Hexi Pouffe

Hexi Pouffe by Jem Weston

What is Being Made

The Hexi Pouffe is a knitted cushion project designed by Jem Weston that creates a hexagonal pouf or floor cushion. The finished piece measures approximately 58cm (22¾ inches) in diameter, with a side panel depth of approximately 10cm. This is a substantial, three-dimensional home décor item that combines geometric patterning with practical construction.

Project Structure and Components

The pouffe is constructed from multiple components working together to create its distinctive shape:

• Top and Bottom Hexis: Two identical hexagonal pieces form the upper and lower surfaces of the pouffe. Each begins with 336 cast-on stitches worked on circular needles.
• Side Panel: A flat-knitted panel connects the top and bottom hexis to create the three-dimensional form. This panel is worked separately from the hexagonal pieces.
• Cushion Pad: After completing the knitted components, a cushion pad is created and inserted. The pattern notes that the finished size may vary depending on individual tension, so the pad is made after knitting is complete to ensure proper fit.

Knitting Techniques and Construction Method

The Hexi Pouffe employs several intermediate-level knitting techniques that create its geometric appeal:

• Circular Needle Construction: The hexagonal pieces are worked in the round using 4mm (US 6) circular needles. The pattern offers flexibility in method, allowing knitters to switch to double-pointed needles (dpns) when necessary or to continue using the magic loop method throughout if preferred.
• Decreasing Shaping: The hexagonal shape is achieved through strategic decreases that gradually reduce the stitch count. Each decrease round works K2tog and K2tog tbl (knit two together through the back loop) stitches positioned to create the geometric hexi pattern sections.
• Flat Panel Knitting: The side panel is worked flat, providing a structural element that differs from the circular construction of the hexis.
• Stitch Marker Usage: A stitch marker is used to mark the beginning of each round, essential for tracking pattern repeats in circular knitting.

Stitches Used

The pattern employs fundamental knitting stitches executed with precision to create the geometric hexi pattern:

• Knit (K): The basic knit stitch forms the primary fabric texture.
• Purl (P): Purl rounds are incorporated into the pattern sequence, creating textural variation and contributing to the geometric definition of the hexis.
• Knit Two Together (K2tog): A right-leaning decrease used strategically throughout the hexi pattern to shape the geometric sections.
• Knit Two Together Through the Back Loop (K2tog tbl): A left-leaning decrease that pairs with K2tog to create balanced, symmetrical decreases within each section of the hexi pattern.

The hexi pattern itself is created through the repetition of these stitches in a specific sequence. The pattern note indicates that "the last 3 rounds form hexi patt," meaning rounds 3, 4, and 5 establish the repeating pattern unit. This pattern is then continued with decreases worked on alternating rounds, reducing 2 stitches per section on each decrease round until the hexagon is complete after 79 rounds, finishing with 24 stitches remaining.

Yarn and Needle Specifications

The Hexi Pouffe pattern is designed to work with multiple yarn weights, offering flexibility for different yarn stash options:

• Yarn Weight Options: The pattern accommodates aran, DK (double knitting), and worsted weight yarns, allowing knitters to choose based on availability and desired finished fabric characteristics.
• Needles Required: 4mm (US 6) circular needles are specified for the hexagonal pieces. Double-pointed needles (dpns) in the same size are recommended as backup for the later rounds when stitch count decreases, or knitters may prefer to use the magic loop method throughout.

Tension and Sizing

Achieving the correct tension is important for this project's success. The pattern specifies a tension of 20 stitches and 33 rows to 10cm (4 inches) measured over the hexi pattern using 4mm (US 6) needles. The pattern notes that the