Bed & Bath Linens

Throw Pillow

A throw pillow is a small decorative pillow, typically ranging from 16 to 22 inches square, used to add color, pattern, texture, and comfort to sofas, armchairs, beds, and benches. As one of the most accessible and impactful decorating tools available, throw pillows allow homeowners to introduce new design elements, experiment with trends, and refresh a room's personality without significant investment. The art of throw pillow arrangement has become a defining skill in interior styling, with professionals using specific formulas for mixing sizes, patterns, and textures. The decorative power of throw pillows lies in their ability to tie together disparate design elements within a room. A carefully selected throw pillow can bridge the color gap between a rug and curtains, introduce a accent color that enlivens a neutral palette, or add a tactile dimension through materials like velvet, leather, or embroidery. The removable cover format of most throw pillows allows for easy seasonal changes and cleaning, making them practical as well as beautiful. When building a pillow collection, designers typically recommend mixing three elements: a solid in a bold color, a geometric pattern, and an organic texture like a knit or embroidered surface.

Key Characteristics

  • Typically 16 to 22 inches square
  • Primary tool for adding color and pattern to rooms
  • Removable covers for easy seasonal changes
  • Available in virtually every fabric and pattern
  • Effective for tying room elements together
  • Accessible decorating tool for any budget

Types & Variations

Square standard throw pillow
Round circular pillow
Rectangular accent pillow
Novelty shaped pillow
Floor pillow oversized

Common Materials

CottonVelvetLinenLeatherSilkPerformance outdoor fabric

Works Well With These Styles

Placement & Usage Tips

Use odd numbers of pillows on sofas, typically three or five, for a naturally balanced arrangement. Mix sizes with the largest at the back and smallest in front. Karate-chop the tops to create a relaxed, styled dent rather than leaving them perfectly puffed.

💡 Pro Tip

When mixing throw pillow patterns, follow the design rule of varying the scale: pair a large-scale pattern with a medium geometric and a small textural print. Keep all pillows within the same color family but in different shades and textures. This creates visual interest without the chaos of randomly mixed patterns.