How to Layer a Bed: Quilts, Coverlets, Shams and Euro Shams Explained

A bed that looks inviting is almost always a bed with layers. You do not need a lot of pieces, just the right ones in the right order. Here is a simple guide using pieces from our bedding and sleep essentials collection.

The pieces

• Quilt: Three layers stitched together: a top, a thin batting and a backing. Quilts are lighter than comforters, so they work year round and look great folded at the foot of the bed.
• Coverlet: A lightweight, often quilted bed cover that is a little thinner than a quilt. It is perfect on its own in warm weather or layered over a duvet in winter.
• Sham: A decorative cover for a standard or king bed pillow. Shams often have a flange or ruffle edge and are meant for show rather than sleeping.
• Euro sham: A large square sham, usually 26x26 inches, placed at the back against the headboard. Euro shams add height and make a bed look fuller.
• Bed skirt: Hides the box spring and bed frame for a tidy, finished look.

A simple layering formula

1. Start with fitted and flat sheets.
2. Add your main layer: a quilt or coverlet that drapes over the sides of the bed.
3. Fold a contrasting quilt, coverlet or throw across the bottom third of the bed for texture.
4. At the headboard, place two Euro shams in the back row.
5. In front of them, add your sleeping pillows in standard or king shams.
6. Finish with one or two decorative pillows.

Choose the right size

Check the measurements on each product page before you buy. A quilt or coverlet should be wide enough to cover the top of the mattress and hang down the sides. King shams fit king pillows and standard shams fit standard and queen pillows.

Mixing patterns

Farmhouse bedding mixes patterns easily. Keep one color constant across the bed, then vary the scale: a large plaid quilt, small ticking-stripe shams and solid Euro shams. Coordinating collections make it simple, since quilts, shams and Euro shams in the same line are designed to work together.

Care

Most cotton quilts and shams can be machine washed on a gentle cycle in cold water and tumble dried on low. Always follow the care label on your item.

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Shop the picks

• Serenity King Quilt 95Lx105W: A crisp white cotton quilt with channel quilting and ruffles along one side, sized 95x105 inches for a king bed.
• Patriotic Patch Queen Quilt Set; 1-Quilt 94Wx94L w/2 Shams 21x27: A three-piece queen set with one 94x94-inch cotton patchwork quilt and two 21x27-inch shams that reverse to navy floral.
• Heritage Farms Standard Sham 21x27: A hand-quilted 100% cotton standard sham with tie closures in burgundy, mustard and black; the pillow insert is not included.
• Wilder Fabric Euro Sham 26x26: A 26x26-inch cotton Euro sham in a vintage floral with a dusty blue flange, ready for the back row of your pillows.
• Sawyer Mill Black Ticking Stripe Twin Bed Skirt 39x76x16: A cotton twin bed skirt with a 16-inch drop and split corners that hides under-bed storage.

Finish the room with matching curtains and window treatments and soft bedside light from our lamps collection. Planning the whole space? Read our Bedroom Furniture Checklist and guide to farmhouse window treatments.