Cushion styles explained
Boxed or knife-edge, piping or not, ties, zippers, foam and stripe direction. Here is what each choice means and when it looks best, in plain language.
Every choice below is one you will make when you build a cushion in the Inset studio. Here is what each one means and when it looks best.
Boxed or knife-edge
- Boxed cushions have a strip of fabric around the sides, so the edges are straight and the corners are crisp. They look tailored and hold their shape. They are the classic choice for deep seating, sofas, window seats and banquettes.
- Knife-edge cushions are two pieces of fabric sewn together around the edge, so they are thicker in the middle and taper at the sides. They look softer and more relaxed, and they suit thinner chair pads and casual dining chairs.
Piping
Piping (sometimes called welting) is a thin cord wrapped in fabric and sewn into the seams. It outlines the shape and makes the edges look finished. In the same fabric it is subtle. In a contrasting color it becomes a design detail, like a navy cushion with white piping. Leave it off for a cleaner, more modern look.
Ties
Ties are fabric strips at the two back corners that wrap around the chair frame. They keep a cushion from sliding forward when you sit, from falling off when you stand, and from blowing away on a windy deck. They matter most on dining chairs, rockers and anything outdoors. Built-ins and deep sofas usually do not need them.
Zipper or sewn shut
- Zipper: the cover comes off, so you can clean it following its care instructions, and replace the foam years later without buying a whole new cushion. The zipper usually runs along the back, out of sight.
- Sewn shut: no zipper at all, for the cleanest possible look. The trade-off is that the cover and foam stay together for life.
Filling
- Standard foam: comfortable and supportive, for indoors and covered porches.
- Quick-dry foam: an open foam that lets rain drain through, for cushions that live outside in the open. More on this in indoor vs outdoor fabric.
Pattern direction
Solid fabrics look the same either way. With stripes and directional patterns, you choose whether the pattern runs front to back (stripes point toward you when you sit) or side to side (stripes run across the seat). Front to back tends to look classic on chairs. Side to side can make a long bench or window seat look even longer.
Not sure? Boxed, with piping, a zipper and ties, is the most versatile combination for outdoor chairs. For window seats, try boxed with a zipper and no ties.
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Questions
What is the difference between a boxed and a knife-edge cushion?
A boxed cushion has a side panel, so it has straight sides and crisp corners. A knife-edge cushion is two panels sewn together at the edge, so it tapers and looks softer.
What is piping on a cushion?
Piping, also called welting, is a fabric-covered cord sewn into the seams. It outlines the cushion and can match or contrast with the main fabric.
Do I need ties on my cushions?
Ties help on dining chairs, rockers and outdoor furniture, where cushions slide or blow away. Built-in seats and deep sofas usually do not need them.
Should I get a zipper?
A zipper lets the cover come off for cleaning and lets you replace the foam later. Choose sewn shut only if you want the cleanest look and do not need to remove the cover.