Types and functions of sofa cushions, methods of their manufacture

May 27, 2014

• Home textiles
• Living room
• Design tips

Only the lazy don’t like to decorate their home, and therefore, you and I are constantly searching for the best solutions for decorating our own home. Sofa cushions are those pleasant little things that create comfort and a relaxed atmosphere. That is why we decided to devote a separate article to the correct selection of such a seemingly familiar decor.

Speaking of the material from which the cover of the pillow you like is made. It is necessary to imagine in advance whether its texture will match the upholstery of a sofa or armchair. That is, if the upholstered furniture in the living room is made of velvet or velor, then cotton or linen textiles will be inappropriate. In this case, fabrics such as velvet, wool with the addition of shimmering thread, and fur will help achieve harmony. Conversely, more practical and affordable materials such as chenille, cotton and jacquard accept the use of simple and lightweight fabrics.

Practical functions of pillows

Cushions are called sofa pillows because most of them are placed on these pieces of furniture. But this is a conditional definition; the range of purposes of such products is much wider. The modern range of models is huge. Manufacturers offer pillows that differ in sizes, styles, materials, and designs.

In this product category you can choose the following models:

• being a decorative decoration of sofas, armchairs, couches;
• intended for car interiors;
• travel transformers for travelers;
• large-scale, serving as furniture;
• in the form of plush toys.

A classic option is a small “thought” pillow. The presence of such products increases the comfort of relaxing on the sofa or armchair. You can place it under your head, back, legs, providing ideal conditions for muscle relaxation.

Sofa cushions increase the comfort of relaxing on the sofa

Models for car showrooms differ from standard analogues in durable, wear-resistant materials. The transformable pillow includes a blanket that you can use to cover yourself on the go. Products in the form of plush animals are usually placed in the nursery. The child can use them for relaxation and games.

A separate niche is occupied by products of large sizes. They can serve as poufs and are original pieces of furniture. Cushions are used as comfortable seating areas.

Large pillows can serve as poufs

Decorative functions of products

Practical functions of sofa cushions can be performed by other objects. A sofa or chair can have ergonomic configurations and soft bolsters that provide proper comfort. You can put poufs in the room, provide additional seating, and when traveling, a regular blanket will provide warmth. But the decorative function of pillows is unique; in this regard, it is impossible to replace them.

Here are some significant reasons to include these products in your decor:

• the presence of sofa cushions creates an atmosphere of a cozy home;
• a competent choice of color, shape, size allows you to make your style more expressive;
• products are ideal for accents and adding originality;
• With the help of decorative pillows you can successfully adjust the interior.

Sofa pillows will make your style more expressive

Small pillows on armchairs and sofas encourage relaxation and create a desire to sit comfortably and get pleasant sensations. This is the main sign of a cozy, hospitable home.

The presence of products of different shapes, sizes, shades, prints makes it possible to find pillows in the assortment that ideally match the specifics of the interior. These additions will more clearly reflect the individual character and design style.

Original pillows will reflect your individual style

With the help of these decorative products, you can create successful accents in the design, give it originality and uniqueness. Sofa pillows can adjust the interior, calm the riot of colors, eliminate excessive severity, add romance, etc.

Assembly of finished products

Knitted pillowcases are assembled using a knitting needle and knitting threads. Textile cushion covers are sewn with the wrong side out using hand stitches.

Next, you need to sew along the contours of the product with line seams and turn the pillowcase inside out. Lastly, the fittings are hemmed.

Dimensions, textures, shapes of models

The traditional “dumka” has a square shape and small dimensions. This option has undeniable advantages. It is universal, suitable for any furniture, it can find a place on a sofa, couch, armchair. If you want not only to create comfort, but to provide the interior with an original, interesting look, you can choose a pillow:

• having a roller design;
• in the shape of a circle, triangle, oval;
• in the form of a plush animal.

Triangular pillows will give the interior an interesting look

The textures of these products are no less varied. Covers, pillowcases, and pillow upholstery are made from different materials, which determines the style, functionality, and aesthetic qualities. Textiles and leather are used to create products, weaving and knitting, and various decorative elements are used.

Sofa pillows in knitted covers

The range of models is quite large. This makes it possible to take into account the dimensions of the furniture, personal preferences, and the purpose of the pillows when choosing. In interior design, products of different sizes and configurations are often used to add originality and create maximum comfort.

Sewing or knitting parts

Decorative pillowcases can be made in the form of a single canvas or a modular product. For textile models, the following work plan is used:

1. Using the templates, the components for the pillowcase are cut out.
2. Modular elements are sheathed with hand or line stitches.

The fabric can be knitted from yarn, fabric scraps or nylon thread. Using knitting needles you can make the following types of fabric:

• Facial surface.
• English gum.
• Polish gum.

More openwork fabrics are obtained by using crochet hooks.

Designs of decorative pillows

Products in this category differ in designs. The assortment includes pillows in the form of a thick cover with soft filling, with a decorative removable pillowcase. If the product is used intensively and performs practical functions, the presence of a removable pillowcase greatly simplifies maintenance. It can be washed and cleaned periodically, providing an attractive appearance.

Covers and pillowcases are made from different materials. When choosing, functional and aesthetic requirements and personal preferences are taken into account.

An important element of any decorative pillow is the filling. The comfort of the product directly depends on it. The most popular options are:

• feather and down;
• natural and artificial latex;
• plant products;
• cotton wool;
• foam;
• synthetic winterizer, etc.

The comfort of a pillow depends on the filling

The materials differ in their degree of softness and practicality. It is especially important to pay attention to the filler if the pillow will be actively used. Such a product will have to be washed and cleaned frequently; it must retain its properties during regular procedures. Not all fillers are hypoallergenic. This factor must be taken into account if there are people in the house who are prone to allergic reactions.

Types of children's bedding "Standard" with size chart

Whatever material children's sleeping sets are made from, they must meet specific parameters. You should choose them by first measuring the dimensions of your child’s bedroom furniture.

PHOTO: lunatown.ru It is better to take children's sets with a fastening on the sheets

Sets for newborns

When a child appears in the house, parents try to provide him with all the necessary supplies individually. This also applies to bed linen. For newborns, there are separate options that are suitable for cradles and cribs. The table shows the most popular sizes of sheets, pillowcases and duvet covers.

Some parts of the kit can be used for further covering of playpens, changing tables and larger beds. Usually one bedding set lasts for two to three years.

PHOTO: krovati-shkafi.ru Make sure that the bedding does not hang from the child’s bed. The edges will fray and get dirty.

For preschoolers and teenagers

Typically, bed linen is divided according to the age of the children. It is necessary to separate preschool kits from teenage kits. After all, the baby has absolutely no need for spacious duvet covers or sheets. It is very easy to get confused in them. Therefore, more detailed dimensions of bed linen can be found in the correspondence table.

Good to know! Children's bedding should not be close to the size of the bed. For example, the wider and longer the sheet is than the mattress, the more convenient it is to tuck it inside. It will not constantly wrinkle, and the child’s sleep will remain comfortable.

Common mistakes in choosing sofa cushions

The main purpose of these products is to properly complement the interior, ensuring attractiveness and compliance with modern trends. Selecting decorative pillows for perfect decoration is incredibly difficult. The large assortment is confusing and makes it difficult to concentrate. There is a risk of making a mistake and disrupting the harmony of design.

The fundamental criterion is the shade. Sofa decorative pillows can be part of the background or the main accents; they make the interior more restrained, more solid, or add brightness to a monotonous, boring design. There are several common color selection mistakes that you should avoid, regardless of the role you assign to these products.

The following models can ruin the overall impression:

• in the same shade with furniture upholstery;
• same color as curtains;
• the same tone, shape, texture.

Add pillows in a contrasting color

Pillows with covers made of upholstery textiles of the same color will be practically invisible on an armchair, sofa, or sofa. In this case, they cannot be decorations. If there are concerns about maintaining harmony, you can choose shades of the same range, but differing in saturation and tones.

A combination of curtains and pillowcases and decorative pillow covers may seem ideal. In fact, such a solution looks uninteresting and banal. This combination is now considered the same mistake as choosing a handbag to match the color of your shoes.

Do not choose pillows to match the color of the curtains

A stylish modern interior must be extraordinary and have its own character. It is impossible to achieve such an effect by decorating a sofa or armchairs with pillows of the same color, shape, size, texture. The atmosphere will be too boring and official. A cozy home cannot be like that.

Types of bed linen for adults: offers from Russian manufacturers

If we talk about underwear from a Russian manufacturer, it is very difficult to notice some inconsistencies. Although sometimes they differ by 10-15 cm from GOST standards. It is worth noting that dubious textile companies can even make a duvet cover smaller than a sheet. This all happens due to the need to focus on the variety of blankets, their structure and sewing options.

PHOTO: homemagazin.com.ua Sometimes even due to the quality of the material there can be a difference in size

Sizes of single and one-and-a-half bed linen

Each option includes one duvet cover and one sheet. Depending on the chosen model, the number of pillowcases can vary from 1 to 2. The only difference between these sets is that one and a half pillowcases can fit an average married couple. Let's consider the sizes of bed linen "one and a half":

• Sheet - from 145x200 cm;
• Duvet cover - from 110-140 cm to 125-150 cm;
• Pillowcases - from 25x30 cm to 40x60 cm.

PHOTO: market.leroymerlin.ru If in doubt which option to choose, one and a half is considered an alternative

It is worth noting that the minimum size of a sleeping set today is one and a half standard bed linen. Often, “single beds” for adults are no longer produced. Tailoring is possible only to order. When purchasing, you need to study the components of the laundry, which are listed on the packaging:

• the designation Single or 1-bed informs the consumer that there is one pillowcase included in the set;
• There are sets that do not have a sheet;
• There are high-quality models with a main and spare duvet cover.

Sometimes sets are made too narrow, so they may not fit on the bed. Therefore, you should initially find out the parameters of the bed.

Double and family bedding sizes

PHOTO: ok.ru Many married couples prefer to cover themselves with an individual blanket, so the “Family” set will come in handy

Double sets have wider parameters. The family bedding set has increased sizes, it includes 3-4 pillowcases, 1 sheet, and one duvet cover. This set for one-and-a-half berths includes two duvet covers. The parameters of all components are as follows:

• pillowcases - 70x70 cm;
• duvet cover - 175x215 cm;
• sheet - 180x220 cm;
• family duvet covers - 145x215 cm.

As a rule, a family PBC always has the same dimensions and easily fits a bed of 160x180 cm. It is a universal thing.

PHOTO: postel-deluxe.ru Many sets vary in size, since the sheet can be sewn with holding elastic bands

Bed linen sizes “Euro” and “Euro-Maxi”

The sizes of bed linen “Euro” and “Family” correspond to the dimensions of the “Queen” bed. The components are usually the same, regardless of which country the set was released in. The Euro bedding set includes the components from the size chart:

• duvet cover - 200×250 cm;
• sheet - 250×290 cm;
• pillowcases 70×70 cm² or 50×70 cm.

As for Euro-Maxi bed linen, they are considered the largest size, so they are suitable for specially selected pillows and blankets. The width of the bed for such a set must be at least 180 cm. The sheet and duvet cover have some discrepancy, but their standard size is 220×240 cm. In such models you can find a designation like “50×70+5 (70×70+5)” . This suggests that the pillowcases have a decorative edging.

PHOTO: spim.ru Bed linen for men and women is absolutely no different in parameters

Interesting solutions for interior decoration

Professional designers with impeccable taste easily select these details for a specific interior. It is more difficult for an ignorant person to understand. Pillows should be the highlight of the interior, but harmony should be maintained. There are several recommendations for combining shades and shapes. They can be used as a guide when selecting products for the interior.

Experts include interesting techniques:

• alternating dark and light tones of the same scale;
• contrasting colors;
• combination of warm and cold shades;
• combining textures;
• inclusion of different shapes and sizes.

Decorate your sofa with pillows of different shapes and sizes

It is impossible to disturb the harmony if the upholstery of furniture and pillows is made in the same color scheme. But the tones should be different. The decor uses alternating dark and light shades. This eliminates the effect of monotony and enlivens the interior.

Alternate pillows in dark and light colors

If the design lacks brightness and expressiveness, a combination of pillows whose colors are opposite in the spectrum, for example, pink and green, will help eliminate this problem. The combination of warm and cold tones looks no less impressive.

Not everyone likes bright, colorful interiors. You can add original notes by combining textures. Pillows can be the same color, but their upholstery should be different. Combinations of smooth, matte, textured products look stylish and solid.

Combination of pillows of different textures

Interiors that have decorative pillows of different sizes and shapes look original and interesting. In this design, it is important to avoid the feeling of chaos and unsystematic clutter.

Decorative pillows in different design styles

It may seem that these decorative elements are used only in classic designs. However, this is a misconception. You can choose pillows for any design; they will fit perfectly into the interior and become its addition and decoration. The main thing is not to forget about the canons of style, take them into account when choosing shape, texture and color.

The choice of models is influenced by the shades of furniture, the presence of small parts, and other factors. However, there are general rules that can help in the proper use of decorative pillows:

• in the classics, products of regular geometric shapes with upholstery made of velvet, leather, and tapestry will look good;

Classic fringed pillows

• country music is perfectly complemented by standard thoughts with covers made of cotton and linen, knitted, lace;
• in rustic style, square pillows are used, in pillowcases made of burlap and matting;
• monochromatic models with a matte, smooth texture are suitable for minimalism;

Laconic pillows for interiors in minimalist style

• high-tech can be decorated with products with covers made of leather, materials imitating animal skins;
• Oriental style will be harmoniously decorated with thoughts embroidered in gold, silver, in bright traditional colors, with tassels and fringe.

Oriental style sofa cushions

Standard shapes suit any style. Rollers and round models can look harmonious in classic and modern designs. Oversized floor products fit perfectly into the oriental style and can become successful accents for high-tech.

Selection of pillows based on cover material

Color scheme is undoubtedly the most important factor in choosing pillows. But the material from which the pillowcase and cover are made also matter. It influences aesthetic and practical indicators. In this capacity the following are used:

• artificial and natural leather;
• natural, mixed, synthetic textiles;
• knitted fabric;
• pile materials.

Leather has many benefits. Products with such upholstery look noble and respectable. Moreover, modern technologies make it possible to create an artificial material that is not inferior in beauty and practical indicators to its natural counterpart. An important advantage of leather is its ability to blend perfectly with any surface. Such pillows equally harmoniously complement classic and modern interiors. They are practical and do not require complex maintenance.

Leather case matches any surface

Each type of textile has its own unique advantages. You can choose such models for any design. For example, in respectable classics, tapestries look good; in country, pillows with linen or cotton coverings with polka dots, checks, flowers, and stripes would be a good addition. If you are choosing products for intensive use, you should give preference to covers made of mixed, synthetic materials that do not require complex care and retain their bright color and integrity for many years.

Pillows made from synthetic materials are durable

Knitted pillowcases for sofa cushions are usually made by hand by needlewomen who want to decorate their interior, make it original and cozy. This technique is ideal for making the atmosphere comfortable and creating an atmosphere of home.

Knitted pillows will give you a cozy atmosphere

Pillows with pile coverings look cozy and give a pleasant feeling. One of the most popular options now are fleece and acrylic. These synthetic materials perfectly imitate wool, providing the pillow with softness, warmth, and comfort. An incredible number of colors and prints guarantees an ideal choice of models.

A fleece pillowcase will keep your pillow soft and comfortable.

Designs and fabrics

To make the pillowcase convenient to put on the pillow, the following design features are provided:

• The product may have a safety valve. This simple detail maintains the model's shape and allows for quick cover changes.
• The button closure is functional and decorative.
• A hidden zipper will not distract the viewer from perceiving the pattern on the pillowcase.
• Ribbon ties can become an original decorative accent.

Replaceable pillow covers are made from natural, synthetic or mixed fabrics.

• Linen. Thick natural plain weave fabric. It is characterized by a matte shine and special smoothness. Linen products are distinguished by high wear resistance and durability.
• Satin. 100% long-staple cotton in a satin or satin weave gives the material a silky shine and softness. Images on products obtained by direct printing are distinguished by high clarity and bright colors.
• Matting. Natural, visually rough fabric. It is characterized by rare pairwise weaving of fibers.
• Tapestry. Lint-free fabric obtained by complex weaving of threads. It resembles carpet products and conveys images with high accuracy.
• Brocade. Luxurious material with silk warp threads, on which exquisite patterns are created with metal threads. Brocade products give the interior a solemn, festive sound.
• Natural silk. Durable fabric is interesting with a special, expensive shine. The delicate embroidery looks great on her.
• Velvet and velor fabrics for decorative pillowcases are made mainly from 100% polyester. Pile products convey the full depth of color and give the products incredible dignity and chic.

Read about: How to choose an electric pillow (electric heating pad): characteristics, manufacturers

Elegant models can be decorated with lace, fringe, fluffy fur, decorative buttons, beads, fringe or tassels.

Decorative pillows in the rooms of the house

Sofa decorative pillows are most often purchased to decorate living rooms. Family members relax in this room and guests are received here. A variety of models can be used in the hall, from tiny little thoughts to large floor-standing options. The dimensions and number of elements depend on the area of ​​the room and the specifics of the interior. Designers adhere to a certain rule. In a room with an area of ​​up to 30-40 m2 there should be no more than 6-7 pillows. This eliminates the feeling of chaos and overload.

In small rooms, do not place a large number of pillows

In living rooms you can place standard and original models. If you need to give the atmosphere solidity and presentability, preference is given to standard products of geometric shapes. Round oriental pillows and bolsters will add comfort and luxury. Floor models are excellent additions, accents of modern, original interiors, large halls in which parties are held.

Decorative pillows have a place in other rooms of the house. Their selection is made taking into account the design features. There are some recommendations from experts on choosing product forms:

• soft rectangular, square, and bolster pillows will help ensure a calm, comfortable atmosphere in the bedroom that promotes relaxation;

Pillows create a calm atmosphere in the bedroom

• flat models in the form of a square or rectangle filled with foam rubber will look harmonious in the office;
• flat products of geometric shape are used in the design of dining rooms and kitchens to make them presentable;

Pillows in kitchen design

• It is customary to decorate a child’s room with pillows in the form of soft toys and floor models.

When choosing products for offices, dining rooms and kitchens, preference is given to practical pillows with a durable, wear-resistant coating. These models will be used intensively and are regularly washed and cleaned. Durability and practicality are also important for pillows placed in the nursery. But these products must have one more quality. Only safe products made from environmentally friendly materials can be placed in the child’s room.

Children's pillows are made from environmentally friendly materials

The influence of the shape of pillows on the character of the interior

Not only the shade and texture of products influence the interior. An essential factor is the shape of the decorative pillow. The variety of models in the modern assortment provides the opportunity to make a good choice, combine different shapes, achieving the ideal result. Decorative elements are a kind of highlight; their inclusion can change the character of the environment, providing it with individuality and originality.

When choosing, you can take into account the main features of the forms and successfully adjust the interior with their help. Focus on the character you want to give to the design:

• rigor, conservatism - square, flat, standard size;
• elegance, brevity - square, rectangular, rollers;
• romance, tenderness - round, flowers, hearts;
• originality, cheerfulness - rhombuses, pencils, triangles, animals, etc.

Floral print pillows will add romance and tenderness

You can combine forms, but maintain a sense of proportion and avoid overload.

When choosing forms, you need to focus on the main lines of furniture and various interior items to ensure harmony. For example, geometric pillows go well with classic cabinet furniture designs. For furniture with smooth, soft lines, oval and round, original models are chosen.

Natural pillow fillings

When choosing decorative pillows, you need to pay special attention to the filling. It determines the comfort, practicality, and durability of the product. Personal preferences and the purpose of the product are taken into account.

The classic materials for pillows of any kind are bird feathers and down. The comfort of such products is beyond doubt. However, they do have disadvantages that you need to be aware of. Feather and down products:

• require complex care;
• can become a breeding ground for dust mites;
• can accumulate moisture.

Feather pillows require complex care

The disadvantages include the high cost, which places such products in the category of luxury goods.

Vegetable fillers are used to fill the dummies. They may contain various herbal mixtures, buckwheat husks, small sawdust and shavings. The pillows have healing properties, provide light massage and aromatherapy. The disadvantage of the products is their fragility.

Natural fillers include cotton wool. It is absolutely safe for the human body and is inexpensive. But during operation, cotton wool collects in clumps, reducing comfort.

Synthetic fillers in dummies

Most manufacturers use synthetic fillers for decorative pillows. There are many of these materials, they have certain features that need to be taken into account when choosing products. The most common options are:

• foam rubber,
• padding polyester,
• holofiber,
• synthetic fluff,
• struttofiber,
• polystyrene,
• silicone

Foam rubber is soft, elastic, and has a low cost. During use and frequent washing, the material begins to crumble. Synthetic winterizer has similar qualities. But this material is stronger. The disadvantage is the ability to sag over time. Durable, soft, warm holofiber perfectly retains its shape.

Holofiber retains its shape perfectly

Synthetic fluff perfectly imitates its natural bird counterpart. It does not require complex care and retains its properties for many years. Struttofiber is an imitation of natural wool. Polystyrene and silicone fillers in the form of numerous balls not only provide comfort, but also relieve stress and tension.

Polystyrene filling relieves stress

All synthetic fillers have several significant advantages. They are inexpensive, do not require complex maintenance, and have a long service life. In addition, such pillows do not harbor dust mites, which is important for people prone to allergies.

Bed linen and its sizes for adults from foreign manufacturers

An imported bed linen manufacturer prepares the most traditional models. They even fit Russian brands of sleeping places. Such kits are considered for the most part universal, but there are also options with individual parameters.

PHOTO: mebel-dom-dacha.ru Instead, you can choose sets for the spring holidays or thematic options for other celebrations

Standard sizes and markings of European bed linen

As a rule, the markings may differ significantly depending on the region in which the bedding set is manufactured. The sizes of double bed linen can be set according to an individual scheme, so their markings are not always clear. We suggest taking a closer look at the decoding.

1. Single Twin - sheet 183x284 cm, fitted sheet 90x190 cm, duvet cover 145x200 cm, pillowcases 65x65 cm² or 51x76 cm.
2. Double/Full - sheet 229x274 cm, 140x190 cm (if with elastic), duvet cover 200x220 cm, pillowcases 51x76 cm or 65x65 cm².
3. King/Queen - regular sheet 274x297 cm, fitted sheet 150x200 cm or 180x200 cm, duvet cover 260x220 cm, pillowcases 51x76 cm or 65x65 cm².

Based on the decoding, we can conclude that the pillowcases fit absolutely all pillows made in Europe, since they have the same sizes.

Standard American bedding sizes

If you still have Soviet-made beds at home, then you need to know the dimensions reliably, since not all models of bed linen from America are suitable for completing your bedroom furniture. The table below will help you understand in more detail.

PHOTO: womanwiki.ru Table of American sizes of bedding sets

DIY sofa pillows

A huge assortment of sofa cushions does not exclude the lack of search results for the required products. When choosing them, you have to take into account several factors; it is not so easy to find options that fully match in size, shape, shade, style. In addition, mass products can be beautiful and convenient, but a priori they are not original or exclusive. Housewives with minimal knitting and sewing skills will be able to make a sofa cushion with their own hands and create unique masterpieces.

This type of craft will provide several benefits. Making decorative pillows allows you to:

• bring your creative ideas to life;
• decorate the interior with original items;
• find a use for unnecessary consumables;
• save costs.

Decorate your interior with an original handmade pillow

Many women have creative abilities that often go unused. If you have great ideas that need to be implemented, creating decorative pillows will be an ideal field for implementation. Any skills can be useful in this handicraft: sewing, modeling, knitting, artistic painting.

Hand-made pillows are an ideal addition to the interior. Shapes, sizes and textures are selected taking into account its specifics. The risk of dissonance and inconsistencies is eliminated. The design of the product will precisely meet personal requirements for comfort, which is also important.

In every home there is a collection of unnecessary things that are a pity to throw away and are difficult to repurpose. Many of them can be used in making pillows. Old clothes, leftover yarn, lace, buttons, etc. will be used.

Pillow decor with lace and buttons

There are two important psychological advantages of this needlework. The creative process calms you down, distracts you from everyday worries, and gives you positive emotions. Handicraft is an ideal educational method. A mother who is passionate about crafts can easily instill such an interest in her daughter, which contributes to the child’s creative development.

Making pillows allows you to avoid spending money from the family budget on purchasing these decorative items. Moreover, such handicrafts can become a source of additional, main income. Nowadays handmade products are at the peak of popularity. There will definitely be buyers for beautiful, unique sofa cushions.

Materials and tools for work

In needlework, the most important criterion for success is a well-organized workplace. The master needs to provide a sufficient level of natural and artificial lighting, a wide tabletop and the most comfortable chair. Also in the process of making decorative pillowcases you may need:

• Knitting needles and hooks of various sizes.
• Textiles (new linens, old things, nylon).
• Yarn (composition and quality at the discretion of the needlewoman).
• Auxiliary accessories (buttons, zipper, Velcro).
• Threads, needles.
• Sewing machine.

Satin ribbons and large threads for embroidering patterns can be used for decoration.

Handicraft options

Housewives who want to decorate their interior with exclusive, hand-made pillows have two handicraft options. If the house has products of decent quality that do not match the style or shades of the decor, you can make new pillowcases that will provide the required transformation. The second method is more difficult, it will require sewing skills and the purchase of filler. However, making a pillow from scratch provides several advantages and provides the opportunity to:

• choose the desired shape, size;
• give the required degree of rigidity;
• receive a guarantee of environmental cleanliness and hypoallergenicity.

You can make a pillow of any desired shape with your own hands.

The choice of handicraft option depends on the availability of quality pillows, personal skills, experience, desire, and amount of free time.

Types of pillowcases

Pillowcases differ in the manufacturing method:

1. Classic models made from various types of fabric. The most common technique that requires the master to have handicraft skills.
2. Knitted pillowcases. Can be made either using knitting needles or using a crochet hook. They are distinguished by rich decor and are able to highlight interior details.
3. Cases made using modular technology. The fabric is sewn from several pieces of different colors.

For a craftsman, the choice of a specific method depends on the degree of mastery of certain skills in needlework, sewing or knitting.

Methods for making exclusive cases

A cover made and decorated with your own hands will completely transform a decorative sofa pillow, making it an ideal addition to the interior, its worthy highlight. There are several options for creating an original case. You can:

• create exclusive decor for the finished product;
• sew and decorate a pillowcase;
• knit the cover with crochet or knitting needles.

If you have a finished pillowcase in good condition, there is no need to do any sewing. You can transform it in different ways. On a single-color product, you can embroider an image using satin stitch or cross stitch, choosing a theme and shades in accordance with the features and style of the interior.

Decorate your finished pillowcase with embroidery

Pillows with artistic painting look impressive. Nowadays it is easy to purchase paints for applying designs on fabrics. You can also decorate pillowcases made of printed textiles. Available patterns and images are covered with embroidery, sequins, beads, ribbon decor, etc. Buttons, braid, lace and other available materials can be used in decoration.

Sewing a new cover provides the opportunity to choose the material by type, shade, texture, and practical properties. This guarantees the pillow full compliance with its purpose, the specifics of the interior, and ensures uniqueness. The pillowcase can be made from one material, or a combined model can be made. If there are a lot of different scraps and things in the house, the patchwork technique will help you find a use for them and sew an original, fashionable cover.

Pillowcase using patchwork technique

A knitted pillowcase on a sofa cushion looks beautiful and extraordinary. The variety of patterns, types of threads and yarns, and techniques makes it possible to produce such products for any interior style. Covers knitted in styles fit perfectly: country, rustic, Scandinavian, English, eco. Plain knitted products successfully complement modern interiors. Delicate crocheted lace pillowcases are used in decorations in styles: Provence, modern, classic, glamorous, shabby, etc.

Knitted pillowcase

By the way, it is not necessary to have skills in working with crochet or knitting needles in order to decorate the interior with an original product. Knitted pillowcases for sofa cushions can be made from old sweaters, vests, cardigans, and other things.

Bed linen sets in popular designs with sample photos

To ensure that a significant part of your life - sleep - is comfortable and healthy, you need to choose only those sets that you like. Let's look at some interesting bedding options.

PHOTO: postel-opt.ru Luxurious double bed linen with the widest set of pillows and an interesting print around the entire perimeter

PHOTO: dismar.ru Willow-style bedding perfectly conveys the spring mood

PHOTO: comfortvdom.ru The delicate floral print looks so natural that you can even do without having to make the bed on top

PHOTO: sovetskij.kit-home.ru Blue color of bed linen is considered trendy in the summer season

PHOTO: www.cleanelly.ru The brown color of the set with a simultaneous floral pattern gives a warmer atmosphere to your bedroom

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Making your own pillows

Making a decorative pillow from scratch is not difficult; no special skill is required for this work. If you don’t have modeling skills or creative ideas about shapes and decoration, you can use ready-made options, which abound on the Internet. Making sofa cushions with your own hands involves three stages:

1. Sketch development.
2. Selection of consumables.
3. Making a pillow.

The preparatory stage is fundamental. It determines how convenient and beautiful the product will be, its compliance with its purpose and requirements. When developing a sketch, all nuances are taken into account.

You need to accurately determine the purpose, size, and configuration of the product. If these are classic sofa units, the dimensions are chosen taking into account the furniture on which they will be located. A good option for upholstered furniture are bolsters that provide comfort. Cushions for dining rooms, kitchens, are placed on chairs, corner sofas, stools, the dimensions must correspond to the seats.

Chair cushions provide comfort

If you want to give pillows original shapes, you need to take into account their influence on the character of the interior. You can make products in the form of flowers, hearts for romance, make figurines of animals, fairy-tale characters, if the pillows are intended for a children's room. The sketch accurately reflects the decor of the product. This will allow you to choose the right consumables and complete the job without delays.

An equally important step is the choice of textiles for the cover and fillings. Practical and aesthetic indicators depend on the material. The type of filler determines the degree of hardness, care conditions, and service life. The choice depends on the purpose of the product, specific use, interior style, and other factors.

The service life of the pillow depends on the material

Preparing a pattern for a pillowcase

To create your own patterns, you should decide on the size, shape and cut of the protective cover. Based on the selected parameters, a sketch of the future model is drawn. It is better to make patterns on whatman paper or A1 paper.

In the absence of artistic skills, each master has the opportunity to use ready-made templates for work. A variety of drawings and patterns of pillowcases are available today to any needlewoman.

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Materials for sofa cushions

Today's market does not limit consumer choice. You can use any materials to make sofa cushions with your own hands. If it is difficult to navigate through a large assortment, you can first study information about different types of textiles and determine whether different types of fabrics suit your requirements.

The material of covers for decorative pillows should:

• have high strength and wear resistance;
• be easy to care for;
• easy to clean from dirt;
• provide a pleasant tactile sensation.

The material of the pillowcases must be resistant to wear and tear

Products that are used intensively must withstand physical stress, friction, and not lose integrity for several years. During use, various stains will invariably appear on the pillow. You need to choose materials that are easy to wash and have a dirt-repellent impregnation. The pillow is used for comfortable rest. Its surface should provide a pleasant sensation. It is worth making a cover and a removable pillowcase for it. This will simplify the choice of materials and the maintenance process.

You need to choose your filler carefully. Natural materials are expensive and require complex care. If decorative pillows will be constantly used, it is advisable to give preference to synthetic fillers. These pillows can be machine washed and retain their properties for several years.

High quality textiles

When making a pillowcase, it is important to use high-quality natural materials with a small proportion of synthetic fibers.

For example, single-layer everyday pillowcases can be made from the following materials:

• made of cotton fabric;
• from bamboo fibers;
• from linen.

There is another option for pillowcases. They are usually called multilayer or covers. What distinctive features are inherent in this version of the product? Let's consider several positions:

1. Such products are waterproof. They are made exclusively from natural materials.
2. These pillowcases are quilted.
3. These are quilted pillowcases (cases) for the pillow:

Modern manufacturers have begun to use additional treatment for pillowcases to prevent bacterial growth. With high-quality processing, the properties are preserved for 100 washes.

Photo gallery – sofa cushions