In picking pew cushions and other church upholstery, many factors must be considered:

1. Consider Style
There are three basic styles of church cushions. The classic style is a reversible pad that can be rotated or interchanged between pews. The upholstered style is permanently attached and is done on the job site. A third option is a modular style cushion that is upholstered at the plant on a plywood base, and thus gives the look of upholstery without having to permanently change your pews. Different types of pews lend themselves to differing styles of cushions.

2. Consider Fabrics
There is a wide selection of appealing fabrics from which to choose. Many churches choose long-wearing fabrics in nylon, polyolefin, cotton velvets and other blends. For churches with special decorating needs, fabrics are also available from leading manufacturers. Many companies will work with churches that have selected their own special fabric.

3. Consider Foams
The comfort and longevity of a cushion is more often determined by the foam than any other factor. Foam quality varies, but, generally, the higher the "density" of the foam, the better it will perform. You can also vary foam thickness (usually ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches thick) to obtain the ideal "feel" for a given set of pews. Many customers select High Resiliency Foam, which has been shown to provide greater comfort and longevity when compared to conventional foams.

4. Obtain Samples and Swatches
Any consideration of fabrics, foams, and style is best done with the actual materials in hand. Any company serious about your business will provide you with hands-on color charts, swatches, and actual sample cushions. Never proceed on a cushion project until you have had a chance to see representative work in person.

5. Compare Companies
Different companies have different business approaches. The questions to ask are:
* Will you send us sample cushions or lists of churches you have done in our area before we order?
* Will you take measurements or do we have to?
* Is delivery included in the price?
* Do you deliver in person or merely ship the cushions?
* If we have any problems, what does your warranty say, and will your company be around to fix it?

Always make sure you know the complete price from any firm and that you know the actual quality of the cushion you will get for your money.

Paul Waggoner is president of Waggoners, www.pewcushions.com.