The Candy Cane Pillows Haul adds a delightful touch of holiday cheer to your home, with various options available to suit your taste and decor preferences. From traditional red and white striped designs to more colorful and whimsical patterns, these pillows can be found at several popular retailers and online platforms. Yet their appeal endures all year long.
Brief History of Candy Canes
While their exact origins are uncertain, candy canes are believed to have first appeared in 1670 in Cologne, Germany. It was here that the cathedral choirmaster supposedly bent sugar sticks into the shape of a shepherd’s staff and gave them to children attending the living nativity scene to keep them quiet during the ceremony.
Others cite an old legend that a candy maker in Indiana created candy canes in 1847 to convey religious meaning behind Christmas. The white color represented Christ’s purity, the red represented his blood sacrifice and the J shape commemorated the first letter of Jesu’s name. The religious connotations caught on and candy canes grew widespread as Christmas decorations.
Over time, candy maker companies automated production methods, allowing candy canes to be mass produced for reasonable prices. Their low cost and whimsy made them popular treats during the winter holidays.
The Transition from Treats to Home Décor
Given their strong associations with Christmas, it was only natural that candy canes would make their way beyond wrappers and onto trees, gift packages, table settings and other décor. The bold red and white stripes and familiar curved shape add visual interest wherever they are placed.
Eventually, candy cane motifs expanded into the world of home textiles. One can now find everything from stockings and table runners to pillows and blankets emblazoned with candy cane designs.
Of all the home accessories, pillows make for one of the most inviting ways to incorporate candy cane motifs into one’s living space.
Allure of Candy Cane Pillows
Candy cane pillows feature the iconic stripes and curves associated with the sugary treats, lending rooms a sweet, nostalgic feel. The red and white color scheme serves as a lively accent against more neutral backdrops.
These pillows often incorporate fabrics like faux fur, velvet or fleece to imitate the soft texture of frosting on a candy cane. Some designs even add touches like fuzzy white trim or decorative tassels for extra whimsy.
The most common shape is the same gentle curve as traditional candy canes. But pillows also come in standard rectangular or square shapes featuring allover candy cane prints. This provides more options for people to incorporate the motifs into their existing room décor.
Great Accent for the holidays…Or Any Time of Year!
Candy-cane-print pillows have an obvious connection to winter holiday stylings. Their colors and designs recall Christmas trees trimmed with ornamental candy canes, plates of peppermint bark dusted with powdered sugar and sweet shop displays brimming with crimson and ivory swirl lollipops.
Because of these associations, candy cane pillows make fantastic accents for Christmas décor placed around the house. Drape them over chairs in the dining room or living space for guests to see. Stack different sizes and shapes together with green and red pillows on the sofa or bed for a coordinated look. Or just set a few candy cane pillows on top of coffee tables, dressers or ottomans as simple decorative touches.
But even after the New Year rolls around and overt holiday flourishes get tucked away, candy cane pillows deserve a permanent place in home décor.
Unlike Santa figurines and plaid tablecloths that read strictly seasonal, candy cane designs have a more neutral, whimsical spirit suitable for everyday stylings. Keep these pillows out on beds and sofas year-round to maintain their lively accent hues and playful vibe.
Or switch them out seasonally with coordinating pillows in pastel colors for spring and summer before bringing the red and white candy stripes out again in late fall. This provides color and interest throughout the year as you change up your decorations.
Either way, the inherent cheer and nostalgia of candy cane motifs aren’t just meant for Christmas displays. Let them lift your spirits with their sweet associations any time.
Great for Kid’s Rooms and Play Areas
Candy cane pillows bring the sweet Christmas magic associated with candy treats right into kid’s rooms, play spaces and hangout areas. The red-and-white color palette instantly catches the eye. And the pillow’s soft, cozy textures entice kids to lounge comfortably.
Stack miniature candy cane pillows high to make an improvised backrest so kids can sit propped up while playing with toys or reading books.
Or pick extra long rectangular candy cane pillows for children to lay on top of when sprawled across the floor doing artwork, playing games, completing school work or just relaxing.
Place a pile of candy-cane-patterned pillows in bedrooms, play rooms or living spaces designated for kid’s use. They make perfect casual seating for multiple children while encouraging group activities and socializing. The familiar colors and associations with sweets help create a space kids enjoy spending time in.
Mix and Match with Other Décor
While candy cane pillows have strong visual appeal all on their own, they can be integrated into a wide range of décor styles for extra punch.
In traditional holiday settings, arrange candy cane pillows on sofas and chairs alongside pine cone and snowflake motifs. The red and white patterns unified with cool blue and forest green hues convey quintessential Christmas charm.
For an evergreen wintertime look without overt seasonal references, pair cushiony candy cane pillows with faux fur blankets, cotton cable knit throws, ceramic mugs full of hot chocolate garnishes and lit pine or eucalyptus scented candles. The layers of cozy textures and scents balanced by the candy cane motif’s brightness make any winter night feel magical.
In kid’s rooms, match candy cane pillows with area rugs or wall prints featuring vibrant rainbows, stars, hot air balloons or animals for a lively environment. The mix of playful patterns promotes imagination and fun.
Or complement candy striped pillows in living spaces with flower vases, scented candles, boho wall hangings, books or houseplants for an eclectic, inviting ambience.
However you choose to integrate them into existing design schemes, candy cane pillows always stand out while tying motifs and palettes together.
Unique Gift Idea
Want an easy yet meaningful holiday gift that delights both kids and adults? Candy cane pillows check all the boxes.
Because these pillows recall sweet childhood memories of receiving hooked candy treats during Christmastime, they make nostalgic gifts anyone can appreciate. Plus the eye-catching color schemes and soft, cozy textures add comfort and style to recipient’s living spaces long after holidays end.
Best of all, candy cane pillows come in such a wide variety of fabrics, shapes and sizes that it’s easy to customize your pick to match individual personalities and design tastes.
Choose velvety miniature pillows studded with sequins or beads for a little girl enthralled with all things shiny and sparkly. Pick a set of large striped faux fur pillows in soothing pastel hues for the friend who loves snuggling up on the couch with warm mugs and good books on snow days. Or just select classic red and white candy cane designs in durable cotton canvas for kids who want to add a touch of festive flair to their rooms.
Simple, yet full of nostalgic symbolism, a candy cane pillow is sure to delight creative souls, holiday lovers or anyone craving a dose of childhood wonder. Just add a red velvet bow on top when gifting for extra sweetener!
Caring for Candy Cane Pillows
Here are some tips for keeping your candy cane pillows looking their best:
Fabric Care
- Check the care label on your candy cane pillow covers. Many are made from cotton, polyester, cotton blends or microfiber – all of which can typically be tossed in the washing machine.
- Wash candy cane pillow covers in cold water on a gentle cycle. Hot water can cause the colors to bleed and fade over time.
- Air dry or tumble dry on low if the fabric allows. Avoid high heat drying to prevent shrinking.
- To prevent pilling or fuzzing, wash candy cane pillows separately from clothing or towels. Zip shut all covers first. Use a lint roller before washing as needed.
Pillow Care
- Fluff and reshape the inner pillow inserts as needed to maintain full, plush appearance.
- Replace old, flattened pillow forms with new pillow stuffing or alternative down fill inserts to keep pillows perky.
- Consider using pillow protectors underneath candy cane pillow covers to guard against stains.
Storage
- During the off-season, store candy cane designed pillows in breathable cotton pillowcases in a clean, dry place to prevent yellowing.
- To maintain vibrant colors, avoid direct sunlight exposure by storing candy cane pillows in closets or cabinets when not in use.
- Refrain from stacking other heavy items on top of stored pillows which can flatten shapes over time.
With proper care and occasional fluffing, your treasured candy cane pillows will maintain their lively holiday spirit and whimsical charm for many years of cozying up!
Tips for Incorporating Candy Cane Pillows
When adding candy cane pillows into your living space, consider the following tips:
- Choose cushions filled with soft polyester fiberfill or down alternative to maintain plushness and shape. These last longer than stiff, cheap pillows.
- Select pillow covers made from easy-care fabrics like cotton, cotton blends and synthetic microfibers that can handle machine washing without fading or shrinking.
- Mix different candy cane print and solid color pillows on sofas or beds for a coordinated yet playful layered look.
- Display candy cane Euro sham pillows against neutral or complementary colored standard sized pillow shams.
- Give a basic room bright personality with a vibrant set of floor pillow cushions or poufs sporting allover candy cane motifs.
- Incorporate square and rectangular candy-striped pillows among patterned and textured throw pillows for eclectic accent mix.
- Toss in a furry white faux sheepskin pillow or cozy red cable knit pillow to enhance candy cane pillow’s holiday themes.
- Stack complementary colored standard pillows on top of floor poufs featuring candy cane stripes for extra height and dimension.
- Set plush candy cane stocking pillows lined in fuzzy white trim over the ends of sofa arms or side chairs.
- Select youthful mint green and pink candy cane pillows in children’s rooms for whimsical, playful environment.
However you choose to display them, candy cane pillows invite childhood nostalgia and sweet feelings into any space year round. Embrace their playful allure to design a room that encourages laughter, lifts moods and inspires joyful memories.
FAQs
Candy cane pillows are decorative pillows featuring the iconic red and white striped swirling design reminiscent of actual peppermint candy canes. The pillows come in different fabrics and often are curved like a giant hook style candy cane or feature a print of the recognizable candy design.
Home crafters can easily make cute candy cane pillows by sewing or glueing scraps of red, white and green fabric to basic pillows or cushions in curved or straight images. Families also can wash pillow cases and use a candy cane stencil with fabric paint to decorate plain pillow covers. Moreover, many completed candy cane pillows are available for purchase.
Candy cane pillows come in all shapes and sizes from standard rectangular and square throw pillow covers to long tubular body pillows and plump plushes in the curved candy shape. Pillows may feature stripes, glittery prints and fuzzier faux fur textures. Colors alternate beyond basic red and white, with pink, green, gold or silver striped varieties.
While strongly tied to Christmas décor and nostalgia, candy cane pillows work beautifully to spice up rooms year-round. The red-and-white-striped motifs lend cheerful color and whimsy in winter months while pastel hued candy striped pillows suit the softer décors of spring and summer. Simply switching out complementary decorative accents keeps rooms looking fresh.
Conclusion
With their familiar red and white swirled designs reminiscent of sweet candy treat hooks, candy cane pillows evoke a strong sense of nostalgia and whimsy. Since first appearing as Christmas tree decorations and gifts, these iconic candies have expanded into the world of home décor. Today, candy cane motifs can be found gracing pillows of all fabrics, sizes and shapes.
The signature candy cane color scheme and curves lend a playful, cheerful accent to rooms during the holidays. But their applications stretch year-round as well, brightening up living spaces even after seasonal décor gets packed away.
Candy cane pillows work wonderfully as kid-friendly, imaginative room accents or casually strewn across sofas and chairs for guests to appreciate. They can be mixed and matched seamlessly with all kinds of existing furnishings. And their affordable prices make candy cane pillows fantastic unique gifts for adults and children alike.
