How do we choose an anchor cushion for a seating or bed arrangement?

Begin with one anchor cushion that sets the palette - a patterned cushion, a strong solid or a woven texture - and repeat its key tones in smaller doses across the other cushions so everything relates back to that anchor .

How many different patterns should we mix on a typical sofa?

We recommend two to four patterns on a typical seating group, often achieved with two patterns plus one or two solids or tonal textures; larger sofas may allow an extra accent pattern if you maintain scale and colour balance .

What pattern scales should we include to create a balanced look?

Use at least one large-scale pattern, one medium-scale or geometric, and one small-scale or tonal print so each reads differently from a distance and the arrangement feels layered rather than busy .

How to mix and match cushion patterns

Step-by-step guidance to combine colours, scales and textures so your cushions look layered and intentional. Practical tips for South African homes.

Published:July 11, 2026

Updated:September 8, 2026

5 min read

Photo by Наталья Маркина on Pexels

Anchor your palette

Choose one cushion to set the main colours and repeat its tones elsewhere.

How we think about cushion patterns

Cushions are small pieces with a big job: they add warmth, comfort and personality to a room. When we mix patterns well, a sofa or bed looks intentionally layered; when we don’t, the result can feel busy. Here we offer a clear, repeatable approach you can use whether you have a two-seater couch or a full bedhead wall.

Start with a simple rule: three variables

We always judge combinations by three things: colour, scale and texture. Work on one variable at a time so changes feel deliberate. If colour is the dominant organising principle, let scale and texture be quieter. If you’re adventurous with scale, keep colour restrained.

Choose a clear anchor

Begin with one anchor cushion that sets the palette - a patterned cushion, a strong solid or a woven texture. Everything else should relate back to that anchor. If your anchor has warm terracotta and soft cream, pull those tones into other cushions in smaller doses.

How many patterns is too many?

We recommend using between two and four patterns on a typical seating group. Two patterns plus one or two solids (or tonal textures) hit the sweet spot. On a larger sofa you can add an additional accent pattern, but follow the scale and colour balance rules below.

Pattern scales - the balancing act

Think of pattern scale as the rhythm of the arrangement. Use at least one large-scale pattern, one medium-scale or geometric, and one small-scale or tonal print. A large floral, a geometric repeat and a tiny stripe form a pleasing trio because each reads differently from a distance.

Practical examples we use

Anchor: large ikat in navy and ochre. Complement with a charcoal geometric and a cream cushion with thin navy pinstripes.
Anchor: warm plaid in brown/cream. Complement with a small-scale floral in matching tones and a textured linen solid in cream.
Neutral living room: choose an anchor textured cushion (slub linen or boucle) then add two patterned cushions that repeat a small amount of the anchor’s tone.

When you're ready to shop for options that fit these approaches, our Cushions category makes it easy to filter by colour and material so you can assemble the right mix. Cushions

A short checklist before you arrange

Pick an anchor cushion.
Limit the palette to 2-3 main colours plus neutrals.
Include at least one solid or textured cushion for breathing room.
Vary pattern scales: large, medium, small.
Test on the sofa/bed - swap cushions and step back before deciding.

Add as a preferred source on Google

Ordering and laying cushions: practical steps

How you place cushions matters as much as what they look like. Our simple ordering method keeps arrangements tidy and quick to change.

For a sofa

Use odd numbers: three or five sofas read as purposeful. Two pairs plus one centre accent works particularly well on wider sofas.
Place largest cushions at the back (these may be 50cm-60cm) for support; smaller cushions (40cm-45cm) go in front as accents.
Anchor each end of the sofa with a large solid or textured cushion and layer patterned cushions toward the centre.

For a bed

Start with European shams (50cm) against the headboard, then add two standard cushions, finishing with one or two small accent cushions.
Use a runner cushion or a lumbar with a bold pattern to give a horizontal line that ties the look together.

Texture is the unsung hero

Mixing textures-velvet, linen, cotton weave, knitted or boucle-softens pattern clashes and adds depth under South African sunlight or indoor lighting. Throw one tactile cushion into a pattern-heavy mix to give the eye a place to rest.

Colour tricks we use

If you want to be safe, choose a neutral anchor (cream, charcoal or soft taupe) and introduce a single accent colour across patterned cushions. If you prefer bolder play, keep the number of accent colours to two and repeat those accents across different patterns so the scheme reads cohesive.

Consideration: For homes that see lots of dust or pets, choose cushion covers that are machine-washable or have removable zip covers. We often pick textured weaves and darker tone anchors where practicality matters.

How we experiment without buying too much

Before committing, gather cushions you already have and test combinations on the sofa for a day. If you want new pieces, limit your first buy to two cushions that change the palette - you can add more later once the look feels right. See our article on choosing durable soft furnishings for more on fabrics and care. Choosing durable, low-maintenance home decor and soft furnishings for South African homes

Examples from everyday South African rooms

In a Cape Town apartment with lots of sunlight, we like an ochre accent cushion (linen) paired with a small navy geometric and a cream textured cushion - the texture helps the ochre feel grounded. In a Gauteng family room, practical darker anchors with washable covers and one colourful patterned lumbar keep the space lively without showing fingerprints.

Where to go next on Bash

If you’re ready to shop, browse our Cushions collection for mix-and-match options, or explore home furnishing pieces to coordinate frames and throws. Cushions and Blankets & Throws are useful places to start.

Sources

House & Leisure
Dezeen - interior pattern and texture features
The Spruce - cushions and styling advice

Last updated: September 8, 2026

Good morning all Bash you are truly the best unfortunately I had to return one of the pants nothing wrong with it just changed my mind nothing much Le...

With online shopping bash is the best . When you are not sure about the size when you're ordering a clothing item always look at the size chart it i...

The FIX Men's Black No Limit Motosport Graphic Top is a stylish, highquality shirt with a bold motosport graphic that stands out. The black fabric fee...

The dress is not made well, firstly the seams are not ligned up as if it was not pressed/ironed well/ there wasnt enough fabric. The whole dress kept ...

The items arriving seperately is a bit nerve wracking especially when you need it to arrive by a certain date. Once the courier delivers it, there is ...

Everything from ordering to receiving my parcel was simple and easy up until I turned on my earpods after charging. I was disappointed to learn that t...

Everything is so easy no hassles I actually love going instore great customer services you have , but online makes it easier sometimes when I know I w...

Bash online shopping was simple and easy to use, I did have a problem with the return. I could not return the shoes to the store where I collected the...

The perfume smells amazing and i love the scent it not annoying to smell it not loud it just calm.. The bag i love the detailing in it it so pretty an...

I am happy with the product a lot. The trainers are very comfortable. The delivery was fast but I wasnt happy with the courier company because they di...

The delivery don't take long,they deliver on time and shopping experience its super dope I just love bash.Oh my adidas black sweatshirt I'm in love w...

I love using Bash, I have been shopping with Bash for years, I love their app, makes shopping, payments, and delivery services an easy and efficient p...

The delivery was quicker than expected, payment so easy. Would like to compliment the Bash driver, my place is not easy to find, and he went above his...

Absolutley love the product! The linen is excellent quality and we absolutely love the design. I have used Bash before and have always found the proce...

The whole experience was pleasant and seamless. I love the fact that there were so many options to choose from so that one can settle on the style tha...

I like the shirt the problem is the size. Normal I wear large and I have order Extra large still small. I wanted to exchange for 2XL but the process i...

Easy & secured online shopping. Talk about delivery? Top notch service! Because what do you mean I purchased my thing Friday midnight and I got it ear...

Thank you Bash, your service is excellent. Im happy the sales person who assisted me was amazing, the product is exactly what I ordered I'm really sat...

The products are good quality and I love that I dont wait long for an order. Its safe to order in the week that u are traveling too, that's how effici...

It's my 4th time shopping on bash and ii must say really I aint do shopping otherwise no more from shopping at bash and their fast delivery i love it ...

True to material as it looks transparent on the app and even on arrival, but does not fit perfectly and i would like to return it and get a better siz...

Delivery was fast and accurate Shopping at their store was friendly manner with a friend sales person Payment was easy and fast.The seller was too f...

Well, Bash makes things simple, honestly. Its easy to pay, and they are good at fast delivery and swift communication. Ive experienced great service s...

The staff who assist me were friendly in the shop, they were so nice good to help me, found what I want, I'm so happy of the product and the fast deli...

How to mix and match cushion patterns

Anchor your palette

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Why Choose Bash?

Free Delivery

30-Day Returns

Nationwide Support

Mix three scales

Place with purpose

How we think about cushion patterns

Start with a simple rule: three variables

Choose a clear anchor

How many patterns is too many?

Pattern scales - the balancing act

Practical examples we use

A short checklist before you arrange

Ordering and laying cushions: practical steps

For a sofa

For a bed

Texture is the unsung hero

Colour tricks we use

How we experiment without buying too much

Examples from everyday South African rooms

Where to go next on Bash

Sources

Mmaphefo

Ukhona

Sambesiwe

Kamo

"Micayla"

Sabelo

Meagan

Bat

Anotha

Tshepiso

Elisa

Nqobile

Nicky

Melaney

Thina

Gwayimane

Phumelelo

Fenkie

Roxanne

Charlize

Refilwe

Dimane

Seth

Neil

Kirsti

Fatima

Nicolette

Ronel

Inge

Valerie

Adri

Chadley

Makhosonke

Mabel

Simo

Sharon

Nobuhle

Angelique Davis

Thabile

Arlene

Kgomotso

Kgosi

Steven

Kago

Reitumetse

Anina

Azwihangwisi

Marlene

Nkensane

Moreblessings

Palesa

Nonkasazana