How to Measure Custom Left Hand Facing Sectional: Expert Guide

How to Measure Custom Left Hand Facing Sectional: Expert Guide

When it comes to making a statement in your living space, a custom left-hand facing sectional sofa can do wonders. Not only does it provide ample seating and comfort, but it also adds a unique touch to the overall décor. However, measuring a custom left-hand facing sectional requires precision and knowledge to ensure it fits well in the designated space.

Understanding sectional sofas is essential for accurate measurements. Knowing the difference between left-hand and right-hand facing sectionals is crucial to avoid any mistakes and prevent future inconveniences. Additionally, preparing for measurements is vital as you need to account for the room's dimensions, including length, width, and height, to assure your new sofa will fit comfortably within your space.

Key Takeaways

  • Accurate measurements are crucial for a well-fitting custom left-hand facing sectional sofa.
  • Understanding the difference between left and right-hand facing sectionals is essential.
  • Preparing for measurements includes considering the room's dimensions and selecting appropriate materials and finishes.

Understanding Sectional Sofas

Left-Hand Facing vs Right-Hand Facing

One of the fundamental aspects to consider when choosing a sectional sofa for your living room is the orientation. Sectional sofas are either left-hand facing (LAF) or right-hand facing (RAF). In a LAF sectional, the chaise or longer section is on the left side when you face the sofa, while for RAF, the extended section is on the right side. Understanding the orientation is crucial in selecting the ideal piece for your space, ensuring a comfortable and functional layout.

Components of a Sectional Sofa

Sectional sofas consist of several components that can be arranged in various configurations to fit your living room style and layout. Some common elements include:

  • Arm: The sides of the sofa where you can lean or rest your arms.
  • Chaise: A long seat that allows you to stretch out and relax.
  • Corner: A curved or angled piece connecting two sections of the sofa.
  • Ottoman: A versatile piece of furniture that can be used as additional seating or a footrest.

Understanding these components enables you to customize your sofa to your preferences by mixing and matching sections to achieve the desired shape and functionality.

Types of Sectional Sofas

There are several types of sectional sofas, each offering different benefits and styles:

  • L-Shaped: A common type of sectional sofa that forms an L shape, typically incorporating a chaise.
  • U-Shaped: A larger sectional that forms a U shape, which often includes a central chaise or armless sofa.
  • Curved: A sofa with a curved design, ideal for creating a comfortable and engaging seating arrangement.
  • Reversible: A versatile sectional sofa with movable chaise, allowing it to be switched between LAF and RAF orientations.

Choosing the appropriate type of sectional sofa for your living room depends on the size, shape, and function of the space.

Now that you have a fundamental understanding of sectional sofas and their components, it's essential to know how to measure a custom left-hand facing sectional. This ensures a perfect fit, leading to a smart investment in custom-made outdoor furniture covers which prolong the life of your sofa, keeping it protected from the elements, dirt, and other environmental factors.

Preparing for Measurements

Before you begin measuring your custom left hand facing sectional, it's important to prepare properly. This includes considering the space and layout of your room and gathering the necessary tools to measure your sofa accurately. In this section, we'll cover these topics to ensure a seamless measurement process.

Considering Space and Layout

Begin by assessing the space available for your sectional sofa, taking into account its shape, such as L-shaped, curved, or symmetrical, and the layout of your room. Make sure to consider doorways and other obstacles that might impact delivery and installation. Identify where you want to place your sectional and whether it needs to be left-facing or modular for greater flexibility.

Additionally, think about the overall layout you want to achieve. Determine if you want your sectional to be placed against a wall or free-floating in the room. This will help guide your measurements and ensure the final product fits seamlessly into your space.

Tools You Need to Measure

Accurate measurements are crucial when customizing a left hand facing sectional sofa. To ensure precise measurements, you'll need the following tools:

  1. A retractable tape measure: This tool will allow you to take accurate measurements of the length, width, height, and depth of your sectional sofa. Make sure it's sturdy and can handle the dimensions you'll be measuring.

  2. A notepad and pen: Jotting down measurements as you take them will help you keep track of each dimension and avoid errors. Use a table or bullet points to organize and clearly understand the measurements.

Once you have your tools ready, follow a measuring guide to accurately measure the length, width, height, and depth of the different components of your sectional sofa. Take note of specific features, such as armrests or protruding parts, that may affect the overall measurements.

By preparing properly and considering the space and layout of your room, you'll ensure a successful custom left hand facing sectional sofa measuring experience.

How to Measure a Custom Left Hand Facing Sectional

When choosing a custom left hand facing sectional, it is crucial to accurately measure your sectional sofa to ensure a perfect fit. In this section, we will guide you on how to measure the length, depth, seat height, and arm heights of your left hand facing sectional.

Measuring Length and Depth

To properly measure the length and depth of your left hand facing sectional, you will need a tape measure, pencil, and paper. Start by measuring the widest side of the sectional from left to right, beginning at the leg base or arms, whichever extends further. This will give you the length of your sectional 1.

Next, measure the depth by finding the deepest side, adjacent to the width, from the back to the front of the sectional. Be sure to start the measurement at the top or bottom of the sectional's backrest if the furniture has a curvature design1. Record your measurements to refer back to them later.

Measuring Seat Height and Arm Heights

To measure the seat height of your left hand facing sectional, you'll need to find the vertical distance between the highest point of the seat cushion and the floor. While seat height may vary based on the sectional's design, a standard seat height typically ranges from 15 to 20 inches2.

For arm heights, measure the vertical distance between the top of the armrest and the floor. Keep in mind that some sectionals have different arm heights depending on whether it is a left arm facing (LAF) or right arm facing (RAF) configuration3. Document the arm heights for both the LAF and RAF sections to ensure proper sizing of any custom cushions or covers.

Following these steps will help you accurately measure your custom left hand facing sectional, allowing you to find the perfect sectional sofa for your space. Accurate measurements are essential when considering custom cushions, seat covers, and table covers, ensuring that your furniture is both comfortable and stylish4.

Footnotes

  1. (https://www.appliancesconnection.com/blog/right-arm-facing-left-arm-facing-sectional-sofas-how-to-tell-the-difference)

  2. (https://www.roomstogo.com/furniture/living-rooms/guide/sectional-couch-guide)

  3. (https://fj-outdoors.com/blogs/guide/how-to-accurately-measure-your-outdoor-furniture-expert-tips-and-tricks)

Selecting Materials and Finishes

When choosing materials and finishes for your custom left-hand facing sectional, there are a few key factors to consider. In this section, we will explore the process of determining the right upholstery and selecting foam cushions for your sectional.

Determining the Right Upholstery

Selecting the perfect upholstery for your sectional is crucial for both comfort and long-lasting durability. Begin by considering the materials that best suit your lifestyle and needs. For instance, outdoor furniture may require weather-resistant fabric such as polyester or vinyl covers.

When choosing upholstery for indoor use, factors such as stain resistance, durability, and comfort should be taken into account. Many prefer natural materials like cotton, linen, or wool for their breathable qualities, while synthetic materials like microfiber or polyester blend can offer better durability and stain resistance.

Choosing Foam Cushions

An essential part of any sectional is the comfort and support provided by its cushion construction. Foam cushions are a popular choice because they offer many benefits, such as:

  • Various Density Levels: Foam cushions are available in different densities, allowing you to select the level of support that suits your preferences.
  • Comfort: High-quality foam can provide a comfortable seating experience by adapting to the body's shape and offering ample support.
  • Durability: Foam cushions can maintain their shape over time, especially if you invest in high-density foam, which is less prone to sagging.

When selecting foam cushions for your custom sectional, consider factors such as the desired level of firmness, expected wear and tear, and your budget. It's essential to find a balance between comfort, durability, and price for a satisfying outcome.

In conclusion, choosing the right materials and finishes for your custom left-hand facing sectional involves carefully considering the upholstery and cushion construction options. By taking the time to research and compare materials, you can ensure that your sectional will not only be comfortable but will also stand the test of time.

The Importance of Sectional Sofa Design

When it comes to designing your living room, a sectional sofa can make a significant impact on the overall aesthetics and functionality. In this section, we'll discuss the importance of sectional sofa design and delve into selecting the perfect sofa design and understanding cushion comfort.

Choosing the Perfect Sofa Design

As you explore different sectional sofa designs, look for options that will suit your living room's layout while incorporating elements such as cozy seating and square arms for added style and comfort. Key factors to consider include:

  • Proportions: Ensure the sectional sofa size and proportions work well with your living room dimensions.

  • Style: Think about the style of your living room; modern, traditional, minimalist, or perhaps eclectic, and choose a sofa design that complements your space and personal taste.

  • Shape: Consider L-shaped, U-shaped, or other sectional configurations that maximize seating and make the most of your living room's layout.

  • Materials: Select a durable and comfortable upholstery material that matches your lifestyle and is easy to maintain.

Understanding Cushion Comfort

The comfort of your sectional sofa lies significantly in the cushions. As you evaluate different options, consider these factors:

  • Cushion Type: Choose between foam, feather, or a combination of both, depending on your preferred comfort level and support.

  • Cushion Firmness: Firmness ranges from soft, medium, to firm, and varies depending on your preference. Ensure the cushions provide adequate support for a comfortable seating experience.

  • Cushion Maintenance: Examine how the cushions can be maintained, considering aspects such as removable, washable covers, and whether they can be fluffed or rotated easily.

By carefully selecting the right sectional sofa design and understanding cushion comfort, you can transform your living room into a cozy and inviting space that caters to your needs and enhances your overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you determine left or right arm facing sectional?

To determine if a sectional sofa is left arm facing (LAF) or right arm facing (RAF), stand in front of the sofa and look at it directly. If the arm is positioned to your left, it is a left arm facing sectional. Conversely, if the arm is on your right, it is a right arm facing sectional.

How do you measure an L shaped sectional?

To accurately measure an L-shaped sectional, you'll need to focus on two primary dimensions: overall width and overall length. Use a tape measure to get the dimensions in inches. Start by measuring the width, which should be from the farthest point on one arm to the farthest point on the other arm. Next, measure the length, which should be the distance from the back of the sofa to the farthest point of the extending chaise or seat. For more details, you can refer to this guide.

How do I know what size sectional to buy?

To determine the right size of sectional sofa for your space, measure the dimensions of the area where the sofa will be placed. Make sure to consider walkways, doorways, and the location of other furniture in the room. Compare these measurements to the overall width and length of the sectional to ensure it fits comfortably within the designated space.

How do you read sectional sofa measurements?

Sectional sofa measurements typically include dimensions for overall width, overall length, seat depth, and seat height. When reading these measurements, remember that the width refers to the distance from one arm to the other, while the length refers to the distance from the back of the sofa to the farthest point of the extending chaise or seat. Seat depth and height indicate the size of the seating area.

What are the standard dimensions of a sectional sofa?

The standard dimensions of a sectional sofa can vary significantly depending on the type and design. Generally, the width of a sectional will range from 84 to 120 inches, and the length can be anywhere from 95 to 130 inches. Seat depth usually falls between 21 and 24 inches, while seat height ranges from 17 to 20 inches. Keep in mind that custom-made sectionals may have different dimensions based on your preferences.

How can I find the perfect sectional size for my room?

To find the perfect sectional size for your room, start by measuring the dimensions of the space. Consider the size and placement of other furniture, as well as the amount of space you need for walkways and other activities. Think about the overall layout and design of the room, and envision how the sectional will fit within that context. Finally, compare your room measurements to the dimensions of different sectional sofas and choose one that accommodates your space and design preferences.