Chapter 8: Styling and Decor
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Day 42: Cushions and Throws
The art of dressing your sofa
2 min read
📖 "The Karate Chop"...
Have you ever noticed in interior magazines that there is always a 'V' shaped dent in the middle of a cushion? It's called the 'Karate Chop'. It's a designer way to show that the cushion is soft and comfortable, not a hard rock! 🥋
(Note: This chop only works on cushions with duck feather or microfiber filling, not on cheap, stiff polyfill cushions!)
Have you ever noticed in interior magazines that there is always a 'V' shaped dent in the middle of a cushion? It's called the 'Karate Chop'. It's a designer way to show that the cushion is soft and comfortable, not a hard rock! 🥋
(Note: This chop only works on cushions with duck feather or microfiber filling, not on cheap, stiff polyfill cushions!)
Rules for Cushion Layouts
1. The Formal Look (The Formal 2+2)
Symmetrical and clean. 2 cushions on each corner of the sofa.
Arrangement: A 20x20 inch solid cushion at the back, with an 18x18 inch patterned cushion right in front of it. Identical on both sides.
2. The Relaxed Look (The Relaxed 2+1+2)
Asymmetrical and cozy. Best for a 3-seater sofa.
Arrangement: 2 cushions in one corner, 2 cushions in the other corner, and one long rectangular (Lumbar) cushion in the middle.
The Secret of Cushion Inserts (Filling)
⚠️ Exposing Cheap Cushions:
No matter how expensive your cushion covers are (even ₹2,000 ones), if the filler inside is cheap, stiff polyester (worth ₹100), it will look bad. Always buy an insert that is 2 inches larger than the cover. (i.e., a 20x20 insert for an 18x18 cover). This makes the cushion look plump and luxurious, not flat!
No matter how expensive your cushion covers are (even ₹2,000 ones), if the filler inside is cheap, stiff polyester (worth ₹100), it will look bad. Always buy an insert that is 2 inches larger than the cover. (i.e., a 20x20 insert for an 18x18 cover). This makes the cushion look plump and luxurious, not flat!
How to Style Throw Blankets
A throw is a light blanket draped over a sofa. It adds texture and layers.
- The Casual Drape: Just casually toss it over one armrest and the seat. (Making it look "naturally" messy actually takes quite a bit of practice! 😂)
- The Neat Fold: Fold it lengthwise and place it neatly over the armrest or down the center of the seat back like a clean stripe.
- Basket Style: Take a wicker basket, roll up 2 throw blankets, and place them next to the sofa. Looks incredibly cozy!