Rainbow pillow cover in 3 sizes

Rainbow Pillow Cover in 3 Sizes by LadyshipDesigns

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from independent designer LadyshipDesigns features a vibrant rainbow pillow cover available in three distinct sizes. The design combines simplicity with visual impact, making it an ideal project for knitters seeking beginner-friendly home décor items with striking color appeal.

What Is Being Made

The pattern provides instructions for creating one-piece knitted pillow covers that fit three different pillow insert dimensions: a 14-inch (35cm) square, a 16-inch (40cm) square, or a 12-inch by 20-inch (30cm x 50cm) rectangular insert. Each cover features a button envelope closure system, allowing for easy removal and replacement of the cover for seasonal décor changes or convenient washing and maintenance.

Knitting Techniques and Construction

This pattern utilizes garter stitch as the primary stitch throughout, creating a textured, reversible fabric that works beautifully for home accessories. Garter stitch is formed by knitting every row, producing horizontal ridges on both sides of the fabric. This fundamental stitch technique makes the project accessible to beginners while delivering professional-looking results.

The pillow cover is constructed as a single piece rather than multiple components, simplifying the building process. The button envelope closure system is integrated into the design, eliminating the need for complex seaming techniques while providing practical functionality for cover removal and washing.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern calls for DK weight yarn (also labeled as #3 light worsted), worked on 4mm/UK 8/US 6 straight needles. This yarn weight selection creates an appropriately drape and structure for a pillow cover while remaining manageable for beginners.

The design showcases all seven traditional rainbow colors, with each color requiring specific yardage amounts depending on the pillow size selected:

• 14-inch square pillow: Approximately 415 meters (450 yards) total weight, or 208 grams (7.4 ounces). Six colors require 56 meters (61 yards) each at 28 grams (1 ounce) per color, while green requires 80 meters (88 yards) at 40 grams (1.4 ounces) due to the envelope closure
• 16-inch square pillow: Approximately 592 meters (650 yards) total weight, or 306 grams (11 ounces). Six colors require 80 meters (88 yards) each at 40 grams (1.4 ounces) per color, with green requiring 112 meters (122 yards) at 56 grams (2 ounces)
• 12-inch by 20-inch rectangular pillow: Yardage specifications provided in pattern documentation

The seven rainbow colors included are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. Note that additional green yarn is required specifically for the envelope closure construction across all sizes.

Additional Supplies

Beyond yarn and needles, the pattern requires a large-eyed blunt sewing needle for seaming and finishing work. Three buttons of 1-inch (25mm) diameter are needed to complete the envelope closure system for each pillow cover.

Skill Level

Classified as a beginner difficulty project, this pattern is ideal for knitters new to the craft or those seeking a straightforward, confidence-building make. The reliance on garter stitch eliminates the need to master complex stitch patterns, while the single-piece construction keeps shaping and assembly requirements minimal.