I used to pack a travel pillow every time I flew, and it always felt like a waste of space. Then I started making my own Travel Pillow on a Circular Knitting Machine, and now I don’t travel without it.
This travel pillow is soft, practical, and designed to be filled with clothes. But what makes this version even better is that it can also hold a light jacket and even transform into a beanie when folded.
It’s one of those projects that looks simple but completely changes how you pack.
Table of Contents
Materials Needed
- Circular knitting machine (Sentro 48 or Addi KingSize)
- Medium weight yarn (approx. 90 to 110 grams)
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Crochet hook 4.5 mm (for the drawstring round)
- Yarn for drawstring
Finished Size of the Travel Pillow on a Circular Knitting Machine
Approximate length: 62 to 70 cm
Width: 25 flat
Gauge: 4″or 10 cm = 19 rows and 14 stitches
How the Travel Pillow on a Circular Knitting Machine Works
How to Make the Beanie
You’ll knit a single-layer tube, then close both ends using a drawstring system.
Cast on all needles of your Sentro or Addi knitting machine using waste yarn on the beginning and make 4 rows. Change the yarn to your color of choice and make 124 rows.
Remove the yarn and make a full rows to release the stitches of the needles, use another color yarn and a tapestry needle to remove and secure the live loops. Keep the yarn attached to bind off the stitches.
How to bind off the stitches
With the same yarn you left attached bind off the stitches with a crochet hook, slip stitch through each one of the live stitches and finish the round with a slip stitch in the first stitch.
Work a crochet round around the opening to create spaces for the drawstring.
Make 3 chains, this counts as your first double crochet.
Skip the next stitch, then work 1 double crochet into the following stitch, chain 1, and skip one stitch again.
Repeat this sequence all the way around the edge.
When you reach the end, finish with a slip stitch into the second chain at the beginning of the round. This creates small openings evenly spaced around the edge, perfect for threading your drawstring through.
Repeat the same process on the other end. Once both sides are finished, you can remove the waste yarn from your bind off edge and insert your drawstrings.
To make the drawstrings use 2 strands of yarn and make 70 CHs.
How to Use the Travel Pillow
Instead of packing a bulky pillow, simply fill Travel Pillow on a Circular Knitting Machine with:
- T-shirts
- Leggings
- Light sweaters
- Even a jacket (it makes the pillow more soft)
Once filled, it becomes a soft and supportive travel pillow.
When it’s empty, you can fold the tube inward and shape it into a beanie. It’s such a fun and unexpected transformation, and honestly perfect for travel days.
Conclusion
For me, the Travel Pillow on a Circular Knitting Machine is the kind of project that truly brings together creativity and function. It’s simple to make on a Sentro 48 or Addi KingSize, but the result feels thoughtful and versatile. You’re not just making another knitting machine tube project, you’re creating a space saving travel solution that adapts to real life.
What I love most is how this stuffable travel pillow turns everyday items like clothes into something useful and comfortable. It changes the way you pack, saves space, and still gives you the softness you want in a travel accessory. And with the added option to transform it into a beanie, it becomes even more practical.
If you enjoy circular knitting machine projects that are quick, useful, and a little bit unexpected, this is definitely one to keep in your rotation.
Watch the Full Tutorial here!
FAQs
What is a stuffable travel pillow?
A stuffable travel pillow is a pillow you can fill with clothes instead of traditional stuffing. It helps save space in your luggage while still giving you neck support.
Can I make a Travel Pillow on a Sentro 48 knitting machine?
Yes, this project works perfectly on a Sentro 48 or Addi KingSize circular knitting machine. You simply knit a tube and finish it with drawstring closures. If you are making for a man I suggest using a Sentro 48 because it will make a bigger beanie for better fitting.
How many rows do I need for a circular knitting machine travel pillow?
For this version, 124 rows gives a comfortable length to wear around the neck while still allowing room for clothes inside.
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Hi! I’m Fabiana, a crochet and knitwear designer with a passion for creating beautiful, functional pieces. I love experimenting with textures, colors, and patterns to craft everything from cozy sweaters to crochet tops and swimwear. On my YouTube channel, I share tutorials, tips, and behind-the-scenes looks at my design process. Crochet and knitting are more than hobbies, they’re my way of life.
Thanks for getting to know me!
Happy knitting!
