Guides
What Is a Sham?
No, we’re not referring to the synonym for “farce” or “fake.” Here, we’re focused on the term in relation to home décor; let’s take a look at what it actually means!
Removable Shams
What Is a Sham in Bedding?
A sham is a decorative pillowcase. Shams are most often used for large rectangular pillows and usually contain frills or other decorative touches. While shams can be used for sleeping, they are most often used for aesthetics only and come with a matching bedspread. Shams provide a clean, tailored look and are the finishing touch to a made bed.
- Closure: Usually has a hidden opening at the back, like an envelope closure, to conceal the pillow insert.
- Placement: Placed in front of regular pillows on the bed
Sham Measurements: Standard, King & Euro
Standard shams are 26”x20”, King shams are 36”x20” and Queen shams are 30”x20”. Each of these correlates with the Standard, King and Queen pillow sizes. When covered in a sham, a normal pillow turns into a matching accent for a bed, so choose a size that makes the most sense for your bed size!
| Standard Sham | 20" x 26" |
| King Sham | 20" x 36" |
| Euro Sham | 26" x 26" |
Ornamental Coverings for Pillows
How Do You Put On a Sham?
Shams have an opening in the back, made up of overlapping fabric. To insert a pillow into a sham, simply manipulate the pillow into the opening so that the pillow lays flat inside the sham. Because pillows are soft, working one into a sham is fairly simple. (Note that some shams contain zippers or Velcro on the back for more secure closing.)
Shams Vs. Pillowcases
Shams are meant for decoration only, while pillowcases are meant more for resting your head. Shams also contain an opening in the back, while pillowcases contain an opening on the side. A benefit to both the sham and the case is that cleaning stains is simple – simply remove from the pillow and throw the cover into your next laundry cycle!
What is a standard sham?
A standard sham is a decorative pillow cover designed to fit a standard-size pillow, typically measuring 20 x 26 inches. It is often used as an accent piece on a bed to add a polished and stylish look. Standard shams usually feature interesting designs, textures, or patterns, transforming ordinary pillows into decorative elements.
What is a sham in a bed set?
A sham in a bed set is a decorative pillow cover included as part of a coordinated bedding ensemble. Unlike regular pillowcases, which are designed for sleeping, shams are made to enhance the aesthetic of your bed. They often include flanges (an extra fabric border) and are used to give your bed a more elegant and finished appearance.
What is the difference between a standard sham and a Euro sham?
The main difference between a standard sham and a Euro sham lies in their size and purpose. A standard sham fits a standard-size pillow (20 x 26 inches) and is generally rectangular, while a Euro sham is square and designed to fit a Euro pillow, typically 26 x 26 inches. Euro shams are often placed at the back of a pillow arrangement for added height and dimension, whereas standard shams are layered in front.
What is a King sham?
A king sham is a decorative pillow cover designed to fit a king-size pillow, which measures 20 x 36 inches. These larger shams are specially made for king-size beds to maintain balance and proportion in the bedding layout. They are often used alongside king-size pillows to create a cohesive and luxurious look.
What is the difference between a King and Euro sham?
The primary differences between a king sham and a Euro sham are their size and shape. A king sham is rectangular, measuring 20 x 36 inches, while a Euro sham is square, typically 26 x 26 inches. King shams are tailored for king-size pillows and are used for lengthwise decoration on larger beds, while Euro shams are versatile accents often placed at the back of a bedding arrangement for added texture and height.
What’s a sham set?
A sham set typically includes two coordinating decorative pillow covers that match or complement the design of a bedspread, comforter, or duvet cover. Sham sets are a convenient way to enhance your bedding’s overall look, creating a cohesive and stylish appearance by pairing them with other elements in the bed ensemble.
