Materials Needed & Measurements:
- Suggested Yarn: Lion Brand Feels Like Butta
- Yarn Measurement: Aran (8 wpi)
- Gauge: 16 stitches and 24 rows = 10 cm
- Hook Size: 5.0 mm (H)
- Yardage: 300 – 400 yards (274 – 366 m)
- Pillow Form: 12”x18”
- Tape Measure
- Tapestry Needle
- Scissors
Abbreviations:
- sl st: slip stitch
- (BLO): back loop only
- mc: main color yarn (Grey Marble)
- cc: contrast color yarn (Fisherman)
- ch: chain
Stitching Rounds
1. Beginning Chain
- Instructions: Using the main color (mc) yarn, create a chain that is 5”-6” longer than the width of your pillow form. This extra length allows for the natural shrinkage that occurs during the stitching process.
- Tip: Keep track of the number of chains you make, as this will ensure that both the front and back panels of your pillow cover are of the same size.
2. Row 1
- Instructions:
- With mc, make a slip stitch (sl st) in the second chain from the hook.
- Continue to make slip stitches in each chain across the entire row, then turn your work.
- Purpose: This row establishes the foundation for the pillow cover and begins the texture with the slip stitch technique.
3. Rows 2-6
- Instructions:
- Start each of these rows with a chain (ch) of 1 using mc.
- Work in the back loops only (BLO) by making slip stitches in each stitch across the row, then turn your work.
- Notes:
- Focusing on the back loops creates a ribbed texture that enhances the pillow’s look and feel.
- Repeat this for a total of five rows, building up the body of your pillow cover.
4. Rows 7-8
- Instructions:
- Change to the contrast color (cc) yarn (Fisherman) for these two rows.
- Begin with a chain of 1, then work in the back loops only (BLO), making slip stitches across each row, turning after each.
- Purpose: The change in color provides a decorative element to the pillow cover, creating visual interest.
5. Repeat Rows 2-8
- Instructions:
- After completing rows 7-8, continue to repeat rows 2-8 until the front panel reaches the same height as your pillow form.
- Goal: This repetition establishes the main body of the pillow cover, alternating colors and textures as desired.
6. Back Panel
- Instructions:
- Using the same beginning chain length as the front panel, repeat all the steps to create the back panel.
- Ensure that the number of rows matches the front panel for a perfect fit.
- Purpose: Having two identical panels is crucial for enclosing the pillow form and achieving a cohesive look for the finished product.
Final Assembly Instructions:
- Once both panels are complete, lay them on top of each other with the right sides facing inward.
- Hand sew three sides together using a whip stitch or your preferred seaming method.
- Important Note: Keep the yarn floats (created during color changes) pushed away from the seam to prevent them from showing on the outside.
- Turning and Finishing:
- Turn the pillow cover inside out to reveal the right sides, hiding the yarn floats inside.
- Insert the pillow form, then hand sew the final side shut. Make sure to weave in any loose ends to complete your cozy pillow.
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