Sock Monkey Throw Pillows

Sock Monkey Throw Pillows by Aunt Janet's Designs

Project Overview

Sock Monkey Throw Pillows are beginner-friendly knitted cushion covers designed by Janet Jameson. These decorative pillows feature the classic striped pattern and whimsical character details characteristic of vintage sock monkey toys, making them a charming addition to any home décor. The design includes a functional button-closure back opening that allows the knitted covers to be easily removed for washing and maintenance.

What Is Being Made

This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating two throw pillows with sock monkey styling. Each pillow features a striped body with contrasting color blocks and decorative button embellishments that create the monkey's facial features. The pillows are designed as removable covers that slip over standard pillow forms, with a buttoned back closure for convenient cleaning.

Knitting Techniques Used

The Sock Monkey Throw Pillows utilize fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The construction method involves knitting flat pieces that are later seamed together along the sides. The pattern notes that while the design is worked flat with a back closure, knitters have the option to adapt the project and knit these pillows in the round, though this would require omitting the overlapping button-closure opening featured in the original design.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The primary stitch used throughout this project is the garter stitch, created by knitting across every row. The pattern employs a two-row striped color sequence that repeats throughout the body of the pillow. Knitters work two rows in one color, then drop that yarn and pick up the next color to work the following two rows. This color-changing technique is repeated twenty-seven times to build the distinctive striped pattern characteristic of sock monkeys. The pattern specifies working rows 1 through 112 with this repeating color sequence, followed by additional rows in red for facial details.

Materials and Yarn

The Sock Monkey Throw Pillows are designed to be knitted with worsted weight yarn, classified as aran weight. The pattern requires approximately 14 ounces of brown yarn, 14 ounces of tan yarn, and 7 ounces of red yarn to complete both pillows. Knitters will need Size 11 (8.0mm) knitting needles and a yarn needle for seaming and finishing.

Embellishments and Closures

• Two huge buttons measuring 2.25 inches in diameter serve as the monkey's eyes
• Eight large buttons, at least 1.5 inches each (four per pillow), function as the back closure system to secure the removable pillow covers

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for knitters new to the craft or those looking for a straightforward, satisfying project. The straightforward garter stitch and basic color-changing techniques require minimal shaping or complex stitch work, while the finished result is both functional and decorative.