14 DIY Pillows That Are Too Cool to Be a Square

diy pillows that are fun shapes

Squares are cool and all, but when it comes to cuddling up with the perfect DIY pillow, the shape just doesn't always cut it. If you're re-doing your cushy textiles, you might want to consider something a little out of the ordinary for that couch, armchair or bed. Forget about all those typical square pillows and go for a few with a bit more personality. Whether you prefer food-shaped pillows, trendy typographical pillows or a good nature-inspired accent, no couch is complete without a solid collection of pillows of all shapes and sizes. Check out these 14 funky DIY throw pillows that will get your couch thinking way outside the box (and check out our Sewing Online Class to refresh your sewing skills!)

1. DIY XOXO Pillows

Bring the spirit of love into your home with these hugs and kisses pillows. They're great for Valentine's Day and all year long! (via Brit + Co)

2. DIY Circus Animal Cookie

There's nothing better than food-turned-decor, especially with treats as sweet as these. Bring back those favorite childhood snacks and DIY a collection of animal crackers for your couch. (via Studio DIY)

3. DIY No-Sew Funfetti Cake Slice Pillow

If you want to make some gorgeous new pillows without messing with a sewing machine, you'll be drooling all over this sweet slice of cake. Bring on the baking — and by baking, we mean gluing. (via Aww, Sam)

4. DIY Woven Floor Pouf

Add a fun new piece of seating to your little one's room this weekend with a colorful woven pouf. Pull that old saucer sled out from the garage and use it as a base as you weave the pouf together — just don't pull it too tight or you'll end up with an Easter egg shape. (via Brit + Co)

5. DIY Emoji Dog Bed

Every pooch needs an emoji bed. Don't have a dog? Every adult needs an emoji floor pillow. Pick out your fave emoji face and use iron-on stickers to put together this project before you finish catching up on Netflix. (via Studio DIY)

6. DIY Geometric Tasseled Pillows

Take your classic square throw and add four more sides and eight more tassels. With the contrasting colors and flirty trimmings, these poofs are a must for your couch revamp plans. (via Brit + Co)

7. DIY Pet Pillows

Is it crazy to have a pillow that looks just like your pet? Crazy cute, maybe. Take your favorite pics to a printing store and get them to transfer the image onto fabric. Add a colorful backing, and you've finally got a cat who will cuddle with you on demand. (via Yellow Brick Road)

8. DIY Diamonds

Bling, bling. Diamond pillows are your couch's new best friend, especially when you can make them in any color you want. Don't let the angles intimidate you — if you can sew in a straight line, you can “rock" this DIY. (via Little White Whale)

9. DIY Cactus Pillow

Finally, a plant you have no chance of killing. There's no gardening required for these cool, cacti pillows… and they are a no-sew project, which means you're avoiding those needles too. Huge win-win. (via Brit + Co)

10. DIY Mountain Pillow

This snowy peak should definitely be on your “to-make" list — it's quick, useful and adorable. It would also be a great gift idea for any adventure-lovers in your life. (via Design Sponge)

11. DIY Donut

Don't be mad if this pretty DIY has you craving sprinkles. Pink frosting is on point with the Pantone pastel trend and the round shape is the perfect complement to the rest of your square throw pillows. Yummy. (via A Beautiful Mess)

12. DIY Pineapple Pillow

Bring tropical paradise right to your living room with an awesome geometric pineapple pillow. The yellow print is vibrant enough to welcome the warm spring weather *and* it will totally play well with the rest of your throw pillows. (via Caravanity)

13. DIY Conversation Heart Pillows

Just because it's not Valentine's Day doesn't mean you can't wear your heart on your sleeve — er, couch. Show off your loyalty to your bae (pizza, Netflix or your cat, obvz) with these fun conversation heart pillows. (via Brit + Co)

14. DIY Balloon Letter Pillows

Calling all hashtag lovers and typography gurus, this one's for you. Spell out your favorite motto in golden, huggable form. The hardest part of this project is choosing your hashtag #sorrynotsorry. (via Studio DIY)

Which is your favorite DIY pillow? If you make one, we want to check it out! Show us your project by tagging us on Instagram, and follow us on Pinterest for more DIY projects.

This post has been updated.

Not everyone is an airplane sleeper, but those who are know just how uncomfortable drifting off after takeoff can be. That’s where a good travel neck pillow can come in, saving you from interrupted airborne naps and potentially sinking into the passenger next to you (and trust… no one wants that).

In a world of entirely-too-cramped aircrafts, these top-rated travel neck pillows – all perfectly plush and dense enough to provide your neck and head with actual support – totally change the game. Sorted from the highest to lowest customer rankings, these 6 travel neck pillows start at $15 and only go as high as $43, so you won’t worry about breaking the bank after spending big on your plane ticket.

Amazon

Weershun Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow

Boasting 4.8 out of 5 stars, this travel neck pillow is comfy, easy to adjust, and even easier to travel with. The memory foam it's made of is quite firm, but adapts to your neck and head perfectly. The pillow secures a long velcro strip, making it easily adjustable for a variety of neck sizes. It comes with a removable cover made from a light jersey material which is hand- or machine-washable. You'll enjoy that it's easy to store – just roll it up and compress it into the storage bag! This top-rated pick is $31, with the option to use a 40% off coupon to save more.

Amazon

BSZXD Memory Foam Travel Neck Pillow

Amazon shoppers granted this travel neck pillow 4.8 out of 5 stars for its comfort level and versatility. You can use it to sleep sitting upright or face down, thanks to the curved shape and divots around the sides. The pillow itself is very lightweight, so it'll be an easy addition to your luggage. The memory foam contours right to your neck but still retains some firmness to offer support. The cover is removable, and easily washable! This pick goes for just $20.

Amazon

BSAMW Vac-Compressed Memory Foam Neck Pillow

With 4.7 out of 5 stars and unique curved design, this memory foam neck pillow boasts unbeatable adjustability. The elastic band locks in the perfect fit to suit all different neck sizes, all without getting in the way. The pillow shape has raised support around the chin, reducing any chance of your head craning forward and causing travel-induced aches. The brand states it's focused on "ergonomic excellence," so you can travel with this product very easily. It's now $30 (was $40), and you have the option to use a 20% off coupon for more savings.

Amazon

Umerci Memory Foam Animal Travel Pillow

This 4.6-star travel pillow is perfect for kiddos, or just the young at heart! The breathable cotton has a soft finish that'll send you right to sleep. It's packed with memory foam for maximum comfort and can even be compressed down to half its size in the matching carrying bag. The pillow comes complete with a coordinating eye mask for further relaxation when the sun's out. This pick is $19, plus an additional option to save 7% off with a coupon at checkout.

Amazon

Sea To Summit Aeros Premium Traveller Inflatable Neck Pillow

Unlike the other fan-fave travel neck pillows on Amazon, this 4.6-star pick is inflatable. Not only does it quickly inflate in "a couple of breaths," it also deflates in seconds. This aspect makes customizing the pillow's firmness super simple, too, since you control how much air goes in. Once you're done using it, it packs down to be smaller than a water bottle, which proves very helpful for camping or backpacking trips where every inch of space counts. The design is intentionally narrow behind the neck and wider on the sides to fit seamlessly against head rests on cars or planes. The material is a soft, moisture-wicking fabric that is easily washable. This beloved pick goes for $43.

Amazon

Napfun Neck Pillow

Shoppers awarded this travel neck pillow 4.3 out of 5 stars. Its curved shape fits seamlessly against your shoulders, neck, and head, also offering some nice chin support. The memory foam filling boasts a 5-second rebound, so it's not too hard nor too soft. It can be compressed down to a smaller size for easy storage, and the removable pillow case is easily washable in between travel plans! This pillow clocks in at just $15 (was $22)!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more top-rated travel essentials!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

"What would you do if your entire family, and your hometown, set you up to find love?" That's the question Ashley Williams poses in the first Small Town Setup trailer, coming to Hallmark+ in 2025. And if anyone has the answer, I have no doubt it's Hallmark — if anyone knows about warm, cozy, and sappy romance it's them! Even if you're not a huge reality dating show fan (or if you couldn't stop watching Reese Witherspoon's Love in Fairhope) this is one January TV show you won't want to miss.

Here's everything we know about Hallmark's dating show Small Town Setup, hosted by Ashley Williams.

'Small Town Setup' puts you right in a Hallmark movie.

All six episodes of Small Town Setup premieres on Hallmark+ on Thursday, January 2, 2025, and is hosted by Ashley Williams, who you'll recognize from movies like Falling Together and Two Tickets to Paradise as well as How I Met Your Mother.

Just like your favorite Hallmark movies are all about finding love, Small Town Setup focuses on singles coupling up. The show will follow a single who "has made it in the big city, but has yet to find love." And their concerned parents (definitely a Hallmark trope and an IRL trope...) get the whole neighborhood involved in finding three potential matches.

"When the singleton arrives home for a visit, they are presented with dating options curated by their hometown. After three dates, will they find love in their hometown? Or head back to the big city? All is revealed at a big town hall event, full of heart, warmth, and a few laughs along the way."

Okay, getting the entire town involved in my love life sounds crazy, but the whole community coming together for a town hall event sounds exactly like the kind of sweet and sappy event my life needs. (Listen!! Dating as a 20-something in the city is harder than I expected...)

Throughout the trailer we see our singles looking for love around their hometown, going on small town dates, and finding connection in the most unexpected places. Yeah...I'll be tuning in — especially since Small Town Setup is totally giving Gilmore Girls.

Check out the 11 New January 2025 Movies Viewers Will Adore — and you'll want to add to your calendar ASAP!

When it comes to decorating your space, never underestimate the power of a throw pillow. Boring couch? Throw pillow. Bedspread missing a piece? Throw pillow. Need a simple boost of serotonin? Throw pillow. It's really a one-step solution to setting up your rooms in style.

Target throw pillows are arguably the best kind out there, because they come in a range of designs, different sizes, and are always very affordable. These 12 Target throw pillows can help you transform your home, all for under $25. Scroll for our top-favorite designs!

Threshold Woven Boucle Square Throw Pillow

Boucle is one of our favorite textures to decorate our rooms with, and this $20 throw pillow will definitely convince you of its magic powers. The neutral off-white color makes this Target-brand cushion super easy to move from your sofa to your bed. No wonder these Target throw pillows have a 5-star customer rating! To make this design last longer, make sure you wash the covers inside-out to preserve the fabric.

Threshold Luxe Velvet Oblong Mauve Decorative Pillow

Though it leans more decorative – and hear us out – this pink cushion would make the most excellent couch nap pillow. It measures 14x20 inches to accomodate all the leaning, laying, and lazing you want to do. The ruched velvet material lends a very luxe feel, but note that you can't remove or replace the insert since this pillow's seams are sewn shut. Nonetheless, this $20 design will retain its shape with loving care.

Opalhouse + Jungalow Round Embroidered Sun Fringe Decorative Throw Pillow

This sunny graphic is perfect for year-round decoration. It will make you long for summer in the wintertime, and allow you to further embrace the warm season once it finally rolls around.

The sun face on this cotton cushion is embroidered on in a thick, contrasting black thread that adds a fascinating texture all your guests will love to feel. As far as Target throw pillows go, this $20 pick works best for incorporating vibrant color into your rooms!

Pillowfort Heart Boucle Kids' Decorative Pillow

Heart-shaped anything always brings a touch of sweetness and self-love, which is as good an excuse as ever to snag this Target throw pillow for only $15! It's made of the same beloved boucle material we mentioned before, which is very cushy and unbelievably comfortable for your sofa, accent chairs, and bedspread alike. This design is available in light pink or a cream white to match your interior to a tee.

Threshold Long Faux Fur Round Throw Pillow

Customers adore this pom-pom pillow for adding a pop of fuzzy fun. One enthusiastic reviewer touts it for its versatility: "It is super soft but firm, very fluffy, seems to be of excellent quality, nice material, cool decor for any usage," they write. "The size is just right."

The rounded, shaggy character of this Target throw pillow is like an elevated take on popular 1990s home decor, infusing your place with a nostalgic feel. This cushion is now on sale for a good deal – $12, down from $20.

Threshold Oblong Windowpane Woven Decorative Green Throw Pillow

This $20 Target throw pillow provides the perfect touch of green without being too overwhelmed with color. It's subdued, but still a nice statement piece!

The front cover does differ from the material on the back, but each side is supremely soft, being crafted with a cotton blend. Consider this piece your plushest partner for evenings spent cozied up on the couch breezing through your current book.

Threshold Woven Striped Plaid Reverse Square Throw Pillow

Boasting one striped side and a plaid side on the other, this $15 square-shaped Target throw pillow is as versatile as they come. Plus, it's generously stuffed with a lavish filling for optimal relaxation, whether you're kicked back for movie night or napping next to your pet. The limited color palette makes this piece feel less grandma's-house and more cozy-chic.

Threshold Square Embroidered Floral Hearts Pillow

This $20 Target throw pillow definitely screams "Valentine's Day," but will last you and your space through the spring and summer seasons due to the tiny floral blooms dotted on the cute velvet cover. It's sure to be the #1 eye-catcher on your couch! Its square shape measures 18 inches long, so there's plenty of space to rest your head or prop up your back.

Mina Victory 'Welcome' Tufted Lumbar Throw Pillow

We love this tufted Target throw pillow because not only does it provide a warm welcome to anyone who walks through the door, it has a removable insert for easy cleaning, fluffing, and styling. This feature is absolutely preferred for regular upkeep, and if you plan to display this pillow in the day-to-day.

Aside from this cute royal blue color, you can shop this 12x21-inch design in blush pink, dark gray, or mustard yellow for just $20.

C&F Home Fern & Frog Pillow

If your interior design style favors earth tones and overall cottagecore vibes, this flora and fauna-covered throw pillow is just the thing your space has been missing! Its moderate size (14x22 inches, also available in 18x18 inches) makes it easy to place anywhere, especially considering its quick-drying, fade-resistant cover is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Grab it in either size for just $20 right now – it was previously $38.49.

Threshold Oversize Woven Jacquard Lumbar Tassel Throw Pillow

Nothing spices up a throw pillow like a few tassels. The brown twine tassels on each corner of this $20 Target throw pillow contrast seamlessly with the pink bohemian pattern spread across the front. The surface is textured, but not enough so that it's uncomfortable to lay on or lean against. The cushioned inside comes out from the inconspicuous zipper section to make cleaning super simple.

One shopper appreciates the quality of these Target throw pillows: "Good quality. It’s stiff enough to hold its shape and provide support but is still plush enough to be comfy. I’ve had mine for a couple months now and they still look great."

Pillowfort Sunshine Kids' Pillow

Give your room a dose of sunshine, even when the sun isn't exactly shining! This playful pillow is sure to put a smile on your face whenever you see it! Both the inside and outside of this $15 sun-shaped Target throw pillow are insanely soft, providing a supremely plush home base for weekend naps and lazy evenings year-round.

Shop more of our favorite cozy home decor through our Amazon storefront!

Images via Target.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Tourism can be a blessing for the economy of many cities around the world, but it often comes at a price. Destinations like Venice and Bali are iconic for a reason — they’re unique, breathtaking places that lure travelers from around the globe. But when a travel destination becomes too popular, it risks losing its charm and overcrowding can strain infrastructure, inflate costs for locals, and disrupt the peace and quiet of small, serene towns.

Here are 12 destinations that have struggled with overtourism. The good news? Many are implementing smart strategies to balance tourism with sustainability. Planning to visit? Consider booking during the off-season for a more authentic and enjoyable experience or try these hidden gems.

Pixabay

Venice, Italy

Cruise ships and swarms of tourists have overwhelmed this picturesque city, leading to overcrowded canals, damaged infrastructure, and skyrocketing prices. The local population is dwindling as Venetians leave due to the city’s unsustainable tourism boom. Last spring, in an effort to manage the influx, the city put into effect an entry fee for day-trippers and has limited cruise ships docking its shores.

Oleksandr P

Bali, Indonesia

Once an idyllic paradise, Bali now suffers from traffic congestion, environmental degradation, and overcrowded beaches. The island’s resources are strained under the weight of mass tourism, but there are efforts underway to promote sustainability like putting a moratorium on new hotels.

Willian Justen de Vasconcellos

Machu Picchu, Peru

Overtourism has led to erosion and damage to this ancient Incan citadel. A quota system and mandatory guides are helping preserve this popular South American destination.

Darren Lawrence

Tulum, Mexico

Once a tranquil paradise known for its pristine beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-chic vibe, Tulum has become a cautionary tale of overtourism. The surge in popularity, fueled by Instagram-worthy scenery, has brought overcrowding, environmental strain, and rising costs. The Guardianreported that locals are being pushed out by developers and despite the thinking that tourism helps local communities, poverty nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020. Local ecosystems, including fragile mangroves and coral reefs, are threatened by unchecked construction and pollution too. The local ruins have implemented stricter rules like no food or drink to limit trash and environmental impact from tourists.

Jimmy Teoh

Santorini, Greece

Instagram fame has turned this once-serene island into a tourist hotspot. Narrow streets are perpetually clogged, and locals are struggling with soaring costs of living due to tourism demand. The government has since capped the number of daily cruise ship visitors to keep overtourism at bay.

Chait Goli

Cinque Terre, Italy

Known for its colorful cliffside villages and breathtaking coastal views, these once-quiet fishing towns now see millions of visitors annually, way more than they can handle. To combat issues like congestion and cruise ships, local authorities have introduced visitor caps and encourage sustainable travel to protect Cinque Terre’s charm.

Rudy Kirchner

Reykjavík, Iceland

Is there anyone not going to Iceland these days? A small country with breathtaking landscapes, Iceland has been overwhelmed by tourists flocking to Instagram-famous sites like the Blue Lagoon and Diamond Beach. It's best to travel during the off season (November to April) and travel to lesser known spots like the Sturlungalaug hot spring.

youseflns

Maya Bay, Thailand (Phi Phi Islands)

This iconic beach, popularized by the DiCaprio film The Beach, suffered ecological devastation from hordes of visitors and anchored boats. Coral reefs were destroyed, and the beach was closed for years to allow recovery. It has since reopened after a huge revitalization project, but they have introduced visitor caps.

Pixabay

Kyoto, Japan

Traditionally quiet streets of this ancient capital city now teem with tourists during peak season. An increase in litter from tourists has required the city to install more trash bins to handle the crowds, and peaceful geishas are often chased down for photos. To mitigate the problem, Kyoto is considering running special buses to popular sites to reduce overcrowding, and temples and shrines are encouraging visitors to come early in the morning.

Prabin Sunar

Mount Everest, Nepal

The ultimate challenge for adventurers, Mount Everest has experienced overcrowding on the slopes and at base camps, leading to dangerous conditions, with litter and human waste piling up on the mountain. Permits are now harder to get, and stricter regulations for climbers are being enforced.

Mateusz Popek

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The Game of Thrones effect brought an influx of fans to this medieval city. Overcrowded streets and cruise ship arrivals have made it difficult to appreciate its beauty. The local government is taking steps to limit daily visitors and impose stricter cruise ship regulations.

Helena I

Lisbon, Portugal

Short-term rentals dominate the housing market now, thanks to affordable flights and the digital nomad craze. This has led to skyrocketing rents and displaced locals. Historic neighborhoods are inundated with tourists, making them less charming too. Everything from public transport to waste management struggles to keep pace with the influx. I went in December and it still felt a bit like Disneyland. Douro Valley and Madeira might be more favorable destinations any time of year.

Cure your wanderlust in 2025! Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more travel ideas!

Heaping plates of Christmas cookies are synonymous with the holidays. It seems that nearly every country around the globe has their own variation on the holiday classic. In fact, some of these regions have been making their version of Christmas cookies for literal hundreds of years.

If you’re looking for a way to reconnect with your heritage, or maybe just want a little baking inspiration, check out our picks for the yummiest Christmas cookies from around the world.

The Noshery

Mantecaditos con Guayaba

These may look like ordinary thumbprint cookies, but these almond shortbreads from Puerto Rico are filled with a special guava marmalade. (via The Noshery)

Broma Bakery

Meringues

French meringues are a classic crumbly egg white cookie with a chewy interior. These get an extra European twist with the addition of Nutella. (via Broma Bakery)

Pretty. Simple. Sweet.

Alfajores

Deeply flavored dulce de leche, a caramel made from whole milk commonly found in Spain and many Latin American countries, is the key ingredient in these super pretty sandwiched Christmas cookies. (via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.)

Fancy Peasant

Melomakarona

These Christmas cookies that hail from Greece get their sweetness from a generous soaking of fresh honey! (via Fancy Peasant)

Very Eatalian

Baci di Dama

The name of this Italian treat translates to “lady’s kisses” — how adorable is that? These bite-sized cuties are made with ground hazelnuts and filled with a dollop of dark chocolate. (via Very Eatalian)

Cooking Classy

Linzer Cookies

These Austrian Christmas cookies are typically made with raspberry jam, but feel free to get crazy with a filling of your choice. Plus, the gorgeous windowpane look will make them a prize takeaway at your next cookie exchange. (via Cooking Classy)

Olivia’s Cuisine

Basler Brunsli

If you’re hanging out in Switzerland around Christmas time, you’ll definitely see these chocolate treats around. They’re often described as Swiss brownies due to their deliciously chewy texture. Perfect with a cup of eggnog or coffee! (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Cilantro Parsley

Buñuelos

These tender miniature fritters from Mexico are a mix between a donut and cookie. Whatever you want to call them, they’re delicious. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Chef Lindsey Farr

Apricot Kolachys

The Hungarians definitely know what’s up when tart apricot jam gets wrapped in a blanket of flaky pastry. They’re a bright spot on a cold Christmas day. (via Chef Lindsey Farr)

Life, Love and Sugar

Cutout Sugar Cookies

In the United States, a plate of these festively decorated sugar cookies is just what Santa ordered. (via Life, Love and Sugar)

Saveur

Polvorones

You’ll find these simple pecan shortbread cookies all over Mexico around this time of year. The coating of powdered sugar and canela, a type of Mexican cinnamon, really bring the flavor to the next level. (via Saveur)

A Healthy Life for Me

Pignoli

These Italian Christmas cookies are made of a chewy almond base and topped with pine nuts. (via A Healthy Life for Me)

Fancy Peasant

Kourabiedes

These Greek Christmas cookies feature a buttery biscuit topped with mass amounts of powdered sugar. (via Fancy Peasant)

Does your family have a traditional cookie recipe for the holidays? Tag us @BritandBo in your Instagram photos and let us know!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Lead image via Pretty. Simple. Sweet.