Tufting Pleat Allowances: Do you calculate by formula or just wing it by eye? [Photos]
Posted: Sun Jun 07, 2026 7:47 pm
Hey everyone! I’ve been working on a new Chesterfield frame design in SolidWorks, trying to map out everything as precisely as possible before cutting any wood or foam (check out the frame vs finished render below!).But here is the ultimate question that I always think about: How do you calculate your tufting pleat allowances?Do you use a strict mathematical formula based on foam thickness and diamond width, or do you just rely on experience and wing it 'by eye' depending on the fabric stretch?Let's discuss this. What is your go-to method or 'golden formula' for a standard 2-inch (50mm) foam? Let’s hear your thoughts!
