A handmade throw does two jobs: it keeps you warm and it ties a room together. Whether you're draping a handwoven ikat throw over a sofa or layering a reversible batik quilt at the foot of a bed, a few simple styling rules make it look intentional. Here's how to do it.
Know What You Have: Ikat vs. Batik Quilt
- Handwoven ikat throws are woven by artisans in Indonesia from yarn that is dyed before weaving, giving the pattern a soft, slightly blurred edge. They're light, textured and make a good everything-throw. Shop ikat blanket throws (limited stock).
- Reversible quilted blankets are hand-sewn from upcycled fabric into patchwork quilts, about 55" x 87", with a different look on each side. Shop quilted blankets & bedspreads. Want to understand the difference? Read batik vs. ikat.
5 Ways to Style a Throw
1. The Casual Drape
Fold the throw in half lengthwise and drape it over one arm of the sofa or the back of a chair. Let one end hang loosely. It's the easiest way to show off the pattern and keep the blanket within reach.
2. The Foot-of-the-Bed Band
Fold a quilt into a long band, about a third of its width, and lay it across the foot of the bed. It adds color and texture without covering your bedding. A reversible quilt lets you pick which side faces out.
3. The Layered Bed
Lay the quilt across the bed over a solid blanket or duvet, folded back about a foot at the top. A patterned quilt looks best against calm, solid bedding in white, cream or a single muted color.
4. The Reading-Chair Throw
Fold a throw in thirds and drape it diagonally across a chair, letting the corner pool on the seat. Pair it with a pillow cover in a matching color.
5. The Display Fold
Fold the blanket neatly and stack it in a basket or on an open shelf with the patterned edge facing out. This works well for a guest room or a living room that needs one warm accent.
Color and Pattern Rules That Work
- Let one piece lead. If the throw has a bold pattern, keep the pillows and rug quieter. Choose one or two colors from the throw to repeat elsewhere in the room.
- Mix texture, not just pattern. A woven ikat looks good next to linen, wool or wood.
- Repeat a color, not a motif. Matching the exact pattern can look flat. Matching one color feels collected.
- Add a small batik accent. A framed batik bandana or a bandana on a shelf echoes the throw. See 5 ways to display a bandana as wall art.
Looking for Batik Bedding?
Our quilted blankets and bedspreads are made by hand in Java from upcycled fabric, so each is one of a kind. If you're searching for batik bedding more broadly, a reversible quilt layered over solid sheets is the easiest way to bring batik into the bedroom. For more ideas see how to decorate with batik pillows, throws and quilts.
Care
Follow the care notes on each product page. As with any hand-dyed textile, wash it separately the first time and keep it out of long, direct sun to protect the colors. Our batik care guide covers the basics.
New: the 27" mid-size bandana. Looking for a smaller accent to tie into the room? Try a 27" batik bandana ($35) as a shelf, frame or basket wrap. Shop 27" bandanas.
