Fabric by project

Fabric for Bench Cushions

Bench, window seat and ottoman cushions get sat on, leaned on and used for pulling on shoes. Here's what to look for when you're covering one, how much fabric to plan on, and a place to start looking.

Upholstered bench cushion and round ottoman in a sunny entryway

What kind of fabric works

Look for upholstery fabric rated for everyday seating. Our FAQ suggests 15,000 or more double rubs for everyday home seating, and every fabric in this selection is rated at 30,000 or more. This selection includes fabrics that clean with water-based cleaners and fabrics that need solvent cleaners, so check the cleaning code on each product page before you choose.

Fabric to start with

See all Bench cushion fabrics

What to think about

Durability

Look at the double rub count on the product page. Higher means tougher. 15,000 or more suits everyday home seating.

Cleaning

Each product lists a cleaning code. W means water-based cleaners, S means solvent only, WS allows either. The fabric care guide explains each code.

Width

Most upholstery fabric is about 54 inches wide. Check the width on each product page, since wider fabric needs fewer yards.

Things that add yardage

Piping, skirts, tufting and boxed cushions all use more fabric.

How much fabric?

For an ottoman or bench, plan on 2 to 3½ yards. This is an estimate for plain fabric 54 inches wide, so add extra for piping and boxed cushions. Patterned fabric needs about 20 to 25% more, and more for a large repeat. Order everything at once, since fabric from different orders can come from different dye lots.

Open the full yardage guide

Try it before you cut

Swatches are 9x9" and $10 each, and ship for a flat $15 anywhere in Canada. You'll get a $15 code toward a future order of $100 or more.

Choose swatches

Questions

How much fabric do I need for a bench cushion?

An ottoman or bench takes about 2 to 3½ yards. This is an estimate from our yardage guide for plain fabric 54 inches wide. Email your measurements to info@thefabricshoppe.ca if you're unsure.

What does double rub count mean?

It's a wear test. Higher means tougher. 15,000 or more suits everyday home seating.

Can I use indoor fabric outside?

No. Only use fabrics from our Outdoor collection.

Can I return fabric if I order the wrong amount?

All cut fabric is final sale, with no refunds, returns or exchanges. Order a 9x9" swatch first and use our yardage guide to plan.

Cut fabric is final sale. Shipping and returns