The word “sham” means something that isn’t true, usually in a deceptive way. True to this meaning, pillow shams are false decorative coverings which became popular during the 1700’s. They give your pillows a “false front” making normal pillows look like their decorative counterparts. A new set of pillow shams can instantly transform the entire look and feel of a room while enhancing your décor in a budget-friendly way.
Benefits
The sham is used to change normal pillow cases into decorative coverings for one’s bed. They can be used like any normal pillowcase and can be slept on. During the day, these support a person sitting on the bed. They can be easily removed from fills to wash or replace.
How does it work?
The pillow sham has extra fabric on both sides and opens in the middle. The pillow is inserted on one side first and then the other, thus bringing uniformity on all 4 sides. Pillow shams are placed in front of other pillows when making a bed. Usually they are made and sold in pairs of the same fabric.
What is the difference between shams and cushions?
| Shams | Cushions | |
| Placement | In front of the headboard | In front of the pillow collection |
| Make | They are made matching to the quilt or duvet | These can come in any fabric |
| Purpose | Decorative | To sleep on |
| Sizes | Shams come in standard – 20” by 26”; King – 20” by 36” and European – 26” by 26” | Most common sizes are 18”, 20” and 26”. The larger ones are 50” by 50” and 65” by 65”. |
| Shape | Rectangular, with flanges around the edge | Square |
Pillow Case vs Pillow Shams
| Pillow Case | Pillow Sham | |
| Purpose | Protects the pillow | Meant mainly for decorative purpose. |
| Used for | Meant to sleep on | Normally Not used for sleeping purposes |
| Usage | Only one end can be opened, the back has a flange for insertion of the pillow and is then sewn | They have a flange at the back, and a flap to tuck the pillow in. This is not sewn |
| Sizes | Standard, king or queen
|
Standard, king, Euro, queen, Boudoir |
| Reuse | Cannot be reused with a new pillow | Can be used with any pillow of similar size |
There is one drawback to shams and that’s the cost. The fabric that goes into making the shams is carefully woven and can affect the price. This will include high thread cotton count shams, faux fur, linen and silk or satin. Shams can also feature lace overlay and ruffles around its edges. Though, modern designers prefer to keep it simple and get rid of the ruffles and lace.
Shams can be purchased separately and can be matched with the room décor or the bedding components. Homeowners who like to experiment can buy shams of various colours and designs or just a simple colour and use them to add a little life to the décor.
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