Throw Blanket Sizes: Standard vs. Oversized
Standard throws measure approximately 50x60 inches — sized right for draping over a chair arm or folding at the foot of a twin or full bed. Oversized throws run larger (typically 60x90 inches) and cover the width of a queen or king bed. Most of our Pom Pom at Home throws are oversized, designed to be layered across the foot of the bed or draped generously over a sofa. For full bed coverage, Pom Pom at Home also offers matelasse blankets in queen and king sizes.
Weaves and Materials
Matelasse throws (Chatham, Harbour, Nantucket, Ojai) have a raised, quilted texture woven on a jacquard loom — they are heavier and work well as lightweight bedspreads. The lighter throws (Billie, Julian, Jojo, Jagger) are softer and best for casual everyday use on the sofa — Jojo features a cotton-cashmere blend, while Jagger uses a cotton-polyester blend for easy care. Throws from Magnolia Home and Amber Lewis are woven in cotton-linen, cotton-viscose, and cotton-acrylic blends with fringe details and subtle patterns. The Kanju Nadi throw is hand-loomed from raw cotton in West Africa. Ethnicraft contributes the Urban Color Block throw with a handwoven texture.
Styling Throw Blankets on Beds and Sofas
On a bed, fold an oversized throw in thirds lengthwise and drape it across the lower third of the bed, letting it hang evenly on both sides. For a casual look, pull one corner back at an angle. On a sofa, drape a throw over one arm or fold it into a loose rectangle on one end. Layering two throws in different textures — a matelasse with a lighter knit — adds depth. Stick to the same color family but vary the weave for visual interest without clutter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I wash a decorative throw blanket?
Most Pom Pom at Home throws are machine washable — wash cold on gentle cycle and tumble dry low. Matelasse weaves hold up well to regular washing and actually soften over time. Woven throws with fringe (Loloi, Magnolia Home) should be washed in a mesh laundry bag to prevent fringe tangling. Hand-loomed throws like the Kanju Nadi should be dry cleaned or hand washed cold to preserve the weave structure. Check the care label — materials vary by brand and style.
What size throw blanket do I need for a king bed?
Use an oversized throw (60x90 inches) or a king-size matelasse blanket. Standard 50x60 throws look too small on a king bed — they will not cover enough width when draped at the foot. Pom Pom at Home oversized throws and their queen/king matelasse blankets are both designed for larger beds.
What is the difference between a throw blanket and a regular blanket?
Throw blankets are decorative — smaller than bed blankets, designed for layering, draping, and adding texture. They are typically 50x60 or 60x90 inches. Regular blankets are functional bedding sized to fit a specific mattress (twin, queen, king). Throws use more textured weaves and finishing details like fringe, pom poms, and tassels because they are meant to be seen, not hidden under a duvet.
Are matelasse throw blankets warm enough for winter?
Matelasse throws provide moderate warmth — heavier than a jersey knit but lighter than a wool blanket. They work well as a standalone layer in mild weather or as an extra layer over sheets in winter. Our Pom Pom at Home matelasse options (Chatham, Harbour, Nantucket, Ojai) are cotton, so they breathe well and do not trap excess heat. For maximum winter warmth, layer a matelasse blanket with a lighter knit throw on top.
