banquette
How to Measure Banquette & Booth Cushions (with Diagrams)
A step-by-step guide for restaurant, cafe and kitchen-nook owners: how to measure straight runs, booth backs, L-shaped corners and curved banquettes so custom cushions fit the first time.
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Updated October 2026 · By Sam K, Fabrica Kraft
Quick summary
To measure a banquette or booth, measure the frame, not the old cushion: the length along the wall, the depth from the back to the front edge, and the thickness you want. Measure in inches at three points and use the smallest number, round to the nearest ¼″, and split runs longer than about 72″ into sections. For L-shaped corners, decide which piece runs into the corner first. For curves or angled ends, send a paper template.
What you need
- A metal tape measure (cloth tapes stretch)
- A notepad or phone, and a photo of each seating run
- Kraft paper and tape if any end is curved or angled
1. Measure the seat
- Length: measure along the back wall at the front, middle and back of the seat. Walls are rarely square, so use the smallest number.
- Depth: measure from the wall or backrest to the front edge of the seat at each end and in the middle; again, use the smallest.
- Thickness: for table-height dining, 2″ to 3″ keeps guests at the right height; a deeper lounge banquette can take 4″ to 5″. Check your table height before going thicker.
- If the cushion sits between two side panels, take about ¼″ off the length so it drops in without bowing.
2. Split long runs into sections
A single cushion longer than about 72″ is hard to lift, clean and ship. Most restaurants split long benches into two or three equal sections, or one section per seating position, so a stained piece can be swapped on its own. Add the section lengths together and check they match your total run.
3. Measure the back cushions
- Height: measure from the top of the seat platform to where you want the back cushion to stop, then subtract the seat cushion thickness.
- Width: match the seat sections, or run one long back over several seat sections for a cleaner look.
- Thickness: 2″ to 4″ is typical. Super Soft foam is made for backs only; never use it on seats.
- Raked (angled) backs: measure the thickness at the top and bottom of the gap you want to fill and order a tapered piece, or send a side-profile template.
4. L-shaped and U-shaped corners
- Pick the longer wall for cushion A and let it run all the way into the corner.
- Measure the full length of the side wall, then subtract cushion A's depth. That is cushion B's length.
- Repeat on the far side for a U-shape.
- Prefer one piece? An L-shaped cushion is possible, but two pieces are easier to clean, rotate and replace.
5. Curves, angled ends and notches
For a curved booth, a bench that narrows at one end, or a cushion that has to fit around a post, don't guess. Tape kraft paper to the seat, trace the outline, mark which edge sits against the wall, and write "top" on it. Order with the unique-shape option and send us the template; we confirm the cut on your spec sheet before we start.
6. Choose foam and fabric for restaurant use
| Where | Foam | Fabric |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor dining banquette (2″–3″) | Firm Luxury foam, so thin seats don't bottom out | Ultraleather or Sunbrella: wipe-clean and stain-resistant |
| Lounge or bar seating (4″–5″) | High Density foam with a Dacron wrap for a softer edge | Sunbrella, Warwick or Gabriel contract fabrics |
| Patio or terrace booths | Dryfast foam, which drains and dries quickly | Sunbrella or Sunbrella Horizon marine vinyl |
All our foam is CertiPUR-US certified. For fire-code questions, see our guide to fire codes for commercial cushions, and compare fabrics in the best fabrics for restaurant booths and banquettes.
Measuring checklist
| For each cushion | Write down |
|---|---|
| Label | A, B, C… matching your photo or sketch |
| Length | Smallest of three measurements, to the nearest ¼″ |
| Depth | Smallest of three measurements, to the nearest ¼″ |
| Thickness | Checked against table height |
| Shape | Rectangle, tapered, L-shape or template |
| Options | Piping, zipper side, ties or Velcro |
FAQ
Should I measure the old cushions?
No. Old cushions flatten and shrink with use. Measure the seat platform or frame instead.
How accurate is the fit?
We cut to within ±0.5″ of the spec sheet you approve. If a cushion arrives outside that, we remake it free.
Can you work from architectural drawings?
Yes. Send drawings or a site sketch with measurements to operation@fabricakraft.com and we'll return a spec sheet and quote, usually within 1–2 business days. Nothing is cut until you approve it.
Is there a minimum order, and how long does it take?
There's no minimum order. Custom cushions usually take 2–3 weeks from spec approval, and trade accounts save 10% to 20% through our trade program.
Ready to quote? See custom banquette and booth cushions for restaurants, our full measuring guide, or request a bulk quote.
