How to Use Pillows to Decorate Your Home

It is kind of ironic that in life we often tell ourselves to not stress all the little details, but to instead focus on the bigger picture, when sometimes those little details can really make an impact on your life. Take for instance, pillows. They may seem like such a small detail when you consider all the other big decisions when decorating or redesigning a room in your home, but when chosen right, pillows can really transform the space. For best results from decorating with pillows, you need to consider color scheme, size and style of the room.

Here are some tips on how to use pillows to decorate your home:

Stick to a Specific Color Scheme

For the most powerful effect, it is best to stick to similar shades of one color or a pair of complimentary colors, colors on the opposite end of the color wheel like orange and blue which can bring some drama and richness to the room. Avoid colors or patterns are too loud and brash because the room will come off looking disorganized. Another option is to pick a group of accent pillows in colors that are next to each other on the color wheel. This way they are similar, but are also markedly different as well giving the room a polished but more subtle look.

For example, pink and orange are next to each other on the color wheel. You may not automatically think about pairing the two together, but can really make a room pop, especially if these colors are also in other parts of the room as well.

Play With Different Types of Fabric

It is not just the color or pattern on the pillows that can add to the ambiance of a room or tell a particular story. The fabric of the pillow can as well. For example, a velvet pillow screams luxury and decadence while cowhide pillows have a more country appeal. Some fabrics are more versatile than others. Cowhide for instance is not just found on southwest ranches or in mountain lodges. It can also be the perfect addition to a modern living room full of monochrome and glass or even a romantic boudoir so never discount the power of cowhide pillows.

You will love how soft they will feel as well as all the different colors and patterns they come in. Cowhide is also very durable so they will last you a long time. One way to keep everything from becoming overbearing is to use the same color or a similar shade of color with the different textures so there is some form of uniformity. This way you can fun with mixing plaid pillows on one couch with flower pillows on the other side of the room without it call becoming too overwhelming.

Embrace Graphics and Prints

Prints and graphics can be a lot of fun on pillows if you know how to use them right. The most common layout pattern used is to arrange three pillows together and have one simple print, one busier print and one basic solid-colored pillow. The loudest print should be on the larger accent pillow which should be placed in the middle of the pillow trio. Don’t underestimate the power of simple stripes either. Thin stripes, thick bold stripes, they all draw the eye but also can easily go with a lot of other different patterns and colors. You can even play with texture with stripes but having the texture of the actual stripe be different from the rest of the pillow making the stripes stand out more.

Play Around with Proportion and Shape To get the most of your pillows, consider them like artwork. Don’t be afraid to play with shape and proportion. Look for uniquely shaped pillows like a wedge or star-shaped pillow to make the room pop or you can even combine traditionally shaped pillows with couches or chairs with round cushions. It is all about making a personalized statement.

Avoid Pillow Overkill

Remember that too many pillows gathered on your bed or the couch can become a bit of a nuisance. They are not always very comfortable to sit on or lay against and you will have to constantly take them off and on the furniture. Do you really want to have to move a whole layer of pillows every time you want to lounge on the couch? The perfect litmus test will always be, how comfortable is the couch with these pillows added?

You also don’t want overkill when it comes to color and patterns either. Too much of it will make it feel like the room is shouting. Limit how many new colors and patterns you introduce into the room’s color scheme.

The Art of Arrangement

When arranging the pillows along your couches or chairs, the rule of thumb is to arrange them symmetrically instead of layering them behind one another. Too many patterns and designs all bundled together can be a little too much for most people. Where you display your pillows should also be carefully considered. They are not just for beds and couches, pillows also look great on hallway benches, reading chairs and on top of ottomans. Floor pillows are also great for creating little seating areas on the floor in the living room or family room.

Don’t be afraid to regularly switch things up by constantly which pillows are in which room. This way you can play a lot more with color and pattern without having to constantly buy new pillows. Remember that accent pieces like pillows are easily interchangeable making it very easy to freshen up the look and feel of any room in your home. Also, it is important to not skimp on the quality of your accent pillows. You don’t necessarily have to go with the most expensive, but you should pick good quality pillows that give you enough support but are also cushiony and soft to the touch.

If you want to learn more about how cowhide pillows can accent your home, call Cowhide Outlet today.