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16″ x 16″ | 64″ | 128″ + 12″ | ~1.55 yd |
| 18″ x 18″ | 72″ | 144″ + 12″ | ~1.78 yd |
| 20″ x 20″ | 80″ | 160″ + 12″ | ~1.89 yd |
| 24″ x 24″ | 96″ | 192″ + 12″ | ~2.33 yd |
| 28″ x 28″ | 112″ | 224″ + 12″ | ~2.78 yd |
| 48″ x 18″ | 132″ | 264″ + 12″ | ~3.11 yd |
| 60″ x 20″ | 160″ | 320″ + 12″ | ~3.67 yd |
To find the right size of bench cushion, start by measuring. Take a tape measure to check the length, the depth and the width of the bench chair. Because many forms are round, measure the broadest and deepest parts.
If the form has a bit of angle or curve, choose the shallowest measure for a good fit
How to Measure and Choose the Right Bench Cushion
Standard cushion sizes range from small 16-inch square seat cushions to big 96-inch long bench cushions. Some ready cushions are available in 24 different sizes, from 38 to 48 inches long and from 16 to 22 inches wide, in 2-inch steps. Commonly used sizes for outdoor forms are 42×18, 48×18 and 54×18 inches.
Another popular is 60×19 inches. Also sell separate seat cusihons in 24×24 inches.
Thickness matters a lot. Usually cushions are 2 to 5 inches thick. Bench cushions are best between 2 and 4 inches.
For good support, choose 2 to 3 inches thick. Window bench cushions commonly use 2-3 inches of foam. A 17-inch high form with 3-inch cushion is comfortable, because it compacts to around 18 inches.
HD36 high quality foam or Lux Foam works for that.
Talking about height, design the cushion so that the seat height reaches around 18 to 20 inches above the ground. Like this feet can rest comfortably on the floor. Furniture makers consider 18-20 inches ideal for a chair.
If the height already is low, use a slimmer cushion.
Here is a practical trick for a cushion in an opening. Measure the spaces and add a quarter inch on every side. Like this the foam a bit surpasses the area, which gives a nice fit.
Custom bench cushions are cut exactly according to length, width and thickness to the quarter inch, if the form is standard, curved, trapezoid or unique.
Bench cushions wider than 50 inches occasionally require a seam in the center, when you choose striped, decorated or ribbed fabrics. Recall that when choosing material. Custom service allows contrast trim for a nice final look.
An anti-slip bottom with silicone nubs stops sliding.
For DIY, cut board for the space, then cut and stick foam to size. Cover with upholstery fabric and clamp it below. IKEA KALLAX unit has the right height for a bench, and cushions or pillows on top improve comfort.
Pieces adapt to every desire.
One long cushion looks better on a bench than several small. For L-shaped forms, two cushions work, one straight and one L-shaped to cover the whole surface.
