There’s an art to arranging cushions on a sofa: you need to balance colours, textures, sizes and placement to get that perfect mix of comfort, style and practicality. Here’s how the team at RJ Eagar, home of cushions, throws, and everything home décor, has perfected the art of cushion arrangement.

1. Arrange Cushions 2-1

With the 2-1 arrangement, you can create an appealing sofa setup with just three cushions.
Place two cushions at one end of the couch: one larger solid-coloured cushion as the base and a slightly smaller one in front. Place the third cushion at the opposite end of the sofa.

There are a few ways to try this arrangement:

• Incorporate subtle patterns and different textures: mix velvet cushions with linen cushions or geometric or flower pattern cushions with solid-coloured cushions

Pick cushions that match or closely resemble the sofa’s colour for a more relaxed appearance. For example, emerald green, mustard yellow, navy blue, burnt orange or red cushions pair well with a grey sofa.

For a livelier and visually stimulating setup, go for cushions with bold geometric patterns in contrasting colours to the sofa.

If you prefer a minimalistic look, opt for cushions in soft, muted tones or pastel hues.

2. Balanced cushion arrangement

For a balanced cushion arrangement, place two large base cushions, two slightly smaller ones overlapping the outer cushions, and an extra cushion in the centre to achieve a nice, finished look.

You can get creative with different colours, patterns, and textures to create a visually appealing layered look.

3. Double-sided cushion arrangement

Position two big cushions (about 55cm x 55cm) at either end of your sofa for this double-sided cushion arrangement.

Then, add small cushions (about 45cm x 45cm) beside the larger ones.

Combine cushions with intricate patterns and plain, solid ones for a relaxed and balanced appearance.

To give your sofa a stylish and contemporary feel, use two identical cushions to achieve symmetry without overcrowding it.

4. Arranging Cushions in a Trio

If you like having many cushions but don’t want a cluttered look, arrange them in threes on either side.
Start with your largest decorative cushions at the back and then move inward, adding pairs of smaller cushions as you go.
You can use a variety of colours, patterns, and textures as long as each pair complements the other.

Our stylists answer questions about arranging cushions

How many cushions should you put on a sofa?

Too many cushions can make your sofa look cluttered and chaotic.

We recommend sticking to three cushions for a two- or three-seater sofa. If your sofa is larger, you can have more cushions. For example, a large corner sofa could accommodate six or more cushions.

Why do people chop cushions?

The karate chop technique can make your cushions appear comfier. It gives them a plumper and softer look. Whether you use the cushions for sitting or decoration, they should look snuggly and lush.

How can I mix and match different cushion patterns?

It’s all about balance! Mix large-scale patterns with smaller designs, and vary the colours – don’t be afraid to experiment. Remember, RJ Eagar’s cushion collection provides abundant options for eclectic or harmonised styling.

Shop online from our cushion collection.

RJ Eagar is here to help you make your sofa look comfortable and stylish with cushions

• 2-1 Arrangement: use three cushions—two solid-coloured cushions at one end and one at the opposite end. Incorporate subtle patterns or match the cushions to the sofa’s colour to create a relaxed or bolder look.
• Balanced Cushion Arrangement: use two large base cushions, two slightly smaller ones overlapping the outer cushions and an extra cushion in the centre.
• Double-Sided Cushion Arrangement: place two big cushions (about 55cm x 55cm) at either end and add small cushions (about 45cm x 45cm) beside them. Combine detailed patterns with plain ones to give it a balanced feel.

We hope these techniques have inspired you to turn your sofa and lounge area into a stylish retreat using beautiful and comfortable cushions.

Explore our collection of home decor accessories, or read more for home decor inspiration.