Why I LOVE cushions ……… AND my husband hates them!

Love may be an understatement, I am completely addicted to cushions. My passion for them is one reason I always dreamed of owning a home wares store.

I have had no formal training in interior design, but I have been told I have a ‘good eye’ for home style. I know that new cushions can be a great way of changing the look and feel of a room. I have lived in a lot of bland rental properties over the years and found it an economical way to brighten the place up and make it feel more homely. 

Firstly, decide on the colour palette you wish to use. Choose 2 or 3 colours for accents in the room. Select colours in a favourite décor item, curtains, a piece of art or even something from outside that you love. Do you want a theme to your room? I love the coastal living style with navy blue as a base colour, striped fabrics and seaside themed patterns.

Solid colours look fabulous but interest can also be added with patterns, stripes and checks. Texture adds another dimension. Consider linen, velvet or knitted fabrics. Crochet, embellished or embroidered surfaces will also provide further accent.

Are you a crafty person? Maybe crochet or knit a cushion cover in chunky wool. Use embroidery or rug making skills to create something amazing and unique. There are lots of kits and patterns out there. I have been on day courses to learn new skills and brought home an original item. Embellishments such as buttons, ribbons or crochet flowers could be sewn onto an old cushion to bring new life into it.

At Ruby’s Home Store we have statement cushions available in our Ruby's Choice Collection. They are quality products and many have been beautifully hand embellished by crafts people. Your favourite one could be your starting point in choosing a scheme.

In the example above some plain navy, mustard or duck egg cushions would be lovely.

We have a big selection of  cushions for all budgets however great cushions can be picked up in a sale or at Kmart, IKEA etc. Save by buying the covers only and reusing your existing cushion inserts.

When choosing new furniture consider something plain or neutral so that the colour palette of your cushions can be changed easily. However, I had a dusty pink sofa which I picked up cheaply in a sale. It is so comfortable and still looks great in my new house by styling the room around it.

The change of seasons is a great opportunity to change cushions by using richer, warmer dark colours for winter in wool or velvet. In spring change them for lighter and brighter colours in linen or cotton.

We can all dream of having a home like the ones in glossy magazines with beautiful feather cushions chopped and stacked perfectly, but we have real homes with people living real lives. Kids jump on the sofas and husbands plonk themselves down in their dirty work clothes throwing cushions on the floor. So depending on your household consider practicalities such as cushions that are hard wearing or washable. 

Finally, there is nothing I want more than for you to be happy with your purchases from my store so please call, drop me an email or message if you have any questions or would like advice on your choices. I would love to help you. Also don't forget to post the results on social media and tag us.

Remember that life is too short to have ugly cushions on your couch!

Jane x