Sweet Pillow Talk

When you want to create big style in a small package look for decorative pillows. I find wonderful decorative pillows at a variety of stores. Some are very reasonably priced where others I stand there scratching my head thinking, "it is just a pillow."

Of course I do take into consideration of the fabric that covers the form as well as the form itself. Some are down and as you know down can be quit expensive. However, the naturalist in me will tell you that down pillows and down comforters are NOT eco-friendly.

They promote dust mites. The reason for this is that they hold in moisture such as your sweat and that well that is a wonderful warm and moist breeding ground for dust mites. Keep this in mind when you are purchasing your next down comforter.

In terms of your living space such as the family room or living room pillows add a wonderful way to add texture, graphics, and color. I say make a statement with your pillows. Whether you use your pillows to play with color in the room or to draw attention to some bold graphics and textural details, they are relatively inexpensive way to change the direction of your overall design and scheme. Plus they are a great way to hide all types of problems on a sofa that's past its prime. So make your choices, plump them up, and pile them on- but don't pile too high; a few are comfortable, but too many, will likely end up on the floor.

Start with the "WOW FACTOR." Select bold, high contrast colors can draw the eye and delight you and your guests. Consider the fill. Choosing the right stuffing for your pillow is important. Fifty-fifty fill is a good choice because it's soft and has good loft, but won't shrink as much as 100% down. Take on texture. Shake things up by using a variety of fabrics. Various pillow fabrics such as wool (which by the way is VERY eco-friendly) because dust mites don't like wool, knit and silks work. (Silk is not eco-friendly), but there are a lot of faux silk fabrics that look just as elegant and fantastic. Choose a style that ranges from traditional to modern.

DIY TIPS

For a large, cushy pillow to lounge around on, look for one that's at least 26 inches square and suitable for sofa or floor. Squares and circles look good on all sofas, but long rectangular-shaped pillows are most effective on modern style sofas.

Tie accessories together with color. Pillows with different fabrics, but similar color schemes make the perfect combinations. Set a color palette that allows the pattern of the pillows to stand out more. Create a pile of style with bold colors. They will brighten any room.

SEWING A PILLOW
Making a pillow can be a snap, depending on how many frills you add.
For a basic pillow, you will need:

• a pillow form (usually circular or square)
• two equally sized layers of fabric

MEASURE: The trick to making a cover that isn't too tight is to measure the contour of the pillow form. Round pillows are measured on the diameter from edge to edge across the center; square pillows are measured along one edge, as if they were flat shapes. For squares, add 1/2 inch and then a seam allowance to the edge measure.

FIT: Round pillows are less fussy and should be allowed to buckle a bit as they curve over the contour. Square pillows lend themselves to a tailored look with a more easily accomplished straight, smooth line.

SEW: Stitch along the seams, nothing that when you come within 1/2 inch of any corner, you should shorten the stitch length. From the wrong side press all seams flat first and then open. Feel around the seams to be sure that the allowance isn't buckling. Clip and press the material as needed for handsome seams.

* Directions provided by Roberta Carr