Innholdsfortegnelse for April 2021 i Simply Knitting

We realise the news might not be too cheerful at the moment, but it doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate Easter with bells on this year — after all, spring is valiantly pushing through, so we think it’s time to rethink that wardrobe and brighten up your home! Luckily for you, we have a dedicated Easter section, filled with some delightful knits for baby and the home, alongside a few tips on how to boost your Easter activities this year. If bunnies feature heavily on your Easter list, flip over to Jane Burns’ latest kid’s knit (p25) — her characterful jumpers always seem to raise a smile and this one certainly has that Easter vibe going on. One of my favourite knits this month is the gorgeous loop cardigan by exciting…

FUN NEW SKILL IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ King Cole Timeless Chunky (90% acrylic, 10% alpaca, 100g/155m) 4 balls of Yarn A Parchment (2919), 1 ball of Yarn B Harvest (2921), 1 ball of Yarn C Peppercorn (2913) □ 1 pair of 6.5mm needles □ A 6.5mm crochet hook TENSION 15 sts and 20 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using6.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Length 195cm (76¾in) Width 40cm (15¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact King Cole on 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com OR YOU COULD TRY… □ Delta Wool Shop 01772 456535 or www.deltawoolshop.co.uk □ Nimble Thimbles 07799 605045 or www.nimblethimbles.co.uk TOP TIP Knitting patterns often have detail worked in crochet, but you don’t really need to be…

COLOURFUL COTTAGES My grandchildren asked me to make these adorable little cottages. The original inspiration for these projects was actually from a tea cosy pattern. I managed to modify the pattern to make them into complete houses. I have to thank my husband for the internal construction, made out of foam card, to prevent them being crushed when the grandchildren picked them up. I thought that would be a sturdier option to hold the cottage in place rather than toy stuffing. It was a lot of fun making them knowing they would get so much pleasure playing in their imaginary world! Jen Lawrence, via email I just love your wonderful cottages! What a brilliant idea to add some foam card to create a 3D-effect Our star letter writer wins a…

There’s a saying that you might know – “There’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing”. There are various forms of the saying and it’s been attributed to various people from various countries (I first heard it uttered by the comedian Billy Connolly), but I suspect that the real person behind it was a knitter, and someone who knew the value of appropriate clothing for every occasion, at that. THE RIGHT STUFF Need an elegant wrap for a cool evening or a wedding? Here’s a shawl I made earlier. Off for a walk through the snowy fields in minus degree weather? You’ll need this cosy jumper, and don’t forget your woolly socks and hat! Small children wanting to make snowmen? Have a selection of mittens (with or without…

Hello knitters… …we’re so excited to be inviting you into our special Easter section this issue, where we celebrate all things pretty, pastel and gorgeously fun! There’s nothing like the longer, brighter days, spring flowers blooming and baby lambs frolicking in the fields to put a bit of joy in our hearts. For some, spring is their favourite season and Easter a huge celebration of all that is glorious about it! In recognition of this wonderful time we bring you a basket-full of Easter goodies! As you embark on your own Easter-knit treasure hunt this issue you’ll find the sweetest lamb hat from designer Angela Turner, knitted in a pretty fleece-like K2, P2 pattern, and finished with floppy ears — it makes the perfect Easter warmer for baby. Next up,…

Waster special! Fun, springtime knits for the family IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ DK yarn from your stash □ A pair of 3mm needles □ Toy stuffing TENSION 24 sts and 34 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using3mm needles MEASUREMENTS 9cm (3½in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 TOP TIP Make sure your eggs are the perfect egg shape by working a tension square before you start knitting. As DK yarns can come in slightly different weights themselves, try and use yarns from the same brand if you possibly can. EASTER EGGS WIDE STRIPED EGG Cast on 12 sts using 3mm needles and blue yarn. Row 1 (and every alt row) Purl. Next row (K1, inc in next st) to end. [18 sts] Next…

CAST ON OUR KAL Collect all four parts to create this sweet nursery blanket Knitting for baby IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED For the entire blanket: g □ Cygnet DK (100% acrylic, 100g/298m) 2 balls of Yarn A Cloud (2033) 1 ball of each: Yarn B Apple (6711) Yarn C Sunshine (0184) Yarn D White (0208) Yarn E Black (0217) Yarn F Daffodil (0145) Yarn G Flash (0159) Yarn H Kiwi (0303) Yarn I Buttercream (0161) Yarn J Mocha (0432) Yarn L Chiffon (0709) Yarn M Beige (0240) Yarn N Chocolate (2297) □ Cygnet Little Ones DK (100% acrylic, 25g/66m), 1 ball of Yarn O Very Apricot (0784) □ A pair of 4mm needles □ A stitch holder TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st…

The past year has brought a sense of community and togetherness to the world, particularly within the crafting community. One such heartwarming project is the Tree of Hope, created by Duston Parish Council and their surrounding community. The Tree of Hope is the culmination of a project created during lockdown last year. Made up of individual components, lovingly crafted by many local residents of Duston, Northampton, it also serves to represent and celebrate the wonderful community who pulled together and remained strong during challenging times. “It is intended to symbolise strength and renewed hope for the future,” Alison Grantham, Community Development Manager for Duston Parish Council tells us. The project was inspired by the response from the community to the Parish’s appeal to knit poppies back in 2018 to commemorate…

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Rowan Alpaca Classic (DK, 57% alpaca, 43% cotton, 25g/120m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ A pair of 3.75mm needles □ Stitch markers □ Stitch holders □ 1 button, 2cm wide TENSION 23 sts and 36 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over loop stitch pattern using 3.75mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 LOOP STITCH 1 Put the right-hand needle into the stitch and wrap the yarn around as if to knit it. 2 Bring the yarn back towards you and wrap it around your thumb and then back to knitting position. You have a loop on the right side of the fabric. 3 Knit into the back of the stitch. You…

1 STYLECRAFT AMOR Inspired by the natural world around us, this aran weight yarn delivers a little luxury in every stitch. Once knitted, your fabric is incredibly light and bouncy, a result that’ll flatter any pattern you opt for. Manufactured with a 40% twist of superwash wool, the feel to this yarn is soft but rippled, knitting up into a featherlight drape that’ll add a touch of swing to your garments and accessories. The colour above is Pebble, but variegated fans will also fall for the other shades in the range, such as Berry, Heather and Meadow. RRP £4.50 WEIGHT Aran BALL 100g/240m NEEDLE 5mm CONTENT 60% premium acrylic, 40% superwash wool CARE Machine wash 30°C, cool tumble dry For stockists visit www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk To buy try www.blacksheepwools.com or 01925 764231…

Maxine Carter, Farm Manager at The Donkey Sanctuary Sidmouth Charity The Donkey Sanctuary Established 1969 What do you do? I am the Manager of Slade House Farm at The Donkey Sanctuary’s international headquarters in Sidmouth, Devon. I work with a team of 22 dedicated grooms and together we care for 248 donkeys. The donkeys range in sizes from Mediterranean miniature donkeys, to the very large, long haired Poitou donkeys. Latest fundraising news As a charity that relies solely on donations, during normal times, we encourage supporters to come and meet our resident donkeys and learn about our work; both here in the UK and internationally too. This means I am often speaking with visitors and explaining to them why donkeys matter. Across the globe, entire communities rely on donkeys to support…

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Oatmeal (0964) Yarn B Pink (0992) Yarn C Black (0965) Yarn D Silver Mist (0678) Yarn E Sunflower (0978) □ A pair of 3.5mm needles □ Closed zip, 18cm long □ Pins, sewing needle and cotton thread to sew in the zip □ Plastic mesh or cardboard to strengthen (optional) TENSION 24 sts and 31 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 32x7cm (12½x2¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists visit www.sirdar.com OR YOU COULD TRY… □ Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 or www.woolwarehouse.co.uk □ Knitwell Wools 01274 722290 or www.knitwell.co.uk PENCIL CASE Note Use the cable…

KITCHENER STITCH The best way to graft your sock toes together Arrange your stitches so that the ones for the top of the foot are on one needle, and those for the bottom of the foot are on the other, with both needle tips pointing to the right. Cut a 40cm (15¾in) tail of yarn and thread onto a tapestry needle. Using your needle, thread the tail purlwise through the first stitch on the front needle, and then knitwise through the first stitch on the back needle. *Thread tail knitwise through the first stitch on the front needle and drop off the needle. Thread the tail purlwise through the new first stitch on the needle closest to you. Thread the tail purlwise through the first stitch on the needle furthest…

Are you looking for a new, exciting stitch pattern to try? The double moss stitch and reverse stocking stitch triangles included in this pattern make the stocking stitch zigzags pop off the surface of this yarn swatch, creating a satsfying textured finish. This 16-row pattern would create a delightful two-sided project, like a scarf or shawl. Cast on a multiple of 10 sts (try 30 sts). Row 1 (RS) (K1, P1) 4 more times. Row 2 (P1, K1) 4 more times. Row 3 K2, (P1, K1) 3 more times. Row 4 (P1, K1) 3 more times, P2. Row 5 K3, P1, K1, P1, K1, P1, K2 Row 6 P2, K1, P1, K1, P1, K1, P3. Row 7 K4, P1, K1, P1, K3. Row 8 P3, K1, P1, K1, P4. Row…

SWEATER Something magical happens when you add hot fashion details to a classic design. Check out this cool update on the classic striped sweater – now with chevron stripes. The colours are a glorious combination of chalk with marine blue and burgundy. This sweater is knitted in a fine merino wool yarn. 15 32-50 Yarn: Merino Extrafine 120 Design: Rita MaaBen CARDIGAN WITH STRIPES Why not make a child really happy? Knit this cardigan in fisherman’s rib with three pretty stripes worked in lovely merino wool. Eye-catching star-shaped buttons perfect the look. 06 104-134 Yarn: Merino Extrafine 120 Design: Rita Maaßen SOCKS Nothing in the world beats hand-knitted socks! These cosy socks are made in wool with a stylish modern graphic pattern in colours that are sure to make you…

YOUR COLOURFUL HOME Boost plain walls, and your everyday mojo, with this passionate pop of colour from Lovecrafts. Their Colourful Home pattern collection is knitted in Paintbox yarns and includes a blanket, cushion, bath mat and wall hanging. All the patterns are free downloads too! Discover more at www.lovecrafts.com/en-gb/c/article/the-new-homewares-you-need-in-2021. Editor’s choice This issue’s knitting must-buys and news chosen by SK Editor, Kirstie McLeod Teal Flower Cushion Pattern Gift Horse Kits’ chunky yarn cushion pattern is knitted flat and adds floral decoration to both ends of sofa, and your armchairs too! Pattern £4, www.notonthehightstreet.com Stylecraft You & Me Collection New to Stylecraft is You & Me DK yarn (£4.95 for 100g) – a variegated Fair Isle yarn that does all the hard colourwork for you. It comes with six You &…

all the BEST KNIT ideas! A little luxury ROWAN MOOREDALE COLLECTION 2 We love it when Rowan bring out a new collection, and with this launch we’re treated to 15 stunning patterns in Moordale yarn by Martin Storey. Downloadable as a full collection, or as individual patterns, we’ve fallen for the easy-to-knit-and-wear Howe sweater. Rowan Moordale Collection 2 is downloadable for £9.50, or £4 for individual patterns Your next big knit? HAYFIELD JOURNEY DK YARN If you prefer your variegated yarn soft and subtly coloured then Hayfield Journey could be just what you’re looking for. Made from hardwearing acrylic and available in 10 gentle shades, from Autumn Gold to Wild Meadow, it’s a versatile option with a whopping 355m per 100g ball! Hayfield Journey DK, RRP £3.99, now £2.95 per…

Exciting to knit! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ King Cole Big Value DK (100% premium acrylic, 50g/145m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ King Cole Truffle (100% polyamide, 100g/180m) 1 ball Yarn C Coconut (4365) □ Oddments of Dark Grey, Lavender and Yellow DK yarn □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ A pair of 4mm needles □ A set of 3.25mm circular needles, 40cm long, for neck (optional) □ Stitch markers □ Stitch holder TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 If you’re having trouble finding King Cole Truffle Coconut, Truffle Vanilla makes a reasonable substitute WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact King Cole on…

MADE WITH MUCH LOVE Linda knitted this jolly jumper for a special little someone. The pretty baby pattern is from issue 201 by Monica Russel. Linda Connolly via email FANCY FLAMINGO Here is Sheila’s granddaughter, Laila, modelling the flamingo jumper from issue 200 by Jane Burns. She says it was a joy to make and easy to knit. Sheila Claire via email PURRFECT SWEATER Jean’s nine-year-old granddaughter designed this jumper and then asked ‘nonna’ to knit it! She’s very pleased with the finished project! Jean Rogers Italy…

Socks — plain, stripy or fancy! Glenys Lawrence, via Facebook For me, it would have to be a cotton sweater. Cotton to show a bit of optimism about the changing weather, but a sweater because I do live in England and it’s probably best not to get my hopes up weather-wise! Elisabeth Jessica Seager, via Facebook My perfect spring project is a pretty shawl Darlene Krystal, via Facebook Baby items and toys are my favourite projects to start knitting during spring. However, I am not adverse to the odd jumper, if I love the pattern Sharon Bryce, via Facebook I love knitting all sorts of cosy little garments for my grandson all year through! Julie Hayday, via Facebook I enjoy making flowers and birds with a variety of fabrics and…

NOT TOO TRICKY! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Debbie Bliss Rialto DK (100% Merino wool, 50g/105m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 4mm needles □ A 4mm circular needle, 80cm long □ A 4mm circular needle, 60cm long □ Stitch holders TENSION 23 sts and 29 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY □ LoveCrafts 01409 404010 or www.lovecrafts.com TOP TIP Merino wool has beautiful properties, including a neat and tidy stitch definition and a certain hardiness, giving your garments extra long life. FIND YOUR SIZE ROLL-NECK TUNIC Note When taking length measurements, extend the width of the piece first, so you can clearly see the purl st between the…

Easter special! Fun, springtime knits for the family IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ MillaMia Naturally Soft Merino (sport weight, 100% merino wool, 50g/125m) 1 ball each of Ice (125) Pitch Black (100) Storm (102) □ A pair of 2.75mm needles □ A pair of 3.25mm needles TENSION 28 sts and 36 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit 3-6 months Hat circumference 25½cm (14in) at brim ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY □ LoveCrafts 01409 404010 or www.lovecrafts.com 15% off! LoveCrafts are offering 15% off MillaMia Naturally Soft Merino! Quote code SIMPLY15 when you order. To place your order call 01409 404010 or visit www.lovecrafts.com. Offer ends 7 April 2021. KID’S LAMB HAT MAIN HAT Beginning at base,…

GREAT GIFT idea! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Rowan Big Wool (100% wool, 100g/80m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Aurora Pink (084) Yarn B Yoke (078) □ A pair of 10mm needles □ Lining fabric, 38x63cm (15¼x13½in) □ Sewing needle and matching thread □ Faux leather handles □ Pompom maker TENSION 9 sts and 12 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st chevron pattern using10mm needles MEASUREMENTS Width 35cm (13¾in)Depth 30cm (12in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Rowan on 01484 668200 or www.knitrowan.com OR YOU COULD TRY… □ Black Sheep Wools 01925 764231 or www. blacksheepwools.com □ Colourway 01994 241333 or www.colourway.co.uk 10% off! Black Sheep Wools are offering 10% off Rowan Big Wool! Quote code BIG209…

WHAT’S THE WORD? ACROSS: 1 Down payment (7) 5 Large woollen covering (7) 9 Excuse to avoid being accused of a crime (5) 10 Translucent ceramic material (9) 11 Alien craft (1, 1, 1) 12 Join two knitted pieces (5) 13 Talent (5) 14 Extreme pain (5) 16 Money demanded by a kidnapper (6) 18 Mischievous scamp (6) 19 Lukewarm (5) 22 One who does not eat or use animal products (5) 24 Wine remnants (5) 26 Line of knitting (3) 27 First year of primary school (9) 29 Baking ingredient (5) 30 Country’s system of finances and trade (7) 31 Fan-shaped shellfish (7) DOWN: 1 Notorious vampire (7) 2 Toxic (9) 3 Broken arm support (5) 4 Monopoly playing piece (3,3) 5 French headwear (5) 6 Primate (3) 7…

Debbie Bliss Knitwear Designer Famed for her effortlessly stylish knit creations and extensive knowledge of knitting. Kirstie McLeod Editor Queen of socks and gadget hoarder, Kirstie has many years of knitting knowledge to share. Jen Bartlett Technical Editor Stitch expert and technical whizz, Jen likes to tackle the trickiest of knitting problems. Sophie Jordan Deputy Editor Product expert and Fair Isle fanatic, Sophie loves talking about the latest trends and cool colour combos. QUESTION OF THE MONTH BUSINESS TALK Q I’ve toyed with the idea of starting my own knitting business, do you have any tips on how to make it work? Deb, Manchester First of all, you need to acknowledge that you are unlikely to be able to knit fast enough to make it profitable charging high street prices…

In association with the Keep Yarn on our Streets campaign A KNITTER’S GUIDE TO... Berkshire This beautiful county in the South East is graced with glorious countryside and a bustling centre... YARN FEST Currently online only The Old Telephone Exchange, Long Lane, Hermitage RG18 9Q This bricks and mortar yarn shop offers an online shopping service. You will find plenty of lovely yarns, kits and accessories at Yarn Fest. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for upcoming courses that might be held in store later this year. For more visit www.yarnfest.co.uk. You can email eshop@yarnfest.co.uk, or call 01635 201660 THE BARN YARN Store currently closed but online and postal orders running Moss End Garden Village, Maidenhead Road, Warfield, Bracknell RG42 6EJ This local yarn shop is packed with a plethora of yarn…

Tell us about Skein Queen... I’m a passionate knitter and I’ve owned Skein Queen since April 2019. We are based in a small studio in Berkshire and we are passionate about dyeing beautiful yarns. Our colour inspiration comes from the world around us and our imagination and we love creating new colourways as well as dyeing our range of repeatable colourways for yarn stores and customers. You can find our yarns on our website and in several small local yarn shops (LYS) around the world. What can knitters find at your (online) shop? We stock a wide range of high-quality bases including silk and cashmere yarns and blends in weights from lace weight to chunky. We are particularly proud of our range of 100% British yarns which are custom spun…

GREAT GIFT idea! EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED □ Cascade 220 Superwash Aran (100% superwash Merino wool, 100g/137m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 4.5mm needles □ Stitch makers □ 4 buttons TENSION 27 sts and 29.5 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) unstretched over patt using 4.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 If you’re having trouble finding shade Sunflower, Straw (4010) and Goldenrod (7827) may make suitable alternatives. 15% off! LoveCrafts are offering 15% off Cascade 220 Superwash Aran! Quote code SIMPLY15 when you order. To place your order call 01409 404010 or visit www.lovecrafts.com. Offer ends 7 April 2021. WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists visit Cascade at www.cascadeyarns.com OR YOU COULD TRY… □ LoveCrafts 01409 404010 or…

ISSUE 208 MARCH * Heart jumper * Cottage toy * Llama jumper & bag * Moss stitch cardi * Chevron hat * Lace scarf * Baby blanket KAL * Men’s cable jumper * Pocket bag * Hot water bottle cover * Baby bootees Colour block cardi PLUS! Burda Knitting mag & Baby Knits booklet ISSUE 207 FEBRUARY * Cable jumper * Baby cardi * Fair Isle KAL (final part) * Tablet bean bag * Basketweave cardi * Polar bear toy * Textured poncho * Fun fox scarf * Geometric cushion * Rowan reverse blanket * Striped kid’s jumper * Variegated bobble hat PLUS! Winter Essentials pattern booklet ISSUE 206 JANUARY * Lace jumper * Kid’s dachshund cardi * Fair Isle KAL (pt3) * Zigzag striped scarf * Reindeer hat *…

07 36-46 Yarn: Silkhair 02 Yarn: 50 Mohair Shades katia 01 Yarn: Rico Super 100 09 128-146 Yarn: Brigitte No. 2 10 Yarn: Brigitte No. 2 08 36-46 Yarn: Cool Wool Big Melange instagram.com/burdaknittingmag 01 Headband and infinity scarf From page 17 Size: Headband: Approx 10 cm wide and 50 cm all round head Loop: Approx 18 cm wide and 120 cm all round Material: Rico Super 100. Content: 100% virgin wool. 50 g = 170 m. Headband: 1 ball - col 017 Ivy Scarf: 2 balls - col 017 Ivy Needles: Size 3½ and 4 mm Cable needle Stitch markers Tension: 21 sts and 29 rows to 10 cm, over stocking stitch on 4 mm needles. Check your tension - if less stitches use thinner needles, if more use…

McIntosh CALM Available from www.knitmackintosh.com in four colour groups, Pastels, Bolds, Neutrals and Vivids, new DK yarn Calm is a great mix of cashmere and merino wool (50g for £25) Novita Woolly Wood, £7.50 for 100g The first yarn in Novita’s Earth Collection, this more sustainable choice is made up of Tencel Modal and Merino wool and is designed to bring out the beauty in every stitch! Visit www.novitaknits.com for stockists Rico Fashion Light Luxury, £6.50 for 50g You can’t fail to love the charms of Rico’s newest yarn. A soft mix of alpaca and wool, it knits up beautifully on 6-7mm needles! Visit www.rico-design.de for stockists…

Get the LOOK page 19 just for you! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED ■ Cascade 220 Superwash DK (100% wool, 100g/200m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ■ A pair 3.25mm needles ■ A pair 4mm needles ■ Stitch holders TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY ■ For yarn stockists visit www.cascadeyarns.com OR YOU COULD TRY… ■ LoveCrafts 01409 404010 or www.lovecrafts.com ■ Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 or www.woolwarehouse.co.uk 15% off! LoveCrafts are offering 15% off Cascade 2020 Superwash DK! Quote offer code SIMPLY15 when you order. To place your order call 01409 404010 or visit www.lovecrafts.com. Offer ends 7 April 2021. FIND YOUR SIZE SIZING COLOUR…

DICKORY DOCK This is my latest finished project from your fabulous magazine! It’s an Alan Dart design. Do you like it?! I haven’t missed a single copy of Simply Knitting in many years, and always look forward to your next issue! Mary Crowley, Co Cork, Ireland Wow, brilliant work Mary! SPECIAL GIFT I just wanted to thank you, as a recent subscriber to Simply Knitting, for the baby cardigan pattern by designer Monica Russel you featured in Issue 201. I decided to give it a go using some Stylecraft Classique cotton yarn from my stash. Annoyingly, I ran out of red to do the collar, but undeterred, I improvised with black and some ladybird buttons. Now that it’s finished, it will fly away to my Granddaughter in Seattle! Erica James,…

COMMUNITY SUPPORT Lockdown has provided some much needed time to have a good sort through my yarn stash, and use up some spare skeins on a special project. Here are some of my ‘Thank you NHS’ bears. Margaret Scanlon, via email It’s lovely to see the community knitting that has been going on recently. Your bears are beautiful, and I love the pretty pastel shades! Our letter writer wins a fab gift voucher from retailer Black Sheep Wools worth £15! £15 GIFT CARD *Prizes subject to change…

We love hearing from our readers so don’t delay, pop up a post on Facebook, tweet us on Twitter, tag us on Instagram, follow us on Pinterest, add to our Ravelry Finished Projects Board, drop us an email or post us a letter! Here are all the details you need: WRITE TO US Stay in Touch, Simply Knitting magazine, Immediate Media Co, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST. EMAIL US simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk (or for subscription queries visit www.buysubscriptions.com/contactus) FIND US AND FOLLOW US Facebook.com/simplyknitting @SimplyKnitMag ravelry.com/groups/simply-knitting-magazine @simplyknittingmag www.pinterest.com/simplyknitmag…

THE BASICS You’ll need most of these goodies to get your hobby started! 1 Straight needle set Ok, so you don’t need a complete set of straight needles immediately, a few pairs of needles will do at first, but a complete set like this makes the perfect birthday gift, and sets you off on the right foot! Lykke 35cm Indigo Straight Needle Set, £149.99 2 Organiser Many knitters start by jotting notes around the edge of the pattern, but having your own organiser means you can keep your patterns clean and stay one step ahead! www.popcornandcrocodiles.co.uk, £21 3 Stitch holders If you need to hold stitches from your knitted shoulders or neckline, stitch holders are your best friend. In most cases you can knit straight from them too! 4 Needle…

Easter special! Fun, springtime knits for the family IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ King Cole Big Value Baby 4ply (100% acrylic, 100g/400m) 1 ball each of: Yarn A Cream (046) Yarn B Pebble (1681) Yarn C Primrose (003) Yarn D Fuchsia (1679) □ A pair of 2.75mm needles □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ Toy stuffing □ Oddment of DK yarn in black □ Oddment of 4ply yarn in orange (for chick) □ Pompom maker (for bunny) □ Tapestry needle TENSION 27 sts and 36 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit sizes 0-6 (6-12: 12-18) mths Finished length 8 (9.5: 11)cm, 3 (3¾: 4¼)in ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact King…

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Rico Design Essentials Mega Wool Tweed Chunky (55% wool, 40% arcylic, 5% viscose, 100g/125m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 5.5mm needles □ A pair of 6mm needles □ 4 split ring markers □ Cable needle TENSION 14sts and 22 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over Cable Pattern using6mm needles 14sts and 19 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using6mm needles ABBREVIATIONS T3F Slip 2 sts onto a cable needle and hold at the front, P1, then K2 from the cable needle T3B Slip 1 st onto a cable needle and hold at the back, K2, then P1 from the cable needle C5B Slip 3 sts onto a cable needle and hold at the back, K2, then…

TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ Paintbox Simply DK (100% acrylic, 100g/276m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Washed Teal (132) Yarn B Champagne White (102) Yarn C Granite Grey (106) Yarn D Slate Green (126) Yarn E Soft Fudge (109) Yarn F Mustard Yellow (123) Yarn G Racing Green (127) Yarn quantities given will make 4 placemats and 4 coasters □ A pair of 4mm needles □ 4mm crochet hook for crochet cast-on (optional) □ Yarn bobbins, 20 (optional) TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Place mat 22.5x29.5cm (8¾x11½in) Coaster 10x10cm (4x4in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY □ LoveCrafts 01409 404010 or www.lovecrafts.com STEP-BY-STEP CROCHET CAST ON 1 Make a slip knot…

DEBBIE BLISS… SUSS THE SIZE Q I’m planning on starting my first project with DPNs but cannot work out which size I need. How can I gauge the correct needle size? Joanna, via email The required needle size will be determined by the weight of the yarn that you are using. So in this instance of using DPNs, it would be the same method of gauging as when using standard needles. Debbie Did you know...? If you’re struggling to get your required tension, don’t try and knit tighter or looser thank normal — it’s impossible to maintain a way of knitting — simply adjust the needle size up or down until you reach tension. BEGINNER’S LUCK Q Please help! I am overwhelmed by so many projects, what do you recommend…

TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ Jamieson and Smith 2ply Jumper Weight (100% Shetland wool, 25g/115m) 2 balls of Yarn A (blue) FC15 Mix 1 ball of Yarn B (grey) FC21 Mix 2 balls of Yarn C (pink) FC6 Mix 1 ball of Yarn D (purple) 123 Mix 1 ball of Yarn E (cream) 1A □ A pair of 3mm needles □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ 5 buttons □ Cushion pad, 30x30cm (12x12in) TENSION 28 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over pattern using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit a 30x30cm (12x12in) cushion pad ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Jamieson & Smith on 01595 693579 or visit www. shetlandwoolbrokers.co.uk OR YOU COULD TRY...…

Kirstie McLeod Editor Designing and knitting bootees are one of my favorite things, so I have my eye on a bunny pair…” Nic Lynn Art Editor “I’ve just cast on the Easter eggs on page. 48 - I’m planning on putting up an easter tree for my boys.” Jen Bartlett Deputy Tech Editor “With the seasons changing, I’m all about shawls, so will probably cast on something fine and lacy.” Faye Perrium-Read Tech Editor “Being a baby hat fan I’m hoping to find time to make Angela Turner’s lamb hat on page 41. It’s adorable!”…

PONCHO WITH FRINGES Easy to knit ― but hey, what a fantastic poncho! The long poncho is worked in one piece in pretty burnished colours with a stunning blue stripe, all of which make this model stand out in the crowd. Wear your poncho with jeans or a leather jacket for a luxurious bohemian look ― with the added pzazz of fringed edges. 12 One size Yarn: Air super easy SCARF WITH FRINGES The same alluring colour blend and stripes as in the poncho on the previous page, this time in a scarf that scores points for eye-catching design. To bring out the colours best, wear your scarf with a trench coat. 13 Yarn: Air JACKET A really impressive jacket. While the sleeves and backs are knitted in garter stitch,…