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A great way of transforming and protecting your tired looking sofa.

There seems to be two categories of choice for using a throw on a sofa. One is purely for design; people will buy a throw simply because they like the look of one on the sofa. Others will buy one for a particular reason, generally either to protect the sofa from lively children or pets, or to hide one that is looking past its best.

The throws available today can cost anything from a few pounds to a few hundred pounds, depending on the fabric, size and quality, and of course, manufacturer.

A throw can be made from one of a number of different materials. A popular and very economical idea, if funds are limited, is to make one. There are many knitting and crochet patterns available, or you can even design your own. If you do, you will be able to decide on the size, colour and design, ideal if you are unable to find the perfect one in a store. If the idea of making something so big is a bit daunting, a throw can be made in small squares which can then be sewn together.

Fleece material is available in most fabric shops and haberdashers nowadays; it is not very expensive, comes in lots of different colours, some patterned, and, as it doesn’t fray, is easy and quick to work with. It is one of the most easy-care fabrics around, washes and dries easily and quickly, and is the best choice if your throw will be subject to a lot of wear and tear. Fleece can be embroidered or appliquéd, too, so can be made to look very individual.

If you are choosing a throw to protect your sofa from spills and stains, the best advice is to choose one that can just be thrown in the washing machine whenever necessary. Check the care instructions before buying – the cost of dry-cleaning a throw will only add to its overall cost.

Ready-made throws are available from all soft-furnishing retailers as well as many department stores. The cost will depend on the fabric and manufacturing techniques used. For example, a pure wool tapestry throw will cost a lot of money but will last a long time, and only improve with age, becoming something of an heirloom. Faux fur throws add a touch of real luxury to a sofa; they are soft and warm to the touch, come in many colours and, with the techniques used in their manufacturer these days, they are impossible to tell from the real thing. Woven wool throws will be a little cheaper, depending on whether they are made with pure wool, synthetic, or a mixture of the two. They come in many different designs, sizes and colours. Next, in terms of expense, will be waffle weave throws made from textured cotton. These are lighter than the others and easier to arrange on a sofa.

Choosing a throw these days doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. The right one will transform the look of a tired sofa, while, at the same time, ensure that it protects it from the rough and tumble of everyday life.