The pillow is attached to the mattress. Both are new, covered nicely with an ivory fabric. With a 9" long and 6" wide piece of my favorite fabric I will cover both pillow and mattress at the same time, by tucking it under the bottom of the pillow slightly and folding it nicely on the sides. Then I have the easiest bottom sheet and covered pillow ever. Just tape the ends of your fabric under the mattress. No sewing machine is necessary. I also found the perfect hand crocheted lacy afghan on Etsy that fits it beautifully. Later, if I want, I can paint or stain the bed. However, I love it just the way it is right now!