How to Order Custom-Shaped Cushions: Templates, Tracings and Copying Old Covers

Updated October 2026 · By Sam K, Fabrica Kraft

Quick summary

To order a custom-shaped cushion (a curved bench, a rounded-back booth, a T or L shape, a connected chaise or a seat with notches for posts), choose the unique-shape option and send us one of three things: a full-size paper template, your old cushion or cover to copy, or a dimensioned drawing. We turn it into a spec sheet with a drawing for you to approve before anything is cut. Custom shapes take 5–6 weeks from when we receive your template (standard shapes take 2–3 weeks), and every piece is cut within ±0.5″ of the approved spec.

When do you need a template?

Rectangles, squares, circles and simple trapezoids can be ordered straight from our builders with a tape measure. Send a template when the shape can't be described with a few straight measurements:

• Curved or serpentine benches, including built-in concrete, stone or millwork seating
• Rounded-back and horseshoe booths, and banquettes that wrap a corner
• Angled ends, bay window seats and seats that taper from front to back
• Notches or cut-outs around posts, legs or columns
• Boat seats, and cushions for imported or discontinued furniture with no published sizes

If you're not sure, email a photo and rough sizes to care@fabricakraft.com and we'll tell you which option fits.

Option 1: Make a paper template

1. Use stiff paper. Kraft paper, builder's paper or taped-together poster board works. Avoid newspaper and anything that stretches.
2. Trace the seat, not the old cushion. Lay the paper flat on the frame or bench and trace the inside edge where the cushion will sit. Old cushions shrink and lose shape.
3. Mark the essentials on the paper: FRONT, the side for the zipper, notch positions, where ties go, and the thickness you want.
4. Check it. Trim the template, put it back in place and make sure it lies flat without bowing at the edges.
5. Add reference measurements. Write the overall length and depth on the template so we can check the paper didn't shift in transit.
6. Photograph it in place, then roll it (don't fold it) and ship it in a tube. We'll email you the address after you order.

For long benches, trace in sections and number them in order. We can make one continuous cushion or split it into sections; sections are easier to remove, wash and replace one at a time. See our banquette and booth measuring guide for seat and back diagrams.

Option 2: Send your old cushion or cover to copy

If the original cushion still fits well, we can copy it. This works well for hotel and resort furniture, imported pieces, and branded patio furniture where the original maker no longer supplies covers. Send one of each shape and tell us what to keep and what to change: fabric, foam, piping, ties or zipper position. We measure it, draw it up and send you the spec sheet to approve.

For popular brands we also have dedicated sizing pages, such as Brown Jordan, Tropitone and Frontgate replacement cushions.

Option 3: Send a dimensioned drawing

Contractors, millwork shops and architects often already have a CAD drawing or shop drawing of the seat. Send it as a PDF with the seat outline, radius or chord measurements for curves, and the cushion thickness. A drawing at true dimensions is as good as a paper template. If we have any doubt about a curve, we'll ask for a paper template of that section before cutting.

What happens after we get your template

1. Spec sheet and price. We draw the cushion, list the fabric, foam and finishing, and confirm the price. For unique shapes, any price difference from your original order is set once we've seen the template.
2. You approve. Nothing is cut until you approve the drawing, so this is the time to change sizes or options.
3. We make it. Custom shapes take 5–6 weeks from when we receive the template. Rush production is available for standard shapes, not custom ones, so allow time before opening day.
4. Fit guarantee. Every piece is cut within ±0.5″ of the approved spec sheet. If it's outside that, we remake it free.

Tips for commercial and multi-piece projects

• Order one piece first if the shape is complex or you're fitting many identical seats. A single fit sample costs far less than re-making 40 cushions.
• Number every template to match a seat plan, so cushions arrive labeled for the right spot.
• Choose zipper placement with cleaning in mind. Zippers along the back or hinged side keep covers removable for washing without showing from the front.
• Very long runs: a single piece of foam can be up to 92″ long, so longer benches are made in matched sections that butt together.

Planning a hospitality or property project? See restaurant banquette cushions, hotel and pool cushions, or send your brief through the bulk cushion enquiry page. Business buyers can also read lead times, samples and payment for business orders.

FAQ

Can you make cushions for a curved bench?

Yes. Send a paper template or a dimensioned drawing of the curve. We can make one continuous cushion up to 92″ long or matched sections for longer benches. Custom shapes take 5–6 weeks from when we receive the template.

How long do custom-shaped cushions take?

5–6 weeks from when we receive your template, compared with 2–3 weeks for standard shapes. Rush production isn't available for custom shapes.

Can you copy cushions from my existing furniture?

Yes. Send the old cushion or cover and we'll measure it, draw it up and send a spec sheet to approve. This works for branded, imported and discontinued furniture.

How accurate is the fit?

We cut every piece within ±0.5″ of the spec sheet you approve. If it's outside that, we remake it free.

Do custom shapes cost more?

Sometimes. Pricing depends on the size and complexity of the shape, so any difference is confirmed after we see your template and before you approve the spec sheet.