Needed Materials and Measurements:
- Suggested Yarn: Bernat Maker Home Dec
- Yarn Measurement: Bulky (7 wpi)
- Gauge: 9 stitches and 9 rows = 10 cm in hdc
- Hook Size: 8.0 mm (L)
- Yardage: 459 – 634 yards (420 – 580 m)
- Available Sizes: 12″, 14″, 16″, 18″, 20″ widths
Abbreviations
- ch: Chain
- hdc: Half Double Crochet
- st: Stitch
- sl st: Slip Stitch
- sc: Single Crochet
- dc: Double Crochet
- rep: Repeat
- yo: Yarn Over
Piazza Pillow Cover Stitching Instructions
Round 1: Foundation Chain
Ch 44 (for 12” cover), 52 (14”), 60 (16”), 68 (18”), or 76 (20”) based on your chosen pillow size. Make sure the chain is not twisted, as it serves as the foundation of your cover.
Check your stitch count after chaining to ensure accuracy. This initial chain determines the width of your cover, so be sure it’s the correct length before moving to the next step.
Round 2: Base Row
Row 1: Starting in the 2nd ch from the hook, hdc in each ch across. This establishes the first row and gives a solid base.
Take your time here, as this row may feel a bit tight. After reaching the end of the row, turn your work. This row forms the initial foundation of your cover’s texture and pattern.
Round 3: Begin Pattern
Row 2: Ch 1 (this is your turning chain and doesn’t count as a stitch), then hdc in each st across.
Be consistent with stitch placement, as it will ensure even sides. Turn your work at the end of the row.
Row 3: Ch 1, hdc in the back loop only of each st across. Working in the back loop creates a subtle ribbed effect that adds texture to the cover. Remember to turn your work at the end. This row alternation will give the fabric a textured look as you continue.
Round 4: Repeat Rows
Rows 4-11: Repeat Rows 2 and 3 alternately, creating the main textured pattern. Row 2 is a standard hdc row, and Row 3 works hdc in the back loop only, so keep alternating them to develop a consistent pattern.
This will give the pillow cover a unique texture and feel. If you’re following the gauge closely, measure after a few rows to ensure accuracy.
Round 5: Increase Rows for Height
Continue repeating Rows 2 and 3 until the piece measures the desired height of your pillow cover (e.g., 12”, 14”, 16”, 18”, or 20”). Check the height by measuring against your pillow form periodically.
The final row should ideally be a Row 3 (back loop row) for a cohesive look. Consistency here will help make the back and front pieces match well.
Round 6: Measure Gauge
Before proceeding, double-check your gauge: you should have 9 stitches and 9 rows equaling 10 cm (4 inches) in the hdc pattern.
If your stitches are too loose or too tight, adjust your hook size as needed. This is especially important to ensure that the cover fits your pillow snugly without stretching or bunching.
Round 7: Sides of the Pillow Cover
When the front panel reaches the desired height, fasten off the yarn and set this piece aside. Repeat the same steps for the back piece to create an identical panel.
Matching the back and front panels closely will help with an even, professional finish. Make sure both pieces measure the same width and height before moving on to joining them.
Round 8: Join Sides
With right sides facing each other, line up the edges of the front and back pieces. Use slip stitches or single crochet along three sides of the cover to join them. For a neat seam, keep stitches even and avoid pulling too tightly.
Leave one side open (usually the bottom) so you can insert the pillow form later. This step helps secure the cover, making it sturdy and easy to insert the pillow form.
Round 9: Insert Pillow Form
Insert the pillow form carefully into the cover through the open side. Make sure the corners of the pillow fit snugly into the cover’s corners for a uniform appearance.
Adjust the fabric as needed to make it smooth and even, checking that the pillow form fills the cover properly. This will help your pillow keep its shape.
Round 10: Close Final Edge
With the pillow form inserted, seam the final edge by slip stitching or single crocheting across. Use small, even stitches to close the cover neatly.
If you prefer a removable cover, you could attach buttons, snaps, or a zipper here instead. Once closed, ensure all edges are well-secured to keep the form inside.
Round 11: Finishing Touches
Fasten off the yarn at the end and weave in all loose ends using a tapestry needle. Secure each end by weaving it back and forth through several stitches to ensure it stays in place.
This step gives the cover a polished look and prevents the yarn from unraveling over time.
Round 12: Optional Edging
For an added decorative edge, work a round of single crochet (sc) around the entire outer edge of the pillow cover.
This can give a refined, framed look to your project. You can choose to use a contrasting color or stick with the same yarn for a subtle finish. This step is optional but can enhance the overall appearance.
