Settee Throws

What Are Settee Throws?

Settee throws are soft, decorative blankets or textiles designed to be draped, folded or casually placed over a settee or sofa. They provide warmth and comfort while adding colour, texture and personality to the living room.

In simple terms, a settee throw is both a practical blanket and a decorative styling piece. It can make a sofa feel more inviting, introduce a seasonal colour change or provide an extra layer of protection against everyday wear.

Settee throws are particularly versatile because they can be styled in many ways. A loose drape creates a relaxed look, a neatly folded throw feels more tailored, while a chunky knitted throw can add cosy texture to a minimalist sofa.

The main reason Australians love sofa throws is their ability to refresh a living space without replacing the furniture. A new throw can completely change the mood of a settee while remaining useful for chilly evenings, relaxed weekends and everyday lounging.

Types and Styles of Settee Throws

Cotton Settee Throws

Cotton throws are lightweight, breathable and versatile.

They are particularly useful in warmer Australian climates and can work throughout the year. Choose cotton when you want comfort without excessive weight.

Linen Settee Throws

Linen throws have a relaxed, naturally textured appearance.

They are especially suited to coastal, contemporary and organic interiors, where understated texture is more important than heavy decoration.

Wool Settee Throws

Wool offers warmth, softness and a luxurious natural texture.

A wool throw can be particularly appealing during cooler months and works beautifully over neutral sofas.

Chunky Knit Throws

Chunky knits create immediate visual texture.

They are ideal for winter styling, cosy family rooms and relaxed interiors where tactile comfort is part of the aesthetic.

Bouclé Throws

Bouclé-style textures provide a soft, tactile appearance and work especially well with contemporary or curved sofas.

They can create a layered, designer-inspired look without relying heavily on colour.

Velvet Settee Throws

Velvet introduces a richer, more glamorous appearance.

A velvet throw can work beautifully in sophisticated living rooms, particularly when paired with smooth upholstery, metallic accents or deeper colours.

Faux Fur Throws

Faux fur throws provide plush texture and a luxurious winter feel.

They can be used as statement pieces rather than everyday blankets, particularly when styling a refined lounge.

Patterned Settee Throws

Checks, stripes, geometrics, florals and abstract patterns can introduce personality to a plain sofa.

A patterned throw is particularly effective when the rest of the room uses relatively simple furniture and accessories.

Oversized Settee Throws

An oversized throw provides more coverage and creates a generous, relaxed appearance.

It can be particularly useful for large sofas, modular lounges and sectionals.

How to Choose Settee Throws

1. Consider the Size of Your Settee

The throw should be proportionate to the furniture.

A small throw can disappear on a large sectional, while an oversized throw can overwhelm a compact two-seater.

For a standard sofa, a throw around 130 × 170cm can be a useful starting point. Larger throws can work better for generous sofas and modular seating.

2. Consider Your Climate

Australia's varied climate makes fabric choice particularly important.

For warmer conditions, lightweight cotton and linen can provide comfort without excessive warmth.

For colder periods, wool, chunky knits and plush textures create a cosier feel.

3. Match the Throw to the Sofa

A throw doesn't need to be the same colour as your sofa.

Instead, consider whether you want:

• Tonal coordination
• Gentle contrast
• A statement colour
• Pattern
• Textural contrast

A neutral sofa gives you considerable freedom to experiment.

4. Think About Texture

Texture can be just as important as colour.

A smooth leather settee can benefit from a chunky knitted or woven throw, while a heavily textured sofa may look better with a simpler cotton or linen design.

5. Consider How You Will Use It

If the throw is mainly decorative, you can prioritise appearance.

If it will be used every day, consider softness, size, warmth and washing requirements.

For households with children or pets, practical and easy-care fabrics may be particularly useful.

6. Check Care Requirements

Always check the manufacturer's care instructions.

A throw that needs frequent washing should be suited to your household's normal laundry routine.

7. Choose a Colour That Works Beyond One Season

Neutral shades such as ivory, oatmeal, beige, camel and soft grey can remain useful throughout the year.

If you prefer seasonal styling, keep the base neutral and introduce stronger colours through smaller accent throws.

Benefits and Uses of Settee Throws

Adds Instant Warmth

A throw provides an extra layer of warmth when relaxing on the sofa.

Creates a Cosy Atmosphere

Soft textiles make a living room feel more inviting and comfortable.

Protects Upholstery

A strategically placed throw can help protect sections of upholstery from everyday contact, pet hair and minor wear.

It should not be considered a substitute for proper upholstery care, but it can provide an additional practical layer.

Refreshes the Living Room

Changing a throw is an easy way to introduce a new colour or texture without replacing your sofa.

Adds Texture

Knits, wool, linen, bouclé and woven fabrics can make a plain sofa feel more layered.

Supports Seasonal Styling

Lightweight fabrics can suit warmer months, while heavier throws create a cosy winter atmosphere.

Introduces Colour

A throw can provide a controlled way to introduce terracotta, olive, navy, rust, green or another accent shade.

Makes Relaxing More Comfortable

Sometimes the most useful décor accessory is simply the one you can reach for when you want to get comfortable.

House of Isabella Recommendations

At House of Isabella Australia, settee throws can be used as an easy way to combine everyday comfort with sophisticated interior styling.

Start with the sofa as your foundation, then use the throw to introduce texture, colour or contrast. The most successful arrangements often feel relaxed rather than overly coordinated.

The natural, textural character associated with the Florabelle Collection can complement earthy and organic living rooms, while Zaffero and Emac & Lawton can provide contextual inspiration for more refined interiors.

For contemporary living spaces, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living and the OneWorld Collection can also provide useful styling references when coordinating throws with furniture, lighting and decorative accessories.

House of Isabella Australia offers:

• A large in-stock catalogue
• Exclusive and unique designs
• Fast delivery Australia-wide
• East & West Coast warehouses
• Australian-based customer care
• Buy Now, Pay Later with Afterpay & Zip

Whether your settee is a compact two-seater, a generous family sofa or a large sectional, the right throw can make the entire seating arrangement feel more complete.

Trends for 2025 in Australia

Warm Neutral Throws

Ivory, sand, oatmeal, camel, taupe and cocoa create calm, sophisticated living rooms.

These colours work particularly well with timber, natural stone and neutral upholstery.

Chunky Textures

Chunky knits and heavily textured weaves continue to add tactile interest to contemporary sofas.

They are particularly effective during cooler months.

Natural Fibres

Cotton, linen and wool remain popular choices for homeowners looking for natural texture and timeless appeal.

Quiet Luxury

Understated colours, beautiful materials and generous proportions create a refined look without excessive decoration.

A simple high-quality throw can achieve more than several competing accessories.

Earthy Colour Palettes

Terracotta, olive, rust, tobacco and warm brown can add depth to neutral sofas while maintaining an organic atmosphere.

Layered Comfort

Larger sofas can accommodate multiple throws in complementary textures.

The key is to vary the scale and texture rather than simply adding more of the same material.

Coastal Minimalism

Lightweight linen, soft stripes and pale natural colours continue to suit Australian coastal-inspired interiors.

Sustainable-Minded Textiles

Durable, reusable textiles can provide a longer-term alternative to constantly replacing decorative accessories.

Styling Advice for Settee Throws

The Casual Corner Drape

Fold the throw loosely and place it over one corner of the sofa.

Allow some of the fabric to fall naturally across the seat.

This works particularly well for relaxed, coastal and contemporary interiors.

The Armrest Fold

Fold the throw lengthways and place it neatly over one armrest.

This creates a more structured appearance and keeps the throw easily accessible.

The Back-of-Sofa Drape

Place the throw across part of the back of the settee.

This is particularly effective when you want the texture and colour to be visible from across the room.

The Neat Seat Fold

Fold the throw into a rectangular shape and place it across one section of the seat.

This can create a more polished, boutique-hotel-inspired appearance.

Layer With Cushions

A throw works beautifully alongside cushions.

Choose cushions that share one or two colours with the throw, but avoid making every element identical.

Coordinate With the Rug

One of the easiest ways to create a cohesive living room is to repeat a colour from your rug in your throw.

For example, a neutral rug with subtle olive detailing can be paired with an olive or sage throw.

Contrast Leather With Texture

Leather sofas can sometimes feel visually smooth or cool.

A chunky knit, wool or woven throw adds softness and tactile contrast.

Keep the Arrangement Relaxed

Don't worry about making every fold perfect.

A naturally draped throw can make the room feel more lived-in and welcoming.

Benefits at a Glance

Common Questions About Settee Throws

What is a settee throw?

A settee throw is a soft decorative blanket designed to be placed over a sofa or settee. It can provide warmth, comfort, texture and an additional layer of protection for upholstery.

What size throw is best for a sofa?

A standard throw around 130 × 170cm is a useful starting point for many sofas. Larger sofas and sectionals may benefit from an oversized throw.

Should a sofa throw match the cushions?

It doesn't have to match exactly. A more sophisticated approach is to coordinate the colours or textures while allowing the cushions and throw to have their own character.

What is the best material for a settee throw?

The best material depends on your needs. Cotton and linen suit warmer conditions, while wool and chunky knits provide additional warmth during cooler weather.

How should I put a throw on a settee?

You can drape it casually over one corner, fold it across the armrest, place it over the back or fold it neatly across part of the seat. Choose the arrangement that suits your interior style and how often you use the throw.

Can a throw protect my sofa?

A throw can provide some protection against everyday contact, pet hair and minor wear, particularly when positioned over high-use areas. It should not replace proper upholstery cleaning or care.

Finishing Touch

Settee throws are one of the simplest ways to make a living room feel warmer, softer and more complete.

The best throw balances comfort, proportion, texture and colour. Choose a lightweight linen or cotton throw for relaxed Australian summer styling, or introduce wool, chunky knit and richer textures when the weather cools.

Don't be afraid to let the throw look lived-in. A casual fold or natural drape can create the effortless atmosphere that makes a beautiful living room feel like a home.

Whether you're refreshing an existing sofa, protecting a favourite settee or simply adding another layer of comfort, a thoughtfully chosen throw can make a surprisingly significant difference.

Related Glossary Terms

• Sofa Throws
• Couch Throws
• Decorative Cushions
• Rug Living Room
• Sectional Sofa
• Leather Ottoman

Disclaimer

Mentions of brands such as Florabelle Collection, Zaffero, Emac & Lawton, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living and OneWorld Collection are included purely for descriptive and contextual purposes. House of Isabella Australia is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with these brands. All trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.