Fayre Cushion Cover

Fayre Cushion Cover by Sharon Slarke

What Is Being Made

The Fayre Cushion Cover is a fresh, colourful knitted cushion cover designed to fit a 36cm x 36cm (14in x 14in) cushion. This project is worked in one piece and then folded over and seamed at the sides to create a firm fit that produces a plump, well-filled cushion appearance. The finished cover is fastened with snap fasteners for easy removal and washing.

Craft and Construction Method

This is a knitting project suitable for beginners. The cushion cover is constructed using a simple one-piece method, which eliminates the need for complex shaping or multiple pattern pieces. The fabric is created by knitting a rectangular piece that is then folded in half and seamed along the sides, making this an efficient and straightforward approach to cushion cover construction.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch pattern used throughout this project is the Alternating Eyelet Stitch, which creates a decorative openwork effect. This stitch pattern repeats over a multiple of 8 stitches plus 5 additional stitches and consists of the following row sequence:

• Rows 1 and 2: Knit and purl across (stockinette base)
• Row 3: Knit 5 stitches, then repeat slip 1 stitch, knit 2 together, pass slip stitch over (creating a decorative decrease and eyelet hole), knit 4 stitches, ending with knit 5
• Row 4: Purl 5 stitches, then work (purl 1, knit 1, purl 1) into the next stitch for texture, purl 5 stitches, repeating to the end
• Rows 5 and 6: Knit and purl across
• Row 7: Knit 1 stitch, then repeat slip 1 stitch, knit 2 together, pass slip stitch over, knit 4 stitches, with a final variation of knit 1, slip 1, knit 2 together, pass slip stitch over

This alternating eyelet pattern creates visual interest and a light, airy fabric suitable for a cotton cushion cover.

Materials and Specifications

The Fayre Cushion Cover is designed to be knitted in DK weight cotton yarn, specifically using Jo Sharp Soho Summer DK cotton (100% cotton), with each 50g ball yielding approximately 100 metres (109 yards). The pattern requires 4 balls total—1 ball of each of four colours—allowing for creative colour blocking or striping effects throughout the cover.

Knitting needles required are 3.75mm (US size 5) or the size needed to achieve the correct gauge. The project also requires 9 snap fasteners for securing the cushion cover closure.

Gauge and Fit

The pattern specifies a gauge of 25 stitches to 10 centimetres (4 inches) when working the Alternating Eyelet Stitch using 3.75mm needles. Achieving the correct gauge is essential to ensure the finished cushion cover fits properly around a standard 36cm x 36cm (14in x 14in) cushion form.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as beginner level, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward, satisfying project. The one-piece construction method and straightforward stitch pattern eliminate complex shaping, while the eyelet stitch adds visual interest without requiring advanced techniques.