Peanut Neck Pillow

Peanut Neck Pillow by Rian Anderson

What is Being Made

The Peanut Neck Pillow is a knitted cushion designed for home comfort or travel use. This medium-sized pillow measures approximately 32 centimeters in length with a width of 33 centimeters around the widest part of the ends and 19 centimeters around the middle section, creating a distinctive peanut-shaped form that provides ergonomic neck support.

Craft and Techniques

This project uses knitting as the primary construction method. The pattern employs a provisional cast-on technique using contrasting scrap yarn, which allows for seamless joining of the fabric. The pillow is constructed using standard knitting techniques and finished with tapestry needle seaming to create the three-dimensional peanut shape before filling.

Stitches and Construction Methods

The pattern utilizes fundamental knitting stitches appropriate for intermediate-level crafters. Stitch markers are incorporated throughout the work to help track pattern repeats and shaping sections. The provisional cast-on method enables the crafter to pick up live stitches for a professional finish, and the seaming technique creates secure joins that accommodate the filling without gaps.

Yarn and Materials

• Yarn: Approximately 50 grams of DK weight (8 ply) yarn in cotton, bamboo, or a washable wool blend
• Needles: 1 pair of 3.5 mm (US 4) needles for the medium size
• Additional Tools: Crochet hook approximately 4 mm (US 6) size, tapestry needle for seaming, and 4 stitch markers
• Filling: Approximately 50 grams of dacron or polyester filling
• Provisional Cast-On: Approximately 1 meter of contrasting scrap yarn

Sizing and Customization

The pattern provides flexibility for creating different pillow sizes. To make a smaller pillow, use 3.25 mm (US 3) needles with thinner yarn; for a larger version, use 4 mm (US 6) needles with thicker yarn. The final dimensions will vary depending on yarn choice and the amount of filling used, allowing crafters to customize the pillow to their specific needs and preferences.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle shaping, provisional cast-ons, and three-dimensional construction techniques.