Guide
How to Measure Boat & RV Cushions
Boat and RV cushions are rarely simple rectangles, so the most reliable way to measure them is the paper template method: lay paper or cardboard over the base, trace the exact outline including every curve and angled corner, then measure the straight sections and note the thickness. Label each template and send a photo of it with a tape measure laid across it.
Foamera makes made-to-measure foam cushions and sells them online through TURKEX LLC. Sizes can be entered in inches or centimetres on each product page.
Why use a template instead of a tape measure?
Berths, dinettes and cockpit seats have curves, tapers and angled corners that a tape cannot capture. A traced outline records the true shape, so the finished cushion fits the base instead of leaving gaps.
How do I make a paper template?
- Remove the old cushion and clean the base.
- Lay kraft paper, pattern paper or thin cardboard over the base and tape it in place so it cannot move.
- Trace the outline with a pencil, pressing into curves and corners. Follow the edge the cushion should sit against, not the outside of the frame.
- Mark the top side, the front edge, and which way the template faces, for example "port, facing forward".
- Draw a straight reference line across the template and write its length on it; this gives the shape a known scale.
- Cut the template out, lay it back on the base to check it, and trim where needed.
- Measure the straight sections, and note the thickness you want.
How do I measure a V-berth?
A V-berth is usually a trapezoid or a triangle with a curved side. Template the whole berth first. If it will be split into two cushions, or has a separate filler piece, draw the split line on the template and label each piece. Measure the width at the widest end, the width at the narrow end, and the length down the centre line, at a right angle to the widest end.
How do I measure an RV dinette?
Dinette seats and backs are often rectangles, so a tape may be enough: measure the length, depth and thickness of each seat and each back cushion separately, and label them. Use a template for any seat with rounded corners or angled ends.
| Cushion | Method | Product |
|---|---|---|
| L-shaped cockpit or dinette seat | Template, or each leg as a rectangle | L-Shaped Boat Cushions |
| Round seat | Diameter through the centre, and thickness | Round Boat Cushion |
| V-berth or tapered berth | Template; widths at both ends and length on the centre line | Trapezium Bench/Sofa Seat Cushions |
| Straight dinette bench | Tape: length, depth, thickness | Bench Cushions |
Can you match cushions for an older boat or RV?
Yes. Because each cushion is cut to your template and measurements, a full set can be rebuilt for an older boat or camper that no longer has parts available. Send photos of your templates and we will confirm the sizes.
What should I send?
- A photo of each template, flat, with a tape measure laid across it.
- The reference-line length and the thickness, in one unit, inches or centimetres.
- A label for each piece and a photo of the whole layout.
Email them to hello@foamera.com or send them on WhatsApp.
Where do I order?
See boat cushions and RV cushions.
Key facts
- Units
- Sizes can be entered in inches or centimetres on each product page.