Kolla cushion cover

Kolla Cushion Cover by Hazel Tindall

What Is Being Made

The Kolla cushion cover is a round decorative cushion cover designed by Hazel Tindall and inspired by traditional Shetland beret construction. This downloadable knitting pattern produces a finished circular cushion cover that showcases colorwork design and classic knitting techniques. The project is suitable for intermediate-level knitters seeking a structured, geometric knitting challenge.

Construction Method

The Kolla cushion cover is constructed as two separate knitted circles that are joined together before the final blocking stage. This two-piece approach allows for symmetrical shaping and provides structural integrity to the finished cushion cover. The knitting is worked in the round, beginning at the widest outer edge and progressing inward toward the center point of each circle.

Knitting Techniques and Shaping

The pattern employs a distinctive shaping strategy that divides the knitting into two distinct phases. The first 19 rounds are worked without any decreases, establishing the full circumference and body of the cushion cover. Decreasing begins in round 20 and continues on alternate rounds thereafter, gradually tapering the fabric toward the center. This structured decrease sequence creates the characteristic circular shape derived from traditional Shetland beret design principles.

Colorwork and Stitch Details

The Kolla cushion cover features colorwork elements worked from charts provided in the pattern. The charts indicate stitch placement through blank and filled squares, with color information specified at the sides of each chart. The left column of each chart provides the stitch count for the completed round, allowing knitters to track their progress accurately throughout the colorwork sections. This charted approach enables knitters to create the traditional patterning that defines the design.

Yarn and Materials

This pattern is designed for 4-ply yarn weight, which provides a refined fabric suitable for a decorative home accessory. The pattern notes that machine-washable wool or other suitable materials may be used, offering flexibility in fiber choice while maintaining the intended finished appearance and durability.

Finishing and Blocking

Blocking is essential to achieving the intended appearance of the Kolla cushion cover. The pattern emphasizes that the cushion cover must be blocked to be seen at its best, suggesting that blocking significantly enhances the final presentation and shape definition of the finished piece. Proper blocking ensures that the circular shape is fully realized and the colorwork pattern is displayed to optimal effect.