Lemur | Navy & Teal Velvet | Emma J Shipley | Cushion

The lemur cushion made from Emma J Shipley cotton. Emma is a British graphic artist creating luxury fabrics and wallpaper for nature lovers, dreamers and maximalists. Emma has always had a fascination with nature and animals, in particular those from the most extreme and wild places on earth.

Hand crafted in house this luxury cushion is available as pictured with an 18 inch feather inner, available as a cushion or as a cushion cover.  This cushion is finished with an invisible zip and a contrasting dark grey velvet backing, print placement may vary cushion to cushion. 

This print is also available as a footstool and lampshades 

Cushion Styling & Size Guide

Using a mix of 18-inch squares, 24-inch statement squares, and bolster cushions allows you to layer depth, texture, and structural support across different seating styles.

Sofa Styling Schemes

Standard 2-Seater

• Recommended Layout: 2 × 18" + 1 × Bolster
• Styling: Place one 18" cushion at each arm, with a central bolster across the middle back. This keeps the sofa looking tailored without reducing seating depth on smaller frames.

3-Seater / Large Sofa

• Recommended Layout: 2 × 24" + 2 × 18" + 1 × Bolster
• Styling: Anchor the outer corners with 24" cushions, layer 18" cushions in front, and centre the bolster. The 24" cushions act as structural backrests, while the 18" and bolster add lower-back support and texture.

L-Shape / Modular Sofa

• Recommended Layout: 3 × 24" + 3 × 18" + 2 × Bolster
• Styling: Place a 24" and 18" pair at each end arm. Use a 24", 18", and bolster combo in the deep corner angle. Corner sections on modular sofas tend to "swallow" smaller cushions; 24" bases keep the corner visually filled.

Accent Chairs & Single Seating

• Standard Accent Chairs: Use a single 18" cushion centred, or 1 × bolster positioned horizontally for lumbar comfort.

Bedroom Styling

Queen / King Bed Setup:

• Back layer: 2 × 24" cushions set against the headboard.
• Middle layer: 2 × 18" cushions offset in front of the 24" bases.
• Front layer: 1 × bolster central in front to pull the arrangement together.

Style Tip: Add a matching quilted throw to the foot of your bed.

Care Guide for Luxury Handmade Velvet Cushions

Velvet is a delicate fabric that requires soft handling to preserve its rich lustre, deep pile, and handcrafted details.

Daily Maintenance

• Plump regularly: Knead and plump the cushion weekly to keep the inner fill (down/feather or luxury synthetic) evenly distributed and to prevent flattening.
• Gently brush the pile: Use a soft-bristled clothes brush or a velvet brush to lift crushed fibres. Always brush in the natural direction of the nap (the direction the velvet feels smooth).

Routine Dust Removal

• Vacuuming: Use a clean, soft upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner at low suction. Gently glide across the surface along the nap; avoid pressing down hard, which can create permanent crush marks.
• Lint handling: Avoid sticky lint rollers, as residual adhesive can attract dirt and alter the velvet texture. Instead, use a damp microfibre cloth lightly wiped in one direction.

Spot Cleaning & Emergency Care

If spills occur, act immediately:

• Dab, never rub: Gently blot liquids using a dry, clean white paper towel or microfibre cloth. Never rub or scrub velvet, as this distorts the pile and forces liquid deeper into the weave.
• Mild solution: Dilute a drop of gentle liquid detergent in lukewarm water. Dampen a clean cloth with the foam (not soaking liquid) and gently press onto the stain from the outside edge inward.
• Air dry: Allow the area to air dry naturally away from direct heat sources (hairdryers, radiators).
• Restore the nap: Once completely dry, brush the area gently with a soft brush to lift the crushed fibres back into alignment.

Washing & Deep Cleaning

• Dry cleaning (recommended): Professional dry cleaning is the safest choice for luxury handmade velvet. Ensure the dry cleaner is experienced with delicate fabrics and delicate trims.
• Cover vs. insert: Always remove the cushion insert before cleaning the outer cover.

Ironing & Wrinkle Removal

• Steaming (safest method): Never apply a hot flat iron directly to the velvet surface—doing so will permanently scorch or crush the pile. Hold a garment steamer 2–3 inches away on the reverse side of the fabric, using a low setting to allow steam to relax wrinkles.
• Brushing after steam: While the fabric is slightly damp from steam, brush gently along the nap to restore the plush texture.

Storage Instructions

• Breathable bags only: Store the cushion cover in a breathable cotton storage bag. Avoid plastic bags, which trap humidity and can cause moisture damage or mildew.
• Avoid compression: Never stack heavy items on top of velvet cushions during long-term storage to prevent permanent creasing or pile flattening.