The most common throw pillow sizes for sofas are 18″ x 18″ and 20″ x 20″. However, larger sofas and sectionals, especially those with deep seats or high backs, may be better off with 22″ x 22″, or even 24″ x 24″ pillows. For kids' spaces, smaller pillows are often used.
As a general rule of thumb for throw pillow sizing, start with the largest-sized pillows in the back of a sofa or bed, and build a triangle with smaller pillows from there. Typically, 2″ size increments work best for layering pillow combinations.
Measure your sofa's BACK HEIGHT and SEATING DEPTH
To determine the best depth of the pillow, leave at least 16″~17″ of depth for comfortable seating. For the height, it's a good idea not to let the larger pillows surpass the sofa's back height.
The most common throw pillow sizes for sofas are 18″ x 18″ and 20″ x 20″. However, larger sofas and sectionals, especially those with deep seats or high backs, may be better off with 22″ x 22″, or even 24″ x 24″ pillows. For kids' spaces, smaller pillows are often used.
We recommend using anywhere from 3 to 6 cushions for a 3 seater sofa. Using 3 cushions creates a pared down look, 4 cushions helps to create symmetry, while using 5 and 6 cushions creates a much fuller look with plenty of opportunity to showcase textural and size differences.
We generally recommend using inserts that are 2" larger all around than your finished pillow size. For example if you have an 18x18 pillow cover, you'll want to use a 20x20 insert. This will ensure that your pillow looks plump and luxurious. If the insert is too small, the pillow cover will look saggy.
Lumbar pillows come in a wide variety of sizes, from standard (around 14″ x 22″) to oversize (typically 60″ in length.) How to use them: Lumbar pillows are typically used as a centerpiece—the crowning glory at the forefront of a pillow formation.
Expert tip: always choose a cushion pad that's the same size or one size bigger than your cushion cover to ensure extra plumpness and comfort. Never go for a cushion pad smaller than your cover as you'll end up with empty corners where there's no filling – overstuffed looks and feels much better.
Queen pillows fit snug in a standard-size pillowcase, so no need to buy a different size for them unless you prefer a looser look.
Standard/Queen
Also referred to as Jumbo, or Super Standard. A Standard/Queen pillow measures 20″ x 28″. They are a compromise between a Standard size, and a Queen size. This is the size that you'll most commonly find in department stores.
A sectional is the perfect seating option to accommodate a host of people along with all your best throw pillows. You should plan on having around seven throw pillows, but you may want more or fewer, depending on the size of your sectional.
Arrange Pillows By Size
This may seem obvious, but as you arrange pillows, put larger pillows in the back and smaller or lumbar pillows in the front. The largest pillows should always be on the outside, but you can play around with medium and small interchangeably on the inside for a more personalized look.
A stylish long lumbar pillow is really all your bed needs to look complete. These lumbars can be found in a variety of sizes, but the 22-24 inch lumbars are by far the most common and can be found on any given couch in your neighborhood.
For many, calculating the number of throw pillows required is as simple as taking the length of the couch (let's say eight feet) and deducting one digit off, thereby necessitating seven throw pillows.
In terms of pillow insert sizing, the general rule of thumb is to use inserts that are 1″-2″ larger than your pillow cover. (I usually go 2″ larger.) So for example, with a 22″ square cover, use a 24″ square insert.
What size insert should I get for my pillow covers? For a full and plump look, choose an insert 2" larger than the size of the pillow cover. For example: if you purchase a pillow cover that's 20x20, purchase a pillow insert measuring 22x22.
Pillows and curtains do not always have to match, but it's always best to coordinate them with either material or color. If you want to add some drama to a room's appearance, choose contrasting colors of the same fabric as your curtains.
While you don't need to have throw pillows on your couch, throw pillows are an easy way to redecorate and can make your sofa more inviting. You can easily remove your throw pillows when you want more space or keep them on your couch for a polished look.
As a general rule, an odd number of pillows makes for the most natural, inviting arrangement: three for smaller sofas, and five for larger ones.