Heart cushion

Heart-shaped homewares aren't just for Valentine's day but we thought this issue was the perfect opportunity to present Sarah Hazell's fabulous cushion. The sheen of the silk blend yarn adds an extra touch of glam and it's actually quite easy to knit. The construction is a little unusual though so read the Knit wise panel before you begin.

NOTE: worked from top down. Beg with peaks of heart then join tog before making main piece

PEAKS
Using 5mm needles, cast on six sts
. Row 1: k
. Row 2: k2, m1, k to last two sts, m1, k2. Eight sts
. Cont to inc one st at each end of every row as set until there are 16 sts
. Next row (RS): cast on two sts at beg of row, k to end
. Rep last row until there are 24 sts
. K two rows
. Next row: k2, m1, k to last two sts, m1, k2. 26 sts
. Next row: k
. Rep last two rows until there are 30 sts
. K five rows
Cut yarn and slide all sts to far end of LH needle
. Work second peak to match on same needle, do not break yarn

MAIN PIECE
. Joining row: k across all sts working last st of first peak and first st of second peak together. 59 sts
. K three rows
. Next row: cast on two sts at beg of row, k to end. 61 sts
. Rep last row once. 63 sts
. K two rows
. Next row: k2, m1, k to last two sts, m1, k2. 65 sts
. K 19 rows
. Next row (RS): k2, skpo, k to last four sts, k2tog, k2. 63 sts
. K two rows
. Next row (WS): k2, k2tog, k to last four sts, k2tog tbl, k2. 61 sts
. K two rows
. Work decs as set on every third row until three sts rem
. Cast off

To make up

Weave in any loose ends. Place RS of work together and join with backstitch, leaving an opening at one side for cushion pad or stuffing. Close gap with backstitch.

Click any of the images below to see a larger, clearer shot

Aphrodite: 37cm at widest point x 43cm at longest point