When it comes to decorating with pillows, our minds typically drift to the more traditional shapes. The squares, the rectangles, the ever-common 16x16 throw pillow. But if we really want to dive into the world of pillow-decor, it’s important to think beyond the square and begin using various shapes and sizes to up our decor game. One of our favorite ways to do so is through the use of the less than traditional bolster. 

First of all… just what is a “bolster”? Simply defined, a bolster is a longer, cylindrical cushion used for cushions and/or pillows on beds, sofas, or other decor areas of the home. That said, we shouldn’t limit a bolster to just a pretty and uniquely shaped home decor accessory! Today we’re sharing some of our favorite ways a bolster form can be used to decorate the home uniquely and well.


1) Turn Your Window Seat Into a Day Bed
Use bolsters to create a frame around your window seat. Not only does it provide an excellent place to enjoy a good book, but it adds just enough coziness to any room!

Photo Credit: Finnian Smoon Interiors 

2) Add Bolsters to the Side of Your Couch
Hard couch arms got you down? Add bolsters to the ends of your couch to create a soft place to rest! We love how much comfort bolsters used on an already comfy piece!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

3) Use Bolsters Outdoors
Add some extra lumbar support to all of your outdoor seating with small, chair-sized bolsters! The lower back support is sure to encourage many hours spent relaxing outdoors

Photo Credit: Decor Pad

4) Create a Backrest in Your Kitchen
Kitchen window seat not as appealing as it should be? Adding a long bolster to line the back of the bench is the perfect way to bring comfort to every meal!

Photo Credit: Hooked on Houses

5) Choose Bolsters Over Throws
Sneak away from the traditional square or rectangular throw with the use of a bolster instead!

Photo Credit: BHG.com

6) Add Bolsters to the Footboards of Beds
Create an extra ounce of coziness with the use of a bolster along the footboard of twin beds in your home! Have a kiddo around? This is a great option for “shortening” the length of the bed as they grow into it!

Photo Credit: A Room Somewhere via Pinterest

7) Use Bolsters in Your Floor Seating
The warmer months seem to welcome floor seating and we’re big fans of using bolsters to add an extra dose of ground-comfort!

Photo Credit: Here

8 Add Bolsters to Surprising Spaces
Add bolsters to a foot stool, chaste, a small accent chair, or a kitchen chair to add a surprising element of cozy and chic!

Photo Credit: Linen Baby on Etsy

Our biggest tip to decorating with bolster forms is to move forward with confidence. If you think about it, try it! Don’t be scared to venture beyond the square and spice things up with a bolster (or three!).