The Aurora Borealis Throw Pillow Free Pattern – A Knitted Ombre Cable Cushion

Bring the mesmerizing dance of the northern lights into your living room with this plush, ombre cable knit pillow. The rich gradient of teal, purple, and midnight blue creates a stunning focal point that's both cozy and artistic. This pattern is perfect for intermediate knitters looking to expand their skills with cables while creating a statement piece for their home. The finished pillow measures approximately 18x18 inches, making it ideal for sofas, armchairs, or beds.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth knitting experience:

• Yarn: Super bulky weight yarn (approx. 300g total) in three shades: teal, deep purple, and midnight blue (or a gradient yarn if preferred)
• Needles: US 11 (8mm) circular knitting needles (24-inch) and a cable needle
• Gauge: 10 stitches and 14 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch
• Extras: Tapestry needle for seaming, scissors, and an 18x18 inch pillow form

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pillow is knitted flat in one piece and then seamed, with a cable pattern that transitions through three colors to mimic the aurora. Follow these detailed instructions carefully, and you'll have a beautiful, handmade cushion in no time.

Abbreviations

• CO: cast on
• K: knit
• P: purl
• C4F: slip 2 stitches to cable needle, hold in front, knit next 2 stitches, then knit 2 from cable needle
• C4B: slip 2 stitches to cable needle, hold in back, knit next 2 stitches, then knit 2 from cable needle
• K2tog: knit two together (decrease)
• SSK: slip slip knit (decrease)
• St(s): stitch(es)

Getting Started: The Teal Ribbing

With teal yarn: CO 80 stitches.

Row 1 (RS): K2, P2, repeat to end.

Row 2 (WS): P2, K2, repeat to end.

Repeat rows 1-2 for 2 inches (ribbing). This creates a sturdy, stretchy edge that will anchor the bottom of your pillow.

Transitioning to Deep Purple

Switch to deep purple yarn. Cut the teal yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail for weaving in later.

Row 3 (RS): K all stitches.

Row 4 (WS): P all stitches.

Repeat rows 3-4 for 2 inches. This creates a smooth stockinette section that allows the color transition to shine.

Beginning the Cable Pattern

Still with deep purple, begin the cable pattern:

Row 5 (RS): K4, C4F, K4, C4B, K4, C4F, K4, C4B, K4, C4F, K4, C4B, K4, C4F, K4, C4B, K4 (80 sts). This row creates the twisted cable columns that will run vertically up the pillow.

Row 6 (WS): P all stitches.

Row 7 (RS): K all stitches.

Row 8 (WS): P all stitches.

Repeat rows 5-8 three more times (total 4 cable repeats). Each repeat adds approximately 1 inch of height, giving you about 4 inches of cable texture.

Moving to Midnight Blue

Switch to midnight blue yarn. Cut the deep purple yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail.

Row 9 (RS): K all stitches.

Row 10 (WS): P all stitches.

Repeat rows 9-10 for 2 inches. This solid section in midnight blue creates a calming top that mimics the dark night sky above the aurora.

Shaping the Top (Decrease Section)

Now we'll shape the top of the pillow to create a gentle curve that will make the finished piece look polished and professional.

Row 11 (RS): K2tog, K to last 2 sts, SSK (78 sts). This decreases 2 stitches per row.

Row 12 (WS): P all stitches.

Repeat rows 11-12 until 40 stitches remain. This will take approximately 19 repeats, creating a gentle taper.

Binding Off

Bind off loosely. To ensure the bind-off edge isn't too tight, use a needle one size larger or bind off with a looser tension. Cut the yarn, leaving a 12-inch tail for seaming.

Finishing Your Pillow

Fold the knitted piece in half with the right sides together, matching the cast-on and bind-off edges. The ribbed edge will be at the bottom, and the shaped top will be at the top.

Sew the side seams using a mattress stitch or whip stitch, working from the bottom up. Use the yarn tails you left earlier for a seamless look.

Sew the bottom seam (the ribbed edge) closed.

Insert the pillow form through the top opening, making sure it fits snugly and the corners are filled out.

Sew the top seam closed using the long tail from your bind-off. Weave in all ends with your tapestry needle.

Optional Embellishments

Add a decorative button or a tassel at the center of the top seam for extra flair. This is a lovely way to personalize your pillow and make it truly unique.

Tips for Success

• Count your stitches after each cable row to ensure you haven't accidentally dropped or added stitches.
• Use stitch markers between cable sections if you find it helpful to track your pattern.
• Block your piece before seaming to even out the stitches and make the cables pop. Simply wet the piece, gently squeeze out excess water, and lay flat to dry.
• Take your time with the color transitions – weave in ends as you go to avoid a messy finish.

Your Aurora Borealis Throw Pillow is now complete! This stunning piece will add a touch of northern lights magic to any room, and you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you created it with your own hands. The combination of chunky yarn, bold cables, and gradient colors makes this a truly special project that's sure to be a conversation starter. Happy knitting!