These fit standard size pillows and are best suited for twin beds. Standard ShamsĪ standard sham is the smallest size, measuring approximately 26 inches by 20 inches.

Two queen size sham pillows will fit snugly across the width of a queen mattress. Queen shams measure approximately 30 inches by 20 inches and are designed for the popular queen pillow. However, some people may prefer to use a single decorative king sham pillow on a smaller bed, such as a queen or a full.

Because of their wide dimensions, king shams are best suited for king and California king size beds. These are designed to fit king size pillows. King ShamsĪ king sham is a large bed sham measuring approximately 36 inches by 20 inches. That said, bed shams do tend to match the standard four pillow sizes, which makes them fairly easy to find. However, these pillows will probably have to be purchased separately since bed shams don’t generally come with pillows. From simple solid color designs (often matching other bedding components) to modern, intricate designs, you can find just about any style of bed sham to fit your decorating preferences.īecause shams generally decorate pillows that are not actually used for sleeping, most people opt to use relatively inexpensive pillows with their decorative bed shams. Most bed shams are fastened at the back of the pillow using overlapping fabric, a hidden zipper, or buttons.īed shams can be found in a wide variety of colors and styles.

All three of these terms refer to distinct sizes of the same product that match the corresponding pillow size.īecause they are designed purely for decorative use, bed shams are typically only embellished on the front side, while the back is made with solid fabric. Other related terms that you might see include Euro sham, standard sham, or king sham. Typically, bed shams are used on decorative pillows that are removed from the bed at night.īed shams may also be called pillow shams. A bed sham is a decorative pillowcase that is used to add some aesthetic variety to the bedroom.

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