8 Best Embroidered Throw Pillows Youtubers Praise
I still remember the first time I sank into a sofa piled with embroidered throw pillows — it felt like wrapping myself in a story. That soft, stitched texture under my palm, the way light caught the raised threads, and the subtle pattern bringing the whole room together made me realize pillows can be art and utility at once. I’ve spent years testing and living with dozens of throw pillows recommended by trusted YouTubers, and I’m excited to share the eight embroidered favorites that consistently get praise from top home decor channels.
Why I Trust YouTubers for Pillow Picks
Top YouTube channels like Mr. Kate, The Sorry Girls, Living to DIY with Rachel Metz, and Lone Fox don’t just show pretty things — they live with them, tweak them, and test them publicly. I value hands-on reviews that cover materials, durability, and how a pillow behaves in real life: does it flatten quickly? Does embroidery snag? Those are the details I watch for before I recommend a product.
How I Tested These Pillows (Quick Overview)
I looked at fabric type, fill quality, embroidery technique, colorfastness, dimensions, and washability. I also considered how well each pillow fit different decor styles — modern, boho, farmhouse, and classic — and how they performed in everyday use: lounging, naps, and casual spills.
1) Anthropologie Hand-Embroidered Amelia Pillow Cover — (18″ x 18″)
Bold, curated, and frequently shown on lifestyle channels, the Anthropologie Amelia pillow cover is a perennial favorite. It features dense, chenille-style embroidery and a cotton-linen blend body that reads luxe without being fragile.
- Features: Hand-embroidered floral motifs, invisible zipper, piped edges.
- Materials: 55% linen, 45% cotton face; polyester lining.
- Colors available: Ivory with warm neutrals, deep indigo with ivory stitch.
- Dimensions: 18″ x 18″; insert not included.
I loved the tactile contrast: the slightly slubby linen body against the raised embroidery. On camera, the stitches cast tiny shadows that highlight the pattern—perfect for Pinterest-worthy flat lays. The cover cleans well on a gentle cycle and the zipper lets me swap in a down-alternative insert for extra plumpness.
Value proposition: You get artisanal detailing and a fabric mix that looks expensive but is still practical for everyday couches.
Who will like it: People who want a refined, hand-finished look that reads high-end on both video and in person.
2) West Elm Wool & Embroidered Tasseled Lumbar — (12″ x 20″)
West Elm’s embroidered wool lumbar is a go-to for cozy, layered sofas. YouTubers in the hygge and texture-focused space often recommend this piece because it brings warmth without overwhelming pattern.
- Features: Tight geometric embroidery, hand-tufted accents, fringe on the ends.
- Materials: 100% wool face; cotton backing; hidden zipper.
- Colors available: Oatmeal with rust, charcoal with cream.
- Dimensions: 12″ x 20″.
The wool has a soft, slightly fuzzy hand that feels cozy on cool evenings. It keeps its shape well and resists pilling when rotated regularly. On a neutral couch, it anchors a vignette and adds that “I live here” textural layer YouTubers always mention.
Practical tip: Wool is naturally stain-resistant but spot clean immediately for best results.
3) Lulu & Georgia Emilia Embroidered Velvet Pillow — (20″ x 20″)
For channels highlighting luxe-but-comfy decor, Lulu & Georgia’s velvet embroidered pillow is a staple. The velvet background creates a subtle sheen that plays beautifully with ambient lighting.
- Features: Raised embroidered botanical pattern, knife-edge finish, hidden zipper.
- Materials: 100% polyester velvet face; polyester fill.
- Colors available: Blush pink with ivory embroidery, deep forest green with gold-thread accents.
- Dimensions: 20″ x 20″ with a 22″ fill recommended for a full look.
I appreciated how the velvet shifts tone when you run your hand across it; that play of light is a major plus for people who photograph their homes. I used a down alternative insert to get a plush, hotel-like look. YouTube reviewers often pair it with leather and wood elements for contrast.
Lifestyle fit: Great for those wanting a glamorous, tactile accent without over-the-top shine.
4) Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines Embroidered Linen Pillow — (18″ x 18″)
Joanna Gaines’ line is praised in farmhouse and classic styling videos for its approachable mix of rustic and tailored elements. This embroidered linen pillow fits that brief perfectly.
- Features: Subtle cross-stitch embroidery, exposed seams, concealed zipper.
- Materials: 100% linen face; cotton backing; polyester insert.
- Colors available: Natural linen with soft charcoal stitch.
- Dimensions: 18″ x 18″.
I liked the lived-in linen texture: a little slubby, cool to the touch, and breathable. The cross-stitch embroidery is modest but effective at adding visual interest. It’s a quiet piece that complements wood tones and warm metals.
Buying tip: Linen softens after a few washes — if you like a more relaxed look, machine wash on gentle and air-dry.
5) Pottery Barn Embroidered Cotton Tassel Pillow — (22″ x 22″)
Pottery Barn’s embroidered cotton pillow is often seen in family-focused channels for its durability and machine-wash-friendly construction. It balances kid-friendly practicality with pretty details.
- Features: Machine-embroidered motif, corner tassels, knife-edge finish.
- Materials: 100% cotton exterior; feather/down insert included for some SKUs.
- Colors available: Soft cream with navy embroidery, terracotta with cream.
- Dimensions: 22″ x 22″; down insert included in some listings.
This pillow held up to frequent use in my living room: it kept its embroidery intact and the tassels stayed thread-free. The cotton face breathes well, and if you choose the down insert, expect a loftier, more luxurious feel.
Value proposition: Durable materials plus the option of a down insert make this a family-friendly pick with classic styling.
6) Anthropologie Aimee Macrame & Embroidery Cushion — (16″ x 24″)
Another Anthropologie pick, this Aimee cushion blends macramé knots with embroidered details for boho-chic energy often celebrated by YouTubers who focus on eclectic styling.
- Features: Hand-knotted macramé fringe, contrast stitched accents, heavy-duty canvas backing.
- Materials: Cotton and jute face; cotton backing; hidden zipper.
- Colors available: Sand with ivory; sage with ivory.
- Dimensions: 16″ x 24″.
The texture is the star: knotted fringe that fans out and embroidery that adds subtle pattern. It photographs beautifully in sunlit corners, casting intricate shadows that add depth to any vignette. It’s sturdy and maintains shape even after being fluffed daily.
Who it suits: Buyers wanting bohemian texture with artisanal detailing that’s still practical.
7) H&M Home Embroidered Cotton Cushion — (18″ x 18″)
For budget-friendly YouTube picks, H&M Home’s embroidered cushion frequently gets shoutouts for delivering style on a tight budget. The embroidery is machine-made but well-executed for the price.
- Features: Geometric embroidered panels, piped edge, removable cover with zipper.
- Materials: 100% cotton face/back; polyester insert sold separately.
- Colors available: Off-white with black stitch, beige with white stitch.
- Dimensions: 18″ x 18″.
I was pleasantly surprised by how crisp the pattern remained after several washes on a gentle cycle. It’s lightweight and ideal for seasonal swaps — switch it out in minutes to refresh a room. Bloggers and YouTubers often recommend pairing it with a luxe textured throw to balance cost and quality.
Practical buying advice: Buy an insert 1-2 inches larger than the cover for a plump look.
8) CB2 Linen Embroidered Accent Pillow — (20″ x 20″)
CB2’s embroidered linen pillow is recommended by modern-minimalist YouTubers for its clean lines and subtle, architectural embroidery. It’s a good bridge between modern and soft textures.
- Features: Low-relief embroidered linear pattern, knife-edge seam, concealed zipper.
- Materials: 60% linen, 40% cotton face; polyester fill.
- Colors available: Dove gray with tone-on-tone stitch, warm taupe with cream.
- Dimensions: 20″ x 20″.
The pattern reads sophisticated on camera — it’s understated but clearly structured. It layers well with patterned rugs and solid throws, offering a calm counterpoint to bolder elements. It’s sturdy and keeps shape with a high-loft insert.
Value proposition: Understated luxury suitable for modern spaces where restraint matters.
My Personal Favorites (Short List)
- Best for luxury texture: Lulu & Georgia Emilia Velvet.
- Best for family-friendly durability: Pottery Barn Cotton Tassel.
- Best for boho character: Anthropologie Aimee Macrame.
- Best budget pick: H&M Home Embroidered Cushion.
I rotate these depending on the season — velvet and wool come out in fall and winter; linen and cotton lead in spring and summer. YouTube reviewers often do the same, and that practical advice has shaped my approach too.
What to Look For When Buying an Embroidered Throw Pillow
Choosing the right embroidered pillow is more than liking a design. Ask these questions:
- What is the face fabric? (Linen and cotton breathe; velvet reads rich.)
- How is the embroidery made? (Hand-embroidered pieces have depth; machine embroidery is more uniform.)
- Is the cover removable and washable? (Machine-washable covers are best for everyday use.)
- What kind of insert is recommended? (Down vs. down-alternative affects loft and maintenance.)
- How big should the insert be relative to the cover? (Buy inserts 1–2 inches larger to achieve a full look.)
I always recommend feeling the fabric in-store if possible or ordering from retailers with easy returns. Texture photographs differently than you expect — that’s why many YouTubers show close-ups.
Practical Buying Advice and Value Considerations
- Inserts matter: A good cover needs a plump insert. I usually buy a down alternative if I want hypoallergenic loft, or a down/feather fill for a luxurious sink.
- Budget vs. finish: Hand-embroidered pieces cost more and show irregularities that are part of the craft. Machine-embroidered cushions give consistent patterning at a lower price.
- Care: Linen gets softer; velvet requires gentle brushing; wool benefits from airing out. Washing instructions can affect longevity — check labels.
- Scale: Mix sizes for dimension — combine 20″ and 18″ squares with a 12″ x 20″ lumbar.
- Contrast: Pair embroidered textures with plain pieces to avoid visual clutter. Solid throws, leather chairs, and wood trays make embroidery pop.
Value proposition: Paying a bit more for a well-constructed cover and quality insert saves money long-term because you won’t need to replace flattened, sagging pillows every season.
Styling Tips I Use (and YouTubers Love)
- Layer heights: Place larger, firmer pillows at the back and softer, textured ones in front. It looks pulled together and comfy.
- Mix textures: Linen, velvet, wool, and macramé create interest while keeping a cohesive palette.
- Stick to 2–3 colors: Use neutrals as a base and introduce one accent color in embroidered details.
- Think seasonal swaps: Velvet and wool for fall/winter. Linen and cotton for spring/summer.
- Use lighting: Side or natural sunlight highlights embroidery texture and adds depth to still photos and videos.
Care & Maintenance — Keep Your Embroidered Pillows Looking Fresh
- Spot clean embroidery promptly to avoid permanent staining.
- Remove covers and follow wash label instructions; gentle cycles and air-dry keep threads intact.
- Rotate pillows weekly to promote even wear.
- Use a gentle fabric brush on velvet to revive pile; steam lightly for linen to remove wrinkles.
- Repair loose threads quickly by tucking them back or using a tiny dab of fabric glue on the reverse side.
FAQ
Q: Are hand-embroidered pillows worth the extra cost? A: Yes, if you value artisanal detail and irregularities that show human craft. They often use higher-quality threads and have more texture depth.
Q: What insert should I choose for a plump look? A: Choose an insert 1–2 inches larger than the cover; duck/goose down for luxury loft, down-alternative for hypoallergenic fullness.
Q: Can embroidered pillows be machine washed? A: Some can, if the label allows. Use a gentle cycle, cold water, and air dry. For delicate hand-embroidered pieces, consider spot cleaning or professional cleaning.
Q: How do I prevent embroidery from snagging? A: Keep pets’ claws trimmed, avoid rough fabrics nearby, and remove covers before washing or using heavy-duty cycles.
Q: Which pillow styles are best for small spaces? A: Lumbar pillows and smaller square sizes (12″–18″) maintain proportion and avoid overwhelming furniture.
Final Thoughts — My Friendly Recommendation
If you want one pillow to start with, pick a versatile linen or cotton embroidered cover from Anthropologie or Pottery Barn — they balance style and washability. If you want to make a statement, go for the Lulu & Georgia velvet or Anthropologie macramé for texture that photographs beautifully.
I often tell friends to think about lifestyle first: pets and kids? Choose durable cotton or wool blends with washable covers. Want photo-ready luxury? Velvet or hand-embroidered linen will deliver the look. YouTubers highlight these same trade-offs in their videos, and my real-life tests confirm it.
Try one of the eight above and build your collection by mixing textures and sizes. After years of living with them, I can say embroidered pillows transform a space: they bring personality, comfort, and a layered look that feels curated yet lived-in.