I am obsessed with pillows – they are so important to making a space look more layered, textured and plus, they are great for couch napping, something else I am obsessed with. There are so many pillows to choose from and it can be overwhelming, but with a few tips, you can be mixing it up with confidence. Here are some tips followed by some beautiful pillow eye candy to get you started.
- Size: put larger pillows in the back 24” or 26” squares for a high-backed sofa or 22” for a lower back then layer in 18” squares in front and add a rectangle (16×20”) to create some interest. Most sofas should have 2-3 pillows on each end but they do not have to be mirror images – just keep on the same to tie it together. I really like a large lumbar pillow on a bed (24-36”+) because it creates a big impact and you only have one pillow to add and remove each day.
- Color: before you start looking, pick a color pallet or it is easy to get lost down the rabbit hole as I have done many times. Use your furniture, artwork, bedding, or curtains for inspiration. I generally recommend no more than 2 colors plus a neutral such as white, black, or grey but I recently purchased this pillow to go with this art in a guest room – much, much more colorful than my usual.
- Pattern: keep things interesting while making sure the pillows do not clash with each other. A great way to do this by picking one from each of the categories below. Many Etsy sellers create bundles that you can purchase as is or just use as inspiration.
- Solid
- Stripe
- Small pattern (polka dot, check)
- Large pattern
- Inserts: If you purchase pillows on Etsy (many of my favorites below) you will probably need these. Pillow inserts have a big impact on how your pillow looks and feels. I like down (or down alternative if you are allergic) fill because it is so soft and squishy when you lean against them. Polyester filled pillows are less comfortable and my family generally throws them off the couch but they are generally more affordable. Important: your insert must be at least 1-2” larger than your pillow so for an 18×18” pillow, you want a 19×19” or even better, 20×20” insert. Amazon has many affordable down pillow insert options with two 20×20” inserts costing around $25.
- Cost: Pillows are something that I am willing to splurge a bit on with cost running between $50-$100 for a beautiful pillow cover on Esty where you can choose from so many beautiful fabrics. One way to manage the budget is to mix high and low. There are also some great Target options below – check out Wayfair and Homegoods as well for affordable options.
If you see something you like, just click the pillow for more details.
LUXURY (~$100)
MID-RANGE (~$50)
TARGET!
LARGE LUMBAR