The Pattern Room · Glossary
The cushion glossary
Every word buyers and makers use, from batting to Wyzenbeek, defined the way a tailor would explain it across the counter.
The quick answer
The CushionGuide glossary defines 188 words used when ordering made-to-measure cushions, in plain English with inches first: shapes and edges, foam and fill, fabrics and tests, fastenings and care (Piping, Boxed edge, Foam density, Knife edge). Each term has its own link, other names buyers use, and pointers to related terms and guides.
0–91 term
- 16 CFR 1640#
The federal US flammability standard for upholstered furniture, in force since June 25, 2021, which adopted the TB117-2013 smolder tests. It covers indoor upholstered seating, including loose seat cushions. Outdoor cushions, decorative throw pillows not meant for sitting, and mattresses fall outside it.
Also called SOFFA, federal upholstered furniture flammability standard
See also TB117-2013, Flame retardant
A1 term
- Armrest bolster#
A bolster or firm cushion set at the end of a daybed, floor sofa or window seat to act as an arm. Round armrests are often made about 4 in (10 cm) shorter than the seat depth so they do not overhang the front. They double as pillows when the seat becomes a bed.
Also called arm roll, arm pillow, side bolster, round armrest, arm cushion
See also Bolster, Floor sofa, Daybed
B14 terms
- Backrest cushion#
A cushion that stands upright against a wall, frame or rail so you can lean back on a bench, daybed or floor seat. A common size is about 16 in (40 cm) tall and 4 in (10 cm) thick, usually softer than the seat. It takes roughly 3 in (7.5 cm) off the usable seat depth.
Also called back cushion, back pillow, backrest, backing cushion, back rest
See also Shredded foam, Wedge cushion, Rod pocket, Seat depth
- Banquette#
A long upholstered or built-in bench along a wall, usually beside a dining table. It can run straight, turn an L or wrap around a table like a booth. Banquette cushions are made in runs with separate back cushions, and the seat height against the table matters more here than on any other bench.
Also called banquet seating, booth, built-in banquette, banquette bench, kitchen banquette
See also Breakfast nook, L-shaped cushion, U-shaped cushion, Table clearance
- Bar stool#
A tall stool for a kitchen island or bar; counter stools are the shorter version. Stool cushions are small, often round or saddle-shaped, and need ties, elastic or a non-slip base because there is little to hold them. Measure the seat top, not the footprint.
Also called counter stool, barstool, stool pad, barstool cover
See also Chair pad, Non-slip base, Ties
- Batting#
A flat sheet of fluffy fiber used to pad and smooth a cushion or a quilt. In cushions it wraps foam or lines a cover to take the hard edge off corners. It compresses over the years, which is why a wrapped cushion looks a little less domed with age.
Also called polyester batting, volume batting, cotton batting
See also Dacron wrap, Polyester fiberfill, Sofa topper
- Bay angle#
The angle where two sections of a bay window seat meet. Many bays turn at about 135 degrees, but never assume it; measure yours. The points where the seat changes direction are where one cushion ends and the next begins.
Also called breaking points, return angle, 135-degree bay, bay window breaking points
See also Bay window, Trapezoid cushion, Diagonal measurement
- Bay window#
A window that projects out from the wall in three or more angled sections, creating a nook that often becomes a seat. The seat is usually cushioned one section at a time, trapezoids at the sides and a rectangle in the middle. Measure each section separately, angles first.
Also called bay, canted bay, three-sided bay, five-sided bay, box bay, bow window
See also Bay angle, Trapezoid cushion, Window seat
- Biscuit tufting#
Tufts set in straight rows and columns, which divides the top into soft squares like biscuits on a baking sheet. It reads more casual and modern than diamond tufting. It is a common pattern on long bench pads and floor cushions.
Also called square tufting, grid tufting, box tufting
See also Tufting, Diamond tufting, Blind tufting
- Blind tufting#
Tufting done with bound thread bundles instead of buttons, so the dimples show but no hardware does. There is nothing to snag or pop off, which suits kids' rooms and floor seating. Nothing presses into you when you sit cross-legged on it.
Also called buttonless tufting, thread tufts, hand tufts, bound tufts
See also Tufting, Biscuit tufting, Meditation cushion
- Bolster#
A long, round cylinder pillow used as an armrest, a neck roll or a back on a daybed or window seat. It is sized by length and diameter, and 8 in (20 cm) is a common diameter that looks in proportion on most seats. The ends may be flat, gathered or finished with a button.
Also called bolster pillow, cylinder pillow, round bolster, neck roll, sausage cushion, roll pillow
See also Armrest bolster, Lumbar pillow, Daybed
- Bouclé#
A fabric woven or knitted from looped yarn, which gives it a nubby, curly surface. It is soft, textured and forgiving of small marks. The loops can snag on claws and jewelry, so tighter, performance bouclés are the safer pick for busy homes.
Also called boucle, bouclet, loop yarn fabric, bouclé fabric
See also Teddy fabric, Pet-friendly fabric, Pilling
- Box cushion#
A cushion with a flat top, a flat bottom and straight sides, so it looks like a shallow box. Most bench, window seat and banquette cushions are box cushions because the square edge sits neatly against walls and frames. The sides are formed by a separate strip of fabric called the gusset.
Also called boxed cushion, box-style cushion, box cushion cover
See also Boxed edge, Gusset, Knife edge
- Boxed edge#
An edge built from three pieces: a top panel, a bottom panel and a side strip sewn between them, which gives two seams around the cushion. It is the most tailored edge and holds its square shape the longest. Buyers often say boxed edge when they mean the crisp, upright sides they saw in a photo.
Also called box edge, true box edge, box-edge construction
See also Box cushion, Gusset, Piping, Mock box
- Breakfast nook#
A small dining corner in or beside the kitchen, often with a built-in L- or U-shaped bench and a table. It is the busiest seat in many homes, so fabrics should wash well and cushions should stay put. A 2 to 3 in (5 to 7.5 cm) cushion keeps the seat at a comfortable height for the table.
Also called kitchen nook, dining nook, breakfast corner, breakfast bench, corner dining bench
See also Banquette, Table clearance, L-shaped cushion
- Bullnose edge#
An edge where the top, front and bottom are cut as one continuous piece of fabric, so the front curves over with no seam. It suits stripes and busy patterns because nothing interrupts the design at the front. Some makers use bullnose and waterfall for the same look.
Also called bullnose, wraparound front, continuous front
See also Waterfall edge, Boxed edge, Ticking
C25 terms
- CertiPUR-US#
A US certification for flexible polyurethane foam, confirming it is made without certain flame retardants, heavy metals, formaldehyde and ozone depleters, with low indoor emissions. It covers the foam only, not the fabric or the finished cushion. A separate European program uses the name CertiPUR.
Also called CertiPUR, CertiPUR-US certified foam
See also Off-gassing, OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100, Polyurethane foam
- Chair pad#
A thin cushion, usually 2 to 3 in (5 to 7.5 cm) thick, made for a dining or kitchen chair seat. It is often shaped to the seat, narrower at the back than at the front, and held on with ties. Trace the seat on paper if it is not a simple square.
Also called seat pad, dining chair pad, chair cushion, kitchen chair pad
See also Ties, Spindle-back chair, Bar stool
- Chaise lounge#
A long reclining chair for stretching out, indoors or by the pool. Outdoor chaise cushions commonly run about 72 by 22 in (183 by 56 cm) and bend at a hinge between the back and the seat. Measure where the frame folds so the cushion's fold line lands on the hinge.
Also called chaise longue, chaise, lounger, sun lounger, sunbed, pool lounger
See also Reticulated foam, Solution-dyed acrylic, Ties
- Channel tufting#
Parallel rows of stitching or stuffed tubes that divide a surface into long vertical or horizontal channels. It gives banquette backs and headboards a ribbed, retro look. A backrest of upright channels usually needs a thin board behind it to stand straight.
Also called channel stitching, channeling, vertical channels, channel backrest
See also Tufting, Backrest cushion, French cleat
- Chenille#
A fabric woven from fuzzy chenille yarn, made of short cut fibers trapped between twisted core threads. It feels soft and plush with a gentle sheen. It can pill and snag at friction points, and unless it is an outdoor-rated version it does not belong in humid outdoor spots.
Also called chenille velvet, chenille yarn, chenille fabric
See also Pile, Pilling, Jacquard
- Chord and rise#
The two numbers that describe a curve: the chord is the straight line from one end of the curve to the other, and the rise is how far the curve bows out at the chord's midpoint. From them the radius follows: radius = (chord² ÷ 4 + rise²) ÷ (2 × rise). They let curved benches and round bays be measured without a template.
Also called chord, rise, sagitta, arc height, radius
See also Curved cushion, Rounded corners, Paper template
- Cleaning codes#
Letters on upholstery fabric that say what can clean it: W for water-based cleaners, S for solvent only, W/S for either and X for vacuuming only. Always test on a hidden spot, and blot rather than rub. Removable covers usually carry their own washing instructions as well.
Also called W code, S code, W/S code, X code, upholstery cleaning code
See also Performance fabric, Microfiber, Pre-shrunk
- Clipped corner#
A corner cut off at an angle instead of meeting square, which turns a rectangle into a five- or six-sided shape. It lets a cushion clear a door frame, a wall jog or the angle of a bay. Measure how far the cut starts from the corner along each side.
Also called clipped trapezoid, cut-off corner, angled corner, chamfered corner
See also Trapezoid cushion, Notch, Bay window
- Closed-cell foam#
A foam whose cells are sealed, so it does not absorb water and it floats. It feels hard, so boat cushions often put a thin closed-cell base under a softer top layer. It is the choice wherever a cushion might end up in the water.
Also called marine foam, PE foam, polyethylene foam, flotation foam
See also Reticulated foam, Marine vinyl, Salon cushions
- Cluster fiber#
Polyester fiber rolled into small, often silicone-coated balls that slide past each other instead of matting together. It stays springy longer than plain fiberfill and gives a plump, down-like feel. Buyers often see it listed as silicone balls in tufted floor cushions and back pillows.
Also called ball fiber, silicone balls, silicone ball fill, cluster fill, fiber balls
See also Polyester fiberfill, Tufting, French mattress cushion
- Cold foam#
A European trade name for high-resilience foam, which is cured at lower temperatures than standard foam. Buyers meet it on floor sofa and mattress listings with codes like T28 ILD 42, meaning a density of about 1.75 lb/ft³ (28 kg/m³) and an ILD of 42. Treat cold foam and HR foam as one family and compare the numbers.
Also called cold-cure foam, cold-cured foam
See also High-resilience foam, ILD, Floor sofa
- Compressed height#
How thick a cushion is while someone is sitting on it. Foam settles under weight, so a 3 in (7.5 cm) cushion may sit closer to 2 1/2 in (6.5 cm). Plan table and windowsill clearances with this number, not the nominal thickness.
Also called sit-down height, settle, compression, sink
See also Seat height, Firmness scale, Thickness
- Compression set#
The height a foam loses for good after being squeezed for a long time, measured as a percentage. It is what people notice as a cushion going flat or keeping a seat-shaped dip. Higher-density foams lose less height over the years.
Also called permanent set, flattening, body impressions
See also Foam density, Firmness scale, Polyurethane foam
- Contract grade#
Fabric and foam specified for cafés, restaurants, offices and rentals, where seats see far more use than at home. It usually means a higher rub count, such as 30,000 or more double rubs, and sometimes fire-rated materials. Big families sometimes choose contract grade for a hard-working kitchen banquette.
Also called commercial grade, contract fabric, commercial-grade upholstery
See also Wyzenbeek, Martindale, Flame retardant, Banquette
- Contrast piping#
Piping in a different color or fabric from the cushion body, such as navy piping on a cream linen seat. It draws the outline of the cushion and can pick up a color from the rug, the curtains or the wood. Judge the pair side by side in daylight, because a thin line of color reads differently from a large swatch.
Also called accent piping, contrast welt, contrast binding, contrast line
See also Piping, Self piping, Fabric code, Swatch
- Corduroy#
A pile fabric woven with raised ribs, called wales, running along its length. It is soft, warm and hard-wearing, and it shades with the nap much like velvet. Upholstery corduroy usually has wide wales that make a bold, textured stripe.
Also called cord, cords, fine-wale corduroy, needlecord
See also Wale, Wide-wale corduroy, Nap
- Corner backrest#
A backrest cushion bent into an L so it wraps the corner of a floor sofa, daybed or corner bench. It gives a continuous back where two straight backrests would leave a gap. A straight, I-shaped backrest is the alternative for the open sides.
Also called L-shaped backrest, L backrest, corner back cushion, V-shaped corner pillow
See also Floor sofa, Backrest cushion, Open corner
- Corner floor cushion#
A floor cushion made to tuck into the corner of a room or a floor seating layout, often square or quarter-round with backrests on two sides. It turns a bare corner into a reading or gaming spot. Very large ones may need a fabric wide enough to cut without a seam.
Also called corner pouf, corner floor pouf, corner seat, corner cushion
See also Quarter-round cushion, Floor cushion, Backrest cushion
- Cotton canvas#
A sturdy plain-weave cotton fabric, from light canvas to heavy duck. It is tough, washable and wears well on everyday benches. Untreated cotton stains more easily than polyester, so it suits homes happy to wash covers often.
Also called canvas, duck canvas, duck cloth, cotton duck
See also Ticking, Water-repellent fabric, Pet-friendly fabric
- Cotton-linen blend#
A fabric woven from cotton and linen together, softer and less wrinkly than pure linen. It keeps a natural, relaxed look and breathes well. Like other natural fibers it can shrink a little, so wash covers cool and let them air dry.
Also called linen blend, cotton linen, linen-cotton
See also Linen, Linen-look fabric, Ticking
- Cover only#
An order for the fabric cover alone, sewn to fit foam or an insert you already own. Measure the foam itself, seam to seam and relaxed, with its exact thickness, rather than the old cover. A cover about 1 in (2.5 cm) too small will make the foam bulge and feel over-firm.
Also called covers only, cover without insert, replacement cover, cushion case, spare cover
See also Zippered cover, Gusset, Foam insert, Tolerance
- Crash pad#
A big, soft, thick pad for children to jump, tumble and flop onto, often used for sensory play. It needs a tough, fully zippered, washable cover and a filling that bounces back. Replacement covers for a pad a family already owns are a common request.
Also called sensory crash pad, kids crash pad, play mat, floor play mat
See also Play couch, Star pouf, Zippered cover
- Crowning#
The slight dome a well-made cushion shows on top because the foam is cut a little larger than the cover, about 1/4 in (6 mm) per side in trade practice, and often wrapped in fiber. The snug fit keeps the fabric smooth and free of wrinkles. A crowned cushion can measure a touch thicker at the center than at the edges.
Also called crowned top, domed top, foam cut oversize
See also Dacron wrap, Foam insert, Tolerance
- Curved cushion#
A cushion with one or more curved edges, for round bays, curved banquettes, wicker loveseats and half-moon benches. A curve is measured as a straight line end to end plus how far it bows out at the middle. Tight or irregular curves need a paper template.
Also called arc cushion, banana-shaped cushion, kidney-shaped cushion, half-moon cushion, curved bench cushion
See also Chord and rise, Rounded corners, Paper template
- Cushion#
In American usage, a cushion is padding you sit or lean on, like a seat or back cushion, while a pillow is for decoration or sleep. British buyers call throw pillows cushions too. On this site, cushion means a made-to-measure seat, back or floor piece.
Also called seat cushion, pad, cushion vs pillow
See also Throw pillow, Box cushion, Chair pad
D9 terms
- Dacron wrap#
A layer of polyester batting, usually 1/2 to 1 in (13 to 25 mm) thick, wrapped around a foam insert before it goes into the cover. It softens the square edges, fills the corners and helps the fabric glide over the foam. It is left off outdoor cushions because batting holds water.
Also called fiber wrap, batting wrap, polyester wrap, Dacron-wrapped foam, fiberfill wrap
See also Batting, Foam insert, Crowning, Reticulated foam
- Damask#
A reversible jacquard fabric whose pattern shows through the contrast of shiny satin and matte areas. The same design appears on both sides in reverse. Classic damasks are florals and medallions, often in a single color.
Also called damask weave, reversible jacquard
See also Jacquard, Pattern repeat
- Daybed#
A twin-size bed framed on three sides like a sofa, used for sitting by day and sleeping by night. It takes a standard mattress dressed in a fitted cover, with back cushions and bolsters. Some hide a pull-out trundle underneath for a second sleeper.
Also called day bed, twin daybed, daybed frame, trundle daybed
See also Fitted daybed cover, IKEA Hemnes daybed, Twin XL, Bolster
- Diagonal measurement#
A measurement taken from one corner of a seat to the opposite corner. Comparing the two diagonals shows whether a space is truly square and which way an odd shape tapers. It catches most drawing errors before any fabric is cut.
Also called diagonals, cross measurement, corner-to-corner
See also Front edge and back edge, Trapezoid cushion, Paper template
- Diamond tufting#
Tufts set in offset rows so the folds between them form diamonds. Deep diamond tufting is the traditional finish on headboards, ottomans and formal benches. It takes more fabric and more hand work than square tufting.
Also called deep buttoning, diamond buttoning, diagonal button pattern
See also Tufting, Biscuit tufting, Ottoman
- Double piping#
Two lines of piping sewn side by side, or two cords wrapped together in one strip of fabric. It gives a heavier, more formal edge than single piping. On furniture it often hides staples; on cushions it is purely decorative.
Also called double welt, double cording, flat double piping
See also Piping, Self piping
- Down and feather#
Natural fill from duck or goose plumage: soft down clusters and firmer quilled feathers. The ratio, such as 25/75 or 50/50 down to feather, sets how soft the pillow feels. It needs regular plumping and a tightly woven, down-proof casing to keep the quills in.
Also called down fill, feather fill, feather and down, 25/75 fill, 50/50 fill
See also Down-wrapped foam, Polyester fiberfill, Pillow insert
- Down-wrapped foam#
A foam core wrapped in a stitched envelope of down and feather. The foam gives support and shape, while the down gives a soft, sink-in top you plump like a pillow. It is the secret behind many relaxed, lived-in sofa seats, and it needs regular fluffing.
Also called feather-wrapped foam, down envelope, feather wrap
See also Down and feather, Foam insert, Dacron wrap
- Dye lot#
A batch of fabric dyed together in one run. Two lots of the same color code can differ slightly in shade, so pieces that sit side by side should come from one lot. When adding to an earlier set, mention the original order so the maker can try to match it.
Also called batch, lot number, dye batch
See also Fabric code, Swatch, Modular sofa
F19 terms
- Fabric code#
The short number or letter-and-number code a maker gives each fabric color on its chart. It is the only reliable way to say exactly which color you mean, since color names vary from shop to shop. Write the body code and the piping code separately.
Also called color code, color number, colorway, color code
See also Swatch, Dye lot, Contrast piping
- Fabric yardage#
How many yards of fabric a cushion or set of cushions needs, counting top, bottom, gusset, piping and waste. Patterned fabric needs more for matching repeats, and upholstery fabric usually comes about 54 in (137 cm) wide. It is the number to know if you buy fabric yourself.
Also called yardage, yards of fabric, fabric quantity
See also Pattern repeat, Railroaded fabric, GSM
- Faux leather#
A fabric backing coated with polyurethane (PU) or vinyl (PVC) to look and wipe like leather. It cleans easily and suits kitchens and kids' spaces. PU can peel in warm, humid rooms after a few years, and vinyl stiffens and can crack in the cold.
Also called leather-look fabric, vegan leather, PU leather, leatherette, pleather, vinyl
See also Marine vinyl, Pet-friendly fabric, Performance fabric
- Fire pit bench#
Outdoor seating built around a fire pit, from curved stone walls to timber benches. Cushions for it need outdoor fabric and should be kept well back from sparks and heat. Curved runs are measured by chord and rise or from a template.
Also called fire pit seating, fire pit cushion, stone seat wall
See also Pallet cushion, Solution-dyed acrylic, Curved cushion
- Firmness scale#
The everyday words for how a cushion feels, from plush and sink-in to medium-firm, firm and extra-firm. There is no shared industry scale, which is why one buyer's medium is another's firm. The measurable version is ILD, and a thin cushion needs firmer foam to feel as supportive as a thick one.
Also called plush, medium-firm, sink-in feel, extra-firm
See also ILD, Foam density, Memory foam, Compressed height
- Fit allowance#
How much smaller than the space a cushion is made so it drops in without binding. Advice ranges from about 1/4 in (6 mm) per free edge to nothing at all when the cushion should fill the space between walls. Give the maker the exact space and say how you want it to sit, rather than subtracting on your own.
Also called allowance, deduction, ease, size deduction
See also Tolerance, Wall-to-wall fit, Overhang
- Fitted daybed cover#
A tailored, usually zippered cover that turns a twin mattress into a daybed seat. It fits the mattress like a box cushion cover, with a gusset matching the mattress thickness. Give the mattress length, width and depth exactly, since mattresses sold under the same size name vary.
Also called mattress jacket, daybed slipcover, mattress sleeve, fitted-sheet style cover, twin mattress cover
See also Daybed, Twin XL, IKEA Hemnes daybed, Slipcover
- Flame retardant#
A chemical added to foam or fabric to slow ignition or burning. US rules for home upholstery can be met without added flame retardants, and many buyers ask for cushions that contain none. Cafés, rentals and some other countries have stricter fire rules, so ask the maker what the fabric and foam carry.
Also called FR, fire retardant, FR chemicals, FR fabric
See also TB117-2013, 16 CFR 1640, OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100
- Floor cushion#
A large, thick cushion made for sitting directly on the floor, alone or in a group around a low table. It needs enough filling that you do not feel the floor through it, often 4 to 6 in (10 to 15 cm) or more. Firm foam keeps its shape; fiber fill feels softer and plumper.
Also called floor pillow, floor seating cushion, sitting cushion, floor pad
See also Pouf, French mattress cushion, Meditation cushion, Corner floor cushion
- Floor mattress#
A mattress made to lie directly on the floor as a bed, a lounging pad or a toddler's floor bed. It needs firm, supportive foam and a washable cover, since floor-level beds see crumbs and spills. Folding versions store away in a closet.
Also called floor bed, floor matras, Montessori floor bed, folding mattress
See also Futon mattress, Play couch, OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100
- Floor sofa#
A sofa with no raised frame: thick seat mattresses sit directly on the floor with backrest and arm cushions around them. It is low and relaxed, easy to rearrange and quick to unfold into a bed. The backs are often held upright by simple metal frames standing behind them.
Also called floor couch, floor lounge, floor sofa bed, Japanese floor sofa
See also Teddy sofa, Modular sofa, Metal support bars, Armrest bolster
- Foam density#
The weight of one cubic foot of foam, given in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³) in the US and in kilograms per cubic meter elsewhere. Density predicts durability, not firmness: about 2.0 lb/ft³ (32 kg/m³) is a solid everyday seat foam. Listings that say “32 DNS” or “T32” mean 32 kg/m³.
Also called density, lb/ft³, pcf, kg/m³, DNS
See also ILD, High-density foam, Compression set, Polyurethane foam
- Foam insert#
The shaped piece of foam that goes inside a cushion cover. It is cut to the finished size of the cushion, often slightly oversize, and may be wrapped in fiber before it goes in. When you replace only the insert, measure the cover from seam to seam.
Also called foam core, inner cushion, foam block, filling
See also Polyurethane foam, Dacron wrap, Crowning, Cover only
- Foam recovery#
The time a compressed cushion needs to return to full size and firmness after unpacking. Firm foam typically needs 48 to 72 hours, and fabric creases can take up to a week to relax. Measure thickness across the flat middle only after that, never at the piping.
Also called expansion time, inflate, poof up, decompress, fluff up
See also Vacuum packing, Roll pack, Thickness, Pressure marks
- French cleat#
A pair of interlocking strips with matching 45-degree bevels, one screwed to the wall and one to the back of a panel, used to hang headboards and wall panels. It only works on a cushion built around a rigid board. Soft foam backrests without a board hang from loops, ties or hook-and-loop tape instead.
Also called cleat, wall cleat, beveled cleat
See also Rod pocket, Backrest cushion, Channel tufting
- French mattress cushion#
Buyer shorthand for a tufted cushion with hand-stitched rolled edges, sold as a floor cushion, bench pad or daybed topper. It may be filled with cluster fiber or with foam wrapped in batting, which gives the plump, quilted look. Because the tufts pass through the filling, the cover cannot be unzipped and removed.
Also called French mattress, French cushion, French-style tufted cushion, French tufted cushion, tufted floor cushion
See also French mattress edge, Tufting, Cluster fiber, Floor cushion
- French mattress edge#
A box-style edge pinched into a firm roll by rows of hand stitching just above and below the seam. The rolled edge keeps its line and resists sagging when people sit on the front. It is the classic finish on tufted floor cushions and bench pads.
Also called French edge, rolled edge, hand-stitched edge, stitched roll edge
See also French mattress cushion, Boxed edge, Tufting
- Front edge and back edge#
The two long sides of a bench or trapezoid cushion: the front edge faces the room and the back edge meets the wall. On a bay or tapered seat they differ in length, and mixing them up flips the shape. Label them on every drawing.
Also called A edge, B edge, front width, back width
See also Trapezoid cushion, Diagonal measurement, Top-side-up drawing
- Futon mattress#
A foldable mattress used on a futon frame or directly on the floor. Traditional futons are filled with cotton, which is dense and breathable but compacts over time and recovers poorly after vacuum packing; many modern ones use foam. A zippered cover makes it much easier to keep clean.
Also called futon, Japanese futon, futon cushion
See also Floor mattress, Floor sofa, Zippered cover
G5 terms
- Gingham#
A balanced check made by crossing white stripes with colored stripes of equal width in both directions. The result is a small, even pattern of light, middle and dark squares. It gives kitchen chairs, porch cushions and nurseries a fresh, cottage look.
Also called gingham check, picnic check
- Glider#
A chair that glides back and forth on a fixed track instead of rocking on curved runners, a nursery favorite. Its cushions usually come as a set: a seat and a tall back, often rounded at the top. Measure the top width, bottom width and height of the back, since models vary.
Also called glider rocker, nursery glider, glider chair
See also Rocking chair, Headrest pillow, Ties
- GREENGUARD Gold#
A certification that tests a whole finished product for chemical emissions into indoor air. The Gold level sets stricter limits meant for schools, nurseries and other sensitive spaces. It speaks to air quality, not to durability or fire behavior.
Also called GREENGUARD, low-emission certified
See also Off-gassing, OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100, CertiPUR-US
- GSM#
Fabric weight in grams per square meter; US fabric shops often give ounces per square yard instead. Heavier cloth usually feels more substantial and drapes less, and upholstery fabric runs heavier than dress fabric. Weight alone does not prove durability, so read it next to a rub-test result.
Also called g/m², fabric weight, grams per square meter, ounces per square yard
See also Martindale, Polyester upholstery weave, Cotton canvas
- Gusset#
The strip of fabric that forms the sides of a box cushion, running between the top and bottom panels. Its height sets the cushion's thickness, so a cover for 3 in (7.5 cm) foam needs a 3 in gusset. When you order a cover for foam you already own, the gusset height is the number that matters most.
Also called boxing, boxing strip, side band, side panel, border, fillable depth
See also Boxed edge, Thickness, Cover only, Railroaded fabric
H6 terms
- Hanging chair#
A chair hung from a ceiling hook or a stand, often a rounded rattan or wicker egg. The cushion follows the curve of the basket, so it is best sized from a template or the basket's inside dimensions. Ties keep it in place while the chair sways.
Also called egg chair, swing chair, hammock chair, hanging egg chair
See also Papasan chair, Porch swing, Paper template
- Headrest pillow#
A small pillow that ties or hangs at the top of a chair back to cushion the head and neck. It is a common part of rocking chair and glider sets. It needs its own ties or strap so it stays at the right height.
Also called headrest, head pillow, headrest cushion, neck pillow
See also Rocking chair, Glider, Bolster
- High-density foam#
A loose label for polyurethane foam heavy enough to last in daily seating. There is no single official threshold; US sellers use the term for foams from about 1.8 to 2.5 lb/ft³ (29 to 40 kg/m³) and up. Ask for the actual density number, and remember that high density does not mean hard.
Also called HD foam, high density foam, commercial-grade foam
See also Foam density, High-resilience foam, ILD
- High-resilience foam#
A premium polyurethane foam with an irregular cell structure that springs back quickly and keeps supporting deep into the sit. It is judged by its bounce and support rather than by a single density figure. Floor sofa mattresses and quality sofa seats often use it.
Also called HR foam, high resiliency foam, HR cold foam
See also Cold foam, Foam density, Floor sofa
- Hook-and-loop tape#
Two strips, one with tiny hooks and one with soft loops, that grip each other when pressed together. One strip is sewn under the cushion and its partner is fixed to the bench or wall, which keeps seats and backs in place even in wind. Adhesive-backed strips can mark painted or antique wood, so test in a hidden spot first.
Also called Velcro, Velcro strips, hook and pile, scratch tape
See also Ties, Non-slip base, Pallet cushion
I5 terms
- IKEA Besta#
IKEA's storage and media unit system, often lined up as a low banquette or window bench. Its tops run roughly 16 in (41 to 42 cm) deep, depending on the frame and doors. Measure the actual top of your run, since doors and trim change the finished size.
Also called Besta, Bestå bench, Besta banquette
See also IKEA Kallax, Banquette, Non-slip base
- IKEA Hemnes daybed#
A popular IKEA daybed with three drawers that pulls out to sleep two. The US version takes two twin mattresses of 38 1/4 by 74 1/2 in (97 by 189 cm), stacked for sitting, and fit guides suggest keeping each mattress to about 5 to 6 in (13 to 15 cm) thick. Covers and back cushions should be sized to your exact mattresses.
Also called Hemnes daybed, Hemnes day bed, Hemnes daybed cover
See also Daybed, Fitted daybed cover, Twin XL
- IKEA Kallax#
IKEA's cube shelving unit, often laid on its side as a bench, window seat or banquette base. Every Kallax is 15 3/8 in (39 cm) deep, so the cushion depth stays fixed and only the length changes with the unit. Units placed end to end can share one long cushion.
Also called Kallax, Kallax bench, Kallax shelf seat, Kallax window seat
See also Window seat, Non-slip base, Breakfast nook
- IKEA Kura#
IKEA's reversible children's bed, which can stand as a low bed or as a loft with open space underneath. That lower space is a favorite spot for a reading or play den with a floor cushion, backrest and pillows made to fit. Measure inside the frame, since the rails take up part of the footprint.
Also called Kura bed, Kura bunk bed, Kura loft bed
See also Floor cushion, Reading nook, Crash pad
- ILD#
The pounds of force needed to press a 50-square-inch plate 25 percent of the way into a 4 in (10 cm) foam sample. The higher the number, the firmer the foam: roughly 25 to 35 feels medium and 45 to 55 feels firm. ILD describes feel only, so always read it next to density.
Also called IFD, indentation load deflection, indentation force deflection, firmness rating
See also Foam density, Firmness scale, High-resilience foam
J1 term
- Jacquard#
A fabric whose pattern is woven in on a jacquard loom rather than printed on top. The design is part of the cloth, so it cannot rub off the way a print can. Heavy jacquards make durable upholstery, while loose ones with long floating threads can snag.
Also called jacquard weave, woven pattern
See also Damask, Chenille, Pattern repeat
K1 term
- Knife edge#
An edge made by sewing the top and bottom panels straight together, with one seam running around the middle of the side. The cushion is fullest at the center and tapers to a thin edge, like a throw pillow. It reads relaxed and casual and uses less fabric than a boxed edge.
Also called knife-edge cushion, pillow edge, single-seam edge
See also Boxed edge, Throw pillow, Piping
L6 terms
- L-shaped cushion#
A cushion set for a corner bench, made either as one L-shaped piece or as two pieces that meet at the corner. Two pieces are easier to lift, wash and ship, and the maker must know which piece runs through the corner. Draw the layout from above and mark the corner clearly.
Also called L-shape, L cushion, corner bench cushion, L-shaped banquette
See also U-shaped cushion, Banquette, Breakfast nook, Corner backrest
- Latex foam#
A springy foam made from rubber-tree sap, synthetic rubber or a blend of the two. Dunlop latex is denser and firmer-feeling, while Talalay is lighter and bouncier. It lasts a long time and costs noticeably more than polyurethane foam.
Also called natural latex, Dunlop latex, Talalay latex, latex
See also Memory foam, Polyurethane foam, CertiPUR-US
- Lightfastness#
How well a fabric keeps its color in sunlight, often rated on the 1 to 8 blue wool scale, where 8 fades least. Window seats behind glass still get daily UV, so they fade too. Solution-dyed outdoor fabrics rate among the highest.
Also called colorfastness to light, fade resistance, UV resistance, blue wool scale
See also Solution-dyed acrylic, Window seat, Olefin
- Linen#
A natural fabric woven from flax fibers, with a dry hand, a soft sheen and easy wrinkles. It breathes well and softens with washing, but it can shrink if it was not pre-washed. Many cushions sold as linen are blends or linen-look polyester, so check the fiber content.
Also called flax, 100% linen, pure linen, natural linen
See also Linen-look fabric, Cotton-linen blend, Pre-shrunk
- Linen-look fabric#
A fabric, usually polyester or a polyester blend, woven to copy the slubby texture and matte color of linen. It wrinkles less, shrinks less and cleans more easily than pure linen. It is not linen, so ask for the fiber content if natural fiber matters to you.
Also called linen look, faux linen, linen-effect, linen-style polyester
See also Linen, Cotton-linen blend, Polyester upholstery weave
- Lumbar pillow#
A long, low rectangular pillow that supports the small of the back or lies across the front of a pillow arrangement. On benches and window seats it adds support without stealing much seat depth. It is also the easiest way to bring a second color or pattern into a room.
Also called oblong pillow, rectangle pillow, kidney pillow, lumbar support pillow
See also Throw pillow, Bolster, Reading nook
M12 terms
- Marine vinyl#
A heavy PVC-coated fabric treated to handle sun, salt and spray on boats. It wipes clean and sheds water, but it gets hot in direct sun and does not breathe. Pair it with foam and a construction that let trapped moisture escape.
Also called boat vinyl, marine-grade vinyl, UV-treated vinyl
See also Faux leather, Closed-cell foam, Salon cushions
- Martindale#
An abrasion test, common in Europe, that rubs fabric in a figure-eight pattern and counts the cycles until it shows wear. Guidelines vary by source, but around 15,000 to 25,000 cycles is typical for everyday home seating and 30,000 to 40,000 or more for commercial use. A high count does not promise resistance to pilling, fading or claws.
Also called Martindale rub test, Martindale rub count, rub count, cycles
See also Wyzenbeek, Pilling, Contract grade
- Meditation cushion#
A firm floor cushion for sitting cross-legged, often a round zafu set on a flat mat called a zabuton. Its height lifts the hips above the knees so the back can stay upright. Flatter versions around 3 in (7.5 cm) tall suit people who want less lift.
Also called zafu, meditation pillow, zabuton, meditation set
See also Floor cushion, Blind tufting
- Memory foam#
A dense, slow-recovery foam that softens with body heat and molds to whoever sits on it. It stiffens in a cool room and bottoms out when thin, so seat use calls for at least 3 in (7.5 cm). It works better as a comfort layer or topper than as a whole bench cushion.
Also called viscoelastic foam, slow-recovery foam, visco foam
See also Firmness scale, Latex foam, Polyurethane foam
- Mesh bottom#
An open-weave panel sewn into the underside of an outdoor cushion so rainwater can drain and air can dry the foam. It works best with quick-dry foam, which lets water run straight through. Not every maker offers it as standard, so ask before you order.
Also called mesh base, breathable mesh bottom, drain mesh, mesh breather
See also Reticulated foam, Waterproof insert cover, Mildew
- Metal support bars#
Simple metal frames that stand on the floor behind a floor sofa's backrests and arms to stop them sliding or tipping back. They do not join the seat cushions together; the weight of the cushions holds everything in place. A rug underneath helps keep the whole sofa from creeping on hard floors.
Also called metal bars, chrome bars, brackets, support frames, iron rods, U-shaped bars
See also Floor sofa, Modular sofa, Backrest cushion
- Metamerism#
The effect where two colors match under one light and look different under another. A cushion that matches your sofa at noon can drift apart under warm LED bulbs at night. Judge swatches in every kind of light your room gets.
Also called color shift, light-dependent color
See also Swatch, Nap, Fabric code
- Microfiber#
A fabric made from very fine polyester or nylon fibers packed into a tight, soft surface. The dense weave gives claws little to hook and lets pet hair wipe off. Water can leave rings on some microsuedes, so check the cleaning code.
Also called microsuede, suede-look fabric
See also Performance fabric, Pet-friendly fabric, Cleaning codes
- Mildew#
Mold that grows on damp cushions, feeding on dirt and body oils left on the fabric or on water trapped in the foam. Humid porches and cushions left out after rain are the classic cases. Keep cushions clean, let them dry fully on edge and store them with airflow, never sealed in plastic.
Also called mold, mold, mildew spots
See also Reticulated foam, Solution-dyed acrylic, Mesh bottom
- Mock box#
A cushion cut from two panels only, with the corners pleated, gathered or stitched down to fake the depth of a box edge. It gives a softer, rounder corner than a true box and uses less fabric and labor. Names vary from maker to maker, so ask for a photo of the corner before you order.
Also called faux box, gathered corners, pleated corners
See also Boxed edge, Knife edge, Floor cushion
- Modular sofa#
A sofa built from separate pieces, such as seats, corners and backs, that can be arranged as a straight sofa, an L or a U. Adding or moving a piece changes the layout without buying new furniture. Order all the pieces at once so the fabric comes from one dye lot.
Also called modular floor sofa, sectional modules, boneless couch, modular couch
See also Floor sofa, Open corner, Metal support bars, Dye lot
- Mudroom bench#
A bench by the back or front door where people sit to pull boots on and off. Its cushion takes wet boots, bags and dogs, so washable, darker or patterned fabrics are the practical choice. A non-slip base keeps it in place when everyone sits down and jumps up in a hurry.
Also called entryway bench, boot room bench, hall bench, entry bench
See also Storage bench, Non-slip base, Performance fabric
N3 terms
- Nap#
The direction in which a pile fabric's fibers lean. Brushed with the nap it looks lighter and smoother; against the nap it looks deeper and darker. Every piece of a cushion should be cut with the nap running the same way, or the panels will look like two colors.
Also called nap direction, pile direction, shading, directional pile
See also Pile, Velvet, Corduroy, Metamerism
- Non-slip base#
A grippy fabric sewn to the underside of a cushion so it stays put on smooth wood, stone or painted tops. It makes the cushion one-sided, so an odd shape must be drawn as seen from above or it may arrive mirror-imaged. Ask whether the grip fabric is washable along with the rest of the cover.
Also called anti-slip bottom, non-slip bottom, grip bottom, non-skid backing, rubber underside, anti-slip fabric
See also Ties, Hook-and-loop tape, Top-side-up drawing
- Notch#
A cut-out in the edge of a cushion so it can fit around a post, window casing, pipe or floor vent. Dimension it by its distance from the nearest corner, its width and its depth. For a round vent, give the center point and the diameter.
Also called cut-out, cutout, notched cushion, pillar cut-out, square notches
See also Window casing, Clipped corner, Paper template
O6 terms
- OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100#
An independent label showing that a textile and its parts, from thread to zipper, were tested for a long list of harmful substances. Product Class 1 is the strictest, for baby items, and certificates are renewed every year and can be checked online by number. It covers harmful substances only, not organic status, durability or fire safety.
Also called OEKO-TEX, Oeko-Tex certified, Standard 100
See also CertiPUR-US, GREENGUARD Gold, Flame retardant
- Off-gassing#
The smell new foam gives off as it releases volatile compounds after manufacture and unpacking. It is usually strongest in the first few days and fades over a week or two in a room with moving air. Unwrap the cushion, stand it on edge where air can circulate and never heat it to hurry things along.
Also called new foam smell, VOCs, foam odor, outgassing
See also CertiPUR-US, Vacuum packing, GREENGUARD Gold
- Olefin#
A synthetic fabric made from polypropylene, colored in the fiber and naturally stain-resistant because spills have nothing to bond to. It resists fading and is often bleach-cleanable, though it feels a little rougher than acrylic. It melts at low heat, so keep irons and dryers cool.
Also called polypropylene fabric, olefin fabric
See also Solution-dyed acrylic, Performance fabric
- Open corner#
Describes whether the corner of an L-shaped floor sofa has a backrest (a closed corner) or is left open as a seat you can step into (an open corner). A closed corner makes a snug nook; an open corner adds a lounging spot. Decide before ordering, since it changes which back pieces you need.
Also called closed corner, open L, closed corner sofa, open-end sofa
See also Modular sofa, Corner backrest, L-shaped cushion
- Ottoman#
A low upholstered seat or footrest with no back, sometimes with storage inside. A loose top cushion can be replaced or re-covered without touching the base. Tufted tops are traditional, while a flat top can carry a tray and serve as a coffee table.
Also called footstool, footrest, ottoman table, storage ottoman
See also Pouf, Diamond tufting, Tufting
- Overhang#
The amount a cushion extends past the front edge of a bench or chair. A small overhang softens a hard edge behind the knees, while none at all shows off a handsome wood trim. Say which you want, because otherwise the cushion is sized to the seat itself.
Also called lip, front overhang, overhang past the edge
See also Fit allowance, Wall-to-wall fit, Waterfall edge
P22 terms
- Pallet cushion#
A cushion sized for furniture built from wooden shipping pallets, most often patio sofas and daybeds. Pallet sizes vary, so measure your finished build rather than a standard pallet. Outdoors, ties or hook-and-loop tape stop the cushions sliding off the boards.
Also called pallet sofa cushion, pallet bench pad, pallet mattress, pallet daybed cushion
See also Fire pit bench, Hook-and-loop tape, Water-repellent fabric
- Papasan chair#
A round, bowl-shaped rattan chair that holds a large, thick cushion. The cushion is made a little wider than the frame so it sits deep in the bowl, commonly 44 to 48 in (112 to 122 cm) across for a standard frame. A double-width version for two is called a mamasan.
Also called papasan, mamasan, bowl chair, papasan frame
See also Hanging chair, Tufting
- Paper template#
A full-size paper outline of the seat, traced on the furniture itself and cut to shape. It captures curves, notches and out-of-square corners that a tape measure misses. Mark which side faces up, where the front is and where the zipper should go.
Also called template, full-size template, pattern, cushion template
See also Top-side-up drawing, Notch, Curved cushion
- Pattern repeat#
The distance before a printed or woven design starts over, measured along and across the fabric. Large repeats need extra fabric so the motif can be centered on each cushion and matched across a set. Always add the repeat when you work out yardage.
Also called repeat, pattern match, vertical repeat
See also Railroaded fabric, Fabric yardage, Damask
- Performance fabric#
A broad label for upholstery fabric engineered to resist stains, spills and wear. Some get it from the fiber itself, like olefin and solution-dyed acrylic, and others from a finish or a built-in barrier. Ask how the protection works and how long it lasts, since finishes can wear off.
Also called performance weave, stain-resistant fabric, easy-clean fabric, wipeable fabric
See also Pet-friendly fabric, Cleaning codes, Solution-dyed acrylic
- Pet bed#
A cushion made for a dog or cat, sized to the animal's full sleeping stretch. A removable, washable cover and a waterproof liner over the foam save a lot of trouble. Tight weaves without loops hold up best against claws.
Also called dog bed, cat bed, pet cushion
See also Pet-friendly fabric, Zippered cover, Waterproof insert cover
- Pet-friendly fabric#
Fabric chosen to survive pets: tightly woven with no loops, easy to wipe and quick to release hair. Flat, dense weaves and microfiber do well, while loopy fabrics like bouclé catch claws. No fabric is truly claw-proof, so a removable, washable cover is the other half of the answer.
Also called pet friendly fabric, claw-resistant fabric, dog-friendly fabric
See also Performance fabric, Microfiber, Bouclé, Pet bed
- Piano bench#
A bench made for sitting at the piano, often with a lift-up lid for sheet music. A cushion raises the player, so its thickness changes playing height; most choose 1 to 3 in (2.5 to 7.5 cm). About 14 by 30 in (36 by 76 cm) is a common bench top.
Also called piano stool, duet bench, piano bench pad
See also Seat height, Chair pad, Storage bench
- Pile#
The raised fibers that stand up from the base of a fabric, as in velvet, corduroy and chenille. Short, dense pile wears better on seats than long, loose pile. Pile fabrics show marks where they are pressed, then recover as the fibers stand back up.
Also called short pile, pile height, nap fibers
- Pilling#
Small balls of tangled fiber that form on fabric where it rubs. Polyester pills tend to cling instead of dropping off, so they stay visible. A fabric shaver removes them, and pilling usually settles down after the first months of use.
Also called pills, bobbles, fuzzing, lint balls
See also Martindale, Chenille, Bouclé
- Pillow insert#
The stuffed inner pillow that goes inside a decorative pillow cover. Many people choose an insert slightly larger than the cover so the pillow looks full with crisp corners. If a cover shrinks in the wash, a larger insert is the usual rescue.
Also called pillow form, insert, inner pillow
See also Throw pillow, Down and feather, Polyester fiberfill
- Piping#
A narrow fabric-covered cord sewn into the seams around a cushion's edges. It outlines the shape, protects the seam from wear and gives a tailored look. Piping and welt are the same thing: upholsterers tend to say welt, most buyers say piping.
Also called welt, welting, cording, trim, edge trim, beading
See also Self piping, Contrast piping, Double piping, Plain seam
- Plaid#
A pattern of crossing stripes in several colors and widths, forming squares and rectangles. In American usage plaid covers everything from tartans to buffalo checks. Large plaids need careful matching across seams and piping.
Also called tartan, check, buffalo check
See also Gingham, Pattern repeat
- Plain seam#
An edge sewn without piping, so the seam simply turns in and the outline stays soft. It suits minimal rooms and textured fabrics like bouclé and corduroy, where the weave already draws a line. Buyers who write to the workshop split roughly half and half on piping, so it is purely a matter of taste.
Also called soft edge, no piping, flat seam, unpiped edge
See also Piping, Self piping, Bouclé
- Play couch#
A set of foam blocks and cushions children can build into a sofa, fort, bed or slide. The pieces are light enough for small hands to move, with removable covers for washing. Laid flat, it doubles as a guest bed for a sleepover.
Also called kids play couch, activity couch, kids floor sofa, modular play sofa, play sofa
See also Crash pad, Modular sofa, Floor sofa
- Polyester fiberfill#
Loose, fluffy polyester fiber used to stuff pillows, back cushions and toys. It is light, washable and inexpensive, but it packs down with use and needs regular plumping. It gives a softer, less structured shape than foam.
Also called fiberfill, poly fill, stuffing, polyester filling, hollow fiber
See also Cluster fiber, Down and feather, Pillow insert
- Polyester upholstery weave#
The workhorse of cushion fabrics: woven polyester made to feel soft, hold its color and resist wrinkles and shrinking. Listings often call a smooth, plain version simply soft fabric. It washes well at cool temperatures and is the base of most velvets and linen-looks today.
Also called soft fabric, polyester fabric, poly weave
See also Linen-look fabric, Performance fabric, Velvet
- Polyurethane foam#
The flexible foam inside most seat cushions, poured in large blocks and cut to shape. Its quality is described by two separate numbers: density, which predicts how long it lasts, and ILD, which describes how firm it feels. Buyers outside the US often call it sponge.
Also called PU foam, poly foam, upholstery foam, sponge
See also Foam density, ILD, High-density foam, High-resilience foam
- Porch swing#
A hanging bench on a porch, usually 4 or 5 ft (122 or 152 cm) wide, and in its larger form a swing bed that holds a twin-size mattress. Its cushions face sun and humidity, so outdoor fabric and ties to the frame are the usual choice. Measure the seat inside the arms, not the overall swing.
Also called swing bench, deck swing, swing bed, porch swing bed
See also Ties, Glider, Rocking chair
- Pouf#
A soft, stuffed floor seat or footrest with no frame, usually round or square. It works as extra seating, a footstool or, with a tray on top, a side table. Firmer fillings keep it from slumping when someone sits on it.
Also called pouffe, floor pouf, ottoman pouf, bean bag pouf
See also Ottoman, Floor cushion, Star pouf
- Pre-shrunk#
Fabric that was washed or treated at the mill so it shrinks less after it is sewn. Natural fibers like cotton and linen can still shrink a little, and heat is the main culprit. Wash covers cool, skip the dryer and put them back on the foam while slightly damp.
Also called preshrunk, sanforized, pre-washed
See also Linen, Cotton-linen blend, Zippered cover
- Pressure marks#
Light or dark patches on velvet and other pile fabrics where the fibers were pressed flat by sitting or packing. They are normal behavior, not a defect, and usually fade as the pile recovers. Vacuum-packed velvet can show square marks and creases that settle within a few days.
Also called velvet bruising, crush marks, bruising, packing marks
See also Velvet, Nap, Vacuum packing, Foam recovery
Q1 term
- Quarter-round cushion#
A cushion shaped like a quarter of a circle, with two straight sides meeting at a right angle and a curved front. It fills the corner of an L-shaped bench or a floor seating area. The maker needs the length of the two straight sides.
Also called quarter circle, pie-slice cushion, fan cushion, quarter-round corner cushion
See also Corner floor cushion, Curved cushion, L-shaped cushion
R9 terms
- Railroaded fabric#
Fabric whose pattern runs across the width of the roll, so a long bench top can be cut in one piece without seams. Fabric woven up the roll has its pattern running along the length instead. It decides which way stripes and corduroy ribs run on your cushion.
Also called railroading, railroaded, turned fabric
See also Ticking, Wale, Pattern repeat, Gusset
- Reading nook#
A small, snug spot for reading, often a window seat, an alcove or a corner under the stairs. The cushion is usually deeper and softer than a dining bench, with back pillows or bolsters to lean on. It is one of the phrases buyers use most when they write to us.
Also called book nook, reading corner, nook cushion, book corner
See also Window seat, Bolster, Lumbar pillow
- Rendering#
A drawing or 3D image of your cushion in the chosen shape, fabric and piping before it is made. It catches wrong orientations, stripe directions and odd color pairings while they are still easy to change. It shows proportion and layout, not the exact color of the fabric.
Also called mock-up, mockup, 3D preview, visualization
See also Paper template, Top-side-up drawing, Fabric code
- Reticulated foam#
An open-cell foam with the thin cell walls removed, so water drains straight through instead of soaking in. Outdoors it dries within hours rather than days, which helps keep mildew away. It needs a breathable fabric or a mesh bottom to let the water out.
Also called dry-fast foam, quick-dry foam, open-cell outdoor foam, outdoor foam
See also Mesh bottom, Closed-cell foam, Water-repellent fabric, Mildew
- Rocking chair#
A chair set on curved runners that rock back and forth. Rocker cushions usually come as a seat pad and a back cushion tied to the spindles or slats. Many rockers have shaped seats, so a paper template gives the best fit.
Also called rocker, porch rocker
See also Glider, Headrest pillow, Chair pad
- Rod pocket#
Fabric loops or a sewn tunnel on the back of a backrest cushion that slide over a wall-mounted rod or rail. The cushion hangs at a fixed height and still lifts off for washing. It is a tidy way to mount back cushions along a banquette or daybed wall.
Also called rod loops, sleeve, pillow rail loops, hanging loops
See also Backrest cushion, French cleat, Ties
- Roll pack#
A vacuum-compressed cushion or mattress that is also rolled up tight, the way many floor sofas and mattresses ship. It fits a large piece into a package one person can move. Open the plastic carefully, keeping blades away from the fabric, unroll it and give it time to expand.
Also called roll-packed, rollpack, compressed roll
See also Vacuum packing, Foam recovery, Floor sofa
- Rounded corners#
Corners cut on a curve instead of a point, to match a bench with rounded ends or to soften a cushion's look. The size of the curve is given as a radius, the distance from the center of the circle to its edge. A paper template of one corner is the surest way to match it.
Also called radius corners, round edges, rounded corner
See also Curved cushion, Paper template, Chord and rise
- RV dinette#
The table-and-bench seating in an RV, camper or van, which often converts into a bed. Its cushions have to work as both seats and a mattress, and many sit on lift-up storage. Measure the plywood bases rather than the old cushions, and note any hinges or cut-outs.
Also called dinette, camper dinette, U-shaped dinette, van build bench, campervan seating
See also Salon cushions, Closed-cell foam, U-shaped cushion, Storage bench
S12 terms
- Salon cushions#
The seating cushions in a boat's main cabin, called the salon or saloon. They are often odd shapes, with curved backs and angled ends that follow the hull. Templates traced in the boat itself are the most reliable way to size them.
Also called saloon cushions, loveseat cushions, boat cushions, berth cushions, V-berth cushions
See also Marine vinyl, Closed-cell foam, RV dinette
- Seat depth#
The distance from the front edge of a seat to the back wall or backrest. Buyers often use depth for thickness too, which causes more mix-ups than anything else on an order. Dining seats are commonly 16 to 18 in (41 to 46 cm) deep, and a back cushion takes about 3 in (7.5 cm) of that away.
Also called depth, front-to-back depth, D dimension
See also Thickness, Seat height, Backrest cushion
- Seat height#
The height from the floor to the top of the seat once the cushion is on. Platform height plus cushion thickness gives the finished height, minus a little settling when you sit. Dining seats feel right at around 18 in (46 cm).
Also called finished seat height, sitting height
See also Table clearance, Thickness, Compressed height
- Self piping#
Piping cut from the same fabric as the cushion body. It gives a crisp outline without adding a second color, so the cushion reads calm and tailored. It is the quiet middle ground between no piping and contrast piping.
Also called self-welt, self-piped edge, matching piping, tone-on-tone piping
See also Piping, Contrast piping, Plain seam
- Shredded foam#
Small pieces of foam used as a loose filling, mostly in back cushions and pillows. It gives squashy, pillow-like support that can be shaken back into shape. A firm seat with a shredded-foam back is a common pairing on benches and floor sofas.
Also called shredded fill, foam crumb, shredded sponge, chopped foam
See also Backrest cushion, Cluster fiber, Polyurethane foam
- Slipcover#
A removable fabric cover that slips over a cushion, mattress or piece of furniture. Tailored slipcovers fit closely with zippers or elastic; relaxed ones drape loosely. They make a daybed or sofa washable and let you change the color without replacing the foam.
Also called slip cover, loose cover, fitted cover
See also Fitted daybed cover, Zippered cover, Sofa topper
- Sofa topper#
A quilted pad that lies over a sofa's seat and back to protect it or refresh a tired look. The stitched quilting holds a thin layer of batting in place, so it softens a hard seat slightly and can be washed. It is a lighter fix than new covers or new foam.
Also called couch topper, quilted topper, sofa pad, couch pad, quilted sofa topper
- Solution-dyed acrylic#
An outdoor fabric made from acrylic fibers colored before they are spun, so the color runs through each fiber like a carrot rather than a radish. It holds color in strong sun far better than surface-dyed fabric, and many can be cleaned with diluted bleach. It is water-repellent, not waterproof.
Also called outdoor acrylic, solution dyed, acrylic canvas, spun acrylic
See also Olefin, Lightfastness, Water-repellent fabric, Mildew
- Spindle-back chair#
A chair whose back is a row of slim turned rods, as on a Windsor chair, or a set of horizontal slats, as on a ladder-back. The uprights give chair-pad ties an easy place to knot. Windsor seats are often scooped and shaped, so trace a template.
Also called spindles, Windsor chair, ladder-back chair, slat-back chair
See also Ties, Chair pad, Rocking chair
- Star pouf#
A large floor cushion shaped like a five-pointed star, used for lounging, play and reading corners. The points make natural armrests and backrests for children. It is sized by its overall width across the points.
Also called star floor cushion, star crash pad, giant star cushion, star pillow
See also Pouf, Floor cushion, Crash pad
- Storage bench#
A bench with a lid that lifts to reveal storage, from a window seat to a cedar chest or an RV bench. The cushion should split where the lids hinge, or carry ties on the hinge side so it stays on when the lid opens. Round sizes down, never up, so the lid can still clear the wall.
Also called lift-up lid bench, flip-up bench, hope chest, cedar chest, quilt box
See also Ties, Window seat, RV dinette
- Swatch#
A small cut of the actual fabric, sent so you can see and feel it at home. Look at it in daylight, under your evening lamps and against the wood, wall or sofa it will sit beside. A swatch shows color and texture far better than any screen.
Also called fabric sample, sample card, swatch kit, sample pack, color chart
See also Fabric code, Metamerism, Dye lot
T14 terms
- T-shaped cushion#
A sofa or armchair seat cushion that widens at the front, stretching out in front of the arms. It is common on traditional sofas and wing chairs. To replace one, trace the old cushion or the seat deck on paper rather than guessing the steps in the outline.
Also called T-cushion, T-shape, T-shaped seat
See also Box cushion, Cover only, Paper template
- Table clearance#
The gap between the top of the seat cushion and the top of the table. About 10 to 12 in (25 to 30 cm) feels right for dining, with enough room under the table apron for knees. A cushion that is too thick is the usual reason a built-in nook feels cramped.
Also called tabletop clearance, knee clearance, seat-to-table height
See also Seat height, Banquette, Breakfast nook
- TB117-2013#
A California flammability standard that tests upholstery cover fabric, barriers and fillings against a smoldering cigarette. It can be met without added flame-retardant chemicals, and the label says whether any were added. Its test methods became the basis of the federal rule for upholstered furniture.
Also called California TB117, TB 117-2013, Cal 117
See also 16 CFR 1640, Flame retardant
- Teddy fabric#
A deep, fluffy fabric with a curly or fleecy pile that looks like a teddy bear's coat. It is warm and very soft, which is why it covers so many floor sofas and poufs. Brush it gently to lift areas that have flattened.
Also called teddy, sherpa, faux shearling, teddy bouclé, teddy fleece
See also Bouclé, Teddy sofa, Pile
- Teddy sofa#
Buyer shorthand for a plump floor sofa upholstered in fluffy teddy or bouclé fabric. The name describes the look and the fabric, not a single brand or model. Most can also be made in corduroy, velvet or other upholstery fabrics.
Also called teddy couch, pouf sofa, teddy floor sofa
See also Floor sofa, Teddy fabric, Modular sofa
- Thickness#
How tall the cushion stands from its bottom face to its top, before anyone sits on it. Buyers often call it height or depth, which is easy to confuse with seat depth. Most seat cushions run from 2 to 5 in (5 to 12.5 cm) thick.
Also called height, loft, cushion height, gusset height
See also Seat depth, Gusset, Compressed height, Foam recovery
- Throw pillow#
A decorative pillow for sofas, beds, benches and window seats, usually square. Americans say throw pillow where British buyers say scatter cushion. It adds color and softness and is the easiest thing in a room to change with the seasons.
Also called scatter cushion, accent pillow, decorative pillow, toss pillow, throw cushion
See also Pillow insert, Lumbar pillow, Cushion
- Ticking#
A tightly woven striped cotton or cotton-linen fabric, first made to cover mattresses and feather pillows. The stripes are woven in, not printed, often a broad stripe edged by thin ones. On a bench, decide early whether the stripes run front to back or along the length.
Also called ticking stripe, mattress ticking, French stripe, ticking fabric
See also Cotton canvas, Railroaded fabric, Bullnose edge
- Ties#
Fabric strips sewn to a cushion so it can be knotted to chair spindles, bench rails or a swing frame. Four corner ties hold a cushion under a bench seat, and two at the back corners suit chairs and backrests against rails. Ties need something to tie to; on a solid box, a non-slip base works better.
Also called tie straps, strings, ribbons, tie-downs, corner ties, bows
See also Non-slip base, Hook-and-loop tape, Spindle-back chair, Storage bench
- Tolerance#
The small difference allowed between the ordered size and the finished cushion, since foam and fabric are not machined metal. Custom makers commonly aim to land within about 1/2 in (1.3 cm) of the order. Measure to the nearest 1/8 in and type the numbers out rather than sending a photo of the tape.
Also called handmade tolerance, margin of error, plus or minus
See also Fit allowance, Crowning, Diagonal measurement
- Top-side-up drawing#
A drawing of an odd-shaped cushion as seen from above while standing in the room. Asymmetric shapes are mirror-sensitive: if the drawing is flipped, the cushion only fits upside down. That matters most when the cushion has a one-sided non-slip base or zipper.
Also called view from above, this side up, mirror image, orientation
See also Paper template, Non-slip base, Trapezoid cushion
- Trapezoid cushion#
A four-sided cushion whose front and back edges are parallel but different lengths, so one or both ends are angled. It is the standard shape for the side sections of a bay window and for chairs that are wider at the front. Measure the front, the back, the depth at the center and both angled sides.
Also called trapezium, trapezium cushion, tapered cushion, angled cushion, angled ends, slanted side
See also Clipped corner, Bay window, Front edge and back edge, Paper template
- Tufting#
Pulling the top and bottom of a cushion together at set points with strong thread, often finished with buttons, so the filling cannot shift. It creates the dimpled, quilted surface of French-style and floor cushions. Tufted covers cannot come off for washing, and outdoors the tufts let rain in.
Also called button tufting, tufted cushion, buttoned, tufts, capitonné
See also Biscuit tufting, Diamond tufting, Blind tufting, French mattress cushion
- Twin XL#
A US mattress size about 38 by 80 in (97 by 203 cm), five inches longer than a standard twin at about 38 by 75 in (97 by 191 cm). Daybed covers must match the exact mattress, not just the size name. Measure the mattress itself, including its depth.
Also called twin XL mattress, twin size, twin mattress, twin extra long
See also Daybed, Fitted daybed cover, IKEA Hemnes daybed
U1 term
- U-shaped cushion#
A set of cushions for a three-sided banquette or booth, usually made as separate runs that meet at two corners. The three runs rarely measure exactly the same, so each is measured on its own. Decide which pieces run through the corners before you order.
Also called U-shape, horseshoe, U-shaped banquette, booth cushion
See also L-shaped cushion, Banquette, RV dinette
V2 terms
- Vacuum packing#
Shipping foam cushions with the air pumped out so they travel flat and small. Once opened, the foam draws air back in and regains its shape over the following days. Unpack soon after delivery, because foam left compressed for a long time can struggle to recover fully.
Also called vacuum-sealed, vacuum packed, compressed shipping, shrink wrap
See also Roll pack, Foam recovery, Pressure marks
- Velvet#
A woven fabric with a short, dense cut pile that catches the light and feels smooth one way and slightly rough the other. Most upholstery velvet today is polyester, which resists crushing better than cotton velvet. Its color shifts with the direction of the pile, which is part of its charm.
Also called polyester velvet, performance velvet, velour, cotton velvet, crushed velvet
See also Pile, Nap, Pressure marks
W12 terms
- Wale#
One raised rib of corduroy, and also the measure of how many ribs fit in an inch. Fine pinwale has around 16 or more per inch, while upholstery cord has far fewer, wider ribs. On a box cushion the side band is often cut with the ribs running sideways so a long strip needs no joins.
Also called wales per inch, ribs, corduroy lines, rib count
See also Corduroy, Wide-wale corduroy, Railroaded fabric
- Wall-to-wall fit#
A cushion made to fill a seat exactly between two walls or two side panels. Because walls are rarely square, measure the width at the back, the middle and the front and give the smallest figure. A snug fit looks built-in and keeps the cushion from sliding.
Also called flush fit, wood to wood, flush with the front, wall to wall
See also Fit allowance, Window seat, Overhang
- Water-repellent fabric#
Fabric that makes water bead up and roll off for a while, usually thanks to a finish on the fibers. It still breathes, so it is comfortable to sit on, but steady rain eventually gets through, especially at seams and zippers. The finish wears with cleaning and can be refreshed with a spray-on treatment.
Also called water resistant, water-repellent coating, DWR finish, showerproof
See also Waterproof fabric, Solution-dyed acrylic, Waterproof insert cover
- Waterfall edge#
A soft front edge where the top fabric rolls down over the front and joins the bottom panel, leaving a rounded top and a flat base. It feels gentler behind the knees than a square box edge. Makers use the term loosely, so confirm the look with a drawing or photo.
Also called waterfall front, waterfall cushion
See also Bullnose edge, Knife edge, Overhang
- Waterproof fabric#
Fabric coated or laminated with a membrane that water cannot pass through. It keeps rain out of the foam but breathes poorly, so it can feel warm and sticky in summer. Even with waterproof fabric, water can still find its way in at the stitching and zipper.
Also called coated fabric, membrane fabric, TPU-laminated fabric, PVC-coated fabric
See also Water-repellent fabric, Waterproof insert cover, Marine vinyl
- Waterproof insert cover#
A water-resistant inner sleeve that goes over the foam, underneath the decorative cover of an outdoor, kids' or pet cushion. It keeps the foam dry when water gets past the outer fabric at seams or zippers. It breathes less, so the cushion should still be stored dry.
Also called waterproof liner, inner liner, insert cover, moisture barrier
See also Water-repellent fabric, Reticulated foam, Mesh bottom, Pet bed
- Wedge cushion#
A cushion that is thick at one end and thin at the other, like a slice of cheese seen from the side. As a backrest it tips you back at a comfortable angle against a flat wall. Measure the height, the length and the thickness at both the top and the base.
Also called wedge backrest, wedge pillow, wedge back cushion, triangle back cushion
See also Backrest cushion, Bolster, Daybed
- Wide-wale corduroy#
Corduroy with broad ribs, roughly 3 to 8 wales per inch, heavy enough for upholstery. It is the fabric behind many floor sofas and chunky floor cushions. Wide ribs should be matched across seams like a stripe.
Also called jumbo cord, elephant cord, plush corduroy, chunky corduroy
See also Wale, Corduroy, Floor sofa
- Window casing#
The wooden trim framing a window, which often juts out over a window seat. A cushion may need a notch or a shallower back edge to clear it. Measure seat depth from the face of the trim, not from the glass.
Also called window trim, molding, sill lip, window ledge, casing
See also Notch, Window seat, Seat depth
- Window seat#
A built-in bench beneath a window, often with storage below and walls on two or three sides. Its cushion is measured wall to wall, and those walls are seldom perfectly square. A 3 to 4 in (7.5 to 10 cm) cushion is the usual choice.
Also called window bench, window nook, windowsill seat, window seat ledge, window bench seat
See also Bay window, Window casing, Reading nook, Wall-to-wall fit
- Wraparound zipper#
A zipper that runs along the back of a cushion and continues around one or both corners onto the sides. The wider opening lets thick, firm foam go in without crushing the corners. It is the usual choice on deep bench and floor cushions.
Also called zip around the corner, zipper on 3 sides, U-zip, three-sided zipper
See also Zippered cover, Foam insert, Floor cushion
- Wyzenbeek#
The abrasion test used most in North America, which rubs fabric back and forth and counts double rubs until it wears. Residential upholstery commonly starts around 15,000 double rubs, while commercial specs ask for 30,000 or more. Wyzenbeek and Martindale numbers cannot be converted into each other.
Also called double rubs, double-rub rating, Wyzenbeek test
See also Martindale, Contract grade, Performance fabric
Z1 term
- Zippered cover#
A cushion cover with a zipper so the foam can come out and the cover can be washed. On a box cushion the zipper usually runs along the back and often wraps the corners so the foam slides in. Tufted cushions cannot have removable zippered covers because the tufts pass through the filling.
Also called removable cover, zipper cover, zipped cover, zippered slipcover
See also Hidden zipper, Wraparound zipper, Cover only, Tufting