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Decorative pillows (often called scatter or throw cushions in the UK) are cushions used to add style, colour and comfort to sofas, chairs and beds. They can be bought ready-made or made as custom cushions to suit your space. This guide covers their main types, materials, designs and uses.
Decorative pillows are about personal expression as well as comfort: the right ones can turn a simple sofa into a cosy haven or a plain bed into a luxurious retreat.
| Options | Key Points | |
|---|---|---|
| Types | Throw pillows, bolster pillows, lumbar pillows, floor pillows | Each suits a different purpose, from decoration to support |
| Cotton | Durable, breathable, easy to care for | Cotton covers can often be machine washed |
| Silk | Luxurious, with a natural sheen | Delicate; needs hand washing or dry cleaning |
| Designs | Solid colours, patterns and prints | Choose to suit your room’s style and colour scheme |
Decorative pillows come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, and the type you choose can significantly affect the look and feel of a room. Common types include throw pillows, bolster pillows, lumbar pillows and floor pillows, each suited to comfort, support or decoration.
Throw pillows are the most common type of decorative pillow. They are usually square, come in various sizes and are mainly used to add a pop of colour or texture to a room, on sofas, chairs, beds or even the floor for a relaxed look.
Throw pillows often have removable covers, so you can change the look of a room without buying new pillows, making them an affordable way to update your decor with the seasons or your mood.
Bolster pillows are long, cylindrical pillows that add a touch of elegance. They are often used on beds or sofas for extra support or decoration, and are ideal for propping up your arms while reading or providing extra back support.
Like throw pillows, bolsters often have removable covers for easy cleaning or updating, and they come in a variety of sizes and materials to suit any decor style.
The material of a decorative pillow affects its look, feel and durability. Options range from natural fibres such as cotton and silk to synthetic fibres such as polyester, and fabrics such as velvet can be made from either. When choosing a material, consider durability, care instructions and how it feels against your skin. See our fabric selection guide for more.
Cotton is popular for its durability, breathability and ease of care. It is a soft natural fibre that is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
Cotton comes in a wide range of colours and patterns to suit any decor style, and cotton covers can often be machine washed, making them easy to keep clean and fresh.
Silk is a luxurious material with a smooth, soft feel and a natural sheen that can make any pillow look more expensive. However, it is delicate and needs special care, such as hand washing or dry cleaning.
Silk pillows are ideal for adding a touch of luxury to a bedroom or living room, and come in a variety of colours and patterns.
From simple solid colours to intricate patterns and prints, decorative pillows let you express your personal style and add visual interest. Consider the overall style of the room: geometric patterns may suit a modern room, while floral prints may suit a traditional or country-style room. Our pattern design guide explains more.
Solid-coloured pillows are versatile and work with any decor style. They can create a cohesive look or add a pop of colour to a neutral space. Mix and match colours for a vibrant, eclectic look, or stick to one colour for a more sophisticated, monochromatic feel.
Choose colours that complement your existing colour scheme for a harmonious look, or contrasting colours for a more dramatic effect. See our guide to colour matching.
Patterned pillows add visual interest and personality, with options from geometric shapes to floral and animal prints. They are ideal for breaking up a plain colour scheme or adding a touch of whimsy.
Consider the scale of the pattern in relation to your space: large-scale patterns make a bold statement, while small-scale patterns add subtle texture and detail. Think too about how the colours in the pattern will work with the rest of your decor.
Decorative pillows are not just for show. They can provide support and comfort and help protect your furniture, whether they are used on a bed, a sofa or outdoor furniture.
Decorative pillows can support your neck, back and arms, helping you sit or lie comfortably, and can add comfort in bed, especially for side sleepers who want extra support for the neck and shoulders.
Choosing the right size and firmness makes a big difference: larger, firmer pillows provide better back support, while smaller, softer pillows can be more comfortable for the neck. The cushion insert inside the cover largely determines how firm a pillow feels.
Decorative pillows can help protect furniture from wear and tear by acting as a barrier against stains and spills, and can help shield upholstery from sunlight when placed near a window.
Pillows with removable, washable covers make it easier to keep both pillows and furniture clean, and durable, stain- and fade-resistant materials offer extra protection.
One of the best things about decorative pillows is that they can be customised, from the size and shape to the material and design, to suit your style and your comfort and support needs. Our customisation guide explains the process.
Larger pillows make a bold statement and provide more support, while smaller pillows add subtle detail and are more versatile. The shape of your pillows can also add visual interest and complement other shapes in the room. Choose sizes and shapes in proportion to your furniture and room for a balanced look.
Choosing the material and design is a fun, creative process, from soft, cosy cotton to luxurious silk and from simple solid colours to intricate prints. Consider comfort, durability and care instructions when choosing a material, and the overall style of the room when choosing a design. Mixing and matching materials and designs can create a unique, eclectic look.
Decorative pillows are a versatile way to add style, comfort and personality to any room. Understanding the different types, materials, designs and uses will help you choose the right ones, whether you want to update your decor, improve your comfort or express your personal style.
Continue exploring cushion design and materials across our glossary:
Whether you want scatter cushions, bolsters or bespoke seat cushions, the Foam & Covers team can make cushions and covers to your exact measurements, with foam or fillings to suit your comfort needs.
Contact Our Foam Specialists or Order Custom Cut Foam Online .
We make custom cushions and covers for settings of all kinds — Benches, Caravans, Windows Seats, Sofas and many more!