It is always a delight to have Debbie Abrahams at the Watermill – especially when her project for the week has a design inspired by her time in Tuscany. So often, people assume only the painters manage to capture a little bit of paradise to take home with them as a memento, but Debbie’s Tuscan cushion shows how memories, intricacies, and creative impetus can find its way from Watermill to a lovely decoration for your sofa.

The Tuscan Cushion

A project inspired by the patterns, colours, and architecture of Posara and The Watermill, this Tuscan cushion brings together different techniques, stitch combinations, and the added joy of beads!

The front panel consists of four panels of two designs. The first, a beaded garter-stitch and stocking-stitch stripe  is reminiscent of the iron work of the gates, fences, and other ornate details in the grounds and surrounding areas. The second design emulates the rich deep hues at the mill: terracotta orange, the purple and green olives served at aperitivo, the endless blue skies, and – our personal favourite – Watermill yellow.

The back panel shows a variation of the striped motif, together with a basket-weave slip stitch pattern which is Debbie’s interpretation of Italian stone walls.

If you would like to knit your own Tuscan cushion, please reach out to Debbie directly at debbieabrahams.com to enquire for the pattern. We are pleased that she will be rejoining us at the Watermill in 2027 – her week is already fully booked but do add yourself to the waiting list and we will let you know as soon as something becomes available for you!