Flock of sheep cushion

Flock of Sheep Cushion by iKnitDesigns

Project Overview

The Flock of Sheep Cushion is an intermediate-level knitting project designed by Denny Gould of iKnitDesigns. This decorative cushion cover measures 40 cm x 40 cm (16 inches x 16 inches) and features a charming sheep motif worked in multiple yarn colors. The design combines colorwork techniques with basic knitting stitches to create a finished piece suitable for home décor.

Techniques and Stitches

This project employs fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The primary stitch used throughout is stocking stitch (stockinette stitch), created by alternating knit and purl rows. The pattern also incorporates ribbing using a knit 2, purl 2 repeat, which provides elasticity and structure to the cushion edges.

The sheep design is achieved through colorwork, with different yarn colors introduced to create the visual pattern on the front panel. The construction involves working flat pieces that are subsequently assembled and finished with buttons for closure.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Flock of Sheep Cushion uses Double Knitting (DK) weight yarn as the primary material, with a small amount of Chunky weight yarn for accent details. The yarn requirements include:

• 2 x 50 gram balls of light green yarn for the front and back panels
• 1 x 25 gram ball of light blue yarn for the back panel
• 1 x 25 gram ball of white yarn for the back panel
• 1 x 25 gram ball of Sirdar Snuggly Snowflake Chunky yarn
• Small amount of black yarn for the sheep details

Suggested yarn brands compatible with this pattern include Sirdar Country Style DK, Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK, Rowan Pure Wool DK, and Rico Essentials Merino DK. These recommendations provide options for crafters seeking specific fiber content or performance characteristics.

Needles and Gauge

The pattern requires two pairs of knitting needles: 4 mm (UK size 8 / USA size 6) needles for the main fabric and 3¼ mm (UK size 10 / USA size 3) needles for the ribbed edges. The working tension is 22 stitches and 28 rows to 10 cm (4 inches) measured over stocking stitch on the 4 mm needles. Achieving correct tension is essential for obtaining the specified finished cushion dimensions.

Construction and Finishing

The cushion is constructed by casting on 90 stitches using blue yarn on the smaller needles, beginning with a ribbed edge worked in knit 2, purl 2 pattern. The main body is worked in stocking stitch using the larger needles, with colorwork sections creating the sheep motif. The pattern includes standard knitting abbreviations and instructions for increases, decreases, and shaping as needed.

The finished cushion is completed with 4 buttons for fastening, allowing for easy removal of the cover if desired. This intermediate project combines accessible knitting techniques with colorwork elements to create a personalized home accessory.