How to Measure a Rug for in Front of the Couch

1). Measure the width of the couch at the feet rather than cushion level. Write the resulting number down on a piece of paper.
2). Extend the measuring tape across the width of the throw rug.
3). Compare the number on the measuring tape with the width of the couch. You typically do not want a rug to be wider than a couch, as that can cause an appearance of asymmetry, which can detract from the overall appearance. This is not true in all cases, however; much depends on personal taste.
4). Measure the length of the rug and compare it to the area in front of the couch to ensure you have enough room to lie the rug down.