Eight Free Patterns For Knitted Throw Pillows | The Knit Crew
A cozy throw pillow can transform a room in minutes, and knitting your own pillow covers is a surprisingly quick and satisfying project. If you’re looking to spruce up a sofa, armchair, or bed, eight free patterns that cover a range of stitches and textures are here to inspire. Each pillow project below is designed to be approachable for confident beginners through intermediate knitters, uses common yarn weights, and finishes with a clean, professional look. Best of all, they’re free patterns you can start right away, so grab your needles and a few skeins of plush yarn, and let’s create a mini showroom of knitted comfort.
Why knitted throw pillows deserve a spot in every home
Pillows are the fast lane to seasonal color changes, texture contrasts, and a dash of personality in a living space. A knitted cover is durable, washable, and easy to replace when you want a new look. If you’re stitching along with The Knit Crew, these projects are designed to be practical and adaptable: you can tweak color palettes, switch yarn weights, or size up or down to fit your inserts. The following eight patterns emphasize clear instructions, standard gauge, and modular construction so you can mix and match styles while keeping your process simple and enjoyable.
Before you start: choosing the right yarn and tools
To get the most from these patterns, keep a few basics in mind:
– Yarn weight: Most of these patterns are written for DK to worsted weight, which gives a good balance of smooth stitch definition and easy handling. If you want a chunkier look, you can substitute bulky weight with a larger gauge needle and adjust the stitch counts accordingly.
– Needle size: Use needles recommended for your yarn weight, and consider a slightly looser fabric if you want softer drape. Tension matters for pillow dimensions, so gauge swatches are your friend.
– Pillow insert size: Standard decorative inserts come in 16–20 inches. For a snug fit, you’ll typically want to knit two panels a touch larger than the insert and seam them with a small seam allowance. If you’re in doubt, knit a test swatch and measure against your insert.
– Yarns and color: Choose a warm, durable yarn for longevity. If you’re decorating a child’s room or a high-traffic area, consider machine-washable blends. For color, contrast or tone-on-tone palettes work beautifully; think neutrals with a pop of color, or two complementary tones for a bold look.
– Finishing touches: A simple hidden seam or a clean mattress stitch will give you a polished finish. You might also opt for an easily removable back with a zipper or button closure for easy pillow insert replacement.
Pattern 1: Garter Stripe Pillow
Overview
The Garter Stripe Pillow is an ideal starting project: simple garter stitch with color changes creates a friendly, modern striped look. It’s sturdy, cozy, and the color work gives you opportunity to experiment with color blocking and multiple color palettes.
What you’ll need
– Yarn: DK weight; about 300–350 yards total (two colors)
– Needles: US size 5–6 (3.75–4.0 mm), or size to obtain a fabric you like
– Notions: tapestry needle, scissors, pillow insert (18×18 inches for a standard square)
– Gauge: roughly 22 stitches = 4 inches in garter stitch
Finished size
Approximately 18 inches square before seaming; aim for two panels of about 18×18 inches finished so the final cover fits a standard 18×18 insert.
Quick-start instructions
– Cast on 60 stitches in color A.
– Work garter stitch (knit every row) for 10 inches.
– Switch to color B and continue garter stitch for 10 inches.
– Repeat color changes as desired to fill the length, finishing when your panel measures about 18 inches.
– Cast off loosely.
– Knit a second panel in the same way.
– Seam the two panels together along three sides (two vertical sides and bottom), leaving top open for inserting the pillow. For a neater finish, consider adding a back panel or a zipper at the top edge if you want a removable cover.
Pattern notes and variations
– Use three to four color blocks for a brighter look or two-color stripes for a calmer effect.
– You can reverse color order on the second panel for a mirrored back.
– If your insert is 20×20 inches, adjust the length to 20 inches and keep the width at 18–18.5 inches for a snug fit. Blocking helps even out edges and reduces curling.
Pattern 2: Basketweave Pillow
Overview
Basketweave textures mimic woven fabric and add depth to a room while staying soft to touch. This pattern uses a simple 4×4 basketweave (alternating blocks of knit and purl) to create a sturdy, reversible front.
What you’ll need
– Yarn: Worsted weight; about 700–850 yards total (two panels)
– Needles: US size 7–8 (4.5–5.0 mm)
– Notions: tapestry needle, pillow insert (18×18 or 20×20), stitch markers
– Gauge: about 20 stitches = 4 inches in stockinette
Finished size
Two panels measuring roughly 18×18 inches to fit an 18×18 insert when seamed.
Quick-start instructions
– Cast on 60 stitches in your chosen color.
– Work in a 4-row basketweave pattern:
Row 1: K4, P4, K4, P4, … across
Row 2: P4, K4, P4, K4, … across
Row 3: K4, P4, K4, P4, … across
Row 4: P4, K4, P4, K4, … across
– Repeat these four rows to create a length of about 18 inches.
– Cast off.
– Knit a second panel the same size.
– Sew the two panels together along three sides, with a neat top edge closure. Add a back panel or zipper if desired.
Pattern notes and variations
– You can introduce a color stripe in one block of the weave for a bit of contrast.
– If you prefer a softer look, choose a lighter yarn and block gently after seaming.
– Experiment with a two-color basketweave by changing color every 8 rows for a bold, graphic effect.
Pattern 3: Chevron Stripe Pillow
Overview
The Chevron Stripe Pillow combines rhythmic chevron lines with color blocks for a striking, modern look. It’s approachable for those comfortable with simple increases and color changes.
What you’ll need
– Yarn: DK weight; about 600–750 yards total (two panels)
– Needles: US size 5–6 (3.75–4.0 mm)
– Notions: yarn needle, pillow insert
– Gauge: about 22 stitches = 4 inches in stockinette
Finished size
Two panels around 18×18 inches each, suitable for an 18×18 insert.
Quick-start instructions
– Cast on 60 stitches in color A.
– Work for 6 rows in garter stitch to create a Stable base.
– Begin Chevron section:
– Rows 1–2: K across in color A
– Rows 3–4: Increase at both ends to create the chevron peak (for example, make 1 at the beginning and end of Row 3 and Row 4)
– Alternate colors every 6 rows to create the chevron peaks and troughs
– Continue until the piece measures about 18 inches in length.
– Cast off loosely.
– Knit a second panel in the same manner.
– Seam three sides together; add a back if you plan a back panel or zipper.
Pattern notes and variations
– Use a color gradient to emphasize the chevron’s waves.
– Keep the width consistent by counting stitches across the row. If you need a wider pattern, add more stitches in multiples of eight for symmetry in the chevron repeat.
– Blocking is key to keeping chevron diagonals crisp. Gently block the panels to even them out before seaming.
Pattern 4: Lace Panel Pillow
Overview
A delicate lace pattern adds lightness and elegance to any living space. This pattern uses a simple, repeatable leaf lace motif on the front panel while keeping the back panel in a smooth stockinette to balance texture and ease of knitting.
What you’ll need
– Yarn: Light DK or fingering weight for a delicate look; about 900–1100 yards total (two panels)
– Needles: US size 3–4 (3.25–3.5 mm)
– Notions: tapestry needle, stitch markers, pillow insert
– Gauge: about 28 stitches = 4 inches in lace pattern
Finished size
Two panels approximately 18×18 inches. You may adjust the number of pattern repeats to fit your insert.
Quick-start instructions
– Cast on 72 stitches in your base color plus a contrast color for the lace motif.
– Work the lace pattern across the front panel for about 18 inches. The motifs can be memorized as a simple 12-stitch repeat; keep track of rows with a row counter or marker.
– Cast off loosely.
– Repeat to create the second panel.
– Seam three sides, leaving the top edge open for the inset.
Pattern notes and variations
– Use a lighter yarn for a truly airy look, or a heavier lace for a more pronounced texture.
– If you’re new to lace, work about four to six pattern repeats and then bind off the sample to practice tension before committing to a full pillow.
– Block after seaming to open up the lace and improve drape.
Pattern 5: Cable Panel Pillow
Overview
Cable stitches always bring structure and style. The Cable Panel Pillow uses a simple 4-stitch cable as a center motif with a plainer stockinette background. It’s an excellent way to introduce cables into a home decor project.
What you’ll need
– Yarn: Worsted weight; about 950–1100 yards total (two panels)
– Needles: US size 7–8 (4.5–5.0 mm)
– Notions: cable needle, tapestry needle, pillow insert
– Gauge: about 20 stitches = 4 inches in stockinette
Finished size
Two panels about 18×18 inches to fit an 18×18 pillow insert.
Quick-start instructions
– Cast on 60 stitches in your main color.
– Work in stockinette with the center cable motif:
– Rows 1–4: K across
– Rows with cable cross on the center, e.g., C4B (Cable 4 Back) or C4F (Cable 4 Front) at the center of the panel every 8 rows
– Repeat the cable motif across the width, keeping the edges stockinette for a clean boundary.
– Size to approximately 18 inches in length.
– Cast off and seam with a second panel.
Pattern notes and variations
– The charm of a cable panel comes from symmetry. Use a single central cable and keep the edges clean for a refined look.
– If you’ve never done a cable before, practice on a small swatch first with a reversible cable.
Pattern 6: Seed Stitch Pillow
Overview
Seed stitch is one of the most forgiving textures. It looks even and soft on both sides, making it ideal for a decorative pillow cover. This pattern uses a single color, with seed stitch as the background, and a color-blocked back panel for visual interest.
What you’ll need
– Yarn: DK weight; about 900–1100 yards total
– Needles: US size 5–6 (3.75–4.0 mm)
– Notions: pillow insert, tapestry needle
– Gauge: about 24 stitches = 4 inches in seed stitch
Finished size
Two panels around 18×18 inches.
Quick-start instructions
– Cast on 60 stitches in your chosen color.
– Work seed stitch for about 18 inches:
– Row 1: K1, P1 across
– Rows 2: P1, K1 across
– Cast off loosely.
– Repeat for second panel.
– Seam three sides; consider adding a back panel in a complementary color or a hidden zipper for a sleek finish.
Pattern notes and variations
– Seed stitch is highly forgiving of gauge differences, making it great for leftover yarn.
– Try a two-color seed stitch by using Color A for the front and Color B on the back only, so the seam line remains subtle.
Pattern 7: Color Blocking Pillow
Overview
Bold color blocking is a modern staple in home decor. This pattern keeps the knitting simple while letting color blocks provide the visual impact. The front panel is divided into large color blocks, and the back panel is a solid, coordinating shade.
What you’ll need
– Yarn: DK or worsted weight; about 900–1100 yards total (two panels)
– Needles: US size 5–6 (3.75–4.0 mm)
– Notions: pillow insert, tapestry needle
– Gauge: around 22 stitches = 4 inches in stockinette
Finished size
Two panels of about 18×18 inches.
Quick-start instructions
– Cast on 60 stitches in color A.
– Work garter stitch or stockinette for a couple of inches, then switch to color blocks:
– Block 1: 6–8 inches
– Block 2: 6–8 inches
– Block 3: 6–8 inches
– Repeat the color blocks as desired across the width to fill the panel to about 18 inches in length.
– Cast off and create a second panel.
– Sew the panels together along three sides, leaving the top edge for insertion.
Pattern notes and variations
– If you want a more subtle look, create two larger blocks and one smaller block, or use tonal shades within the same color family.
– For a reversible pillow, knit the front with color blocks and the back in a single color.
Pattern 8: Textured Honeycomb Pillow
Overview
Honeycomb stitches create a subtle, tactile texture that reads as a refined, natural pattern. This pillow leverages a simple slipped-stitch technique to evoke the look of a honeycomb while staying approachable.
What you’ll need
– Yarn: Worsted weight; about 900–1100 yards total (two panels)
– Needles: US size 7–8 (4.5–5.0 mm)
– Notions: pillow insert, stitch markers
– Gauge: about 20 stitches = 4 inches in honeycomb pattern
Finished size
Two panels around 18×18 inches.
Quick-start instructions
– Cast on 60 stitches in your color.
– Work the honeycomb stitch across the width:
– Row 1: K3, P1, K2, P1, K3, P1 (repeat across)
– Row 2: P1, K3, P1, K2, P1, K3 (repeat across)
– Rows 3–4: Repeat Rows 1–2
– Continue for about 18 inches to reach the desired length.
– Cast off and seam with second panel.
– Finish by inserting the pillow.
Pattern notes and variations
– Honeycomb texture looks especially rich in a slightly thicker DK or worsted weight.
– Block after sewing to even out the texture and reduce any curling.
Creating a cohesive look with eight patterns
The eight patterns above offer a spectrum of textures and colors that work well together:
– Stick to a unified color palette for a cohesive set or mix and match complementary palettes for variety.
– Use a single base color across all fronts with a color-blocked back to unify the group.
How to choose the right size and fit
– For an 18×18 insert, target two panels around 18×18, leaving a small seam allowance to connect the sides. If you prefer a looser fit or you’re using a firmer yarn, aim for two panels about 18.5×18.5 inches or just slightly larger to account for seam thickness.
– If you’re using a larger insert (20×20), adjust your panel lengths by a few inches (20 or 21 inches long, with the width remaining around 18–18.5 inches).
Care and maintenance tips
– Most washable yarns will hold up well with a gentle machine or hand wash. Check your yarn label for washing instructions.
– After washing, lay flat to dry. Reshape the panels while damp to ensure a uniform, square finish.
– Blocking is optional but can be very helpful for ensuring consistent panel dimensions and a crisp edge.
Color ideas and palette tips
– Neutrals with a bold accent: oatmeal, taupe, and a pop of teal or emerald.
– Soft and cozy: blush, cream, and muted sage.
– Bold modern: black, white, and a bright color like cobalt or fuchsia.
– For a cohesive set, pick one main color across multiple patterns and switch the secondary color per pattern.
Sizing, finishing, and customization tips
– If you want a larger or smaller set, adjust the stitch count while keeping the pattern repeats intact. The goal is to maintain the same overall look, so ensure your fabric remains balanced.
– You can swap back panels for each pillow to match the room’s color narrative. For example, pair a front textured panel with a back in a complementary solid color.
– Adding a zipper on the back panel makes changing inserts quick and clean. If you’re not comfortable with a zipper, you can use a back panel that overlaps like a pillow sham or sew a flap.
A note on finishing and assembly
– When sewing panels together, hide the seam by using the mattress stitch or a carefully aligned invisible seam. This yields a clean, professional look.
– If you’re new to sewing, practice on scrap panels first to perfect the seam alignment.
– Consider a two-panel approach where you knit a front and back panel to the same dimensions and seam the sides with a seam allowance of 1/2 inch.
Final thoughts and inspiration
With eight free patterns for knitted throw pillows, you can build a small, stylish collection that reflects your personal taste and your living space. The Knit Crew believes in approachable, well-structured patterns that you can start today, steadily adding texture, color, and form to your home. These patterns encourage you to experiment with color blocking, stripes, lace, cables, and textured stitches—each project a doorway to new techniques and a chance to invest in a handmade, durable decor staple.
If you’d like, you can document your pillow journey as you knit. Share your progress with the The Knit Crew community, and consider posting photos of your finished pillows. Readers often benefit from seeing real-world results, including how colors look in different light, how pillows pair with various room palettes, and how a simple seam can transform a knitted piece into a tailored home accessory.
Where to start
– Pick two or three patterns that catch your eye and start with those based on your preferred yarn weight and color palette.
– If you’re new to shaping or seaming, start with the Garter Stripe Pillow or Seed Stitch Pillow for a gentle learning curve before tackling cables or lace.
– Gather your materials in one go: the right weight of yarn, a comfortable set of needles, a few stitch markers, and your preferred closure method.
Closing invitation
The Knit Crew’s eight free patterns for knitted throw pillows offer a reliable route to practical, affordable, and aesthetically pleasing home decor. Each pattern emphasizes comfort, durability, and style in a way that makes them suitable for everyday use and for showcasing your knitting skills. Whether you’re redecorating a room, looking for a thoughtful handmade gift, or simply seeking a relaxing project, these pillow covers are the perfect starting point. We’d love to see how you mix and match these ideas, so feel free to share your finished projects and color stories in the comments or on social media with the hashtag TheKnitCrewPillows. Your creativity can inspire other knitters to tackle a few cozy, confident, and stylish pillow covers.
Want more projects from The Knit Crew? Consider subscribing to the blog for new free patterns, technique tips, and seasonal decor ideas. We’re always exploring fresh textures, stitch patterns, and color theories to help you expand your knitting repertoire. If you have questions about any of the patterns listed here or would like advice on choosing yarn substitutions, sizing, or finishing, I’m here to help. Happy knitting, and enjoy your eight new knitted throw pillows!
Would you like me to tailor these patterns to a specific yarn brand, weight, or a particular color scheme you have in mind? I can adjust the yardage estimates and provide more precise row-by-row guidance for your exact materials.
