Pillow Talk

Pillows are beautiful accent pieces that bring in texture, color and pattern into a room. They're one of the final layers and arguably most sought after decorations. However, most people aren't choosing the right pillow sizes, which is a huge design blunder. The wrong pillow sizes can cheapen the look of an entire room even more than choosing the wrong wall colors.

Choose the Right Pillow Size

When in doubt go bigger. People often choose too small of a pillow. In general the smallest pillow size you should use is a 22"x22" pillow. Smaller sizes may work for decor on shelves or a child's room, but I can't think of any average sized furniture piece that would look good with anything smaller than a 22"...not even IKEA sofas. The only other exception for using a smaller size pillow is when you are laying it on top of another like the image below.

However for a standard size sofa as shown above, that is meant to sit three, I recommend two 24"x24" pillows on each side of the sofa. In front of those, place a coordinating pillow that measures 22"x22".

Below is an idea on how to decorate a sectional with pillows. You can always drape a blanket on the longer end of a sectional if you are getting tired of all the pillows. I know I can never have enough blankets.

There are over a dozen ways to organize pillows on chairs, sofas and sectionals. It is helpful to place the most neutral pillow behind the most colorful or boldly printed pillow. If you are still stuck, reach out to me. Remember I offer online interior design services, so no matter where your sofa is I can help you layer it with pillows and blankets to make your home look expensive.

Choose the Right Pillow Insert

If you want your pillows to look full, expensive and designer then choose one size larger pillow insert. If you choose the same size pillow insert and pillow cover, the edges of the cover will be loose and not filled, resulting in a cheap looking pillow.

Choose Down Filled Pillows

Down filled pillows are more luxurious, soft and natural looking. You can chop the centers, fluff the corners and easily remove the insert in order to launder your pillow case. Down pillows are the ones you melt into at hotels.

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