Creating Custom Cushions

STEP 1: Upholstery Prep Work

To save a little money, you can complete the jute webbing and cushion buildup before taking your seat frame to the upholster. A goose-neck webbing stretcher and a magnetic tack hammer are all your need to complete the job. I use a basket weave pattern to ensure the best results.

STEP 2: Building the Cushion

You’ll need spray contact adhesive (like 3M 90 high strength), 3 pieces of foam, and some high-loft polyester batting (Dacron™).

1. Orient the jute webbing face down to allow for more foam padding.

2. Attach the base foam directly onto the jute webbing with spray adhesive. It should be 1" thick, firm yet dense, and sized at a 10 3/4" square. I use “2955” upholstery foam which is very dense and extra-firm.

3. The middle is 2" thick and is a medium firmness that is sized to 14" wide and 13" long. Adhere it 1" back from the seat frame to allow the top piece to form the rounded profile. For this I use “1834” foam which is still fairly forgiving.

4. The top layer is 1" thick and very soft. It adds to the plushness of your cushion. I recommend a piece of “1818” foam.

5. Cover your stacked foam cushion with a single layer of batting and staple it to the underside of the seat frame. It’ll further help to shape and unify the foam.

STEP 3: Sew the Cushion Cover

The only remaining step is to measure the top and side panels and sew the cushion cover. I made my own leather cushions and used firm 5/32" welting cord, but a simple blind seam would be handsome as well.