Project Details:
- Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
- Finished Dimensions: Approx. 14″ tall x 14″ wide (arm to arm).
Materials & Measurements:
- Suggested Yarn: Hobby Lobby I Love This Yarn! Solids
- Yarn Measurement: Aran (8 wpi)
- Hook Size: 4.0 mm (G)
- Sizes Available: One size
Stitch Key (US Terminology)
- SC: Single Crochet
- CH: Chain
- INC: Increase (two SC stitches in the same space)
- DEC: Decrease (single crochet decrease)
- SL ST: Slip Stitch
- Bobble Stitch: Include description and technique
- Back Bump: Description for the technique used in the starting chain.
Pattern Instructions for Crochet Cactus Pillow
1. Front Piece
- Foundation Chain: Start with a slip knot and CH 42.
- Row 1: Skip the chain closest to your hook. SC 40 stitches in the “back bump” of each chain. When you reach the last chain, make 6 SC in that stitch to turn the corner, then SC 40 down the other side of the starting chain. CH 1, turn (86 stitches total).
- Row 2: SC 40, then make INC in the next 6 stitches, and SC 40. CH 1, turn (92 stitches).
- Row 3: Work *SC, Bobble stitch around, ending with SC, SC (replace the final bobble stitch with SC to avoid ending on a bobble). CH 1, turn (92 stitches).
- Row 4: SC 40, then work (INC, SC) in the next stitch for 6 stitches, and SC 40. CH 1, turn (98 stitches).
- Row 5: SC 98. CH 1, turn (98 stitches).
- Row 6: SC 40, then work (SC 2, INC in next stitch) 6 times, SC 40. CH 1, turn (104 stitches).
- Row 7: Work SC in first stitch, SC, Bobble around, ending with SC (104 stitches).
- Row 8 to 12: Continue adding rows with specified SC and INC in increasing sequences. End each row with CH 1, turn.
- Final Row 13: SC across to create a smooth finish. Tie off and sew in any loose ends.
2. Back Piece
- Follow the same instructions as the Front Piece for CH 42 and Row 1 through Row 13.
- In Row 3, skip the bobble stitches for a smoother back.
- After completing the final row, tie off and sew in any loose ends.
3. Right Arm (Repeat on Both Body Pieces)
- Attach yarn in the 25th chain from the bottom on the right side. CH 1.
- Row 1: SC 4 stitches along the side of the cactus, turn (do not CH up).
- Row 2: SC 4, then insert your hook back into the body for the 5th SC and SC 6 more to get 11 SC. CH 1, turn.
- Rows 3–14: Repeat Row 2, inserting the 5th SC into the previous row each time instead of the body.
- Row 15: DEC, SC 7, DEC (9 stitches).
- Row 16: DEC, SC 5, DEC (7 stitches).
- Row 17: DEC, SC 3, DEC (5 stitches). Tie off and sew in any loose ends.
4. Left Arm (Repeat on Both Body Pieces)
- Attach yarn in the 14th chain from the bottom on the left side. CH 1.
- Follow the same instructions as the Right Arm, using Rows 1–17.
5. Flower
- Use a popcorn stitch flower or similar crochet flower pattern, attaching it to the top of the cactus as a fun decorative element.
Assembly Instructions
- Place the front and back pieces of the cactus together with right sides facing out.
- SC around the edges to join, adding extra SC in each corner to round them out, especially at the arms and base.
- Stuff the pillow with Polyfill before closing the final edge.
- Attach the flower, and weave in any loose ends.
Your Crochet Cactus Pillow is now complete and ready to add a touch of quirky charm to your decor!
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