What size sheepskin fits your chair, sofa, or basket?

You choose a sheepskin based on color and wool, but whether it really looks good also depends on the size. It makes a big difference, especially on a chair: do you want to cover just the seat, or the backrest as well? In this blog, I’ll show you which size of sheepskin fits best for each situation.

Think of this as a guideline, not a rule. In many cases, multiple sizes work well. Do you prefer it when the wool falls slightly over the edge, or when it fits snugly? Feel free to choose a size larger or smaller. The important thing is that it feels right for you.

The sizes at a glance

I measure the length of a sheepskin from top to bottom, including the wool. The width varies little: most sheepskins are about 70 to 80 cm wide. The difference between sizes is therefore mainly in the length.

Dimensions in length × width. Each pelt is unique: the exact dimensions are listed for each pelt.

In short: which size where?

Feel free to choose a size larger or smaller if you prefer.

On a chair or armchair: seat, or seat and backrest?

When it comes to a chair, the most important question is: what do you want to cover? A sheepskin is not a rectangle, and the wool is included in the measurement. Therefore, you’ll need more length than you might think to cover both the seat and the backrest.

1. Seat only: size S or a seat cushion

Do you just want to cover the seat, without the backrest? Then an S is perfect. For the seat alone, a sheepskin seat cushion is also a great choice. It stays neatly in place and is ideal for dining room chairs or a bench at the table.

Icelandic sheepskin seat cushions at Rianne’s.

2. Seat and backrest: a large L or XXL

Do you want the fur to cover both the seat and the backrest? Then you really need an XXL, or a large L that’s almost XXL. This applies to a dining chair, an armchair, a lounge chair, and a rocking chair. The larger and deeper the chair, the more likely you are to choose XXL.

On the couch: M, L, or XXL

On the couch, drape a sheepskin over the backrest, across the armrest, or on your favorite spot. Here, sizes M, L, and XXL all look great. Choose whatever you like best: an M as an accent, an XXL if you want to sit comfortably on it and let it drape well over the backrest. Two or three sheepskins placed side by side on a large sofa also look very cozy.

On a stool or ottoman: all sizes

Drape the pelt over a stool or ottoman so that the wool falls down the sides. Any size works here. Choose whatever you like, depending on the size of your stool or ottoman: an S for a small ottoman, an L or XXL for a large stool.

On the floor: next to the bed or in front of the fireplace

As a small rug next to the bed or in front of the fireplace, all sizes are available, from S to XXL. A small pelt adds a soft touch, while a large one is a real eye-catcher. This way, you step right onto soft, warm wool first thing in the morning. An Icelandic sheepskin with long wool looks especially full and luxurious on the floor.

It’s best not to place a sheepskin on the floor in a walkway or in the entryway, where you walk over it with shoes. The wool will pill and mat more quickly there.

Dog Beer on a brown sheepskin rug on the living room floor.

For your dog or cat: choose based on your pet’s size

Many customers buy a sheepskin for their pet. All sizes are available: it depends on how big your dog or cat is. A cat or small dog will be comfortable on an S or M, while a large dog will be better off with an L or XXL.

If you put your pet in a basket, measure the inside of the basket. The pelt can be a bit larger: the wool at the edges folds up nicely against the sides. Does your pet prefer to lie loose on the floor or couch? Then check how big it is when it’s stretched out.

You can find all the sheepskins that are especially suitable for your pet under “sheepskins for dogs and cats.”

Outdoors: camping chair and garden chair

A sheepskin instantly makes a camping chair or garden chair much warmer and more comfortable. Use it outdoors only when it’s dry. The same sizing rules apply as indoors: an S for the seat only, a large L or XXL if it also needs to cover the backrest.

Sheepskins on the camping chairs at Nicole’s. Her little dog is lying on a brown sheepskin.

Good to know: I include wool in my measurements

• The measurement includes the wool. The leather itself is therefore slightly smaller. This makes a difference of a few centimeters, especially with skins that have long wool, such as an Icelandic sheepskin. On the other hand, long wool looks fuller.
• A sheepskin is not a rectangle. Because of the legs and the neck, it is widest in the middle. The width I specify is the widest point.

You can read exactly how I measure in the blog post “How I Measure Hides and Fells.” You’ll find more ideas for your chair or sofa in “Sheepskins for Your Chair or Sofa.”

Here’s how to check the size at home in 1 minute

1. Check the exact dimensions (length × width) of the pelt you like.
2. Grab a bath towel or throw blanket and fold it to the same size.
3. Place it on your chair, sofa, ottoman, or in the basket, exactly as the pelt will eventually lie.
4. Like it? Then you know what size you’re looking for.

Still unsure? Send me a photo

Every pelt is unique, and so is every chair. Can’t decide between two sizes? Send me a photo of your chair, sofa, or basket via WhatsApp, and I’ll give you personalized advice on size and color—free of charge and with no obligation. I respond every evening between 7:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average size of a sheepskin?

A sheepskin is usually 100 to 120 cm long and 70 to 80 cm wide. Most of the sheepskins in my shop are size M, approximately 110 × 75 cm. Because each sheepskin is unique, the specific measurements are listed for each one.

What size sheepskin do I need for a chair?

For the seat alone, an S or a sheepskin seat cushion is sufficient. If you also want to cover the backrest, choose an XXL or a large L that’s almost XXL. A smaller pelt will be just a bit too short.

What size sheepskin fits on a couch?

An M, L, or XXL will fit on a couch. If you place the pelt on a single seat, an M is sufficient. If you want to drape it over the seat and the backrest, choose an L or XXL.

What size sheepskin should I get for my dog or cat?

All sizes are available; it depends on the size of your pet. For a cat or small dog, an S or M is fine; for a large dog, an L or XXL. If the pelt is in a basket, measure the inside. Also check out my sheepskins for dogs and cats.

Can I use a sheepskin outdoors?

Yes, for example, on a camping chair or garden chair, but only if it’s dry. If it’s going to rain, bring the pelt inside, because leather doesn’t handle moisture well. The same rules apply to sizing as they do indoors.

Is the wool included in the measurement?

Yes. The size I specify is the total size, including the wool. The leather itself is therefore slightly smaller, especially for coats with long wool. Keep this in mind if you want a precise fit.