Simple Squares 20"x20" pillow cover

Simple Squares 20"x20" Pillow Cover by LadyshipDesigns

What is Being Made

The Simple Squares pillow cover is a 20"x20" (51 x 51cm) cushion cover designed as a beginner-friendly knitting project. This finished piece is knit as a single flat panel and then folded and seamed to create a functional home décor item. The pillow cover features a button closure detail, making it both decorative and practical for everyday use.

Techniques Used

This pattern employs fundamental knitting construction methods suitable for beginners. The entire pillow cover is worked as one continuous piece using straightforward flat knitting on straight needles. The pattern utilizes a simple fold-and-sew finishing technique, where the knitted rectangle is folded over and side seams are sewn together to form the pillow cover shape. Button closure details are sewn onto the finished piece for added functionality and visual interest.

Stitches Used

The Simple Squares design relies exclusively on two fundamental knitting stitches:

• Knit stitch (K) – the basic foundation stitch of knitting
• Purl stitch (P) – the reverse of the knit stitch, used to create textural variation

The combination of knit and purl stitches creates the characteristic square pattern that gives this pillow cover its name. This limited stitch palette makes the pattern ideal for knitters developing their fundamental skills.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Simple Squares pillow cover requires approximately 10.5 ounces (300 grams) of yarn, equivalent to roughly 510 yards (470 meters). The pattern calls for worsted weight yarn (also labeled as #4 medium weight), which is a standard, easy-to-work-with yarn weight perfect for beginners.

Needle requirements include two pairs of straight needles: one pair of 4.5mm/US7/UK7 needles and one pair of 5.5mm/US9/UK5 needles. The 5.5mm needles are used for the main fabric and establish the working gauge. Additional supplies needed are a row counter, stitch marker, sewing needle for seaming and button attachment, and three buttons approximately 1.5" (38mm) in diameter.

Important note: Purchasing slightly extra yarn beyond the specified amount is recommended to ensure sufficient yardage to complete the project. When purchasing multiple balls or skeins, verify that all dye lots match to maintain consistent color throughout the finished pillow cover.

Gauge and Sizing Information

Achieving the correct gauge is particularly important for this pattern to ensure the finished pillow cover reaches the intended 20"x20" dimensions. The pattern specifies a gauge of 15 stitches and 24 rows over a 4"x4" (10 x 10cm) square when worked on 5.5mm/US9/UK5 needles. This gauge allows for some width-wise stretch in the finished fabric, providing comfortable fit around a standard pillow form.

Difficulty Level

Designed as a beginner knitting project, the Simple Squares pillow cover is an excellent choice for knitters new to the craft or those seeking to build confidence with fundamental techniques. The straightforward stitch combination and simple construction make this pattern accessible while producing a polished, finished home décor item.