ADD A PILLOW NSERT FOR THE COVER. NOT SURE WHAT TO ADD? CHAT WITH US. 

Suggested guideline for Snazzy Living pillow covers

If you want the pillow to be really puffy, buy 2 inches bigger insert. Example:

quare Size  

Pillow Cover    Pillow Insert

12x12          14x14

14x14          16x16

16x16          18x18

18x18          20x20

20x20          22x22

22x22          24x24

24x24          26x26

26x26          28x28

Bolster Size 

Pillow Cover    Pillow Insert

6x16              8x18

6x18              8x20

6x20              8x22

6x22              8x24

6x24              8x26

6x30              8x32

8x16             10x18

8x18             10x20

8x20             10x22

8x22             10x24

8x24             10x26

8x30             10x32

10x16           12x18

10x18           12x20

10x20           12x22

10x22           12x24

10x24           12x26

10x30           12x32

Monogramming is both an art and a science! It's about designing the arrangement of letters in a way that feels visually balanced and personal. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you monogram like a pro, whether you're doing it for fashion, gifts, or just to personalize something of your own.

1. Know the Rules of Arrangement

The arrangement of the letters is the most important part of the monogram. There are a few key conventions to keep in mind depending on the style you want:

• Traditional Monogram:

  • The last name is typically the middle letter, and it’s often the largest letter in the monogram.
  • The first and middle initials are placed on the left and right sides, respectively, and are usually smaller.
  • Example: For "John Michael Smith," the monogram would be: J S M (where the "S" is the largest in the center).

• Casual/First-Name Monogram:

  • For a more casual look, you might use just the first name and the last name, often in a straight line with equal size letters.
  • Example: "John Smith" could be monogrammed as J S.

• Couple's Monogram:

  • If you're monogramming for a couple (like for a wedding), traditionally the bride’s initial goes on the left, the last name in the center, and the groom’s initial goes on the right.
  • Example: "John and Sarah Smith" could be monogrammed as S J S.

2. Choose Your Font or Style

Once you know how to arrange the letters, it’s time to decide on the font or style. The typography you choose will greatly influence the tone and personality of the monogram. Consider the following:

• Classic Serif: This type of font is elegant and traditional. Think of fonts like Times New Roman or Garamond.

• Modern Sans Serif: For a sleek, minimal look, you can use fonts like Helvetica or Futura.

• Script: This style adds a more flowing, artistic touch and can look very sophisticated. It’s great for adding personal flair.

• Interlocking or Stacked: Some monograms are designed with the letters intertwining or stacked on top of each other for a more intricate and unique look.

• Decorative Flourishes: You can also choose to add decorative elements like lines, borders, or swirls to enhance the overall aesthetic. This works especially well with formal items like wedding gifts or stationery.

3. Decide on Size and Placement

The next step is choosing the size and placement of the monogram. The size of the letters should be balanced. In a traditional monogram, the center letter (usually the last name) should be larger, but not so large that it overpowers the other letters.

As for placement, it depends on the item you're monogramming:

• Clothing: For shirts or jackets, monograms are often placed on the cuff, chest pocket, or the lower hemline.

• Towels and Linens: These are usually monogrammed in the center or a corner.

• Accessories: Bags, wallets, and totes often have monograms placed on the side or front panel, sometimes with a subtle embroidered look.

4. Add a Personal Touch

Monograms are a great way to add a personal touch, and there are some cool ways to get creative with them:

• Two-tone or Color: Use two different colors for the initials to make the monogram pop. A classic combination is black and gold or navy and white.

• Symbols or Icons: Some people like to incorporate a small icon or image that’s meaningful to them, such as a flower, heart, or crest.

• Custom Stitching/Embroidery: On fabric items, having your monogram embroidered adds texture and depth to the design. It’s often done with thread that matches or contrasts the item’s color.

5. Use Monogramming Tools or Services

If you’re doing it by hand or using a machine, there are tools you can use:

• Hand Embroidery: If you're doing it the traditional way, you can stitch the monogram by hand with embroidery floss or thread. This is a slow but very personal way to monogram items like clothing or linens.

• Monogramming Machine: There are machines specifically designed for embroidery, like the Brother PR680W or Bernina 500, that can easily stitch a monogram onto fabric.

• Online Customization: Many online retailers and stores (like Etsy, Zazzle, or even department stores) offer monogramming services. You can upload your design and have them do it for you.

• Software Tools: If you're working with digital items like invitations or logos, programs like Adobe Illustrator or Canva are great for designing monograms. Illustrator is perfect for custom, intricate designs, while Canva offers user-friendly templates.

6. Consider the Material

Different materials will affect the look and feel of your monogram. For example, the thread for embroidery might look different on cotton versus leather. Leather, for example, may be monogrammed with foil or embossed lettering to give a more refined, durable finish.

7. Pay Attention to Alignment

Finally, alignment is crucial. A misaligned monogram can look off-balance. Take a step back, especially if you're working with embroidery or printed materials, and make sure everything feels centered and in proportion.

Bonus Tips:

• Start Simple: If you're new to monogramming, start with a simple design and work your way up to more complex arrangements. You don’t want the monogram to be overwhelming.

• Incorporate your personality: Monograms should feel like you. Whether it’s the font style, the colors, or even adding a small detail like your favorite flower or animal, make sure it reflects your identity.

Example Monogram Designs:

• For a formal occasion (like a wedding), you might choose an elegant script font with the center initial large and the two other initials on either side, all interwoven.

• For a casual tote bag, you could keep it simple with just your initials in a clean, modern font, placed on the corner.

• For a vintage piece (like a retro robe or shirt), use a monogram with a classic serif font and a touch of embroidery to give it that old-school charm.