Houndstooth Pillow

Houndstooth Pillow Cover by LadyshipDesigns

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from independent designer LadyshipDesigns creates a classic houndstooth pillow cover featuring a two-color design. The finished cover fits a standard 16" x 16" (40cm x 40cm) pillow insert and features a patterned front with a coordinating single-color back, secured with a three-button closure for easy removal and washing.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

The houndstooth pillow cover is constructed using stranded color work, a technique that allows knitters to incorporate two colors within the same row by carrying the unused yarn across the back of the work. This creates a richly textured, reversible fabric that showcases the classic houndstooth pattern on the front.

The primary stitch used throughout the project is stocking stitch (also called stockinette stitch), which is created by alternating knit rows and purl rows. This fundamental stitch creates a smooth, flat fabric with a distinctive V-pattern appearance on the right side, making it an ideal base for displaying the two-color houndstooth design. Stocking stitch is beginner-friendly but requires consistent tension to maintain an even appearance.

The pattern also incorporates button band construction for the three-button closure on the back panel, allowing the cover to be easily removed from the pillow insert.

Difficulty Level and Skill Requirements

Rated as an intermediate project, this pillow cover is accessible to knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their abilities. While stranded color work may initially appear complex, the pattern is designed to be quick to master. The combination of stocking stitch and two-color technique makes this an excellent project for knitters looking to develop proficiency with colorwork without committing to a large garment.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

This pattern calls for worsted weight (#4/medium/aran) yarn in two colors:

• Main color (Yarn A): Approximately 5 oz. / 140 grams, equivalent to 310 yards / 285 meters
• Contrast color (Yarn B): Approximately 1.75 oz. / 50 grams, equivalent to 110 yards / 100 meters

The worsted and aran weight yarns provide excellent stitch definition for the houndstooth pattern while creating a substantial, durable fabric suitable for a decorative pillow cover that will withstand regular use and washing.

Needles and Notions

The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles in different sizes to achieve proper gauge and fabric characteristics:

• 4mm / US 6 needles: Used for ribbed sections or edging
• 5mm / US 8 needles: Used for the main body in stocking stitch

Additional materials include a large-eyed blunt needle for seaming and finishing, and three large buttons approximately 1" / 25mm in diameter for the removable closure system.

Gauge and Tension

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4" x 4" (10cm x 10cm) when worked in stocking stitch on 5mm / US 8 needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential for ensuring the finished pillow cover fits the standard 16" x 16" insert properly. The pattern notes recommend knitting a tension square before beginning the project, as this preliminary step helps ensure accurate finished dimensions and proper fabric drape.

Design Versatility

The houndstooth pattern's timeless appeal makes it adaptable to various interior design schemes. Knitters are encouraged to select their favorite color combinations in worsted or aran weight yarn to coordinate with their existing décor, allowing for personalization while maintaining the classic houndstooth aesthetic.