In 2009 I debuted my first colourwork pattern, Nightingale. Ever since I’ve wished to return to the theme and work something else with a version of that chart. Recently, the right idea struck me and I set about creating a damask-like variant of Nightingale that is more suited to larger projects.

In addition to the chart used to construct the Nightingale Dreams pillow, I’ve included charts of portions of the design and of a series of small, filler motifs so that you can adapt the Nightingale theme yourself.

Nightingale Dreams is not a beginners pattern. It assumes you are familiar with stranded knitting techniques, and steeking.

To complete the pillow you also need to be confident with a sewing machine and basic sewing construction. It is assumed you know how to insert a zip into fabric and complete basic seaming tasks.

Materials

• 1 skein of Vintage Purls Sock yarn in foreground colour (100g/380m).
• 1 skein of Vintage Purls Sock yarn in background colour (100g/380m).
• 2.25mm 40cm long circular needle or size that allows you to match gauge.
• 3.50mm needle for casting off. This can be any kind of needle (circular, straight, etc.), or even just an interchangeable needle tip.
• 4 stitch markers.
• Backing fabric. The model used courdroy. A heavy velvet is also a good choice.
• Zip (optional but recommended). You can make a pillow without a zip but using one allows you to remove the insert and clean your pillow. The model used a 40cm zip.
• Fabric and stuffing for insert or purchased cushion insert. Calico is a good choice if you are making your own.
• Matching sewing threads.

This pattern debuted as instalment two in the Vintage Purls Winter Warm-Up 2015 club.