Decorative Pillow Covers – The Meaning of Decorative Pillow Covers

decorative pillow covers

By John Willy

What are Decorative Pillow Covers?

To make our room look nice we can use decorative pillow covers. These covers can add interest to many areas in the home and garden such as the living room, family room, bedroom or patio. These covers fit on top of accent pillows to add color and/or pattern to a living space. They may be made from many different types of materials such as fabric, yarn, or leather.

When you choose to buy decorative pillow covers for outdoor use, choose the one made from water-resistant fabrics. With so many people turning their decks and patios into comfortable outdoor living spaces, decorative throw pillows are popular accents for furniture such as Adirondack chairs and chaise lounges. An Adirondack chair is a classic wooden outdoor armchair that may have a slanted seat. A chaise lounge is almost like an elegant small bed or cot and may have a backrest or be backless.

To liven up bedroom decor use a few throw pillows near the head of a bed. If the room is decorated in mostly solid or neutral colors, some covers in an eye-catching pattern can create a much needed focal point. A focal point can be anything that draws the eye to it. There are many sizes and shapes in the market that suit the different needs of people. The most popular is Square-sized throw pillows, but circular, rectangular, and cylindrical-sized pillows (or known as bolsters) also have popularity as well. Roll-shaped cushions are popular for beds and lace decorative pillow covers may top these types of pillows.

For a family room, these covers in family-friendly rugged materials such as cut velvet, denim or corduroy tend to work well. The types of these covers that can be removed for washing are a good idea for family rooms. Decorative pillow covers that blend with the cat or dog’s coat color may make shed animal hair less noticeable. Have fun shopping for these covers and make sure that you gravitate towards the throw pillows that make you feel good. That is the key to loving the space you live in.

How To Sew An Easy Decorative Pillow Cover

By Marian Lewis

Decorative pillows are a quick and easy way to perk up your decor. They can be very expensive to buy, but very easy and inexpensive to sew your own.

Here is how to sew an easy, decorative pillow cover that takes very little time or effort. Even a beginner can do it!

This style pillow is sometimes called a “Harem” pillow. It is a different version of the “Knife Edge” pillow.

This is a great way to dress up and recycle your old knife edge pillows. You can also purchase or make a knife edge pillow liner or form to insert in the Harem cover.

To make the “Harem” cover, follow these instructions:

1. Cut 2 squares or rectangles of fabric the desired pillow size plus 1/2 inch seam allowances all around.

2. Place right sides together and stitch three sides of the pillow plus around the corners on the fourth side for about 2-1/2 inches on each side leaving an opening in the middle to insert the pillow liner or form.

Note: You have the option to insert a zipper in the fourth seam or leave the opening to insert the pillow form and hand stitch the opening closed.

3. Press the seam allowances open

4. Do not cut or trim the seams or corners.

5. While the pillow cover is wrong side out, draw a line across each corner on an angle about 2-1/2 inches down from the corner.

6. While still wrong side out, pinch and gather up the corners with your fingers along the drawn line.

7. Use string or strong carpet thread to wrap around the pinched corner and tie a secure knot.

8. Now, turn the cover right side out.

9. Insert your knife edge pillow liner or form.

Note: It is not necessary to tie the corners of your knife edge pillow liner.

10. Close the zipper or slipstitch the opening closed.

Enjoy your Harem pillow.

Another idea is to go ahead and turn your pillow cover right side out first and then tie all four corners for a different look. Tie the corners with some decorative cord and tassels.

Cut up sheets or pillow cases to make your Harem pillows to match your bedroom decor. It adds a real decorator touch!

If you are artistic, here is your chance to have your accent pillows make a statement in your home. A pillow is the perfect palette to do your creative thing whether it is stitching, painting, photography, or whatever, put it on your pillows.

Try it! It just makes sense!