How to Measure Odd Shaped Outdoor Cushions

Not every cushion is a simple square or rectangle and that’s where custom truly matters.

If your outdoor furniture has angled fronts, curved backs, trapezoid shapes, T-cushions, or fully rounded corners, measuring carefully is the key to a cushion that fits beautifully instead of “almost.”

The good news? Odd shapes are completely manageable when broken down into simple steps. In this guide, we’ll show you how to measure accurately and when creating a paper pattern is the smartest move.

Step 1: Start With the Frame (Always)

Just like standard cushions, always measure the furniture frame first, not just the old cushion.

Old cushions can:

• Compress

• Stretch

• Lose shape

• Be slightly oversized from the manufacturer

Your frame gives you the true usable dimensions.

Step 2: Break the Shape Into Simple Lines

Most “odd” cushions are really just combinations of basic shapes.

Examples:

Trapezoid Cushion

• Front width

• Back width

• Depth (side measurement)

Angled Front Cushion

• Back width

• Depth at center

• Depth at corners

T-Cushion (common on deep seating)

• Full back width

• Front projection width

• Projection depth

Rounded Corners

• Measure straight section length

• Estimate corner radius

• Or create a paper template (recommended)

Write every measurement to the nearest 1/4 inch.

Step 3: Measure Thickness

Odd shapes still need standard thickness decisions:

• 3"–4" for dining

• 4"–6" for deep seating

• Match surrounding cushions for visual alignment

Thickness impacts proportion, especially with curved or projected fronts.

Step 4: When to Make a Paper Pattern (Highly Recommended)

For complex curves, angles, or built-in spaces, creating a pattern is often easier and more accurate than trying to calculate dimensions.

You can create a pattern:

• From the frame surface

• From the old cushion (if it still holds shape)

Use kraft paper, contractor paper, or taped-together printer sheets.

We have a separate detailed guide on how to create a cushion pattern step-by-step, including marking seam allowances and orientation.

If your shape feels complicated a pattern eliminates guesswork.

Step 5: Identify Cushion Orientation

For angled or asymmetrical cushions:

• Is there a left and right version?

• Does the shape mirror itself?

• Is it centered or directional?

Label your measurements clearly:

• “Left arm facing”

• “Right arm facing”

This prevents costly confusion later.

Step 6: Tie Placement & Attachment Points

Odd shapes sometimes require creative tie placement.

Common scenarios:

• Ties on angled sides

• Bottom-mounted ties

• Extra ties for stability

• No ties but recessed frame

While our website does not allow custom tie placement selection during checkout, that does not mean it cannot be done.

If your odd-shaped cushion requires:

• Specific tie placement

• Extra ties

• Unusual attachment points

Send us:

• Photos of the frame

• Marked tie locations

• Measurements or pattern

We can special order custom placement when needed.

Common Mistakes With Odd Shapes

• Measuring diagonally instead of straight lines

• Guessing curve radius

• Not labeling left vs right orientation

• Forgetting seam allowance when making a pattern

• Assuming the old cushion shape is perfectly accurate

Quick Odd Shape Measuring Checklist

* Measure the frame surface
* Break shape into simple lines
* Record widths and depths separately
* Confirm orientation (left/right)
* Decide thickness
* Create a pattern if needed
* Take photos