Marine & coastal
How to Measure Boat Cushions and Make a Template
How to measure boat seats, bow cushions and V-berths, and when to make a paper template instead of using a tape measure.
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Very few boat cushions are simple rectangles. Bow seats curve with the hull, V-berths taper to a point, and helm seats have angled sides. A tape measure works for straight cushions; for everything else, a paper template is the most reliable way to get the shape right.
Quick answer: Measure straight boat cushions along the back and front edges, then the depth at each end and in the middle. For curved bow seats, V-berths and sun pads, make a paper template of the exact shape. Choose marine vinyl or waterproof Sunbrella fabric, with dry-fast foam so water drains straight through.
Straight cushions: cockpit benches and helm seats
- Length: measure along the back of the seat and again along the front edge.
- Depth: measure from back to front at each end and in the middle.
- Thickness: measure your old cushion, or decide how high you want to sit relative to the gunwale.
If the ends are angled, note the length at the back and at the front, and the depth, and we can cut a tapered shape.
Curved cushions: bow seats and sun pads
For anything that follows the curve of the hull, make a template:
- Lay heavy paper, kraft paper or thin cardboard over the seat base.
- Trace the outline with a marker, pressing into the corners.
- Mark which side faces up, which edge faces the bow, and where any cleats, cup holders or hatches sit.
- Cut the template out and test it on the seat before sending measurements.
Measure the finished template at its widest and longest points and at several points along the curve, then share those numbers and a photo of the template with your order.
V-berths
A V-berth is a triangle or trapezoid that narrows toward the bow. Measure the length down the centerline, the width at the head (the wide end), and the width at the foot (the narrow end). Decide whether you want a one-piece mattress or a mattress split down the centre, which is easier to lift when you need to reach storage underneath.
Material: marine vinyl or fabric?
For seats that get sprayed, sat on in wet swimsuits and hosed down, choose marine-grade vinyl such as Sunbrella Horizon. For covered areas and cabins, Sunbrella fabric is softer to sit on. In both cases, Dry Fast foam drains water straight through.
Ready to order?
Start with the boat cushion builder. If your shape is unusual, send us your template measurements and a photo and we'll help you get the fit right.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a template for a curved boat cushion?
Lay kraft paper or cardboard over the seat, trace the edge with a marker, and trim it to the line. Mark which side is the front, label snap or hinge positions, and note the thickness. Custom shapes made from a template take 5–6 weeks.
How accurate will my boat cushions be?
Every cushion is cut to within ±0.5″ of your measurements or template. If we miss that tolerance, we remake it free. Measuring errors on your side aren't returnable, so double-check curves and angles before you send them. Questions go to our team.
Should boat cushions have ties or snaps?
Ties in matching fabric come standard and work well on rails and frames. Velcro is available on request. If your boat already has snaps, note their positions on your template so the new cushion lines up with the existing hardware.
How thick should boat cushions be?
Most boat seat cushions are 3″ to 4″ thick. Sun pads and V-berth cushions are often thicker for lying on. Check the height against the gunwale and console before you order. Build yours with the boat cushion builder. Marine vinyl and waterproof Sunbrella are both available.
