Innholdsfortegnelse for Simple Steps to Knitting i Simple Steps to Knitting

NEEDLE ORGANISER When you’ve built up a collection of needles of all different sizes and types, storing them can become tricky. A needle organiser keeps them all in one place and protected against damage. Depending on your preference, you can get either a needle roll or a bag, which is like a long pencil case. PINS Useful for pinning pieces of knitting together when sewing up or pinning out to get measurements, pins with large heads are ideal, as they won’t get lost in your work. ROW COUNTER Used to keep track of how many rows you’ve knitted, this is another helpful tool that will save you from counting the stitches in your work. There are different types of counters available; some sit on the end of your needle and…

To get started, you must cast (bind) on. This creates a row of loops that will be the foundation for your knitting. There are many methods. Single-strand cast (bind) ons are simple and soft; they can be created using one or two needles. Two-strand cast (bind) ons mostly use one needle and are strong, elastic and versatile. Here, we are going to showcase three of the most common cast (bind) ons, but there is an abundance of others with different properties that you can also use, and which will affect the look of your knitting. Don’t forget to create your first stitch with a slip knot – turn back to page 16 if you need a reminder on how to do this. Top tip Don’t forget that the slip knot…

To slip stitches (sl st), you must displace stitches from one needle to the other. Whether it’s to decrease stitches, transfer stitches to cable needles and stitch holders, or add detail in a lace pattern, you’ll use this method a lot. The result is an elongated stitch with a bar across it. Depending on whether your yarn is at the front of the work before slipping the stitch will determine whether the bar is in front or behind the slipped stitch. Unless the pattern tells you to bring the yarn to the front (yf), or take it to the back (yb), leave it where it is. There are two ways of slipping stitches: knitwise (kwise) or purlwise (pwise). Unless the pattern instructs otherwise, slip the stitch purlwise. SLIP STITCHES PURLWISE…

There are many things that you may like to knit in one colour that, because of their size, will need more than one ball of yarn. Joining a new ball of yarn to your existing work is very simple to do and if done well can make a seamless transition – even you won’t be able to tell where you made the change. AT THE BEGINNING OF A ROW 01 Knit with the new yarn The simplest way to join a new ball of yarn is at the beginning of a row. All you need to do is drop the old yarn and start knitting with the new. After a few stitches, tie the ends together. When you’ve finished the piece, darn the ends in. IN THE MIDDLE OF A…

Common in lace work and often used for making eyelets, a yarn-over increase is made by looping the yarn around the right-hand needle before making the next stitch. It is important that the loop is wrapped around the needle in the correct way or it will become crossed when worked in the next row, which closes the hole. Yarn overs are normally worked in between two stitches as opposed to at the beginning or end of a row in order to create decorative holes and gaps in the knit. Top tip As yarn-over increases are mostly used to add decorative holes to knitting, they will often be paired with a decrease. Pair a double yarn over with a k2tog before the increase and a ssk immediately after for a pretty…

Fair Isle knitting also goes by the names of Jacquard, stranded, two colour and double knitting. Where intarsia knitting is creating an image or shape via stitches in blocks of colour, Fair Isle knitting carries two or more colours along the row on a repeated pattern and is usually worked in stocking (stockinette) stitch. Due to the stranding/carrying of the yarns at the back of the work, Fair Isle garments tend to be thick and therefore very warm. Because of this it is usual to work these garments in 4ply or DK weight yarns as anything thicker would result in a very bulky piece of clothing. As you work across the row, you will carry all the yarns with you, alternating between colours as you follow the chart. The yarns…

If a stitch drops off one of your needles, don’t worry This is called a dropped stitch and there are steps you can take to get it back on the needle. If you see the stitch come off the needle, fix it immediately by picking it up with the tip of whichever needle it has dropped from, being sure to keep the right leg of the stitch on top. However, if the stitch has begun to unravel from the work, secure it with a crochet hook or cable needle as soon as you can to prevent any further damage. If a dropped stitch is left, it can unravel all the way to the cast (bind)-on edge. When this happens, you are left with a vertical column of horizontal strands that…

Here we will look at three of the most common ways of adding a pocket to a knitted project or garment. First is the patch pocket: this is added to your knitting once you have finished it. You can add lots of fun to sweaters and cushion covers by working the pocket in an outrageously contrasting yarn, or even working an interesting shape such as a hexagon, closing all but the top side. To work this pocket you will pick up the bottom edge of stitches then work the panel, which will be sewn on later. Second is the horizontal slit pocket – many find this neater than the patch pocket because the lining is worked separately and the opening is more discreet. It is the pocket that most patterns…

Once you have spent many hours creating your knitting garment or accessories, you’ll want it to look good forever. The way to do this is blocking. Essentially you wet the knitted fabric pinning it out to the shape and dimensions given in the measurements and let it dry fully. Sometimes you apply heat but it depends on the fibre you have worked with, so check the yarn label. There are two processes to blocking: dampening the knitted fabric, and pinning it out to the desired dimensions and shape. If you are making up a garment from separate pieces, block each to the stated size on the measurements table of the pattern by measuring and pinning to size each piece. Once all the pieces are dry you will be able neatly…

DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 6mm circular needle, 60cm long • Stitch marker • Yarn needle • In this project we have used Mirasol Sulka which comes in 50g skeins (50m). You will need to use chunky weight yarn, in your chosen colours. You will need approximately 4 skeins of 50g/50m Colour 1: Rosewood; 4 skeins MEASUREMENTS 68cm (27in) circumference x 27cm (10½in) deep TENSION 13 sts and 24 rows in pattern in the round to measure 10x10cm/4x4in using 6mm (US 10) needles. SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street retailers on machine knits. She became interested in handknits and have designed these since, working for magazines, publishers and yarn companies. www.sianbrown.co.uk Pattern MOSS STITCH COWL Using 6mm circular needles, cast on 91sts. Join…

SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street retailers on machine knits. She became interested in handknits and have designed these since, working for magazines, publishers and yarn companies. www.sianbrown.co.uk DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 5mm needles • Yarn needle • In this project we have used Rico Essentials Aran, 50g/85m. You will need to use 100% Aran weight yarn in your chosen colours. You will need approximately 2 50g balls. Colour 1: Lilac; 2 balls MEASUREMENTS 22cm (8¾in) wide x 15cm (6in) deep to eyelets TENSION 20 sts and 20 rows in pattern to measure 10x10cm/4x4in using 5mm needles, or size required to obtain correct tension. SPECIAL STITCHES P3tog: Purl next 3 stitches together as one stitch-insert right needle purlwise into the next 3…

KSENIA NAIDYON Ksenia designs cozy knitwear and home decor that are a pleasure both to knit and to use. Her patterns feature modern color palettes, interesting textures, and comfortable fit. lifeiscozy.com Pattern notes The shawl is knitted from the right corner with increases at the end of every RS row. Increases are made in the form of kfb unless stated otherwise. The neat braid-like edge of the shawl is created by slipping first stitches. In every row first st is slipped as if to purl with yarn in the front (abbreviation is sl 1 wyif), and every last st is knitted. Row count is included in the pattern. The number of completed rows can be changed depending on the yarn/gauge/desired size of a shawl. The usual text corresponds to the…

DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 5mm (US 8) needle • 40cm x 40cm (15¾in x 15¾in) cushion pad • 6 x buttons • In this project we have used Debbie Bliss Falkland Aran, 180m (197yds) per 100g skein; 100% wool. You will need to use aran weight yarn, in your chosen colour(s) as follows: Colour: Duck Egg; 1 skein MEASUREMENTS Measures 40cm x 40cm (15¾in x 15¾in) across, laid flat TENSION 18 stitches and 24 rows = 10cm (4in) over stst using 5mm needles, or size required to obtain tension. SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street retailers on machine knits. She became interested in handknits and have designed these since, working for magazines and yarn companies. www.sianbrown.co.uk Pattern CUSHION Cast on 73 sts.…

DONNA JONES Donna Jones designs, edits and teaches handknitting & crochet. She firmly believes creative expression is essential for our well-being and aims to facilitate this in others. You can follow Donna’s knitterly adventures on Instagram - @djonesdesigns www.donnajonesdesigns.co.uk DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 3.75mm circular needle, 80cm (32in) long • Yarn needle • In this project we have used Dyeninja High Twist Merino Fingering for colour 1 and Bilum Slika hand dyed gradient 4 ply for Colour 2. You will need to use 4 ply yarn, in your chosen colours. You will need approximately 1 skein in each colour. Colour 1: Limestone; 100g/365m Colour 2: Yellow to Blue gradient; 100g/400m MEASUREMENTS Approximately 230cm (90½in) wide and 55cm (21¾in) deep after blocking. Final measurements will vary depending on how aggressively…

SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street retailers on machine knits. She became interested in handknits and have designed these since, working for magazines, publishers and yarn companies. www.sianbrown.co.uk DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 4.5mm (US 7) needles. • Fabric for Lining • Wadding • 1 button • 1 press stud • In this project we have used Rooster Almerino Aran, 94m/102yds per 50g ball; 50% Alpaca, 50% Merino wool. You will need to use Aran weight yarn, in your chosen colour(s) as follows: Colour 1: Cornish; 188m/204yds Colour 2: Beach; 94m/102yds Colour 3: Gooseberry; 94m/102yds Colour 4: Custard; oddment MEASUREMENTS Measures 25cm (10in) wide x 30cm (11¾) deep, laid flat. TENSION 19 stitches and 23 rows = 10cm (4in) in stocking stitch using…

Top tip To ensure cuffs are not too tight, use the larger needle to cast on and cast off (remembering to switch to the smaller needle as soon as you have cast on). DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 4 mm (US 6) set of 5 DPNs (or circular needle and magic loop technique if preferred) • Yarn needle • Stitch markers • Pompom maker (optional) • In this project we have used Rowan Pure Wool Worsted, 200m (218yds) per 100g ball; 100% superwash wool. You will need to use aran weight yarn in your chosen colours as follows: Colour 1: dark red; 1 ball Colour 2: cream; 1 ball MEASUREMENTS 18cm (7in) wide x 13cm (5in) deep TENSION One size to fit calf up to 15in with negative ease Circumference…

Top tip Use different colour yarns for the stripes and fish to add more pizazz to your finished blanket. DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 4mm (US 6) needle • Yarn Needle • Yarn bobbins (for intarsia) • In this project we have used Rooster Almerino DK, 113m (124yds) per 50g ball; 50% Baby Alpaca, 50% Merino. You will need to use DK yarn, in your chosen colour(s) as follows: Colour 1: Cornish; 3 balls Colour 2: Beach; 50g/113m Colour 3: Gooseberry; 100g/226m MEASUREMENTS Measures 61cm (24in) wide and 74cm (29in) long TENSION 21 stitches and 28 rows = 10cm (4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles, or size required to obtain tension. SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street retailers on machine knits. She…

To begin knitting, it’s pretty straightforward, as all you need are two things: a pair of knitting needles and a ball of yarn. The yarn that you decide to use will play a part in determining which needles you work with, so let’s start by looking at the many types of yarn available to you. Yarns are made with a wide variety of fibres; most are natural, some are synthetic, and others blend different fibres together. All yarns have different textures and properties, and will affect the look and feel of your finished project. For example, wool is stretchy and tough, alpaca is soft and luxurious, and natural and synthetic blends are durable with other enhanced properties. When choosing a yarn you also need to consider its thickness, usually called…

This is an easy and quick-to-learn knot. The slip knot is, in fact, the first loop you will place on the needle when you begin a piece of knitting, and it will form the first stitch. There are many ways to create a slip knot, and as you practise making it, you might find that you develop your own technique. Here is just one way. Top tip If you find it difficult to grab the loop with a needle, use your index finger instead. Then, when you’ve made the loop and tightened it, just slip it onto the needle. 01 Make a circle Lay out a length of yarn. Pick it up close to the ball and cross it over the yarn end (called the tail) to make a circle.…

The knit stitch (abbreviated as K in patterns) is the very first stitch that you’ll learn. It is the most important stitch and even when it’s used on its own you can still create great pieces from scarves to tea cosies. Now that you’ve learnt how to cast (bind) on – we recommend that you start off with cable cast (bind) on (page 19) – you’re more than 80 per cent of the way there with knit stitch. Working the knit stitch (K) every row is called garter stitch (g st), the result is a flat fabric with horizontal ridges of V stitches and bumps, this somewhat corrugated finish is great for making warm garments as the rows of bumps hold in warm air. Garter stitch is also often worked…

In order to change the shape of your knitting, you’ll need to increase and decrease the number of stitches that you work. Here we will focus on increasing (inc) stitches. There are many ways to increase stitches, and some are more decorative than others. We will show you some of the most common ways to increase the number of stitches that you work. Once you become more experienced in knitting techniques, you’ll be able to understand the directions on patterns that instruct you to increase in alternative ways. Most increases add one or two stitches at a time, and usually at the end of rows. In order to keep a neat selvedge, you will usually perform an increase one stitch in. You’ll notice that the shaping will travel diagonally, and…

In the same way that patterns call for stitches to be increased (inc), you will sometimes need to decrease (dec) the number of stitches you work in order to create different shapes. We have already explained the basic decreases of knit two stitches together (k2tog), and purl two stitches together (p2tog), and while these are the most commonly used, the four decreases on this page can offer a more subtle decorative stitch to your knitting. For example, slip, slip, knit (ssk) is a common decrease on sock designs to ensure that the stitches on one side of the toe slant in the right direction. Ssk is used on right side of the triangle to follow the contour of the shape to the bottom point, it is coupled with k2tog, which…

Adding cables to a piece of knitting is one of the easiest ways to add the ‘wow factor’ to your work. The technique is worked by displacing a set of stitches onto a cable needle, working the next stitch(es), then working the stitches from the cable needle. The number of stitches involved and the way they are twisted by holding them in front or behind your work will determine the pattern that can be created. From ropes and plaits, to more complicated Celtic knots, all can be worked to produce the archetypal Aran sweater. Going back 2-300 years, not only were twisted patterns used for decorative purposes, but the thick fabric that these stitches produced combined with wool yarn also created some very warm garments for fishermen to wear on…

There are several different ways to add colour to knitting and some are a lot more complicated than others. For example, Fair Isle and intarsia knitting are more advanced techniques that will take a bit of practise and concentration to grasp. However, one fairly easy technique of adding colour is to work in horizontal stripes, which can be added in different sizes and even different fibres to create interesting textures. You can introduce stripes to any single-colour pattern without affecting the tension (gauge) or shape of the knitting. Here are just a few ways to add colour to your knitting. They all have a right side, which is shown in these swatches. TWO-COLOUR GARTER-STITCH STRIPE Worked in garter stitch, this stripe pattern uses two colours (A and B) that are…

If the pattern you’re following calls for a border, you may find that you need to pick up the edges along your finished piece of work. This is a technique that even experienced knitters can find challenging, so careful preparation and lots of practice will help. When picking up stitches, always have the right side (RS) of the yarn facing you, as it creates a ridge on the wrong side (WS). If you’re following a pattern, it should specify which size needle to pick up the stitches with and the required number of stitches for you to pick up. In these instructions a contrasting colour yarn has been used to demonstrate the technique, however, picking up stitches in a matching yarn will hide any imperfections. If your pattern calls for…

01 Work the hem Cast (bind) on the number stitches required, using a needle one size smaller than you’ll use for the main body of the garment. Work the inner hem to the length required, ending on a knit row. If using two colours, change yarn now. Knit the next row (to create a fold line), then change to larger needles and work the same number of rows as worked on the first part of the hem, ending on a purl row. 02 Transfer stitches With the cast (bind) on edge uppermost, right side (RS) facing and a smaller needle, pick up and knit through the centre of each cast (bind) on stitch using a length of the main body colour yarn. Transfer these stitches so that the point of…

FIGURE OF EIGHT 01 Get started With the pieces to be joined, side by side, insert the needle from back to front of the corner of the right piece. Next insert the needle from front to back, on the corner of the left-hand piece and pull through. 02 Secure it Insert the needle from front to back of the right-hand piece again. Pull through to secure. 03 Be ready to work For mattress stitch and other joins to be completed with the right side facing, insert the needle into the back of the left piece again so that the yarn is at the front ready to work. MATTRESS STITCH 01 Use the figure of eight In order to work this stitch, both pieces must have the same number of rows.…

Pattern notes It is important the yarn you use is 100% cotton for dishcloths, as other fibres will not be suitable. Use a long tail cast on for best results. If preferred, neatly carry yarn up side when knitting the striped dishcloth to save having lots of ends to sew in. You will have enough yarns left over from the striped dishcloth to make another if you reverse the colours for the stripes. DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 4mm needle • Yarn Needle this project we have used Lily Cotton Sugar’n Cream. You will need to use 100% cotton Aran weight yarn in your chosen colours. Colour 1: Robins Egg; 1 ball Colour 2: Azalea; 1 ball Colour 3: Ecru; 1 ball Colour 4: Country Red; 1 ball MEASUREMENTS 20cm…

Top tip Using self-striping yarn means you don’t have to keep darning in ends and you get some really neat effects. DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 3.5mm (US 4) needles 4mm (US 6) needles • Stitch holders • Stitch markers • Yarn needle • In this project we have used West Yorkshire Spinners Bluefaced Leicester DK Prints which comes in 100g balls (224m). You will need to use double knitting weight yarn, in your chosen colour. Colour: Bluetit; 1 ball MEASUREMENTS To fit Adult hand Small/Medium-Large To fit hand size approximately 19.5 [21.5cm / 7.75[8.5]in TENSION 22 stitches and 28 rows = 10cm (4in) in stocking stitch using 4mm needles LYNNE ROWE Lynne is a knit and crochet designer, technical editor and tutor. She loves to pass on her skills…

Top tip Use the same pattern to create a matching table runner for your table by adding more rows until you are happy with the length. DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 4mm needle • Yarn Needle • In this project we have used Debbie Bliss Cotton DK, 50g/84m. You will need to use 100% cotton double knitting weight yarn in your chosen colours. You will need approximately 2 balls to make one placemat and one coaster. Colour 1: Citrus; 2 balls MEASUREMENTS Placemat: 38x30cm Coaster: 11x11cm TENSION Work 17 sts and 26 rows in lace pattern to measure 10x10cm/4x4in using 4mm (US 6) needles, or size required to obtain correct tension. SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street retailers on machine knits. She became…

ERICA LUEDER Erica lives in Iowa with her family and works as a nurse. She spends almost all of her free time knitting, making things with yarn/fibre, and creating new patterns. www.hanlone79.etsy.com DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 74.5mm (US 7) circular needle, 40cm (16in) long, 2 x 4 mm (US 6) circular needle, 40cm (16in) long DPNs can be substituted instead of using two circular needles for crown decreases. • Stitch marker • Yarn Needle • Cable Needle • In this project we have used Dreams in Fiber Au Naturel Worsted, 183m (200yds) per skein; 50% Suffolk Blend/25% Merino/25% Alpaca. You will need to use 1 skein of an Aran weight yarn, in your chosen colour. MEASUREMENTS Hat: One size: to fit medium adult head. This hat is rather stretchy…

KSENIA NAIDYON Ksenia designs cosy knitwear and home decor that are a pleasure both to knit and to use. Her patterns feature modern color palettes, interesting textures, and comfortable fit. lifeiscozy.com DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 3.25mm set of 5 DPNS (US D/3) Alternatively use 4 DPNS, or a 60-80cm long circular needle and magic loop technique if preferred • Stitch markers • Stitch holder (optional) • Sock blockers • Tapestry needle • In this project we have used Cascade Yarn Heritage Solids, 400m (437yds) per 100g skein; 75% merino, 25% nylon. You will need to use 4 ply sock yarn, in your chosen colour(s) as follows: Colour 1: Charcoal; 1 skein Colour 2: Pumpkin; 1 skein Colour 3: Snow; 1 skein Colour 4: Grey; 1 skein Colour 5: Black;…

SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street retailers on machine knits. She became interested in handknits and have designed these since, working for magazines, publishers and yarn companies. www.sianbrown.co.uk DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 4mm (US 8) 4.5mm (US 7) 4.5mm circular needle (optional) • 2 Stitch markers • Yarn needle • In this project we have used Debbie Bliss Donegal Luxury Tweed Aran, 88m (96yds) per 50g ball; 90% Wool, 10% Angora. You will need to use Aran weight yarn in your chosen colour as follows: Colour: Aqua, sh 360048; 50g/88m MEASUREMENTS Circumference around palm measures measures 18.5cm (7¼in) Use a smaller needle size for tighter gloves TENSION 19 stitches and 24 rows = 10cm (4in)over stocking stitch using 4.5mm needles, or size…

DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 4mm, set of 2 x 40cm (16in) Circular Needles – or size needed to obtain gauge. A second circular needle is used for toe decreases • Stitch marker • Yarn Needle • In this project we have used Knit Picks Wool of the Andes, (50g/100m). You will need to use worsted weight yarn, in your chosen colours. You will need approximately 252m in total. Colour 1: White; 2 balls Colour 2: Sapphire Heather; 1 ball MEASUREMENTS Approximately 50.75cm (20in) long (cuff to toe) and approximately 33cm (13in) in circumference. TENSION Work 22 sts and ?? rows in stocking stitch to measure 10x10cm/4x4in using 4mm (US 6) needles, or size required to obtain correct tension. ERICA LUEDER Erica lives in Iowa with her family and works…

pattern notes Elongated Rib Stitch Pattern Rounds 1-6: *P2, K2*; rep from * to end of round. Rounds 7-12: *K2, P2*; rep from * to end of round. Garter Stitch Edged Eye of Partridge Heel Round 1: K3, purl to end. Round 2: P3, *K1, sl 1; rep from * to last 3 sts, K3. Round 3: K3, purl to end. Round 4: P3, *sl 1, K1; rep from * to last 3 sts, K3. DIFFICULTY Approx 16-20 hours per pair WHAT YOU NEED • 2.5mm (US 1 or US 2, set of 2 Circular Needles, or size needed to obtain gauge. • Stitch marker • Yarn Needles • In this project we have used Dreams in Fiber Merino/Nylon Superwash Sock (4oz/460 yds. You will need to use any fingering…

alt Alternate beg Begin(ning) cm Centimetre(s) cont Continu(e)(ing) dec Decreas(e)(ing) foll Follow(s)(ing) g Gram(s) g st Garter stitch in Inch(es) inc Increase(e)(ing) K Knit K1 tbl Knit 1 stitch through the back of the loop k2tog (or dec 1) Knit next 2 stitches together (see page 42) kfb (o inc 1) Knit into front and back of next stitch (see page 38) LH Left hand M1 (or M1k) make one stitch (see page 39) mm millimetre(s) oz ounce(s) p purl p2tog (or dec 1) purl next two stitches together (see page 42) patt pattern, or work in pattern pfb (or inc 1) purl into front and back of next stitch psso pass slipped stitch over rem remain(s)(ing) rep repeat(ing) rev st st reverse stocking stitch RH Right hand RS Right…

After learning the basic techniques of knitting, you now have the ability to create a large variety of stitches. These can be used to start making your own original designs and adapting other patterns to suit your tastes. You may recognise some of the more common stitches, such as moss (seed) and single rib, but there are a wide variety that will enable you to create any number of attractive items. There are just a few examples showcased in this chapter, so take a look through to see which appeal to you most. “Start making your own designs and adapting patterns to suit your tastes” Top tip If you lose your place while following a stitch pattern, start by looking at the tail of your work. If it is towards…

Knitting needles come in many types, sizes and materials. Once you become more familiar with knitting, you may find that you prefer one type over another, but the variations are designed with different patterns and yarns in mind. This guide will explain the features of each, but the best way to decide which needles suit you is to practise and find the ones that feel most comfortable. Learning to knit on bent, dull or rough needles will be a frustrating process, so it’s worth investing in a good pair that feel nice in your hands to get started. To practise knitting, it’s better to work with thick yarn as this will make it easier to spot mistakes. If you’re getting started with yarn that is Aran weight or thicker, your…

There are only two main stitches to the art of knitting. The first is knit (K), which you will have now mastered; the second is purl (P), which we will show you how to work here. When worked together with subtle variations, you will be able to make anything! Purl stitch is effectively the reverse way to work a knit stitch. If you were to purl every row, you would end up with a piece of fabric identical to a garter stitch (g st) (knit stitch every row). However, when you work a row of knit stitches followed by a row of purl stitches and repeat these two rows, you will have a piece of fabric that has smooth ‘Vs’ on one side and rugged ‘bumps’ on the other. This…

Moss (seed) stitch, which is also known as seed stitch in the US, uses alternate knit (K) and purl (P) stitches to create a textured fabric. While it looks rather complicated, this is a very easy stitch to work and looks effective when worked in between sections of stocking stitch. If you have mastered rib stitch, then the mechanics of working moss (seed) stitch is not too dissimilar. You simply alternate between knit and purl stitches along the row, then on the next row you knit above a ‘bump’ and purl above a ‘v’. While it is worked in a similar way to rib stitch, moss (seed) stitch actually produces a flat fabric, which does not have an elastic quality, so it would not be good to use for welts…

If you’re creating a garment that needs to get smaller as it goes along, for example a hat, then you will need to use decreases (dec) to reduce the number of stitches on your needles, and therefore the size of your piece. Decreases can also be used together with increases (inc) to add decorative elements to your work. Knitting or purling two stitches together (k2tog or p2tog) is one of the simplest decreases, and will cause your work to lean to the right. In order to make your work lean to the left, you will need to use a different decrease (see slip slip knit (ssk) on page 51). These decreases can be used together to create interesting shapes and textures in your work. These stitches can also be adapted…

For centuries people have been knitting socks and stockings, and history books suggest that most of this knitting was done on double-pointed needles (DPNs). Whole villages of women, men and children were part of the sock knitting industry until the dawn of mechanisation and knitting machines made the process faster and cheaper. Now, though, sock knitting has become popular again, and while they can be made on a circular needle, they’re just as easy to knit on four or five double-pointed needles. While the prospect of knitting with more than two needles can be daunting, when you actually get started you’ll see that the process makes perfect sense. All you are doing is transferring the stitches of one needle to an empty needle, knitting around and around in a spiral.…

If you’re not used to working on double-pointed needles (DPNs), knitting an i-cord can initially seem quite daunting, however, making one is a great introduction to DPNs. While you can make great-looking things for the home, for things such as coaster and placemats, i-cords are also perfect for drawstrings and straps for bags, headbands, belts, tie for a hooded top, and more. I-cords look very effective stitched to the edge of a garment in a contrasting colour and can be added in loops to form button holes for toggles. I-cords are usually worked over between 3 to 6 stitches, on a needle size that fits the weight of the yarn (for example 4mm for DK yarn). They can be worked in one colour, spiralled for a textured finish, and in…

Buttons are a very common fastening for hand-knitted projects. Whether on the front of a cardigan, the neckline of a sweater or to close a bag, buttons not only offer a secure closure, but with the myriad of styles available, they can also add a decorative element to the finished piece. The most popular form of buttonhole is the eyelet hole, usually created by working 2 stitches together (k2tog), then forming a yarn over (yo). This creates an elastic hole to pass a button through. However, over the next six pages, we’ll show you how to make the various buttonholes available to knitters and what projects they are best suited to. When choosing which buttonhole to work, take into account the stretch of the fabric; sometimes knitting a strand of…

Creating a picot hem is one of knitting’s little tricks. Start off by knitting a few rows, be it in rib or stocking (stockinette) stitch, then on 1 row you alternate working 2 stitches together with a yarn over. Carry on working the following rows in your original stitch, then when you fold the hem at the point of the yarn over row with wrong sides together, creating an edge of bumps. Due to the fact that the edge is folded, it lends itself to be used on a stocking (stockinette) stitch border preventing the knitting from rolling. Also if you use this hem on the base of a garment, the fold lends some weight to the piece, helping it to drape nicely. Unless you have used a ribbed picot…

Once a garment has been knitted and seamed, adding the fastenings can often come as an afterthought. However, choosing the way to close a garment or accessory should be as integral as choosing the yarn and pattern. Buttons are the most popular way to fasten garments from cardigans and jackets, to open shoulder seams and cushion covers. Choose your buttons before knitting, so that buttonholes can be made the right size, although it is possible to decided on your buttons afterwards so that you can be sure of an good match with the pattern and yarn. Poppers are a great way to add a fastening if you want an invisible closure and don’t have the option in the pattern to add buttonholes. The size of popper needed will be determined…

Top tip To ensure your edges are not too tight, use the larger needle to cast on (remembering to switch to the smaller needle as soon as you have cast on). KSENIA NAIDYON Ksenia designs cozy knitwear and home decor that are a pleasure both to knit and to use. Her patterns feature modern color palettes, interesting textures, and comfortable fit. lifeiscozy.com DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 7.5mm (US 10.5/11) circular needle, 9mm (US 13) circular needle, 10mm (US 15) circular needle, all 40cm (“16in) long. You can use sets of 5 DPNs instead of circular needles if preferred • Stitch marker • Yarn Needle • Tapestry needle • Pompom maker (optional) • Scissors • In this project we have used Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick, 97m (106yds)…

Pattern notes Yarn is held double and used as a single strand throughout. DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 4.5mm needles, 35cm long • Lining fabric and wadding for sides: 61cm x 16cm • Lining fabric and wadding for base: 22cm x 22cm • Yarn needle Colour 1: Stone; 4 50g balls MEASUREMENTS 18cm (7in) wide x 13cm (5in) deep TENSION Work 16 sts and 17 rows in pattern to measure 10x10cm using 4.5mm (US 7) needles, or size required to obtain correct tension. SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street retailers on machine knits. She became interested in handknits and have designed these since, working for magazines, publishers and yarn companies. www.sianbrown.co.uk Pattern BASE Using 4.5mm needles and col 1 held double, cast on…

Pattern notes The blanket is knitted as 7 vertical strips of 7 squares, which are later sewn together. The neat braid-like edge of the squares is created by slipping first stitches. Sl 1 wyib if the first facing stitch is knitted; sl 1 wyif if the first facing stitch is purled. Each square is 17 sts wide and 24 rows high. The number of completed squares can be changed depending on the yarn/tension/desired size of your blanket. DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 7mm needles • Cable needle (optional) • Scissors • In this project we have used a variety of aran/chunky yarns. Rowan Pure Wool Worsted (100% wool; 100g/200m) using 2 strands held together throughout. Colours: Pink; 2 balls; Cream; 1 ball YarnArt Merino De Luxe 50 (50% wool, 50%…

SPECIAL STITCHES Bead (B): Work a bead into this knit stitch. If no bead is desired, simply work a knit stitch. Place a bead on your crochet hook. Using the hook in your right hand, lift the stitch to be worked onto the hook. Catching the stitch on the hook, use your left hand to slide the bead over the hook and yarn. Remove the stitch from the hook and place it on the left hand needle. Knit the st which has the bead on it. Quadruple Decrease (QD): 5 sts will be decreased to just one stitch. Sl 3 sts all together onto your right hand needle. Do NOT slip them one at a time. Join the next 2 sts together by working a K2tog. Carefully lift the 3…

KSENIA NAIDYON Ksenia designs cosy knitwear and home decor that are a pleasure both to knit and to use. Her patterns feature modern color palettes, interesting textures, and comfortable fit. www.lifeiscozy.com DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 5.5mm (US 9) needles • Cable needle • Yarn Needle • Scissors • 4 x buttons • 16”x16”/40x40cm pillow insertthe Andes, • In this project we have used YarnArt Jeans, 159m/174yds per 50g ball; 55% cotton, 45% acrylic, with 3 strands held together. You will need to use DK weight yarn, in your chosen colour as follows: Colour: Turquoise; 6 balls MEASUREMENTS Approx 38cm x 38cm (15in x 15in) laid flat, unstretched. Fits 40.5cm x 40.5cm (16 x 16in) insert with negative ease for a snug fit. TENSION 13 stitches and 20 rows =…

KSENIA NAIDYON Ksenia designs cosy knitwear and home decor that are a pleasure both to knit and to use. Her patterns feature modern color palettes, interesting textures, and comfortable fit. lifeiscozy.com DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 2.25mm (US 1) circular needles, 80cm (32in) long • 3.25mm (US 3) circular needles, 80cm (32in) long • 3.25mm (US 3) set of 5 DPNS for the sleeves, or circular needles, 80cm (32in) long for magic loop method if preferred. • Stitch holders or waste yarn • 6 x Stitch markers • Yarn needle • In this project we have used Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, 125m (137yds) per 50g ball; 55% merino, 33% microfiber, 12% cashmere. You will need to use sport weight/5ply yarn in your chosen colour(s) as follows: Colour: Light Pink; 500[500…

Top tip You can change the order of the cables, or chose to only do one type of cabling to make your own individual cushions or a mismatched set. DIFFICULTY WHAT YOU NEED • 5mm needles • 5mm cable needle • Yarn Needle • 6 x medium sized buttons • In this project we have used Debbie Bliss Sita, 50g/115m (45% silk, 40% cotton, 15% polyamide). You will need to use Aran weight yarn in your chosen colours. Colour 1: Buttermilk (shade 4); 4 x balls MEASUREMENTS To fit 40x40cm/16x16in cushion pad. TENSION Work 20 sts and 18 rows in stocking stitch to measure 10x10cm/4x4in using 5mm (US 8) needles, or size required to obtain correct tension. SIAN BROWN After doing a Fashion/Textiles BA Sian worked supplying to high street…

When you buy yarn, it will almost always come with a label around it. This label, which is sometimes also called a ball band, tells you everything you need to know about the yarn, from what size needles to use with it to washing and care instructions. If you think your project will need to use more than one ball of yarn, don’t throw this label away, as it will help you ensure you get the exact matching yarn to continue working with. SYMBOLS Most yarn manufacturers will use symbols to indicate the properties of yarn and give further details about it. These will often include care instructions and tension (gauge). It will also include the dye lot. When using more than one ball of yarn in the same colour…

Stitch symbol charts provide a knitting pattern in much the same way as a written pattern – each symbol represents a stitch, and you follow it to make the pattern. Some knitters prefer them to written patterns, as they offer a visual representation of what a pattern should look like when it’s knitted up and can be easier to memorise. When you come across a charted pattern, the amount of stitches to cast (bind) on will normally be provided, however, if it is not, you can easily work it out from the number of stitches in the pattern ‘repeat’. Cast (bind) on a multiple of this number and any extras for edge stitches outside the repeat and you’re ready to go. In a stitch symbol chart, each square represents a…

AS ESTABLISHED, AS SET An instruction in knitting patterns that means to continue working as previously established after an interruption in the texture or shaping. For example, an established pattern might be interrupted to work a buttonhole and then continue ‘as set’ BAR INCREASE See knit front and back (kfb) BLANKET STITCH A decorative sewing technique worked along the edge of fabric BLOCK A finishing technique in which the knitted piece is set with steam or water. Blocking smooths stitches and straightens edges BLOCKING WIRE A long, straight wire used for anchoring the edge of knitting during blocking, most often for lace CABLE A texture in knitting that resembles knitted rope, made by crossing stitches CABLE CAST (BIND) ON A firm cast (bind)-on edge made by putting the tip of…