How to put a blanket on a sofa: our decorating techniques and tips

Timeless and functional, a sofa throw doesn't just add warmth: it transforms the ambiance of the room and enhances the seating. Easy to arrange, it adapts to any configuration and comes in an infinite number of styles. Here's how to choose it, position it, and coordinate it with your interior decor.

1) Why use a blanket on a sofa?

A. Guaranteed protection and comfort of the furniture

The sofa throw acts as a shield against small everyday accidents. It effectively protects the fabric or leather of your seat against:

• Accidental stains (drinks, crumbs, ink)
• Wear due to friction
• Pet hair or scratches

In addition to its protective role, it improves seating comfort. A thick wool or cotton blanket provides an immediate feeling of warmth, ideal for moments of relaxation.

B. A decorative element to transform the atmosphere of the living room

A throw blanket on a sofa or sofa bed is a decorative accessory in its own right. When chosen well, it can completely change the look of a living room by adding:

• A touch of color or a graphic pattern
• A soft and cozy texture that invites you to rest
• A contrasting effect to highlight a plain sofa

It also allows you to follow the seasons by simply changing the material or color, without replacing all the furniture.

C. A practical solution for cool evenings

In winter and mid-season, a sofa throw becomes an essential ally for your cozy evenings. It can be grabbed in a single movement to wrap you in warmth. Unlike a blanket stored in a closet, it's immediately accessible while still being integrated into the decor.

2) What size, material and color of blanket should you choose for your sofa?

A. The dimensions of the blanket adapted according to the type of sofa

The choice of the size of the blanket depends directly on the shape of your sofa:

• For a 2-seater sofa , choose a blanket measuring approximately 130 x 170 cm.
• For a 3-seater sofa , choose 150 x 200 cm
• For a corner sofa , choose an XL format of 180 x 240 cm to cover both arms

Make sure the blanket is long enough to fall nicely without dragging excessively on the floor.

B. Materials recommended for different uses (protection, comfort, decoration)

Each material has its advantages. For everyday use , choose easy-care textiles:

• Cotton or cotton/polyester blends for their strength and ease of washing
• Wool or alpaca for their warmth and exceptional softness
• Linen for a more natural and breathable look, ideal for summer

For an elegant look, velvet or faux fur offers a luxurious and warm texture.

C. How to harmonize the colors with the sofa and the room decoration?

The harmony of colors depends on the desired effect. For a consistent result:

• Pair a throw in the same tones as your sofa for a discreet and refined style
• Create a visual contrast with a colorful throw on a neutral sofa (light gray with petroleum blue, beige with terracotta)
• Pick up tones already present in the cushions, curtains or carpet for an elegant reminder effect

The main thing is to stay within the same color palette so as not to break the visual unity of the room.

3) Place the draped blanket over an armrest

A. Simple folding method for an elegant look

One of the simplest ways to arrange a throw on a sofa is to fold it neatly and then drape it over an armrest. Here's a three-step method:

Fold the blanket in thirds lengthwise. Then fold it in half or in thirds depending on the length. Carefully place it on the armrest, centering it

This structured folding gives an impression of order and comfort , without visually weighing down the whole.

B. How to create a beautiful fall effect with bangs

If your blanket has fringes , don't hesitate to let them fall loosely . Arrange the blanket so that one end falls over the front of the seat, with the fringes clearly visible.

This type of arrangement works particularly well:

• On a plain fabric sofa , to add movement
• In a Scandinavian or bohemian atmosphere, to accentuate the warm side
• In addition to matching cushions , to create a play of materials and reliefs

Be careful not to pull the blanket too tight, so the effect remains natural and relaxed. A slight wrinkle adds charm to the overall look without compromising the readability of the decor.

4) Cover the sofa entirely with the blanket

When you want to fully protect a sofa or give it a new aesthetic, covering it entirely with a sofa throw is an excellent solution. This type of arrangement allows you to standardize the appearance of the seat while adding a layer of comfort and warmth.

This style works perfectly in rustic or bohemian interiors, or when the sofa shows visible signs of wear. It is advisable to choose a throw large enough to cover the entire piece of furniture, from the armrests to the bottom of the backrest.

How do I keep the blanket in place under the cushions?

To ensure that the sofa blanket stays in place without having to constantly reposition it, consider:

• Slide the edges of the blanket under the seat cushions to mechanically lock it in place.
• Use invisible textile clips , to attach discreetly to the back or under the armrests
• Add a cushion or decorative roll in the center to stabilize the material

These tips allow for everyday use without sacrificing aesthetics.

5) The plaid in the center of the sofa

Placing the throw in the center of the sofa is a simple method that creates visual focus while structuring the space. This works particularly well with a sofa with modern lines or in a living room with minimalist tones.

Rectangular folding for a more formal look

For a formal and tidy look, fold the blanket into a long, narrow rectangle . Then place it on the central backrest or middle seat. This creates a symmetrical and chic effect, perfect for classic or contemporary settings.

This method enhances the fabric of the sofa while adding a soft touch without overloading the decor.

6) The “chic neglected” plaid in a corner

The opposite of formal style, the chic, sloppy throw technique involves arranging it casually in a corner of the sofa. It's an ideal method for creating a cozy atmosphere, a cocooning spirit, or a deconstructed decor.

Think diagonally about the layout for more dynamism

Diagonal folding breaks the visual rigidity of a highly structured sofa. It also helps emphasize the curves or angles of the furniture. Leave a section overhanging the seat or floor to accentuate the natural effect. Add a few mismatched cushions to enhance the contrast.

7) Secure the blanket with discreet accessories

If you live with children or pets, the sofa throw can slip or wrinkle quickly. To avoid this while maintaining a neat decor, you can use:

• Elastic fastening ribbons placed on the back of the sofa
• Non-slip strips to slide under the seat
• Textile weights discreetly sewn into the corners

These accessories are invisible to the naked eye but guarantee impeccable hold even during intensive use.

8) Specific features for corner sofas and chaise longues

Corner sofas and chaise longues require special attention. Their asymmetrical or elongated structure offers the opportunity to play with volumes and lengths.

A. How to drape the chaise longue to show it off

Choose a long, flowing throw that you'll drape across the entire length of the chaise longue. Let it drape elegantly to one side to create a cozy effect. You can also add a slight pleat in the center for added texture.

B. Using multiple throws for large corner sofas

Rather than looking for an XXL throw, use two or three matching or contrasting throws . Place one on each segment of the corner: one on the chaise longue, one on the main seat, and a third on an armrest or the backrest. This visually structures the space while allowing for more freedom of personalization.

9) Our tips for the specific case of leather sofas

Leather sofas present a particular challenge: the material is slippery, which often prevents throws from staying in place. However, the contrast between leather and a soft fabric like a wool or faux fur throw is highly sought-after in decorating.

Solutions to counter the slippery effect of leather

Here are some tips for maintaining a throw on a leather sofa :

• Choose blankets with a cotton or velvet lining , which is more grippy.
• Use a thin non-slip mat between the blanket and the leather
• Secure the blanket under a heavy cushion or ottoman

These solutions allow you to add texture and warmth without compromising the hold of the blanket.