Bertie Velvet Cotton Cushion - Saffron

The Bertie cushion pairs an enzyme washed cotton velvet front with a plainer, hard-wearing cotton reverse, finished all the way round with a frayed, fringed edge. It measures 45 x 45cm, the standard square size, which means it takes a widely available 45cm pad and slips into most cushion covers already in your home without a search for something odd-sized. The velvet face is a warm saffron, a deep golden yellow that reads soft and matt rather than shiny, with the fringe worked in the same tone.

A square this size earns its place on a sofa, an armchair or the head of a bed, where it works as the piece you actually rest against rather than one you keep moving aside. The saffron sits happily against warm neutrals, creams and other earthy tones, and the fringe gives it a relaxed edge that suits a contemporary living space without feeling fussy. Group two or three together, or let it stand alone as the one bit of colour in an otherwise pale scheme.

Because it is 100% cotton, the velvet has been enzyme washed, a process that softens the pile and gives the surface its lived-in, gently faded character from the start. Cotton is a natural fibre that breathes and takes colour deeply, which is why the saffron looks so full. A zip fastening runs along the reverse, so the cover comes off for cleaning and goes back on easily. The frayed fringe is part of the design and will loosen a little with handling, which is the intended look. Follow the care guidance on the cover's own label, and treat the fringe gently when you plump the cushion so the trim stays even.

What size pad does the Bertie cushion take?

The cover measures 45 x 45cm, the standard square size, so a 45cm pad fills it well. Choosing a pad the same size or very slightly larger keeps the corners looking full rather than empty.

Is the velvet shiny or matt?

The front is an enzyme washed cotton velvet, which reads soft and matt with a gently faded, lived-in surface rather than a high sheen. The wash is what gives it that relaxed character.

Can I take the cover off?

Yes. There is a zip fastening along the reverse, so the cover comes off the pad for cleaning and slips back on without a struggle when you are done.

Will the fringe come loose over time?

The frayed, fringed edge is part of the design and will soften and loosen a little with handling, which is the intended look. Handle the trim gently when plumping to keep it even.

What does the reverse feel like?

The back is a plainer, hard-wearing cotton rather than velvet, chosen to stand up to everyday use while the soft velvet face is the side you rest against.