Are you struggling to find the right size throw pillow for your couch or bed? Measuring a throw pillow might seem simple, but getting it just right can make all the difference in your room’s look and comfort.
If you’re wondering how to measure a throw pillow accurately, you’re in the right place. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly what to measure and how to choose the perfect pillow size that fits your space and style.
Keep reading, and make your home feel even more inviting!
Choose The Right Pillow
Choosing the right throw pillow can change the look and feel of your space. It starts with knowing what fits best. The right pillow adds comfort and style to your room. Size and shape matter most for a perfect match. Understanding these helps you pick a pillow that looks great and feels good.
Consider Pillow Shape
Throw pillows come in many shapes. Square pillows are the most common. They fit well on sofas and beds. Rectangular pillows work great for lumbar support. Round pillows add a soft, decorative touch. Choose a shape that suits your furniture and style.
Select Appropriate Size
Size affects how a pillow looks and feels. Small pillows are good for accent pieces. Large pillows offer more comfort and support. Measure your furniture before buying. The pillow should not be too big or too small. Balance size with the space available for the best look.

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Gather Measuring Tools
Gathering the right tools is the first step in measuring a throw pillow accurately. The right tools help you get exact dimensions. This makes choosing the perfect pillow cover easier. Simple tools work well and save time.
Use A Tape Measure
A tape measure is the most common tool for this task. It is flexible and easy to wrap around the pillow. Use it to measure the height and width from edge to edge. Stretch the tape gently to avoid wrong numbers. A tape measure with clear markings works best for accuracy.
Alternative Measuring Tools
If you do not have a tape measure, use a ruler or a yardstick. These tools help measure flat pillows well. For bulkier pillows, use a piece of string first. Then measure the string length with a ruler. This method gives a good estimate without special tools.
Measure Pillow Dimensions
Measuring the dimensions of a throw pillow is simple and important. It helps to pick the right size pillow covers or find pillows that fit your space well. Knowing the exact size ensures comfort and style.
Start by measuring the width and height of the pillow. Use a tape measure or a ruler for accuracy. Measure from one edge to the other, straight across the pillow.
Measure Width And Height
Place the pillow on a flat surface. Measure straight across from left to right for width. Then, measure from top to bottom for height. Write down both numbers. These are the main dimensions of your pillow.
Check Pillow Thickness
Next, check how thick the pillow is. Thickness shows how full the pillow feels. Measure from the front to the back of the pillow. This helps to know the pillow’s depth and comfort level.
Account For Pillow Fill
Measuring a throw pillow is not just about the cover size. The pillow fill affects its final size and shape. Different fills take up space differently. Knowing the fill type helps you measure accurately and get the right fit.
Different Fill Types
Throw pillows can have foam, down, polyester, or cotton fills. Foam fills are firm and keep their shape well. Down fills are soft and fluffy but can compress easily. Polyester fills vary but often feel soft and lightweight. Cotton fills are natural and slightly firm. Each fill type changes the pillow’s size and feel.
Impact On Size And Firmness
Fill type affects how much a pillow expands or shrinks. Foam-filled pillows hold their size and feel firm. Down-filled pillows look bigger but can flatten quickly. Polyester fills offer moderate firmness and size retention. Cotton fills may shrink slightly after washing. Always measure the pillow after fluffing it fully.
Measure Pillow Covers
To measure a throw pillow, use a tape measure across its width and height. Measure from one edge to the opposite edge, including the pillow’s thickness. This ensures a perfect fit for your pillow cover.
Measuring pillow covers is key for a perfect fit. A well-measured cover keeps the pillow looking neat and full. Start by laying the pillow flat on a table. Use a tape measure to check the length and width in inches. Note these numbers carefully. This ensures you buy or sew the right size cover.
Include Seam Allowance
Seam allowance means extra fabric added for sewing edges. Without this, covers may turn out too small. Add about half an inch to each side of your measurement. For example, if the pillow is 18 inches square, cut the fabric at 19 inches. This space helps sewing and prevents tight covers. It makes the cover easier to put on and take off.
Consider Closure Type
Closures affect how you measure pillow covers. Zippers, buttons, or envelope flaps need space to work well. Leave extra room for closures to avoid tight fits. For zippers, add about one inch to the width. Button closures may need more fabric overlap. Envelope styles require a few extra inches for the flap. Measuring with closures in mind ensures comfort and style.

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Tips For Perfect Fit
Choosing the right size for a throw pillow is key to comfort and style. A perfect fit looks neat and feels cozy. It also helps your room look balanced and inviting. Follow these simple tips to measure and select pillows that suit your space well.
Allow For Shrinkage
Fabric can shrink after washing. Measure your pillow cover before and after washing. Choose a pillow slightly smaller than the cover for a snug fit. This prevents pillows from looking too loose or flat. Keep in mind, natural fibers shrink more than synthetic ones.
Match Pillow To Room Decor
Consider your room’s style and colors. Pick pillow sizes that fit your furniture and space. Small pillows suit compact sofas and chairs. Large pillows work well on big couches and beds. Use pillow size to add balance and harmony to your room’s look.

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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Measure A Throw Pillow Correctly?
Measure the width and height of the pillow’s front side. Use a tape measure from edge to edge, including the seams. Always measure in inches for accuracy. This helps ensure you choose the right pillow cover size.
What Tools Are Best For Measuring Throw Pillows?
A flexible measuring tape is ideal for throw pillows. It easily contours to the pillow’s shape for precise measurements. Avoid rigid rulers since they can give inaccurate results on soft surfaces.
Should I Measure Throw Pillows With Or Without The Cover?
Measure throw pillows without the cover for accuracy. This captures the pillow’s actual size, including thickness. If measuring for a new cover, add half an inch for ease of fit.
Why Is Accurate Throw Pillow Measurement Important?
Accurate measurements ensure you buy the correct pillow cover size. It prevents covers from being too tight or too loose. Proper fit maintains the pillow’s shape and enhances room decor.
Conclusion
Measuring a throw pillow is simple and useful. Start by using a tape measure across the pillow’s widest part. Note the length and width in inches or centimeters. This helps find the right pillow cover or replacement. Always measure the pillow when it is flat and fluffed up.
Knowing the size makes decorating easier and more fun. Keep these steps in mind for your next pillow purchase or DIY project. Accurate measurements save time and avoid mistakes. Now, you can shop or create pillows with confidence.
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