Understory — Fern Pillow Cover

A good fit makes all the difference. Start with your cover, rather than measuring a pillow while it is stuffed.

Measure twice. Fluff once.

1. Remove the existing insert and lay the cover flat.
2. Measure from seam to seam across the width and height, without stretching the fabric. Use inches.
3. For a bolster, measure the circular end across its centre for the diameter, then measure the length between the end seams.

Choose your fit

For many square and rectangular decorative covers, an insert about 2 inches larger in each dimension gives a fuller finish. Treat this as a starting point: a tightly woven cover, delicate seams, a small zipper opening or a firm insert may need less extra size. Never force an insert into a cover.

Bolsters need a different approach

Do not automatically add 2 inches to the diameter. Start with the cover’s finished diameter and length, and ask us about the fit before sizing up.

Something a little unusual?

For a shaped cover, tight upholstery fabric or an unusual dimension, send us your measurements and a photo of the empty cover. We can help you choose a suitable custom insert.

Use the insert size finder →

Shop pillow inserts → · Ask the workroom →

Does this sizing rule apply to furniture cushions?

No. Decorative pillow fullness and fitted seat or back cushions are different decisions. Do not add two inches to a fitted cushion order. Use the cushion measuring guide instead.

What if I already have an insert?

Check its label, then measure the empty cover you want it to fill. Do not measure only across a compressed pillow. If the cover has a small zipper or delicate seams, ask about fit before forcing in a larger insert.

What if I do not know where to start?

Find your starting point, or ask about a custom insert. Tell us whether the measurements describe the cover or the finished insert.

Choose your pillow fill

Hypoallergenic down alternative: synthetic fill without down or feathers. Goose down: our natural-fill insert contains 90% white goose down and 10% feathers, with 233-thread-count downproof cotton ticking.

Shop down alternative · Shop 90/10 goose down · Take the insert quiz

Goose-down square inserts are listed in 18 × 18, 20 × 20, 22 × 22, 24 × 24 and 26 × 26 inches. Decorative covers are sold separately. Use the product page for current price, availability and care. Other natural-fill sizes require a custom request.