Think of your bed like a blank canvas: even if you don’t have a headboard, you can incorporate more pattern and color into the room by mixing and matching different bedding designs. And to (literally) top it all off, there’s always the option to add a cozy decorative blanket over your duvet or quilt.
Throws on a bed act like a scarf — they’re the perfect extra accessory that you can also have on standby in case you need another layer of coziness. Or, in the warmer months, lightweight throw blankets can simply add much-needed texture or color contrast to your bed. You can even keep a throw in your bedroom (versus draped over your living room sofa) if you want to curl up on your bed without fully getting under the covers.
You may be wondering how to style a throw blanket on your bed when it’s not in use, though, because it’s easy for this layer to seem like an afterthought. Typically, you’ll find throws at the foot of the bed, but most don’t fully cover a queen or even a full-sized bed when folded horizontally, which makes it hard to pull off an effortless-looking yet intentional aesthetic.
I caught up with a few designers to get some ideas on how to fix this minor but annoying decorating problem, and I also brainstormed a few solutions of my own. Below, check out how to style a throw blanket (even on king beds!) with these six simple ideas, from folding techniques to layering tips.
Cheat your blanket down to the edge of your bed.
“My favorite way to style throw blankets is to casually throw them across the bottom of the bed instead of trying to force a perfect fit,” says designer Abbe Fenimore of Studio Ten 25, whose throw-styling handiwork is featured at the top of this story. Her best advice? Make it a tad sloppy so it feels natural, and don’t smooth out all the wrinkles or creases for that perfect, lived-in look.
“If the blanket has a fun print or pattern like a stripe or dot, it adds a chic touch and fun pop of color,” she adds. “Position the throw closer to the edge of the bed (as shown with the Moroccan wedding blanket above), so it hangs down towards the floor — this will create the look of a larger throw.”
Fold it and then drape it diagonally.
If you’re the neat and tidy type, then the idea of casually throwing your blanket across the bed or skimming the floor might give you pause. Instead, opt for a fold before draping the throw blanket diagonally across a corner of your bed. “Depending on the length, fold the blanket in half or in thirds and then drape it diagonally across the edge of the bed to achieve an asymmetrical look that still feels pulled together,” says designer Tracey Sawyer of Sawyer & Company.
Layer up for a more expansive look.
Another smart way to make a smaller throw look bigger? Layer it on top of something larger, says Fenimore. Start with a solid colored or textured neutral bed blanket underneath, and then drape your shorter, more decorative style on top. To find the best pairing, look for a common shade but different textures. If your throw has fringe, ribbon, or decorative detailing, choose a base blanket that complements — rather than competes with — those trimmings.
If you’re looking for a way to jazz up older or super plain bedding, why not display a tiny throw fully laid out on top of your bed, as shown here, as through it were a tapestry or a picture? Just center the piece on your bed and let that symmetry usher calm, soothing vibes into your sleep space.
Rather than folding your blanket into a rectangle, try a triangular shape. “Opt for folding the throw into a crisp triangle to lay over one of the bottom corners of the bed,” says designer Megan Hopp. “It will leave you with an equally-tailored look but will utilize the throw in a manner where the blanket itself is an appropriate scale for its use.” You can also casually throw your blanket across a corner in a triangle shape, too.
Who says decorative throws have to live at the foot or corners of your bed? If you love a certain textile or throw, and it’s just not working for you on the bed, consider draping it over your headboard area. This is a great way to refresh a tired wooden or upholstered frame and give your throw a place of pride.
