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The Secret Formula for Perfect Pillow Arrangements
For a polished look on sofas and beds every time, keep this simple ratio for pillow arranging in mind
When decorating with throw pillows, I'm a steadfast believer in the 2-2-1 ratio. It's a straightforward concept that accomplishes spectacular results. Simply adorn your sofa with two square pillows of one size and pattern on the ends, two smaller pillows in a different pattern next to them and finally one jazzy rectangular pillow for the center. The graduated sizing creates height intrigue, while the contrasting patterns and colors add whimsy. It's especially endearing when one fabric sets the tone and the others are chosen with its color scheme in mind. Use this styling secret to spiff up your sofa quickly, easily and affordably.
Celerie Kemble's Hot House floral pillows set the tone for the other fabrics chosen here. You can see that the rust and blue colors of the middle pillows were pulled from the floral scheme.
Heather Freeman created the artwork above her sofa to complement the color scheme and patterns of its five-pillow arrangement.
Find an artist to get your own custom artwork
Find an artist to get your own custom artwork
The 2-2-1 ratio also works on beds. Rather than arrange the pillows from the outside in as you would on a sofa, arrange them from back to front.
Both sofas in this modern Texas living room feature the same throw pillows in the 2-2-1 arrangement.
While this is technically a 2-2-2-1 arrangement, the effect is the same. Take note that the middle pillow is in the same fabric as the room’s striped upholstered chairs — this is a great way to tie things together.
Consider using only two fabrics for the 2-2-1 arrangement. Here you'll find that the center bolster pillow's toile fabric smartly matches that of the end pillows.
Michelle Hinckley made these striped pillows from Target's DwellStudio baby blankets.
The N.4 Blue Coral Pillow takes center stage while beautifully coordinating with the wall color.
Hire a painter to color match your walls to your favorite pillow
Hire a painter to color match your walls to your favorite pillow
Both sets of square pillows feature a trellis pattern in different colorways, while the center pillow is in a new pattern but features both colors.
While the pillows on the ends are not the same pattern, their similar coloring and size contribute to the 2-2-1 effect.
Using only two colors, Tracy Murdock put the ratio to good use with solid fabrics and embroidery details.
The 2-2-1 ratio suits daybeds, too.