Introduction
The Swallowtail Pillow is a testament to the beauty that can be achieved through the art of crochet. With its intricate design inspired by the graceful curves of a swallowtail butterfly's wings, this pillow isn't just a home accessory—it's a statement piece that showcases your crochet skills and artistic vision.
In this comprehensive guide, I'll walk you through creating your own Swallowtail Pillow, from materials to finishing touches. Whether you're an experienced crocheter looking for your next challenge or an ambitious intermediate ready to level up, this project offers both satisfaction and stunning results.
Materials
- Yarn: 4½ skeins of sport weight microfiber acrylic (241 yards per 3.53 oz / 220 meters per 100g)
- Hooks: Size G (4mm) and 3mm crochet hooks
- Notions:
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Stitch markers
- Scissors
- Pillow form (18" × 18" recommended)
- Optional: Buttons for closure
Skill Level
Intermediate to Advanced
Gauge
7 sc and 8 rows = 1 inch with 4mm hook
Abbreviations
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- hdc = half double crochet
- tr = treble crochet
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- sl st = slip stitch
- sk = skip
- rep = repeat
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side
Detailed Instructions
Foundation and Front Panel
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Creating the Base:
- With your 4mm hook, ch 131 (for an 18" pillow).
- Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. (130 sc)
- Row 2: Ch 1 (does not count as st), turn, sc in each sc across.
- Rows 3-10: Repeat Row 2.
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Beginning the Swallowtail Pattern:
- Row 11: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, dc in next 5 sts, *ch 2, sk 2 sts, dc in next 6 sts; rep from * across to last 6 sts, dc in last 6 sts.
- Row 12: Ch 1, turn, sc in each dc and 2 sc in each ch-2 sp across.
- Row 13: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, dc in next 2 sts, *ch 2, sk 2 sts, dc in next 3 sts; rep from * across to last 3 sts, dc in last 3 sts.
- Row 14: Repeat Row 12.
-
Creating the Wing Effect:
- Row 15: Ch 4 (counts as tr), turn, tr in next st, *ch 3, sk 3 sts, tr in next 2 sts; rep from * across to end.
- Row 16: Ch 1, turn, sc in each tr and 3 sc in each ch-3 sp across.
- Row 17: Ch 4 (counts as tr), turn, *ch 3, sk 3 sts, tr in next st; rep from * across to last 4 sts, ch 3, sk 3 sts, tr in last st.
- Row 18: Ch 1, turn, sc in each tr and 3 sc in each ch-3 sp across.
-
Center Pattern:
- Rows 19-30: Work the distinctive center pattern that gives the swallowtail its characteristic shape.
- Row 19: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn, dc in next 2 sts, *ch 1, sk 1 st, dc in next 3 sts; rep from * across to end.
- Row 20: Ch 1, turn, sc in each dc and 1 sc in each ch-1 sp across.
- Rows 21-30: Continue alternating between open mesh and solid rows to create texture and depth.
-
Mirror Pattern for Second Half:
- Rows 31-48: Mirror the pattern worked in rows 18-1, creating symmetry for the swallowtail design.
Back Panels (Overlapping Closure)
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First Back Panel:
- With 4mm hook, ch 131.
- Work in sc for 35 rows.
- For button placket (optional): On final row, work buttonholes evenly spaced.
-
Second Back Panel:
- Work as for first panel, without buttonholes.
- On final row (if using buttons), work a row of sc to reinforce for button attachment.
Assembly
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Blocking:
- Lightly steam or wet block all panels to measurements before assembly.
- Allow to dry completely.
-
Joining:
- Place front panel with RS facing up.
- Position back panels on top with WS facing up, overlapping at center.
- Pin in place.
-
Seaming:
- With 3mm hook and using sc, join around all four edges.
- Work 3 sc in each corner for smooth turning.
- When complete, sl st to first sc and fasten off.
-
Finishing:
- If using buttons, sew them onto the appropriate back panel.
- Weave in all ends.
- Insert pillow form through the back panel opening.
Special Techniques
Raised Stitch Work (Rows 23-28)
The elegant texture of the Swallowtail Pillow comes from working raised stitches that create a dimensional effect:
-
Front Post Double Crochet (FPDC):
- Yarn over, insert hook from front to back around post of indicated stitch below, yarn over and pull up a loop, complete as for standard dc.
-
Back Post Double Crochet (BPDC):
- Yarn over, insert hook from back to front around post of indicated stitch below, yarn over and pull up a loop, complete as for standard dc.
Wing Edge Detail (Rows 15-18 and 31-34)
The delicate "wings" of the swallowtail are created through strategic chain spaces and treble crochets:
- Chain Space Fan:
- Work 3 sc into each ch-3 space, creating a gentle scalloped edge.
- Maintain tension carefully here to prevent curling.
Care Instructions
- Hand wash in cool water with mild detergent.
- Lay flat to dry.
- If using a pillow form that requires washing, ensure the cover can be removed through the back panel opening.
Customization Ideas
- Color Variations: Try ombré effects by changing colors gradually throughout the design.
- Size Adjustments: Adjust starting chain in multiples of 6 + 1 for different sized pillows.
- Texture Variations: Experiment with different raised stitches for unique texture patterns.
- Edging Options: Add a picot or shell edging for extra decorative flair.
Conclusion
The Swallowtail Pillow represents the perfect harmony between function and art. As you work through each row, watching the butterfly-inspired design emerge, you'll experience the true joy of crochet—creating something both beautiful and useful.
This project might require concentration and patience, but the resulting heirloom-quality piece will become a treasured part of your home décor or make an impressive gift for someone special.
Happy crocheting!
Designer's Note: The Swallowtail Pillow was created using 4½ skeins of sport weight microfiber acrylic (241 yards per 3.53 oz / 220 meters per 100g) with size G (4mm) and 3mm hooks. Feel free to substitute with similar weight yarns, keeping in mind that changes in materials may affect the final dimensions and drape of your project.
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