Throw pillows are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to refresh your home decor. Whether you’re looking to add pops of color, soft textures, or unique patterns, decorative pillows can instantly transform a space without a major makeover.
The best part? You can make or customize your own throw pillows to match your personal style! From bold geometric prints to boho macramé designs, this guide will show you how to create and style decorative throw pillows to elevate your living room, bedroom, or even outdoor seating areas.
Why Use Decorative Throw Pillows?
1. Instant Room Makeover
Throw pillows add visual interest, texture, and coziness, making them a quick way to refresh your space without spending a fortune.
2. Affordable & Customizable
Buying high-end decorative pillows can be expensive, but DIY or customized options allow you to create unique, budget-friendly designs.
3. Great for Every Season
Switching out pillows is an easy way to reflect the season—light linens for summer, cozy knits for winter, and festive prints for the holidays.
4. Mix & Match for Personality
Layering different shapes, sizes, textures, and patterns adds depth and brings personality to your decor.
5. Provides Extra Comfort
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, decorative pillows make seating areas more comfortable for lounging, reading, or relaxing.
Types of Decorative Throw Pillows
Before diving into DIY ideas, let’s explore different pillow styles that work for various decor aesthetics:
1. Square Throw Pillows (Classic & Versatile)
✔ The most common shape, great for layering on sofas and beds.
✔ Comes in various sizes (16”, 18”, 20” inches, etc.).
✔ Works for modern, farmhouse, and boho decor.
2. Lumbar Pillows (Long & Supportive)
✔ Rectangular shape, perfect for lower back support.
✔ Great for sofas, accent chairs, or beds.
3. Round or Bolster Pillows (Elegant & Unique)
✔ Adds curved shapes to contrast angular furniture.
✔ Works well in mid-century, vintage, or eclectic interiors.
4. Floor Cushions (Cozy & Functional)
✔ Oversized pillows ideal for casual seating in living rooms or patios.
✔ Perfect for bohemian, Moroccan, or kid-friendly spaces.
🔹 Pro Tip: Use a mix of different pillow shapes and sizes for a layered look!
DIY Decorative Throw Pillow Ideas
Want to make your own custom throw pillows? Here are some fun and creative DIY ideas:
1. No-Sew Throw Pillow Covers (Quick & Easy!)
If you don’t sew, you can still make beautiful pillow covers without a sewing machine.
Materials Needed:
✔ Fabric of your choice (cotton, velvet, linen, or faux fur)
✔ Fabric glue or iron-on hem tape
✔ Scissors
✔ Pillow insert or stuffing
Instructions:
- Cut two fabric pieces to match the size of your pillow insert.
- Use fabric glue or iron-on hem tape to seal three sides together.
- Insert the pillow stuffing, then seal the final edge with glue.
- Let it dry, and your no-sew pillow cover is ready!
🔹 Pro Tip: Use patterned scarves, old T-shirts, or fabric remnants for a unique, upcycled pillow!
2. Stenciled or Hand-Painted Pillow Covers
Customize your pillows with stenciled patterns, abstract brushstrokes, or hand-lettered quotes.
Materials Needed:
✔ Plain pillow covers (white, beige, or pastel works best)
✔ Fabric paint or acrylic paint
✔ Stencils or freehand designs
✔ Paintbrush or sponge
Instructions:
- Place a piece of cardboard inside the pillow cover to prevent paint from bleeding through.
- Position your stencil or sketch your design lightly with chalk.
- Apply fabric paint using a brush or sponge.
- Let it dry completely before using.
🔹 Pro Tip: Use gold metallic paint for an elegant, high-end look!
3. Boho-Inspired Macramé Pillow
Macramé pillows bring texture and bohemian charm to your home.
Materials Needed:
✔ Plain pillow cover (preferably cotton or linen)
✔ Macramé cord or yarn
✔ Fabric glue or needle & thread
Instructions:
- Cut macramé cord into equal-length strands.
- Tie basic square knots or diagonal patterns to create a woven effect.
- Attach the macramé piece to the pillow using fabric glue or hand stitching.
🔹 Pro Tip: Use neutral tones like beige, white, or mustard for a natural boho vibe!
4. Pom-Pom or Tassel Edged Pillows
Add playful pom-poms or tassels to your pillows for a fun, decorative touch.
Materials Needed:
✔ Pillow cover
✔ Pom-pom trim or tassel fringe
✔ Fabric glue or sewing machine
Instructions:
- Measure and cut the pom-pom trim to fit around the pillow edges.
- Use fabric glue or a sewing machine to attach the trim.
- Let it dry, and enjoy your stylish new pillow!
🔹 Pro Tip: Use colorful trims for a bohemian look or monochrome tassels for a modern touch.
5. Textured & Patchwork Pillow Covers
Mix different fabrics, textures, or patterns to create a cozy patchwork or quilted look.
Materials Needed:
✔ Fabric pieces in different textures (velvet, linen, faux fur)
✔ Sewing machine or fabric glue
✔ Scissors & measuring tape
Instructions:
- Cut fabric pieces into squares or stripes.
- Arrange the pieces in a pattern before sewing or gluing.
- Stitch or glue the patches together and attach them to a pillow cover.
🔹 Pro Tip: Mix denim, leather, and woven fabric for a bold, eclectic style!
How to Style Decorative Throw Pillows
1. Mix Patterns & Solids
- Pair solid-colored pillows with bold, patterned ones to balance the look.
- Example: A floral pillow next to a plain velvet one creates contrast.
2. Play with Textures
- Layer linen, fur, velvet, and woven pillows for a cozy effect.
- Example: A chunky knit pillow next to a sleek satin one adds depth.
3. Layer Different Sizes
- Use a mix of large, medium, and small pillows for dimension.
- Example: Place a large 22” pillow behind a smaller 18” one for a designer look.
4. Use Odd Numbers for a Natural Look
- Arrange pillows in groups of 3 or 5 for a more organic, visually balanced setup.
5. Change with the Seasons
- Spring/Summer: Use light, pastel colors and breezy linen textures.
- Fall/Winter: Opt for rich, warm hues like burgundy, mustard, or emerald, plus soft velvets and knits.
FAQs About Decorative Throw Pillows
1. How do I keep throw pillows fluffy?
- Fluff them daily and use high-quality inserts made of feather-down or polyester filling.
2. How many throw pillows should I use on a sofa?
- For a minimal look: 3-4 pillows.
- For a layered look: 5-7 pillows.
3. How do I wash throw pillow covers?
- Check the fabric label—most are machine washable, but delicate fabrics like silk should be hand washed.
4. Where can I buy affordable pillow inserts?
- IKEA, Amazon, Target, and thrift stores offer great budget-friendly options.
5. Can I use outdoor pillows inside?
- Yes! Outdoor pillows are more durable and stain-resistant, making them great for high-traffic areas like kids’ rooms.
Final Thoughts
Decorative throw pillows are a simple yet effective way to refresh your home decor. Whether you DIY your own unique designs or simply switch up store-bought covers, these small accents can make a big impact on your space.
So grab some fabric, experiment with textures, and start crafting your perfect set of throw pillows today! 🛋✨