Throws and cushions: home decor knitting projects

Throw or cushion: the warmest knit for your home

The complete guide by Lenny & Louise

If you're looking for a project that's both stylish, cozy, and affordable, you've come to the right place. At Knit-sis, we firmly believe that nothing dresses up a living room like a hand-knitted throw or a soft cushion draped over an armchair. These are the kinds of pieces our grandmothers used to knit to "warm up the house," as she used to say.

Today, we'll explain how to knit your own decorative accessories: techniques, yarns, stitches, sizes… and some modern ideas to create a unique atmosphere.

Why knit a blanket or cushions?

▪️ Because it's a relaxing and regular project.

▪️ Because decorative knitting is accessible to all levels .

▪️ Because it's one of the best ways to give character to your interior.

▪️ And because it's a really wow homemade gift — tested and approved by the whole family.

What yarn should I choose for a throw or cushion?

Secret #1: The bulk is paramount.

For a blanket:

▪️ A thick, chunky or bulky yarn to progress faster and achieve a warm result.

▪️ Soft and durable materials: merino wool, alpaca, wool/acrylic blends.

For cushions:

▪️ A more structured yarn , ideally DK or worsted.

▪️ Fibres that hold their shape well: merino, structured cotton, carded wool.

Knit-sis tip: for a modern and bright interior, opt for muted or natural colors — beige, sage, honey brown, ecru. The perfect combination for a soft decor.

Recommended sizes

▪️ Sofa throw : 120 x 150 cm

▪️ Large bed blanket : 150 x 180 cm

▪️ Square cushion : 40 x 40 cm or 50 x 50 cm

▪️ Rectangular cushion : 30 x 50 cm

You can obviously adapt it to suit your interior — that's the whole advantage of home knitting.

What points should be prioritized?

A throw or cushion doesn't need to be complicated to be beautiful. Here are our tried-and-true favorites:

The garter stitch

Perfect for: beginners, Scandinavian looks, highly textured plaid
Result: fluffy, soft, even

The jersey stitch

Perfect for: modern style, minimalist patterns
The result: smooth, clean, very contemporary

The rice point

Perfect for: structured cushions
Result: subtle, ultra-elegant relief

The twisted knit

Perfect for: adding character
Result: a revisited traditional look, a premium effect

Modern ideas to personalize your decor

Here are our Knit-sis-style “wow factor” suggestions:

1️⃣ XXL blanket made with 10mm needles for a quick chunky finish.

2️⃣ Minimalist two- tone foam stitch cushion, perfect for Nordic interiors.

3️⃣ Giant twist cushion — few twists, lots of impact.

4️⃣ Textured striped blanket : alternate mousse / jersey / rice to create an easy pattern.

Little secret: the more you vary the textures, the more your room will capture the light.

How to prevent a blanket or cushion from losing its shape?

▪️ Block your knitting once, gently.

▪️ Opt for strong seams, especially for cushions.

▪️ For blankets, knit a garter stitch border to prevent curling.

Our aunts had a rule: “A beautiful decorative knit begins with a neat border.”

How long does it take to knit a blanket?

▪️ Chunky blanket in 10–12 mm needles: 1 to 2 weeks

▪️ Standard size blanket using 5–6 mm needles: 3 to 4 weeks

▪️ Cushions: 1 to 3 days , depending on the stitch used

Want to go further? Our recommended patterns based on your style

Here are three perfect patterns for progressing, learning new textures, or knitting matching pieces:

▪️ The Cardichou : ideal for learning raglan sewing — perfect if you want a piece to match your future blanket.

▪️ The Canal Twist sweater : to master cables — excellent before knitting a cable cushion.

▪️ The Tulip vest (retro jacquard) : to try your hand at jacquard and create colorful patterns inspired by vintage decor.

Each pattern helps you progress in a concrete way so that you can then create your own knitted home decor.

Conclusion

A hand-knitted throw or cushion is more than just a decorative accessory: it's a warm piece that tells a story. A story of patience, softness… and family tradition like those we inherited from our grandmother and aunt.

If you dream of transforming your interior with unique, elegant creations made with heart, you have everything you need to get started.

And if you want step-by-step guidance, Knit-sis patterns are there to illuminate every stitch of your project ✨