Q: Iʼm redecorating my apartment, but donʼt want to spring for new throw pillows (theyʼre expensive!). How can I spruce up the ones I already own, but tie them in with my new color scheme?
A: If youʼre crafty, updating your throw pillows is a breeze. Simply purchase an assortment of ribbons, trims, beads, and buttons that coordinate with your new decor, and let your imagination do the rest.
In NYC, professional designers head to M&J Trimming, an industry favorite stocking everything from silk ribbons to Swarovski crystals in every color of the rainbow. If you’re on a budget, head right across the street to Joyce Trimming or down the block to Pacific Trimming. Both stores carry a broad assortment of ribbons and trims, as well as glue, thread, and other supplies youʼll need to finish your project. Further uptown, Lee’s Art Shop is an excellent source for all things craft-related.
Looking for more than a fancy new bow? Consider using slip-on pillow covers. While readily available at home decor stores, pre-made throw pillow covers can often be cost prohibitive. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make at home. Head to the Garment District (for bargains, West 39th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues is a great place to start) and pick out whichever fabrics suit your fancy. Measure your existing pillows, cut your fabric into appropriately-sized squares, stitch around the edges, and voila! Slip them over your existing pillows, or purchase a pillow form at a store like Daytona Trimming if you decide to start fresh. Or, if your existing pillows are light in color (and have removable covers) you could also opt to dye them instead.
If you’re feeling completely un-crafty, do not despair. Check out Etsy for handmade pillow covers in every size, style, color, and pattern imaginable. They’ll probably cost more than the DIY route, but still less than a brand-new set of pillows. Plus, you’ll you’ll be getting something one-of-a-kind and supporting an independent artist!
Rebecca Frey is a costume designer, wardrobe stylist, and personal shopper. She has worked on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, Saturday Night Live, and Conan, and is also the owner of Seek New York, a NYC-based company that provides a friendly, low-pressure approach to style and offers personalized shopping tours with licensed NYC guides. Every Tuesday, she answers your most pressing shopping-related quandaries. Need Becky’s help? Email your questions to emily@askanewyorker.com.
