Decorating with brightly colored and beautifully patterned throw pillows enhances the décor bringing out the beauty of the furnishings on which they are placed. Arranging the pillows can be daunting; which patterns match with which color, do they blend in with the décor, and should throw pillows be the same size?
Throw pillows should not be the same size when placed on furnishing for decorative purposes. Arrange larger size pillows at the back and smaller ones in front. Mixing different sizes of throw pillows creates interest and depth and adds a pleasing and attractive visual impact to any décor.
Decorative throw pillows, when attentively arranged, enhance the beauty of couches, chairs, and beds. Choosing the correct size and knowing how and where to place the throw pillows can sometimes be quite a feat. Below are some ideas and guidelines for selecting the best-size pillows for decorating your home.
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Should Throw Pillows Be The Same Size?
Throw pillows should not be the same size. The general rule when placing pillows is to place the largest size at the back and then follow with a second layer with a pillow size 2″ smaller. Mixing up different throw pillow sizes shows décor creativity and makes a bigger visual impact.
The size of the throw pillows will depend on the width of the sofa, bench, or chair and the size of the bed on which they are placed.
What Are The Standard Sizes For A Throw Pillow?
A pillow should neither be too small, which will look a little lost, nor too big when it overpowers the furniture. Too many throw pillows on a couch are also uncomfortable, causing insufficient seating space. Below is a size guide for throw pillows.
Throw Pillow Sizes For Beds
A guide for throw pillow sizes for different-sized beds are:
| Bed Size | Pillow Size | Pillow Shape | Pillow Dimensions | Pillows Placement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| King | Extra Large | Square | 26″ | Layer 1 Center & 2 Pillows |
| King | Extra Large | Square/Round | 24″ | Layer 2 Center & 2 Pillows |
| King | Large | Lumbar | 16″ x 24″ to 22″ x 30″ | Front Center 1 Pillow |
| Queen | Large | Square | 24″ | Layer 1 Center & 2 Pillows |
| Queen | Medium | Square/Round | 22″ | Layer 2 Center & 2 Pillows |
| Queen | Long | Lumbar | 14″ x 22″ | Front Center 1 Pillow |
| Queen | Long | Bolster | 20″ x 7″ Dia | Instead of Lumbar 1 Bolster |
| Full | Medium | Square | 20″ | Layer 1 Center & 1 Pillow |
| Full | Small | Lumbar | 10″ x 18″ | Front Center 1 Pillow |
| Full | Long | Bolster | 18″ x 7″ Dia | Only 1 Bolster in the Center |
| Twin | Medium | Square | 20″ | Layer 1 Center & 1 Pillow |
| Twin | Small | Lumbar | 10″ x 18″ | Front Center 1 Pillow |
| Twin | Long | Bolster | 18″ x 7″ Dia | Only 1 Bolster in the Center |
Throw Pillow Sizes For Couches
The throw pillow sizes guide for the different sized couches are:
| Seating | Pillow Size | Pillow Shape | Pillow Dimensions | Pillows Placement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chair | Medium | Square | 20″ – 22″ | Chair – Center 1 Pillow |
| Sofa | Large | Square | 24″ | Layer 1 Side 1 Pillows Each |
| Sofa | Medium | Square | 22″ | Layer 2 Side 1 Pillows Each |
| Sofa | Small | Square | 20″ | Layer 3 Side 1 Pillows Each |
| Sofa | Long | Lumbar | 12″ x 20″ | In Center -1 Pillows |
| Sectional | Medium | Square | 24″ | Layer 1 – Sides 1 Pillow Each & Center Corner 1 Pillow |
| Sectional | Small | Square | 22″ | Layer 2 – Sides 1 Pillow Each & Center Corner 1 Pillow |
| Sectional | Long | Square/Round | 20″ | Layer 3 – Sides 1 Pillow Each & Center Corner 1 Pillow |
| Sectional | Medium | Lumbar | 14″ x 22″ | In Front Center Corner, 1 Pillow |
How To Arrange Different-Size Throw Pillows?
Throw pillows only look good and make a statement when thoughtfully arranged or placed on beds or seating furniture. Pillows look best when placed in odd numbers, giving the overall look a visual balance. Below are some ideas for arranging the different pillow sizes for the best visual effect.
Different Pillow Sizes For Traditional Arrangements
Use the same shape of pillows for a truly traditional style. For a classic style, arrange the throw pillows in a symmetrical fashion, e.g., on a sofa, place two pillows of the same size on each side at the back and 3 of the same size in the center. For layer 2, arrange the same, but choose only one pillow for each side and one smaller size.
Select a color scheme of solid or patterned fabrics and keep the same format for an overall symmetrical and balanced look, e.g., Place a solid black in one size and a bright yellow and white floral pillow of a size smaller on the sides of the couch, keeping the symmetrical placement.
In the center of the couch, place three pillows, a solid black, patterned, and another solid black pillow of the same size.
Arranging Throw Pillow Sizes For A Minimalistic Style
Keep the arrangement simple with no clutter for a minimalistic look. Only arrange 1 layer of throw pillows, either one square pillow in each corner of a couch or an extra-long lumbar pillow in the center.
You can have the same arrangement for a minimalist style in the bedroom. The only throw pillows here would be two long lumbar pillows in rich neutral colors, a small lumbar pillow placed in the center, or one long bolster pillow.
How To Arrange Different-Sized Pillows For A Bohemian Look?
A Bohemian style is more relaxed, and you can have fun arranging different throw pillows sizes and shapes. Still keep to the odd numbers, mix up square and round pillows in different sizes, and add more lumbar pillows and the odd small, embellished pillow to the mix.
Different patterns in opposite colors, and decorative pillows with tassels or beads, will add to the bohemian vibe. Be cautious of too many bright colors and patterns; the trick is to playfully introduce throw pillows with different sizes, shapes, and color elements to the bohemian décor. Still, the overall effect must be easy on the eye!
Related Article: How Do You Match A Pillow To A Couch?
Choosing The Right Size Cover For Throw Pillows
Many throw pillow inserts can be re-used and spruced up by changing the cover. The correct cover size should be 1 to 2 inches smaller than the pillow insert; e.g., if the insert is 20″ in length, choose an 18″ size cover. The smaller size will ensure that the throw pillow will be plump and soft when the inner is inserted, offering a beautiful effect on a couch or bed.
- BASIC INFORMATION - Package contains 2 pieces. Each cushion cover measures 18x18 Inches. The pillowcases are sold without inserts
- DESIGN and TEXTURE -This solid corduroy cushion covers features a smooth and elegant fabric with a silky touch and a beautiful drape that bring charm and modernity to your interior
- FUNCTION CUSHION COVERS- The striped throw pillow cover for couch features an invisible zipper that allow a more comfortable usage and a trendy finish. These super soft Corduroy throw pillow case that...
Last update on 2023-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
Throw pillows should not be the same size, as mixing layers of different-sized pillows adds attention to detail and bring an intensity of beauty to the furniture on which they are placed. The placement of throw pillows is usually in odd numbers, with the largest size at the back and the smaller in front.
When arranging throw pillows, the size should be considered as pillows that are too small will be insignificant and not make any decorative impact. If the pillows are too large, the look will be overbearing and unbalanced, leaving little space for comfortable seating.