Make your own Radiating Heart Pillow with crochet!

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Radiating Heart Pillow Design
4. Tapestry Crochet Technique
5. Crochet Knit Stitch
6. Yarn and Hook Selection
7. Step-by-Step Instructions
   • Making the Slip Knot
   • Starting the First Round
   • Reading the Radiating Heart Chart
   • Changing Colors
   • Continuing the Rounds
8. Finishing Touches
9. Other Pattern Variations
10. Conclusion

Introduction

Welcome to the world of crochet! In this video tutorial, we will be making a radiating heart pillow using the tapestry crochet technique. This pillow design is not only adorable but also quite easy to create. By following the step-by-step instructions provided, you will not only learn how to crochet the radiating heart pattern but also master the crochet knit stitch. So grab your materials, get cozy, and let's dive into the wonderful world of crochet!

Materials Needed

Before we begin, let's gather all the materials needed to create your own radiating heart pillow. Here's what you'll need:

1. Yarn:

   • Main Color: Approximately 200 yards of a medium-weight (size 4) yarn. For example, Bernal Velvet Yarn in "Ever After Pink" (100% polyester, 492 yards/300 grams).
   • Contrast Color: A small amount of the same yarn in a different color. For example, Bernal Baby Velvet Yarn in white.

2. Crochet Hook: A 4mm (G/6) crochet hook.

3. Pillow Insert: A 10-inch square pillow insert.

4. Tapestry Needle: For stitching and finishing.

Now that you have all your materials ready, let's move on to understanding the radiating heart pillow design and the tapestry crochet technique.

Radiating Heart Pillow Design

The radiating heart pillow features a beautiful heart-shaped image on the front using the tapestry crochet technique. The back of the pillow is worked in a solid color, showcasing the simplicity and elegance of a plain stitch pattern. The radiating heart chart consists of 44 stitches and 49 rounds, which are worked in a continuous round fashion. Each square on the chart represents one single crochet stitch, with white squares indicating main color stitches and black squares representing contrast color stitches.

Tapestry Crochet Technique

The tapestry crochet technique is a method used to create detailed colorwork designs in crochet projects. It involves carrying and working with multiple yarn colors simultaneously within a single round. By following the radiating heart chart and using this technique, we can achieve a beautiful heart-shaped image on the front of our pillow. Remember to read the chart from right to left on each round, carefully inserting the hook between the vertical loops of each stitch.

Crochet Knit Stitch

To give the radiating heart pattern the appearance of knitted fabric, we will also be incorporating the crochet knit stitch. This stitch mimics the look of knitted stitches but is created using crocheting techniques. By using this stitch along with the tapestry crochet technique, our final pillow will have a unique textured appearance that resembles a knitted piece.

Yarn and Hook Selection

For this project, we recommend using a soft velvet yarn, such as Bernal Velvet Yarn, for a cozy and plush feel. The main color should be a medium-weight (size 4) yarn, while the contrast color should be the same yarn but in a different color. The recommended crochet hook size is 4mm (G/6), but you can adjust the hook size as needed to achieve the desired tension and gauge.

Now that we have covered the essential information, let's dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating your own radiant heart pillow using the tapestry crochet technique and crochet knit stitch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Making the Slip Knot: Before starting, leave a 30-inch tail of yarn. Create a slip knot using the main color yarn, ensuring that you have enough tail length for later stitching.

2. Starting the First Round: Begin by chaining 88 stitches, making sure not to twist the chain. Join the last chain to the first one with a slip stitch to form a round. Chain one and single crochet in the same stitch as the slip stitch. Continue single crocheting in each stitch around.

3. Reading the Radiating Heart Chart: The radiating heart chart consists of 44 stitches and 49 rounds. Each square on the chart represents one single crochet stitch, with white squares indicating main color stitches and black squares representing contrast color stitches. Read the chart from right to left on each round, making sure to insert the hook between the vertical loops of each stitch.

4. Changing Colors: Some rounds require changing colors to create the heart image. To change colors, complete the last stitch of the first color, then pull up a loop of the second color yarn from the back. Yarn over and pull through the loops to secure the second color. Continue working the required stitches with the second color. To switch back to the first color, bring it up from the front and finish the stitch with the first color.

5. Continuing the Rounds: Follow the radiating heart chart and the color changes as indicated in each round. Remember to always read the chart from right to left. Work each stitch, making sure to keep the unused color yarn inside the stitches to avoid tangling.

Continue working the rounds until you reach Round 44, following the pattern and color changes accordingly. After completing Round 44, continue with Rounds 45 to 49, using only the main color yarn. Once you finish all the rounds, fasten off the yarn and cut it, leaving a long tail for stitching.

Finishing Touches

To finish your radiating heart pillow, use a tapestry needle to stitch the top of the pillow together. Insert the needle through the stitches on both sides, closing the pillow securely. Weave in any loose ends and trim off excess yarn.

Other Pattern Variations

Once you have mastered the radiating heart pillow pattern, you can explore different color combinations, yarn types, and variations. Get creative and experiment with your own unique designs, incorporating different shapes, motifs, or even personalized lettering.

Conclusion

Congratulations on completing your very own radiating heart pillow using the tapestry crochet technique and crochet knit stitch! By following the step-by-step instructions provided, you have not only created a beautiful and cozy pillow but also learned valuable crochet techniques. Express your creativity and adapt this pattern to create more unique crochet projects. Happy crocheting!

Highlights:

• Learn to create a radiating heart pillow using the tapestry crochet technique.
• Incorporate the crochet knit stitch to achieve a knitted appearance.
• Use soft and plush velvet yarn for a cozy feel.
• Explore different color combinations and variations for unique designs.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different yarn weight for this project? A: While we recommend using a medium-weight (size 4) yarn, you can certainly experiment with different yarn weights. Keep in mind that using a different weight may affect the size and appearance of the final project.

Q: How can I adjust the size of the pillow? A: To adjust the size of the pillow, you can either change the number of stitches in the initial chain or use a larger or smaller pillow insert. Keep in mind that altering the size may require adjustments to the number of rounds and stitches in the pattern.

Q: Can I use different colors for the contrast color yarn? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any colors you prefer for the contrast color yarn. Get creative and choose colors that complement your personal style and home decor.

Q: Can I use this pattern to create other crochet projects? A: Yes! The techniques and stitches used in this pattern can be applied to various crochet projects. Let your imagination run wild and adapt the pattern to create unique designs, such as blankets, scarves, or even wall hangings.