This pillow is knit flat for the plain portions and in the round for the stranded portion. Since it involves steeking and stranded colorwork, some familiarity with both is recommended. Other intermediate/advanced aspects of the pattern are a provisional cast-on, hem, and buttonholes.

No brand of yarn is specified, but wool is highly recommended since there’s a steek.

The chart is written for use with 7 different colors and a background color--since small amounts are needed, it’s a great way to use up leftover yarn. A self-striping yarn could also be used, which would lessen the number of yarn changes. If you’re not a fan of colorwork, you can knit the whole thing flat (omitting the steek stitches) and follow the chart for a monochromatic textured design using knit and purl stitches.