Patio furniture cushions not only increase comfort, but can add an aesthetic statement to your outdoor space. Cushions are, by nature, a practical and decorative element that can emphasize characteristics you enjoy about your outdoor environment and deemphasize areas that you would prefer not draw attention. A thoughtful choice in cushion depth, color, pattern, print, and style will give the space a polished look. Cushions can often be customized to your liking and to suit most furniture needs. There are many varieties of fabrics and materials to choose from that vary in their quality and endurance in battling exposure to the elements. Ultimately the choice is yours, and the sky is the limit. Cushion choice, while a detail, is important to how you and your family enjoy time outside.
Patio furniture cushions should be as thoughtfully chosen as cushions for your indoor furniture. Cushions should coordinate with the style of outdoor furniture you have selected. For example, a sleek modern furniture set would not likely be well paired with a flounce, floral print. A modern furniture set would be best complimented by a cushion that is covered by a solid fabric or with a contemporary pattern, such as a stripe. Decorative cushions also draw the eyebright eye catching cushion. Subtle aesthetic distractions will not be able to compete with a very strong design element, such as a bold decorative cushion or pillow. If there are elements of your outdoor furniture that do not please you, these elements can sometimes be covered with a cushion. Thus taking what was once an eye sore and turning it into a favorable decorative element. In some instances, a furniture set that might otherwise become trash can be turned into treasure with a simple coat of paint and a clever cushion update.
When making choices about cushions for outdoor furniture, consider how much ‘cush’ you want or need from your cushion. Cushions come in a variety of depths and the right or wrong choice in depth could make or break your outdoor experience. When deciding what depth of cushion to purchase, examine your furniture. Ask yourself the following questions: How high is the seat of the chair/sofa from the ground? If you choose a deep cushion, you could wind up sitting outside on your new patio set, with your feet barely touching the ground. What is the distance between the seat of the chair to the bottom of the table? Typically, family and guests prefer not to have to have their legs smashed in between the cushion and the table. What are my physical needs? If you have issues with your back and knees, choose a cushion depth that will provide the support you need, while not encumbering your ability to stand up.
Picking the color, pattern, or print can be a tricky endeavor. This choice is critical to creating aesthetic appeal. Solids are generally a safe choice--they tend to be versatile, and will coordinate with most furniture styles. Things to keep in mind about solids: greens and blues are more forgiving; blues are easier to match to other blues and if the blue you choose is slightly off from other blues in your outdoor living space, it seldom creates visual problems. On the other hand, if you were to choose a red or orange solid, it can be very challenging to successfully match it to another orange or red. Patterns and prints are a fun way to dress up a space. Prints, even subtle prints, add flare and intricacy to the design of your outdoor space. Prints exist in traditional brocades, stripes, polka dots, florals, and a variety of patterns. Remember to consider that contrast in color or value of light and dark within the print will determine how bold the print will be. If a very bold print is chosen, it could detract from the beauty and relaxing nature the space. When choosing colors and prints for your cushions, remember that they will most likely be outside in the summer. The darker a color scheme you choose, the hotter the cushion will be when left in the sun. Ouch!
Some manufacturers offer many choices in fabric colors, patterns, and prints. These choices allow you the opportunity to customize cushions to coordinate with the space they occupy. Usually the manufacturer or retailer will have swatches that are available in the store, by mail, or that can be viewed over the internet. When you are able to customize the fabric choice for your cushions, it is best to see and touch a physical sample of the fabric whenever possible. Texture of the fabric is critical for comfort. If the option to choose the fabric for your cushions is available, request as much information and tactile experience with the fabric as possible.
When purchasing cushions, quality counts. Be sure that the cushions you are buying are made from a quality and durable material. Remember that in addition to normal and regular use, cushions for patio furniture will need to stand up to the elements. While it is good practice to bring cushions inside or put them into an enclosed storage area, it is not always made a priority when a sudden thundershower hits. Fabric on a cushion for outdoor furniture should be tightly woven, fade resistant and able to repel water. Also take into account how easily the cushion can be cleaned. Most can be cleaned with a mild detergent and water. Some are water resistant enough to be sprayed with a garden hose.
Choose cushions for your outdoor furniture carefully and it will invariably add to you and your guests’ outdoor experience. Remember to make choices that will flatter the environment where your furniture is situated. Color and print selection require thought and care. Customize where you can, and consider how texture of fabric can add to or detract from the comfort of your outdoor space.