Throw pillows can either transform a space—or fall completely flat. When thoughtfully chosen, they do more than add comfort; they introduce personality, tie a colour palette together, and create a polished, layered look. In my design work, throw pillows are one of those decorative details I believe are absolutely worth the splurge.
While there’s an abundance of beautiful ready-made options on the market, custom throw pillows offer an unmatched level of creative freedom. For homeowners in Ottawa looking to elevate their interiors, working with a designer to create bespoke pillows means selecting fabrics, trims, and finishes that complement your space like a well-tailored glove. The result? A look that feels elevated, intentional, and uniquely yours.
Choosing the Right Pillow Shape
Let’s start with the basics: shape matters—more than you might think.
Square pillows are the tried-and-true classic. They work beautifully on sofas, beds, and accent chairs and are the most versatile when layering patterns or textures.
But there’s more to explore.
Kidney pillows or lumbar pillows—long, rectangular cushions—are your go-to for lumbar support, especially in deep chairs or benches. They’re also making a stylish comeback in 2025, particularly in extra-long sizes styled across a bed for that “designer hotel” feel.
Then there’s the bolster pillow—a structured, cylindrical form that brings balance and support. Whether it’s anchoring a layered bed, dressing up a bench, or adding symmetry to a window seat, bolsters strike that perfect note between function and elegance.
Disk pillows, shaped like a flattened circle, add an unexpected sculptural detail. Think of them as the jewelry of your soft furnishings—small, eye-catching, and totally intentional.
And for a bit of fun? The ball pillow. With its bold, spherical form, it’s a favourite in contemporary interiors. It brings just the right amount of playfulness while still feeling polished and purposeful—like a little wink from your décor.
FAQ: How do I choose the right size for my sofa or bed?
Common sizes include 18″x18″, 20×20″, 22×22″, and lumbar shapes like 12×20″, but size depends on the scale of your furniture and the desired layering effect.
The Insert Matters More Than You Think
What’s inside your pillow is just as important as what’s on the outside. Those perfectly plump cushions with that satisfying top indent? That’s usually the work of a feather or down insert. Polyester inserts can be more affordable, but they tend to hold their shape rigidly. That can be great for back support on deep-section sofas, but less so if you’re after that lived-in, effortlessly styled look.
FAQ: What fill do you recommend – down or synthetic?
Down/feather blends offer a more relaxed, high-end “chop” look. Feather/down inserts offer softness and flexibility, making them perfect for smaller sofas or more relaxed seating arrangements. They can be fluffed, chopped, and styled in endless ways—which is part of the magic. If you love that designer “chopped pillow” look, feather inserts are the only way to go.
Synthetic inserts are hypoallergenic and hold their shape better for a firmer appearance.
Creative Decorative Details for Custom Pillows
Custom pillows offer endless opportunities to personalize your space, and the details make all the difference. You might choose a two-sided design to showcase different fabrics front and back, adding variety with just a flip. Piped edges create a clean, tailored look, while flanged edges add a soft, elegant frame. For something a little more playful or bold, fringe or decorative trimming can introduce texture and a touch of drama. A knife edge finish keeps things simple and modern—perfect for minimal interiors. While tufted pillows bring in a bit of structure and vintage charm. If you’re feeling creative, multi-fabric combinations let you layer different colours, patterns, or textures. This approach creates a completely unique look tailored to your home.
Why Custom Throw Pillows Are Worth the Splurge
When it comes to creating a home that reflects your style and tastes, custom throw pillows are more than just decorative accents—they’re a chance to bring together all the elements of your space with a personal touch. From choosing the perfect shape to selecting the right inserts and finishing details, custom pillows offer an unprecedented level of customization that mass-produced options simply can’t match. Custom pillows are tailored to your space in terms of fabric, size, fill, and detailing, ensuring a more cohesive and luxurious result.
FAQ: Are custom pillows more expensive?
Yes, but they’re also more durable and better tailored to your design. You’re paying for craftsmanship, designer fabrics, and long-term satisfaction.
FAQ: Can you help me design pillows that match my room?
Yes, part of the design service includes selecting fabric, trim, and layouts that complement your space and align with your overall vision.
FAQ: How long does it take to have custom pillows made?
Lead times vary, but it’s typically 3–6 weeks depending on fabric availability and workroom schedule.
FAQ: Can I wash custom throw pillows?
Covers are often removable and dry clean recommended, especially for designer or delicate fabrics. Inserts can often be spot cleaned or replaced if needed.
FAQ: Do custom pillows come with zippers?
Yes, most do. This makes it easy to clean or swap out inserts and update your look seasonally.
Curious about custom pillows for your home? Let’s chat and explore what’s possible!
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