What Size Papasan Cushion Do I Need?

A papasan chair is only as comfortable as the cushion sitting in it. A cushion that is too small slides around and exposes the frame. One that is too large bunches up and won't settle into the bowl. Getting the size right is what turns a papasan into the coziest seat in the house.

The good news is that measuring a papasan frame is simple once you know where to put the tape.

Why Papasan Sizes Vary So Much

Papasan frames are not built to one standard size. Some are compact enough for a kid's room or a dorm, while others are wide enough for two people to curl up together. The depth of the bowl also varies from one frame to the next. That is why the safest approach is always to measure your own chair rather than rely on a size printed on an old tag.

How to Measure a Papasan Frame

1. Remove the old cushion. Take it out so you can see the bare frame.
2. Measure across the top rim. Run your tape straight across the bowl from the outside edge of the rim on one side to the outside edge on the other, passing through the center. This is the diameter.
3. Measure a second direction. Turn 90 degrees and measure again. Some frames are slightly oval. If the two numbers differ, note both.
4. Check the bowl depth. Lay a straight edge across the rim and measure down to the lowest point of the bowl. This helps you judge how thick a cushion the frame can hold.
5. Note anything unusual. Write down any spots where the rim dips, any hardware that sticks up, or a back that rises higher than the front.

Measure in inches and round to the nearest half inch.

Why You Measure Across the Rim

A papasan cushion doesn't sit flat on top of the frame. It drapes down into the bowl and curves up the sides. Measuring rim to rim, rather than only the flat bottom, accounts for that curve. The finished cushion fills the bowl and reaches the edge, so you never feel the rattan or wood frame under your arms.

If your old cushion fit well, you can also measure it as a check. Lay it flat and measure straight across the center. If it matches your rim measurement closely, you can feel confident in the number.

Choosing the Right Thickness

Thickness changes how the chair feels more than almost anything else.

• Thinner cushions sit closer to the frame and keep the classic bowl shape crisp. They suit shallow frames and anyone who likes a firmer, more upright seat.
• Thicker cushions feel plush and nest-like. They suit deep bowls and long afternoons with a book.

Our papasan cushions can be made up to 60 inches across and up to 6 inches thick, so there is room to match a snug single chair or an oversized double. If your bowl is shallow, a thinner cushion will settle in more naturally. If it is deep, you can go thicker without the cushion feeling crowded.

Picking the Foam

Indoors, High Density foam gives a medium, everyday feel, and Luxury foam is firmer. A thicker cushion feels softer and more nest-like. If your papasan lives on a covered porch, patio, or sunroom where it may get damp, Dry Fast foam drains water and suits outdoor use.

Picking the Fabric

For indoor chairs, velvet and faux leather add a rich, finished look, and Warwick fabrics offer plenty of colors and textures. For a sunny spot or outdoor seating, Sunbrella is the practical choice. It is a solution-dyed acrylic that holds its color in the sun and resists mildew.

Every cover is zippered, so it comes off the foam when you need it to.

Quick Sizing Checklist

• Diameter measured rim to rim, through the center
• Second measurement taken at 90 degrees
• Bowl depth noted
• Thickness chosen to suit the bowl and how you like to sit
• Foam and fabric chosen for indoor or outdoor use

Ready to Order?

Bring your measurements to our papasan chair cushion builder. Enter your diameter and thickness, choose your foam and fabric, and you'll see the price as you build. Your cushion is made to your exact size, most orders ship in 2–3 weeks, and shipping is free.