Tundra Cushion

Tundra Cushion by Martin Storey

What Is Being Made

The Tundra Cushion is a decorative nursery cushion measuring 30 x 30cm (11¾ x 11¾ inches). This finished cushion features a charming Nordic-inspired design with differently shaped trees rendered in colorwork knitting, making it a thoughtful handmade addition to a child's room. The completed project requires a 25cm (10 inch) zip and a cushion pad for finishing.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created using knitting as the primary craft. The design incorporates colorwork knitting, a technique that allows crafters to work with multiple yarn colors within the same row to create intricate patterned designs. The Nordic tree motif is worked from a chart, requiring the knitter to follow color changes row by row to build the complete pattern on the cushion front.

Stitches and Construction

The Tundra Cushion is primarily worked in stockinette stitch (St st), the fundamental knit stitch that creates a smooth, flat fabric ideal for showcasing colorwork patterns. The pattern incorporates charted colorwork sections, where right side rows are read from right to left and wrong side rows are read from left to right—a standard convention in knitting chart reading. This stitch combination creates a fabric with excellent drape and definition for the Nordic tree design.

Yarn and Materials

This cushion is knitted using Rowan Felted Tweed DK, a yarn weight classified as DK (double knitting). The project requires one 50g ball each of three coordinating colors:

• Clay 177 (A) – the primary color
• Pine 158 (B) – a secondary color for the Nordic tree pattern
• Avocado 161 (C) – a tertiary color adding depth to the design

Rowan Felted Tweed DK is noted for creating a beautifully soft fabric, making it particularly suitable for nursery items. The yarn's characteristics contribute to the cushion's tactile quality and durability.

Needles and Tension

Two pairs of knitting needles are required: 3.75mm (US 5) and 4mm (US 6). The pattern specifies precise tension requirements to ensure proper finished dimensions. When working with the 4mm (US 6) needles in stockinette stitch, the tension should be 22 stitches and 28 rows per 10cm (4 inch) square. When working with the 3.75mm (US 5) needles in stockinette stitch with pattern, the tension should be 26 stitches and 24 rows per 10cm (4 inch) square. Adjusting needle size to achieve correct tension is essential for a properly sized finished cushion.

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty. The combination of colorwork knitting, chart reading, and multiple needle sizes makes it suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their techniques. The colorwork element adds complexity beyond basic stockinette stitch, making this an engaging project for those seeking to develop their pattern-following and color management abilities.

Designer and Source

The Tundra Cushion is designed by Martin Storey and appears in the collection Aran & Nordic Knits for Kids. This downloadable PDF pattern provides complete instructions for creating this charming Nordic-inspired nursery accessory.