How to Measure for New Patio Replacement Slings

Accurate measurements are the most critical step to ensuring your new patio replacement sling fits perfectly. While measuring might feel intimidating, it is a simple process—just remember to measure twice!

Note: This measuring method applies to single patio chair seats, loveseats, and ottomans.

Essential Tools & Important Rules Before You Begin

  • Use a Soft, Flexible Tape Measure: Always use a cloth or tailor’s measuring tape rather than a rigid metal tape measure. A flexible tape easily follows the natural contours and curves of the chair frame.

  • Tighten Frame Bolts First: Before taking any measurements, check that all bolts securing the sling rails to the frame are tight and securely installed.

  • Do NOT Measure an Uninstalled Sling: Never measure an old sling that has already been removed from the frame. Weather exposure and body weight cause old fabric to stretch out of shape, making uninstalled measurements inaccurate.

  • Do NOT Add Seam Allowances: Provide exact rail-to-rail measurements. Do not add extra inches for hem allowances or internal rail channels—our manufacturing process automatically factors in seam allowances and proper fabric tension.

Understanding the Rounding Rule

Top and bottom widths should be virtually identical. If your measurement lands between quarter-inch increments, always round UP to the nearest 1/4".

  • 20 1/8" → Round UP to 20 1/4"

  • 20 3/8" → Round UP to 20 1/2"

  • 20 5/8" → Round UP to 20 3/4"

  • 20 7/8" → Round UP to 21"

Step-by-Step Measuring Guide

Step 1: Measure the Top Width

  1. Move a few inches down from the top end of the sling rails (where the rails are straight and parallel, as the very tips can bow out over time).

  2. Measure horizontally across the chair from the inner edge of one metal rail channel—where the fabric enters the slot—to the inner edge of the opposite rail channel.

  3. Keep the measuring tape taut and flat across the fabric. Round up to the nearest 1/4" if necessary.

Step 2: Measure the Bottom Width

  1. Move a few inches up from the bottom end of the sling rails.

  2. Measure horizontally across from inner rail channel to inner rail channel, keeping the tape measure flat and taut.

  3. Record the measurement rounded up to the nearest 1/4".

Step 3: Measure the Total Rail Length

  1. Measure along the curve of the metal sling rail itself from top to bottom—do not measure the fabric length, as old slings can shift or slide out of position over time.

  2. Press the flexible tape flat against the contour of the rail from the top edge to the bottom edge. (Tip: Use a spring clamp or have a partner hold the top end of the tape in place).

  3. Repeat the measurement to double-check accuracy.