Types of Inserts
Types of Inserts
Feather and Down Down and feathers are pillow fills that traditionally come from geese and ducks.
Down is a layer of fine feathers that is found under the exterior feathers. The loose structure of these feathers traps air and create volume. The feathers add weight, stability and bulk. A combination of feather and down is typically used. A pillow with more down will be more fluffier. Pillows with these inserts can be fluffed back into the shape that you desire. This insert feels lightweight and airy.
Choose from a selection of 95/5 Feather/Down or 50/50 . 50/50 down inserts are more fluffier and also more expensive.
Microfiber / Down Alternative This pillow is made from polyester synthetic micro fibers. Synthetic down is hypoallergenic, durable and retains shape. This pillow is typically denser than down and provides more support. There are no animal products in these pillows and this makes it a good option against allergens. This insert is preferred as it feels soft and plush yet providing more support. Micorfiber pillows are preferred these days because they hold their shape over a period of time, they are hypoallergenic and do not need to be poofed up periodically and provide support.
Synthetic Inserts Synthethic polysters (polyfill) is the least expensive option - they tend to be flatter in look and feel. Extra care should be taken to make sure that the look is what you desire. These are typically found in store bought/ready off the shelf pillows. These are the least preferred and least recommended option. If you can stay away from these inserts.
Outdoor These pillows are water and mildew resistant. Use these, like they are named, for outdoor uses. The pillows that have polyester fiberfill have a water repellent shell. You should still take care and not leave them in damp conditions or leave them wet for periods of time. These are best used with outdoor or marine grade fabric and are perfect for patios, decks, boating and camping.
Sizing a insert for pillow
Squares
A simple rule of thumb is to size the insert up to 10% larger than the size of your throw pillow. 1 - 2" for smaller pillows and about 2-3" for larger pillows
Most commonest pillow size is 22" and use inserts that are about 10% bigger - would be a 24" square insert. Remember fill in an insert does vary based on the selection of your insert type you might have to try out a few sizes before you arrive at the size that works for you.
Lumbars
The same rule of thumb applies - size the pillow inserts 1" to 2" bigger than the pillow they are going into. You might want to choose inserts that have more fill or be even bigger to give the support you need when using a lumbar pillow. For larger sizes you might want to stick with the 10% bigger rule.
Types of Throw Pillows (by Shape)
Squares
The most commonest shape, the square is used commonly for a variety of uses. They offer an easy way to create a statement, add a pop o' color to your decor. Best made with Knife edge or a Tapered edge. A common technique is to use pillows in layers on a couch to create interest and match colors and tie various elements in the setting together. This is achieved by various sizes (the bigger ones at the back) and smaller and brighter colors in the front. Various options should be tried before you arrive at what looks best for you.
Round
Round pillows are mostly used for decorative purposes. They are circular in shape and usually feature a button tufted center. These pillows are great for accenting a couch, chair, or bed. If necessary, they can offer support for floor sitting or be used as head and neck support while lying down. Some large round pillows can be used as floor pillows
Bolsters
While they look cylindrical in shape they are long rectangular pillows. They are usually long rectangular knife edge pillow or could be made as a real cylinder with circular side. They are made to variety of lengths and diameter. Sometimes they have flat sides or sides that are secured with cord trim and or ribbons. These pillows are great for lumbar support.
Rectangles
Perhaps the most useful shape for pillows besides the bolster pillow, the rectangular pillow has plenty of uses. You can use a rectangle pillow for decoration, for lower back support, for head and neck support, supports/raises legs for comfort.
Shaped Pillows
Pillows in custom shapes can be designed and constructed for use for special uses. eg a Star shaped or a crescent shape. It might be difficult to find an insert to fit this pillow. One has to be creative, your store design professional can help in acquiring/constructing a custom insert. These tend to be expensive than the common sizes.
Lumbars
Edges in Pillows
Each edge in a pillow adds its own design statement and stands out whether used alone or in groups. Choice of one or more of these elements helps one tie elements together.
Knife Edge
The simplest of decorative pillow is the “knife edge” pillow is simply two pieces of fabric that have been sewn together around the edges, forming a “knife edge” or a sharp, simple single seam - the corners have sharp crisp corners and edges. Knife edge pillows can be square, rectangular or round. There are many elements that can be added such as embellishments at the corners such as tassels, tapes and buttons within the body of the pillow. In general a knife edge pillow has a zipper added on one side sometimes there could be envelope at the back. You can dress up the pillow with two different fabrics on either side so that you use a more expensive fabric on one side or use the other side for another fabric so that you can 'change it up' when you feel like it. It is almost like having two pillows in one!
Welted/Corded
A corded or welted or piped pillow is a knife edge pillow with the addition of a decorative cord or welting at the seam. The cord or welt can contrast the fabric for more contrast or can be made with coordinating or same fabric. When the welt is made from the same fabric as the pillow, it is called a self-welted pillow. The use of a contrast welt allows for the designer to pick up another color in the room so as to tie the elements (eg drapes, carpets, upholstery) together. The cord could be gimp cord covered with the same fabric, it could be thick or thin, braided cords etc. The options here are endless and choices can really bring everything together.
Flange
The Flange pillow has a flat band of fabric at its edges. It is a decorative accent that can 1/2 to 3 inches beyond the It can be made from the same fabric or most times with a contrasting fabric.
Box Pillow
A “box” pillow is made with flat sides. Unlike the knife edge pillow that is flat at the seams, a box pillow has taller edges and is constructed like a box. Box pillows can also be made into cushions, and this type of construction is common on sofa or chair seat and back cushions when filled with a piece of foam. The sides of the “box” can be made of flat fabric or shirred (gathered) fabric, and it can match the top of the pillow or contrast it
Bolster/Lumbar
This is basically a knife edge pillow that has exaggerated dimensionsa and is typically highly overstuffed. The purpose of this is to provide support to the lower back or to rest against. They tend to be cylindrical in shape
Embellishments
Buttons
Beaded Trim
Braided Rope Trim
Bullion Fringe
Buttons
Cording or welt
Feather Trim
Ruffles
Tassels
Textured Material