Two cabled aran cushion covers

Two Cabled Aran Cushion Covers by Sarah Murray

What is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern from Cornish Knitting Company features two cabled aran cushion covers, each designed to fit a 45cm x 45cm cushion pad. The pattern is suitable for intermediate knitters and uses aran weight yarn to create textured, decorative cushion covers that showcase traditional cable and twist stitch techniques.

Techniques Used

The cushion covers employ several classic knitting techniques to create visual interest and texture. Cable work is a primary feature, requiring the use of a cable needle to cross stitches over one another and create the characteristic twisted rope effect. Twisted stitches (worked through the back of the loop) add definition and prevent the fabric from appearing loose or sloppy. Twist stitches in the form of T3L and T3R abbreviations create diagonal lines that complement the cable patterns. The covers also incorporate ribbed edging, which provides structure and helps the cushion covers maintain their shape and fit snugly around the cushion pad.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K) – the fundamental stitch forming the base fabric
• Purl (P) – used in combination with knit stitches to create textured patterns and ribbed sections
• Knit through back of loop (K2tbl) – twisted knit stitches that add definition to cables and prevent loose tension
• Purl through back of loop (P2tbl) – twisted purl stitches used in ribbed sections
• Cable 4 Left (C4L) – a four-stitch cable created by slipping two stitches onto a cable needle, holding at the front, knitting two stitches through the back of the loop, then knitting the two stitches from the cable needle through the back of the loop
• Twist 3 Left (T3L) – a three-stitch twist combining a purl stitch with two knit stitches worked through the back of the loop
• Twist 3 Right (T3R) – a three-stitch twist combining two knit stitches worked through the back of the loop with a purl stitch

Materials and Specifications

The pattern calls for Deramores Studio Aran yarn, a 100% acrylic fiber available in 100g balls with a yardage of 165 meters per ball. Aran weight yarn is a medium-weight option that works up quickly while providing excellent stitch definition for cable and texture work. The project requires 4½mm straight needles for the main fabric and a cable needle for manipulating stitches during cable crossings. Additional notions include three buttons for fastening and a 45cm x 45cm cushion pad as the foundation for the covers.

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for proper fit. The pattern specifies a gauge of 21¼ stitches and 23½ rows to 10cm x 10cm (4 inches x 4 inches) when working over pattern using 4½mm needles. This gauge ensures the cushion cover will fit the 45cm x 45cm pad appropriately and that the cable and twist stitches will have the intended appearance and texture.