How to Select and Style Throw Pillows

Learning how to select and style throw pillows can be a bit overwhelming.

They have the ability to transform the look of your living room effortlessly.

Throw pillows add a pop of color, texture, and dimension to your sofa or sectional, creating an inviting ambiance in your home.

If you are not familiar with the fundamentals of decorating, then picking the right pillow combinations can be hard to do.

Throw pillows may seem like a small and insignificant part of home decor, but they can actually make a big impact on the overall look and feel of a room.

Not only do they add comfort and support to sofas and sectional sofas, but they can also be a great way of adding texture to your home and pops of color.

I’ll guide you through the key factors to consider when selecting how many pillows you need for your sofa or sectional and go over some expert tips on how to select the perfect throw pillows for your home.

I will also share some helpful pillow styling tips to help you style them and create the look you want to tie your home decor style together.

So, whether you’re a seasoned decorator or just beginning, grab my tips and guide on how to transform your family friendly living room space with the perfect throw pillows.

How Many Throw Pillows For A Sofa

Throw pillows are one of the decor pieces people think are not that important. But they bring together the entire room’s design and tie your whole color scheme together.

But with so many sizes, styles, and materials to choose from, how do you decide how many throw pillows to use on the sofa?

For starters, you need to know the general rule of thumb. You want to work with odd numbers – like 3, 5, or 7.

These groupings tend to look more aesthetically pleasing than even numbers.

Additionally, you should consider the size of your sofa, the size of your pillows, and the vibe you’re trying to achieve.

If you’re looking for a cozy and inviting look, choose two larger pillows for the corners, and then layer smaller pillows in front of those.

Alternatively, if you’re seeking a more minimalistic aesthetic, you might opt for 3 to 4 pillows that are all the same size and color.

Just remember, the goal is to create a comfortable and welcoming spot to sit that reflects your personal taste and style.

So, experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect fit.

How Many Throw Pillows For A Sectional

When it comes to styling your sectional, throw pillows can add the perfect finishing touch. But how many do you actually need?

The answer varies depending on the size of your sectional and personal preference.

As a general rule, however, you should aim for an odd number of pillows to create a more balanced look.

When styling a sectional, I suggest you use five or seven pillows. Group the throw pillows with two or three at each end and a set in the middle. 

It’s also important to consider the size and shape of your pillows, as well as the colors and patterns that will complement your sectional.

So have fun mixing and matching different styles of throw pillows to create an inviting and comfortable sectional to sit on that reflects your unique style.

How To Select Throw Pillows

Use my guide on how to select throw pillows to get the look and comfort from the right pillow combination for your room.

Size

When selecting throw pillows, size is a big consideration. Pick a pillow too big and it will eat your sofa or chair.

Pick a throw pillow that’s too small and the pillow will look like an afterthought; that too is a no-no in our world.

Now, we all have different height chairs or sofas, so what is a good size for a throw pillow? Start with what could be your largest pillow size and work your way down to the smallest.

On average, I start with a basic 22-inch (maybe, depending on the piece, 24-inch) pillow.

Then, you also will need an 18” ×18” or 16” ×16” pillow, plus an accent lumbar pillow.

Remember too, there are always pillow covers.

Find the right size pillow first, and then consider making or buying pillow covers to get the look you want.

Color

After you have decided on what sizes of pillows you need, then select the color scheme you want.

Think about the other elements in the room like the window treatments, area rug, and upholstery on the furniture.

The throw pillows need to tie these pieces together so think of colors that are complimentary colors and/or pull a couple colors from these pieces to use in throw pillows.

Even if it is neutrals, tone-on-tone with slight variations in hues is stunning.

Pattern

Now that you know what colors you are looking for in throw pillows, you can select throw pillows with varying patterns.

My rule of thumb is to look for a large pattern and pair it with a smaller pattern, and/or stripes, and lastly, a solid to tie the patterns and stripes together.

Essentially think about the patterns not competing with each other. One is the stand-out main pattern and everything else compliments it.

How To Style Throw Pillows

I know a lot of people may already have throw pillows on hand and just are not sure how to style them. If that is the case or you are shopping for new ones and trying to put them together so you purchase the right ones, then use my guide below to perfectly style them.

Determine How Many Pillows Are Needed

Getting the right number of pillows for your sofa, sectional, or bench is important so you don’t waste money on pieces you don’t need and so it doesn’t look like you threw whatever you had onto them.

Typically pairing throw pillows in odd numbers is the most visually appealing look.

You may need 3-5 pillows to start with and if it is a bigger piece of furniture, go up from there.

Also, the size of the pillows can make a big difference, so make sure to take that into consideration as well.

Pick A Color Scheme

The colors you pick will ultimately make your furniture stand out.

If you want a more bold and moody look, use deep rich colors in bold patterns.

If you would like a more soft look, select colors in softer shades like creams, pale green, and light blue, or incorporate patterns found in my list of beautiful and affordable spring pillows to bring a fresh and inviting feel to your space.

I also love to use a dark and light shade of the same color to create a gorgeous contrast.

Think about the overall look you want from the room and go from there.

Mix Pillow Sizes

As mentioned above pillow sizes are another critical decision to make when styling throw pillows. Use 2 larger sizes like a 20×20 for the back pillows and mix in smaller 18×18 pillows and even lumbar pillows for additional support.

Using multiple sizes gives good visual contrast to your overall look.

Mix Pillow Patterns And Textures

Mixing patterns can be intimidating at first.

When picking out your patterned throw pillows to add to the mix, choose at least one or two of them that feature these same colors, even if it’s a dot of the same shade.

All throw pillow groupings need a solid color to tie the other patterns together so pull one of the colors from the main larger print and use it for the solid.

You can find inspiration for your solid pillows from my favorite fall pillows collection, which features a variety of colors and textures to complement your patterned choices.

Also, remember to mix up your throw pillow textures.

Your pillows don’t need to have the same fabric texture; it’s okay to have a shag-covered pillow mixed in or to add a leather pillow to the arrangement.

Faux fur pillows look great against more traditional tweeds.

Textured pillows can easily take the place of one of the patterned pillows you use and mix beautifully with a larger pattern.

Ultimately you are looking for pairings that are in similar colors and tie together your overall style of the room.

Choosing and styling throw pillows is an art that can transform the look and feel of any living space.

Knowing how many throw pillows to use for a sofa or sectional can make a big difference in the overall aesthetic of the room.

When selecting throw pillows, consider your color scheme, texture, and size. Mix and match patterns and colors to create a visually appealing and cohesive look.

Remember that throw pillows aren’t just for looks, they can also provide comfort and support.

So don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes and materials!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create a cozy and inviting space that is both stylish and functional. Don’t forget to have fun with it and make it your own!

More Living Room Design Ideas + Inspiration

• How to Style a Coffee Table
• How to Decorate with Coffee Table Books + My Favorites
• 5 Best Paint Colors for Your Living Room
• How to Decorate Around The TV: Creating a TV Gallery Wall
• How To Decorate A Mantel For All Seasons

*Photography by Audrie Dollins