If you’re shopping for bedding, you might be wondering, what is a Euro size pillow sham? It’s a decorative pillow cover that fits a large, square European-style pillow, adding a layered, finished look to your bed.
These shams are bigger than standard ones and are meant for propping up against your headboard or wall. They aren’t usually for sleeping on. Instead, they provide style and comfort while sitting up in bed. Understanding their size and purpose helps you build a beautiful and cohesive bedroom design.
What Is Euro Size Pillow Sham
A Euro sham is a specific type of pillow cover. The “Euro” refers to its origins in European bedding styles. The “sham” part means it’s a decorative covering, often with a fancy closure like a flange, cuff, or intricate backing. Its main job is to look good. You’ll typically place Euro shams behind your standard sleeping pillows to create depth and a luxurious, hotel-like feel on your bed.
The key difference from a standard pillowcase is both size and function. A regular pillowcase holds your sleeping pillow. A Euro sham holds a decorative pillow insert. It’s designed to be seen and to frame the bed.
Key Characteristics of a Euro Sham:
* Decorative Front: Often has detailing like stitching, a flange (a flat border), or textured fabric.
* Closure in Back: Usually has a hidden closure like an envelope flap, zipper, or overlapping fabric to keep the insert neatly tucked away.
* Requires an Insert: It is sold as an empty cover. You must buy a separate Euro pillow insert to fill it.
* Structural Role: Used to prop up against the headboard for support or purely for aesthetic layering.
The Standard Euro Sham Dimensions
So, how big is it? The most common size is 26 inches by 26 inches. This is the standard Euro size. However, you might also find variations. It’s crucial to check the product description before you buy a sham or an insert.
Common Euro Sham Sizes:
* Standard Euro: 26″ x 26″ (This is the most common answer to “what is a euro size pillow sham”)
* Large or King Euro: 28″ x 28″ or sometimes 30″ x 30″
* Small Euro: 24″ x 24″ or 22″ x 22″
Always match your sham size to your insert size. For the best look, you should buy an insert that is 1 to 2 inches larger than the sham. This makes the sham look full and plump, without any saggy corners. For a 26×26 sham, a 27×27 or 28×28 insert is perfect.
Euro Sham vs. Standard Pillowcase
It’s easy to mix these up, but they serve very different purposes.
* Euro Sham: Square (26″x26″). Decorative. Has a formal closure on the back. Designed to cover a firm insert. Placed at the back of the pillow stack.
* Standard Pillowcase: Rectangular (20″x26″ for standard). Functional. Often has an open end. Designed to hold a soft sleeping pillow. Placed closest to you for sleeping.
Think of Euro shams as the decorative throw pillows of your bed. They complete the outfit.
Why Use Euro Shams on Your Bed?
You might ask if they’re necessary. They’re not, but they offer big benefits for your bedroom’s look and feel.
First, they add instant visual appeal and texture. The different fabric from your sheets, along with borders or patterns, makes your bed look more designed and less basic. They help you express your personal style, weather its minimalist, rustic, or modern glam.
Second, they create structure and height. Placed against your headboard, they make your bed look grander and more inviting. They also provide excellent lumbar support for sitting up and reading or watching TV. This is the practical comfort side of their design.
Finally, they allow for easy seasonal updates. Instead of buying all new bedding, you can swap out your Euro shams for a different color or pattern. It’s a cost-effective way to change your room’s vibe for summer or winter.
How to Choose the Right Euro Sham
Picking the perfect sham involves a few simple considerations. Getting it right makes all the difference in your bedroom’s final look.
Consider Your Bed Size
The number of Euro shams you use often depends on the size of your bed. You want balance, not overcrowding.
* Twin or Full Bed: 1 or 2 Euro shams is typical. Two can look symmetrical.
* Queen Bed: 2 or 3 Euro shams is the standard. Two is classic, three adds more fullness.
* King Bed: 3 Euro shams is common. You can also use 2 king-size Euros (28″x28″) for a proportional look.
Material and Fabric Choices
The fabric affects both look and feel. Consider how it coordinates with your sheets and comforter.
* Cotton: A versatile, breathable choice. Percale is crisp, while sateen is silky.
* Linen: Offers a relaxed, textured, and casually elegant look. It gets softer over time.
* Velvet: Adds luxury, warmth, and deep texture. Ideal for colder months or a dramatic style.
* Silk or Synthetic Blends: Provide a shiny, luxurious appeal.
Your sham fabric doesn’t have to match your sheets exactly. It can be a complementary texture or a pop of pattern.
Color and Pattern Guidance
This is where you can have fun. A good rule is to choose shams that either match your bedding for a serene, uniform look, complement with a coordinating solid color, or contrast with a bold pattern or accent color.
If your duvet cover is busy, choose a solid-colored sham that picks up one of the quieter colors in the pattern. If your bedding is plain, this is your chance to add a stripe, floral, or geometric print. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, but keep a common color thread tying them together.
Styling Your Bed with Euro Shams
Arranging your pillows might seem tricky, but a few standard methods work great. The goal is a layered, inviting look that feels intentional.
The Basic Layering Method
This is the most common and foolproof approach.
1. Start with your sleeping pillows (the ones in standard cases) lying flat against the headboard.
2. Place your Euro shams in front of them, standing upright. For a queen bed with two Euros, just line them up side by side.
3. In front of the Euros, add your standard sleeping pillows, also standing up.
4. Finally, add one or two decorative throw pillows or a lumbar pillow in front for the finishing touch.
This creates a neat, cascading effect from large (Euro) to medium (sleeping) to small (decorative).
Alternative Styling Ideas
For a different look, try these ideas:
* The Lean: Tilt the top of your Euro shams slightly backward against the headboard for a more relaxed feel.
* The Symmetrical Mix: Use two matching Euro shams on the outside and a different, coordinating one in the center.
* The Front and Center: For a simpler look on a full or queen bed, use just one Euro sham centered against the headboard, with sleeping pillows in front of it.
Remember to fluff your sham inserts regularly. Give them a good punch and shake to maintain their shape and fullness.
Buying Guide: Shams and Inserts
Now that you know what a Euro size pillow sham is, here’s how to shop for them smartly.
Finding the Perfect Insert
The insert is what gives the sham its shape. A good insert is vital.
* Size: As mentioned, go 1-2 inches larger than the sham cover.
* Fill Material:
* Down/Down Alternative: These are the best. They are plush, moldable, and give that luxurious, sink-in feel. Down alternative is a great hypoallergenic option.
* Polyester Fiber: Usually more affordable, but can flatten over time and may look less premium.
* Firmness: Choose a firmness that suits you. For a structured look, a firmer insert is better. For a softer, more casual look, a medium-firm insert works.
Care and Maintenance Tips
Taking care of your shams keeps them looking fresh.
* Washing: Always check the care label first. Most cotton, linen, and synthetic shams can be machine washed in cold water on a gentle cycle. Use mild detergent.
* Drying: Tumble dry on low heat. Remove promptly to avoid wrinkles. For linen, you may want to air dry to prevent excessive shrinkage.
* Ironing: If needed, iron on the appropriate setting while the fabric is slightly damp. Pay attention to the flange or borders to keep them crisp.
* Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid plastic bags; use cotton storage bags instead to let the fabric breathe.
A well-cared-for sham can last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for your bedroom.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even knowing what a Euro size pillow sham is, people make a few common errors. Here’s how to steer clear.
1. Using a Sleeping Pillow as an Insert: A regular bed pillow is too soft and the wrong shape. It will make the sham look sloppy and deflated.
2. Buying an Insert That’s Too Small: An insert that matches the sham size exactly will look flat and won’t fill out the corners. Always size up.
3. Ignoring Scale: Using tiny Euro shams on a large king bed will look out of proportion. Make sure the size and number of shams fit your bed frame.
4. Over-stuffing the Bed: While layers are good, too many pillows can look cluttered and are a hassle to remove every night. Find a balance that works for you.
5. Forgetting the Closure: When styling, make sure the back closure (like the envelope flap) is neatly tucked and hidden from view.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size is a standard Euro pillow sham?
A: The standard size is 26 inches by 26 inches. This is the most common dimension, though larger (28″x28″) and smaller sizes exist.
Q: Can I sleep on a Euro sham?
A: It’s not recommended. They are designed as decorative covers over a firm insert. The closures and decorative trim aren’t meant for the friction of sleeping, and the insert itself is often too firm for comfortable head support. Use your regular sleeping pillows for that.
Q: How many Euro shams do I need for a queen bed?
A: Two or three Euro shams is typical for a queen bed. Two creates a symmetrical, balanced look, while three adds extra fullness and a more layered appearance.
Q: What’s the difference between a Euro sham and a Euro pillowcase?
A: The terms are often used interchangably, but technically a “sham” has a decorative front and a closure (like an envelope) in the back. A “pillowcase” might imply a simpler, open-ended cover more like a standard pillowcase, just in the Euro size. Always check product details.
Q: Do Euro shams come in sets?
A: Sometimes they are sold in sets with duvet covers and standard shams, but often they are sold separately. This allows you to mix and match. You can usually buy them individually or in pairs.
Q: How do I make my Euro shams look fluffy?
A: The secret is in the insert. Use a down or down-alternative insert that is 1-2 inches larger than the sham. Also, fluff them daily by giving them a good shake and punch to redistribute the fill.
In conclusion, a Euro size pillow sham is a fundamental piece of decorative bedding. It’s that large, square pillow cover at the back of your bed pile that adds height, style, and comfort. By choosing the right size, pairing it with a quality insert, and styling it thoughtfully, you can easily achieve a polished, professional look in your bedroom. Remember, the goal is to create a space that feels both beautiful and inviting to you. Start with one or two standard 26×26 inch shams, and you’ll immediately see the transformitive effect they have on your room’s overall aesthetic.