Dakimakura Pillowcase vs Pillow Insert: What Are You Actually Ordering?
Last updated: June 26, 2026
If you are ordering a custom dakimakura for the first time, one detail is easy to miss: a dakimakura pillowcase and a pillow insert are not the same product.
Quick Answer
A dakimakura pillowcase is the printed outer cover with your artwork. A pillow insert is the inner pillow that gives the cover shape and volume. At DakiCustomize, pillowcases do not include pillow inserts by default, and pillow inserts are sold separately.
If you want a complete body pillow, make sure both the custom pillowcase and a compatible pillow insert are in your cart before checkout.
Ordering Facts
| Item | What it means |
|---|---|
| Custom dakimakura pillowcase | Printed outer cover with your artwork |
| Pillow insert | Inner pillow filling, not printed |
| Included by default? | No. Inserts are sold separately. |
| Artwork recommendation | 300 DPI, RGB color mode, PNG preferred or high-quality JPG |
| Best checkout check | Confirm size, fabric, artwork, and whether you need an insert. |
What Is a Dakimakura Pillowcase?
A dakimakura pillowcase is the outer fabric cover printed with your artwork. This is the part most people mean when they talk about a custom dakimakura.
When ordering a custom pillowcase, you usually choose details such as size, fabric, front and back artwork, file format, image quality, and quantity.
For custom artwork, prepare a high-quality RGB file at 300 DPI. PNG is preferred, though a high-quality JPG can also work.
What Is a Pillow Insert?
A pillow insert is the inner pillow that goes inside the dakimakura cover. It is not printed with artwork. Its job is to fill the pillowcase and create the body pillow shape.
If you already have a compatible insert at home, you may only need the pillowcase. If you do not have one, you may want to order a pillow insert separately.
Before buying an insert, check that the insert size matches the pillowcase size you plan to order.
Which One Do You Need?
If you want custom printed artwork, you need a custom dakimakura pillowcase.
If you also want a complete body pillow ready to use, you need both a custom dakimakura pillowcase and a compatible pillow insert.
If you are replacing an old cover, you may only need the pillowcase. If this is your first dakimakura, check whether you already own the correct insert size before placing your order.
Quick Comparison
| Item | What it is | Printed? | Sold separately? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dakimakura pillowcase | Outer cover with your artwork | Yes | Yes |
| Pillow insert | Inner pillow filling | No | Yes |
Common First-Time Buyer Mistake
The most common mistake is assuming the printed pillowcase automatically includes the insert. To avoid this, review the product title, options, and cart before checkout.
Before You Order
- Choose your pillowcase size.
- Choose your fabric.
- Prepare high-quality 300 DPI RGB artwork.
- Check whether you already have a matching insert.
- Add a pillow insert separately if you need one.
- Review your order details before checkout.
Related Guides
- How to Order a Custom Dakimakura
- How Much Does a Custom Dakimakura Cost?
- Custom Dakimakura Product Page
- Pillow Insert Product Page
FAQ
Does a custom dakimakura pillowcase include the pillow insert?
No. At DakiCustomize, the custom dakimakura pillowcase does not include the pillow insert by default. Pillow inserts are sold separately.
Can I order only the pillowcase?
Yes. If you already have a compatible body pillow insert, you can order only the custom printed pillowcase.
Do I need to match the pillowcase and insert size?
Yes. The insert should match the pillowcase size you choose. A mismatched insert may not fit or may not fill the cover properly.
What DPI should my artwork be?
We recommend 300 DPI artwork for best print results. Please use RGB color mode and upload a high-quality PNG or JPG file.
Ready to Create Your Custom Pillowcase?
Start with the custom dakimakura pillowcase, then add a pillow insert separately if you need one.