While your outdoor furniture may be beautifully crafted out of iron or wood, beauty is not its only purpose. First and foremost, furniture must be comfortable – and that’s where cushions come into the picture. The cushions you choose for your outdoor furniture should provide the combination of both support and comfort that creates an ideal place to sit.

If you are shopping for cushions to complete an outdoor dining set, there are several factors to consider. Custom-made cushions will be able meet all of your exacting specifications. Keep in mind the following questions: Do you want the cushion to cover the seat only, or the seat and the back of the chair? Do you want the cushions to include ties to keep them in place? And, what are the precise dimensions of your chairs? To find the precise dimensions, it’s a good idea to consult the manufacturer.

Now comes the fun part – Fabric! You will find endless varieties of outdoor fabrics, but I recommend Sunbrella fabric. In my opinion, it is the superior outdoor fabric for the following reasons: Sunbrella fabric resists damage from mildew, chlorine and sunlight. These highly breathable fabrics allow cushions to dry quickly when stood on edge. Coated with a Teflon soil-and-stain-resistant finish, Sunbrella fabrics are easily cleaned.

The color and pattern you choose for your outdoor cushions are a matter of personal style, but I would suggest choosing a fabric that coordinates with the style and personality of your home and garden decor. As you survey the elements of your garden against the backdrop of your house, imagine a linear fabric as opposed to a free-flowing floral. Which would complement the setting best? Sunbrella offers an extensive line of fabric patters and styles. As you think through all the possibilities of your outdoor living area, remember the most important part is to have fun!

Jane Patrone is a contributing editor of Backyard Guru, a website that offers Lawn and Garden Furniture and Outdoor Furniture Cushions.

Source: www.articledashboard.com