CRAZY FOR CUSHIONS

Several readers have commented that in my interior design articles I often make mention of “throw cushions” or pillows and they have asked for examples of different designs which could complement their own décor.

Cushions are very inexpensive to make and by incorporating scraps of fabrics or trimmings that you may already have at home, you can create some exciting accessories to enhance your existing furnishings.

·                     Insets.  Stitch smaller pieces of patterned fabric onto the centre of a plain cushion, framing it with a narrow piece of ribbon in a contrasting colour, for example floral on white with a green ribbon.

·                     Sheer Ties.   How about a very feminine pillow with style?  Sew bands of ruffled fabric onto a square of cream linen and decorate the sides with bows of sheer organza.

·                     Tassels.  Give a sumptuous look to your cushions with edgings of tassels.  This style works particularly well with such extravagant colours as burnt orange, midnight blue or crimson.

·                     Fringe Element.  Stitch brush fringe onto a cushion for a lush look.  A double fringe will give an even fuller look.  This treatment is especially ideal for use with brocades.

·                     Perfect Co-ordinates.  For a startling effect team contrasting prints in the same colour-ways.  For example black and white stripes, matched with a black and white geometric design, or black trimming on a white cushion.

·                     Assortment of shapes.  A collection of differently shaped cushions, in co-ordinated colours and fabrics provides orderly simplicity and maximum effect.

·                     Might of White.  An all-white décor is the perfect canvas for patterned cushions.  Choose fabrics with interesting scenes to make each cushion unique and eye-catching.

·                     Sophistication.  Making cushions is a great way to use fabric that you love.  Even expensive fabric can be affordable if you only need a few cushions.  You can save even more money by using plain linens for the backing.

·                     Silk Elegance. Cushions in silk give a wonderful tailored look when fashioned with self-covered buttons.  Pile a few on your sofa and luxuriate in the extravagance.

·                     Scale.  Pillow shams are becoming increasingly popular and are normally oversized but if you have an elaborate or patterned headboard, reduce the sham size to allow the headboard to be the focal point.

There can be nothing more delightful that propping a tired back against soft, comfortable cushions.  Why not try making some today?

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