Throw Pillow Covers 101: Sizes, Fabrics & Styling Tips

Who says throw pillow covers aren’t a subject worth studying? Welcome to Throw Pillow Covers 101, where we’re taking a deep dive into their sizes, fabrics, and styling tips. With this guide, you will earn an A+ in interior design (no late-night cramming required). Let’s get started!

What Are Throw Pillow Covers?

Throw pillow covers are decorative fabric cases that protect pillow inserts. They’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to refresh a room’s look without buying new pillows. Available in countless patterns, textures, and closures, covers make cleanliness a breeze while keeping your décor fresh.

Furthermore, throw pillow covers shield pillow inserts from dust and wear, preserving their longevity. With a simple swap, you can adapt your pillow covers to match the interior design of your home.

Choosing Pillow Cover Sizes

The right size for throw pillow covers can change a seating area’s proportions and enhance its overall look. A 20x20-inch cover is versatile enough for pillows on sofas, armchairs, and beds. It balances well with other shapes and brings symmetry to most arrangements. If you’re new to experimenting with throw pillows, this size makes an excellent starting point.

For those with larger furniture pieces, 26x26 inches creates a dramatic impact. These oversized covers complement pillows on large-section sofas and king-size beds, adding plush volume to the space. Lumbar pillow covers, 16x23 inches, are slim and rectangular, offering both style and comfort. They work perfectly as the finishing touch, whether you’re designing a seating area or styling a reading nook. Layer them in front of square pillows for added dimension.

Advice for Inserts

Always go for inserts slightly larger than your covers. For example, a 20x20 cover fits best with a 22x22 insert. This creates a full, plump look, ensuring your pillows sit up well without sagging. If you’re reusing pillow inserts, measure their size before purchasing new covers.

Exploring Fabric Choices

When it comes to throw pillow covers, fabric is everything. The way a fabric interacts with your décor can shape the room’s ambiance. Whether you like modern styles or homier vibes, the right material helps you achieve your ideal look. Let’s explore the most popular fabric choices.

Cotton

Cotton covers are lightweight, breathable, and low maintenance, making them ideal for entertaining spaces or casual settings. They come in a range of finishes, from smooth sateen to textured weaves, combining practicality with understated style. Cotton holds its color well, so patterns stay vibrant over time.

Linen

Linen offers laid-back elegance with its airy, textured weave and is perfect for bright, sunlit spaces. Their natural wrinkles add character, so linen hits the mark if you lean toward a relaxed aesthetic.

Velvet

Velvet covers are synonymous with luxury. Their rich texture and soft sheen elevate minimalist interiors, adding dimension and depth. Jewel tones look especially stunning in velvet, but pastel shades can create a dreamy, inviting atmosphere as well.

Specialized Fabrics

Throw pillow covers come in a variety of specialized fabrics that bring unique textures and functionalities to different spaces. Here’s a quick look at the best ones:

• Bouclé: Soft texture that adds warmth to modern or mid-century spaces.
• Chenille: Plush material perfect for cozy living rooms and bedrooms.
• Faux Fur: Adds glamor or rustic charm to modern or chalet-style rooms.
• Leather: Sleek and durable, ideal for industrial or minimalist interiors.
• Jacquard: Elegant woven patterns for classic or formal spaces.
• Wool Blend: Warm and rustic, suited for Scandinavian or farmhouse themes.
• Silk: Luxurious and light, perfect for refined spaces like bedrooms.
• Canvas: Durable and casual, ideal for relaxed or coastal décor.

Styling Throw Pillow Covers

This throw pillow cover 101 lesson isn’t complete without styling tips. Combining colors, textures, and patterns creates a cohesive aesthetic while adding interest and variety. However, it’s important to build a balanced arrangement that complements your room without feeling overdone.

Playing With Color

A strategic color palette can tie together all the elements in your room. Complementary colors, such as blues and oranges, make bold contrasts. Analogous tones, including shades of green, create a layered vibe. Neutral spaces benefit from metallics or jewel tones that add richness without overwhelming.

Mixing Patterns

Blending patterns can seem intimidating, so focus on balance. Start with a statement pillow as the anchor, such as a floral or botanical print. Then, introduce a geometric design that shares colors with the anchor pillow. Finally, include a solid neutral or textured style to calm things down. This three-step combination maintains cohesion while offering contrast.

Adding Texture

Texture introduces depth and personality. Pair smooth fabrics, such as silk or sateen, with rough materials like bouclé or faux fur. A balanced mix keeps the arrangement interesting while preventing monotony.

For example, combine a soft, gray velvet pillow cover with a wool blend in a geometric pattern on a charcoal gray couch. Add a pop of color with a vibrant yellow linen cover. These textures and patterns together keep the eye moving while maintaining harmony.

Seasonal Styling

Throw pillow covers can refresh your interiors for changing seasons or holidays. They’re easy to store when not in use, giving you endless opportunities to tailor your décor.

For spring and summer, consider linen and breathable cotton. Introduce florals, pastels, and tropical motifs to usher in spring charm. Greens, blues, and whites work brilliantly for coastal or breezy summer themes.

Warmth takes center stage as the year winds down. Velvet or chenille covers in shades of maroon, forest green, and ochre can instantly cozy up a space in fall and winter. Incorporate plaids or seasonal patterns like snowflakes for an intentional nod to the festive spirit.

Want To See Your Dream Throw Pillow Setup?

You’ve got the throw pillow covers, you’ve picked the perfect fabrics, and you have all the styling tips. Sometimes, arranging those pillows into an “effortlessly chic” setup can feel less like design and more like guesswork. Well, stress no more, because the Coterie Canvas Pillow Arranger can make your styling dreams a reality.

The clever tool lets you virtually mix, match, and preview your pillow combinations before committing. What makes it even better is you don’t need a background in design! It’s easy to get started, and you’ll end up with a clear vision for your couch setup.

Whether you’re styling your living room sofa, a cozy reading nook, or your guest bedroom, the Pillow Arranger ensures you’re not just winging it. Give it a go today, and turn your space into a masterpiece!