Custom Cover Measurement Guidance

Custom cover measurement guide

How to Photograph and Measure for a Custom Outdoor Cover

The best custom cover starts with clear photos, not just a list of dimensions. Before measuring, show us the full shape of the item from a few angles so our team can understand what the cover needs to fit over.

If the item has curves, uneven heights, unusual arms, brackets, handles, wheels, a sloped back, or other details, include extra photos of those areas. These details help us decide which measurements are needed and how the cover should be shaped.

The most helpful way to send measurements

1. Take reference photos first. Photograph the whole item from the front, back, sides and any angle that shows the shape clearly.
2. Look for design complexity. If the item is not a simple box shape, take close-up photos of the complex areas before you measure them.
3. Measure the item itself. Give us the most accurate dimensions of the furniture or equipment. Do not add extra allowance for the cover.
4. Photograph each measurement in context. Keep enough of the item in the photo so we can tell exactly what the tape measure is showing.
You do not need to enlarge the measurements. Please measure the actual item as accurately as possible. Shield will add the proper design allowance so the finished cover can be installed and removed correctly.

Example: measuring a sofa or chair for a custom cover

For a typical chair or sofa, we usually need the overall width, depth, back height and front arm height. More complex shapes may need additional measurements, which is why the reference photos are important.

Front angle reference photo of an outdoor sofa showing the full shape before measuring for a custom cover.

1. Start with overall shape photos

Take clear photos from multiple angles before measuring. We need to see what the cover is being designed to fit, especially the back, arms, curves, cushions and any unusual frame details.

Rear angle reference photo of an outdoor sofa showing the back, arms and frame shape for custom cover design.

2. Include the back and side profile

A rear or side view helps us understand height changes, exposed frames, tapered backs, handles, legs, brackets or other details that may affect the cover shape.

Tape measure showing the front height of an outdoor sofa for custom cover measurements.

3. Measure the front height

Photograph the tape in context so we can see the exact part being measured. For a sofa or chair, front height helps us understand the lower front edge or arm height of the cover.

Tape measure showing the front height of an outdoor sofa for custom cover measurements.

4. Measure the back height

Back height is usually one of the key dimensions for a sofa or chair. If the front and back heights are different, show both so we can design the cover shape correctly.

Tape measure showing sofa depth with furniture context for custom cover sizing.

5. Measure the depth

Depth should show the front-to-back dimension of the item. Keep enough of the furniture in the photo so we can confirm what the measurement represents.

Tape measure placed across the sofa to show width with furniture context.

6. Measure the width

Width should show the left-to-right overall dimension of the item. The number does not need to be enlarged in the photo; we can zoom in if the tape is visible.

What to include when you send photos

  • Overall photos: front, back, left side, right side and any angle that shows the full shape.
  • Complex details: arms, handles, wheels, brackets, sloped backs, raised parts, unusual corners, attached accessories or anything the cover must go around.
  • Measurement photos: width, depth, back height, front height and any extra dimensions needed for unusual areas.
  • Context in every measurement photo: do not zoom in so closely that we cannot tell what is being measured.

Photo quality tips

  • Take photos in good lighting when possible.
  • Hold the tape measure straight and aligned with the part being measured.
  • It is okay if the number on the tape looks small in the full photo; we can zoom in as long as it is visible.
  • If the tape cannot sit directly on the item, hold or pinch the tape at the correct point and take a clear photo of the placement.
  • Group photos by item if you are measuring more than one piece.

After we review your photos and dimensions, we may mark up an image and ask for one or two additional measurements if anything is unclear.