If you are honest, no outdoor chair feels right without a great outdoor cushion. But often, purchasing a great outdoor cushion costs as much, if not more, than purchasing a brand new chair. Thankfully, options exist for you so that you can lounge comfortably without worrying about breaking your piggy bank. This guide provides tips to help in your search for affordable outdoor cushions.Buy off seasonAt the end of every summer, stores begin to stock winter materials and gear up for the big, winter holidays. This translates into major sales on summer items, like outdoor cushions. While everyone else stocks up on early ********* gear, you can furnish your patio for much less than at the beginning of summer.Check your preferred retailer's online stock before you go in, so you have an idea of what you want. This makes shopping the sales much easier and less hectic. Make your ownNothing says home like something homemade, so why not put that sewing machine to use and create your own cushions? You need weatherproof fabric, thread and stuffing, all of which are available at your local fabric store. Making it yourself means more options in style and fabric, and you can make a cushion for any occasion. Try making a different color for every chair on the patio- you can afford it!Check thrift stores, garage sales and CraigslistAn outdoor cushion must withstand a lot of wear and tear, and it may not even stay in use year round. Why spend the money on a brand new cushion when you can just find a great used one? The inventory at Goodwill often cycles through quickly, so if you spot something you like, grab it. Garage sales and Craigslist make great resources as well for free or inexpensive outdoor cushions, leaving you more money for a great chair.With a little effort and research, you can furnish your patio with affordable outdoor cushions that look great and save a little money for something even more fun and personalized. Stay creative and thrifty by using this guide to make affordable outdoor cushions for all your patio furniture.