What Is a Bed Sham?

Bed pillows come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. But, if you’re bored with your current linen setup, you can kick your bedroom aesthetic up a notch with some decorative bed shams, also known as pillow shams. You can even make them yourself if you’re feeling crafty, let’s talk about pillow shams and how they can uplift your bedroom.

What Is a Bed Sham?

A bed sham is slightly different from your standard pillowcase. It adds a certain design flair to your pillows, and it can resemble an old-fashioned design or be more modern. The additional fabric on the perimeter of the pillow peaks out from behind your regular pillows when your bed is dressed. They can have an embellished panel on the front of the pillow that gives it its unique style.

If you're interested in a total bedding makeover, consider our Deep Pocket Blended Cotton Sheet Set, which pairs ultra-soft cotton with silky-smooth viscose from bamboo.

How to Use a Pillow Sham

Standard shams are widely available, affordable, and easy to use. They can be patchwork style, sequins, button style, lace, or silk. To use a pillow sham you could match some decorative pillows to duvet covers and bedding sets. Your bed runner could match a couple of pillow shams or you can mix and match prints and fabrics, the possibilities are endless.

What Are the Standard Size Pillow Dimensions?

Sleeping Pillows

Decorative Pillows

It's also common to style your bed with additional decorative pillows covered with pillow shams. A few popular decorative pillow sizes include:

• 25 x 25 inches
• 20 x 20 inches
• 18 x 18 inches
• 16 x 16 inches
• 12 x 16 inches
• Boudoir pillows (12 x 16 inches)
• Neckroll pillows (6.5 x 13 inches)

DIY: How to Make a Bed Sham

Materials:

• Fabric
• Thread
• Pins
• Scissors
• Ruler/measuring tape

Step 1:

• Cut two pieces of fabric for the front and back.
• Allow 1 inch on each side to accommodate the pillow filing.
• Allow more than one inch if you plan to let some additional fabric hang from your pillow sham.

Step 2:

• Sew the edges with a sewing machine or hand sew (it’s easier than you think).
• Leave an opening to put the pillow in and out.
• Turn the pillow sham inside out.

Step 3:

• Insert the filling into your pillow sham and place on your bed.
• Make more to use as a couch throw pillow or matching bed pillow.

Conclusion: Do I Need a Bed Sham?

Boudoir pillows may sound fancy but the beauty of the bed sham is that it is so adaptable, easy to find, and even easy to make. They add an elegant flair, colorful touch, and vibrant feel to your bedroom. They’re comfortable, easy to clean, and keep your pillow free from dirt and dust. Enjoy your pillow sham with matching sheets, duvet cover, or comforter—our Bedding Types guide includes everything you need to know about building the perfect bed.

Disclaimer: Nolah does not provide medical advice. All resources on the Nolah blog, including this article, are informational only and do not replace professional medical counsel. Talk to your doctor about any health, mental health, or sleep-related issues.