Sydan Cushion

Sydan Cushion by Sophie Wire
(find the full pattern in issue 58 of Inside Crochet magazine)

Inspired by a rustic Nordic style, this cushion works up quickly and the impressive-looking stitch pattern is easy to learn.
 
MATERIALS
● James C Brett Chunky With Merino, 70% acrylic/20% siliconised soft polyamide/ 10% Merino wool, 100g/150m/164yds
Yarn A: Cream CM3 x 2 balls
Yarn B: Grey CM9 x 2 balls
● DMC Petra No 3, 100% cotton, 100g/280m/306yds
Yarn C: Red 5321 x 1 ball
● 2.5mm & 5mm hooks
● Seven wooden buttons, 2.8cm/11/8in
● Square cushion pad, 45cm/18in
● Four stitch markers

YARN ALTERNATIVES
You can use any chunky yarn to achieve a similar effect. Acrylic blends prevent the work from becoming too heavy. Choose one which is quite lofty for a nice squishy result.
A smooth cotton makes for easier surface crochet. Choose a fine 4ply or perlé. This doesn’t take much yarn, so it’s a good chance to use up leftovers.

TENSION
Work 13 sts and 4 rows as Patt rows 1–4 to measure 10 x 10cm/ 4 x 4in using 5mm hook, or size required to obtain tension.
Circles measure 5cm/2in wide and 5cm/2in tall.

MEASUREMENTS
Finished cover measures 40 x 40cm/16 x 16in.

DESIGNER BIOGRAPHY
Sophie is a Kent-based crochet and sewing teacher, who will be teaching workshops at the Knitting and Stitching Show, Alexandra Palace, in October.
Buy her patterns at www.ravelry.com/designers/sophie-wire or www.earthwireshirts.etsy.com.