Thinking about getting custom cushions made for your home, bach, deck, or outdoor nook? Nice! Custom cushions can completely change the feel of a space — but most people have no idea what they should expect to pay or what actually affects the price.
So let’s break it down in simple, Kiwi-friendly terms. No jargon, no fluff, just the stuff you actually need to know before ordering.
1. Foam Type: This Is Where Most of the Cost Comes From
Foam is the foundation of your cushion — and it makes the biggest difference to both comfort and price.
Here’s the quick rundown:
High-Density Comfort Foam (Indoor)
Good support, great for everyday seating, and reasonably priced. Perfect for window seats, bench seats, and indoor nooks.
Comfort Plus / Premium Foam
A step up in comfort and durability. If the cushion is going to get a lot of daily use, this is worth it.
Reticulated Quick-Dry Foam (Outdoor)
This is the flash foam. Water drains straight through, so it’s ideal for NZ’s rainy spells and coastal weather.
It’s the pricier option — but honestly, it lasts way longer outdoors.
Money tip:
If your cushions will live outside permanently, go straight for quick-dry foam. Otherwise, you’ll probably be replacing cheaper foam every couple of years.
2. Fabric Choice: UV, Weather & Wear Count More Than You Think
Fabric price varies heaps depending on durability and brand.
Here’s the basic breakdown:
Good-Value Outdoor Fabrics
Affordable and great for shaded decks or casual outdoor areas.
UV-Resistant Performance Fabrics
Better fade resistance — great for our very intense NZ sun.
Premium Brands (like Sunbrella or Warwick Outdoor)
Top-tier protection from fading, mould and moisture.
Cost more upfront, but brilliant for coastal spots like Tauranga, Dunedin, Nelson, or any place that gets hammered by wind and sun.
Money tip:
If you live near the coast, premium fabrics are worth their weight in gold.
3. Size & Shape: Bigger = More Foam, More Fabric, Higher Price
Because custom cushions are priced by size, the longer and thicker the cushion, the more it’s going to cost.
They also get pricier when you add:
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Tricky shapes
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Curves
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Angled corners
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Matching seat + back combos
Money tip:
For long benches, consider splitting into two or three cushions. They’re cheaper to make, easier to clean, and last longer.
4. Optional Extras That Can Add to Your Budget
These aren’t essential for everyone, but they’re nice upgrades:
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Piping: Adds a polished, tailored look
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Zippers: Makes cleaning covers SO much easier
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Non-slip bases: Great for smooth wood or leather
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Ties: Very handy in windy spots (hi Wellington 👋)
5. Labour & Craftsmanship: Why Custom Costs More Than Store-Bought
Custom cushions aren’t “grab it off the shelf” products. They’re measured, cut, sewn, and finished by skilled people — not a conveyor belt.
You’re paying for:
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Precise pattern work
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Quality stitching
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A perfect fit for your exact space
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A finish that actually lasts
This is why custom cushions outlast store-bought ones by years.
6. What Most Kiwis End Up Spending
Every project is different, but here’s a rough guide:
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Throw cushions: $60–$150
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Window seat cushions: $180–$450
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Outdoor bench cushions: $200–$600
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Full outdoor sets: $800–$2,000+
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Premium coastal-grade sets: $1,500–$3,500
(These vary based on foam, fabric, and size.)
7. How to Save Money Without Compromising Quality
A few smart tips:
✔ Choose high-density indoor foam for covered areas
✔ Pick mid-range fabrics for shaded decks
✔ Keep shapes simple
✔ Stick to one fabric across multiple cushions
✔ Always order fabric samples first — they’re free!
Final Thoughts: Buy for NZ Conditions, Not Just the Price Tag
New Zealand’s mix of strong UV, coastal winds, sudden downpours, and chilly winters means cheap cushions rarely last long.
Going custom is an investment — and when you choose the right foam and fabric, you’ll get cushions that look amazing and last for years.
