Innholdsfortegnelse for July 2016 i Simply Knitting

Summer’s here and it’s time to sit back and relax with some lighter knits on your needles. I’m looking forward to getting stuck into the Tutti Frutti cardigan on page 38 – what about you? We’ve got some irresistible cotton yarns to show you this month, plus we’ve been catching up with artist Trevor Pitt about his new play, Yarning, on page 75. You might have guessed that we’re a little excited about the return of our favourite astronaut, Tim Peake, so say hello to Alan Dart’s very own spaceman on page 57! And are those wedding bells we hear? We’ve got an elegant collection of lace accessories for the nuptials season, including a stunning pair of dainty mittens on page 45. I’m counting down the days until I head…

QI might (maybe) have too much yarn, but I have no idea where to start sorting through it! Can you help? Amanda Elswood, Frome A The first step is acceptance. After that, you’ll need an afternoon to go through all of your yarn (yes, all!). If you can’t remember why you bought a particular yarn, pop it in a ‘to sell’ or charity bag. If you really can’t part with any of your stash, check out www.theyarnloop.com/patterns/free-patterns for some fab stashbusting projects. A great way to stay on top of your yarn is to tag each ball with the intended pattern and keep in mind what you want to do with the end result.…

KNIT SUPERHEROES! Rebecca Danger (Martingale, £19.99) We absolutely love the 12 stashbusting heroes in Rebecca Danger’s new book! Beginners and experts alike can knit their very own league of huggable heroes and learn some super knitting skills along the way. The masked avengers each have their own cute little bios describing their crime-fighting abilities, such as Randolph Raccoon’s power to make chocolate bars appear. And you can follow illustrated step-by-step guides to become a knitting hero, including how to knit two-at-a-time legs. To find out more about Rebecca and her cuddly characters go to her website, www.rebeccadanger.typepad.com, where you can also find free patterns! LAZY SUNDAY KNITTED SOCKS Jane Burns (£11.50) We’re huge fans of Jane Burns’ designs here at SK, so we can’t wait to cast on…

“Fingerless gloves are the perfect accessories” I’ve been cable knitting my way through the most unlikely but marvellous spring-summer accessory: the fingerless glove. Unlikely, because who wears gloves at this time of year? Marvellous, because this is Britain, so who doesn’t? Pair them with a sundress or a massive duffel coat; either way, fingerless gloves are foolproof. Honestly, you have my word. If you’re not yet convinced (and I’ve met my fair share of naysayers since embarking on this latest project), then try this for logic: they’re also an excellent project for anyone who’s looking to plough through their leftover yarn. And what knitter doesn’t have some of that lying around? I briefly considered making a lacy pair in pink mohair, then I remembered why it had been left abandoned…

ZIZZER-ZAZZER-ZUZZ I thought I would share the Dr Seuss blanket I designed and knitted for my son. It’s absolutely enormous and took nearly two years, start to finish. It’s definitely one of the most impressive finished objects I’ve ever knitted. I even managed to finally finish it on Dr Seuss’s birthday! Lisa, Australia Lisa, this looks absolutely amazing! Everyone in the office wants one. TIME FOR GREEN SOUP I was delighted to see a Clangers knitting pattern in issue 146 and I hope you enjoy seeing the set of Clangers that I made for my little granddaughter, Emily, last year. I got the pattern from the CBeebies website and having made Tiny Clanger I knew I had to make the others, too! It took a lot of watching episodes of…

FOR PAM DUTTON, all it took to inspire her to start a knitting group was for her village library to be threatened with closure. In 2012, Great Ayton’s community members all came together to save their much-loved library, now called the Discovery Centre, and start new clubs and classes to keep the centre alive. Posters advertising the Knit and Knatter of Great Ayton were were put up around the village and an advert was placed in the local newspaper. On Thursday 18 October, of that same year, six enthusiastic ladies turned up for their very first meeting, in the rescued and revamped centre. Since then, word of mouth has helped the club grow to 15 members strong. Many of the group’s members live locally, but some of them travel in…

Have you read Amy Lavelle’s Fashion Forward column on page 20 about her favourite accessory, fingerless gloves? We love the look too, so we can’t resist these beautiful lacy mitts. Knitted in cosy pure wool, they’d be perfect for keeping you warm at an evening wedding, whether you’re a guest or the bride herself! YOU WILL NEED Erika Knight, British Blue Wool (100% wool, 25g/55m) 3 balls of Milk A set of 3¼mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a circular needle, 80cm long for Magic Loop method) Stitch marker (optional) For yarn stockists contact Erika Knight www.erikaknight.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 23 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3¼mm needles SIZE To closely fit average ladies arm and…

Treat yourself to a show-stopping wedding day accessory with this elegant drawstring bag! You’ll only need one ball of yarn to whip up this must-have pouch, so it’s affordable and quick to make – it could even be a great stashbusting project. Make it for your own special day or as somebody’s treasured ‘something new’. YOU WILL NEED King Cole, Merino Blend DK (100% wool, 50g/104m) 1 ball of White (001) A pair of 3¼mm needles 2 lengths of spare yarn in contrast colours 2 lengths of ribbon (each approx 35cm long) For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 23 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3¼mm needles SIZE 17cm wide…

It takes courage to launch a business at the age of just 18, but for Judith Glue, this was something she’d been brought up to take in her stride. “My parents had a market garden and one brother ran a second-hand shop, so it was natural for me to think you could do that,” she recalls. “The building I wanted was a former supermarket. The landlord, Billy, said, ‘I’ll give you six months. I don’t think you’ll last longer than that.’ And I said, ‘Yes I will!’” That was in 1979, and Judith still uses those same premises today, as well as having a second shop in Inverness. Her first business idea hinged on her making and selling beautifully crafted bags and other leather goods. However, the painstaking work was…

AZURE SKY, P12 C4F Cable 4 front 1 Work up to where the cable pattern starts, then take the yarn to the back of the knitting. 2 Slip the first 2 stitches knitwise on to a cable needle. Hold these stitches at the front of the knitting. 3 Knit the next 2 stitches from the left-hand needle, then slide the stitches on the cable needle to the end of the needle and knit them on to the right-hand needle. 4 Bring the yarn to the front of your knitting, and pull the yarn tight to avoid ladders along the side of the cable. Purl the next stitch and continue in the pattern. PARTY GLOW, P54 SKPO Slip 1, knit 1, pass slipped stitch over 1 Insert the point of the…

1 Cut the yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread yarn purlwise through the first stitch at the front and knitwise through the first stitch at the back. 2 Back to the front. Pass through first stitch knitwise, then slip the stitch from the needle. Sew into the next front st purlwise, pulling the yarn through both stitches. 3 Take the sewing needle to the back needle and ‘purl’ a stitch, then slip that stitch from the needle. ‘Knit’ into the next stitch on the back needle. 4 Repeat steps 2-3 across until all the stitches have been grafted and weave the yarn in to finish off neatly.…

Get ready for your summer holiday with this stripy bag by Monica Russel! It’s the perfect size to carry all your essentials for a day at the beach, and works up quickly in chunky cotton yarn. YOU WILL NEED Wendy, Supreme Luxury Cotton Chunky (100% cotton, 100g/83m) 2 balls of: White14201 ball of each: Cherry1428 Cobalt1432 A pair of 5mm needles Two 5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) 1.5m cord, 6mm wide (for reinforced handles) FOR YARN STOCKISTS, CONTACT TB RAMSDEN 01943 872264 WWW.TBRAMSDEN.CO.UK TENSION 14 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5mm needles SIZE 31.5cm wide x 37cm tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 90 of Simply Knitting magazine Presented with issue 147 of Simply Knitting. Printed in the UK NOTE…

Have a go at knitting from a chart to make this sweet little zig-zag stripe egg cosy, and enjoy mixing and matching yarn shades to create your own unique colour combinations. YOU WILL NEED Patons, Wool DK (100% wool, 50g/125m) 1 ball of each: Beach Blue (165) Passion Fruit (121) Pink (137) Natural (102) Black (199) A pair of 3½mm needles For yarn stockists contact Coats Crafts 01484 681881 www. makeitcoats.com TENSION Tension is not critical for this project MEASUREMENTS 14cm (5½in) diameter and 6cm (2in) high ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 EGG COSY Cast on 37 sts using 3½mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 K1, *P1, K1; rep from * to end of row. Row 2 P1, *K1, P1; rep from…

SAVE Mini skeins Handmade Yarn Skein earrings from Atomic Knitting, £3, 07787 526592. www.atomicknitting.co.uk SPEND Pretty kitty An adorable black cat design, £3.59. www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ xxxMyPlayGroundxxx SPLURGE Perfect pair Dress up with these dainty Blue Yarn Stud Earrings, £5, 07807 800059. www.how-store.com PS You can subscribe to the digital edition of Simply Knitting from just £3.99. For details see www.theyarnloop.com/magazine/simply-knitting/digital.…

We knitters spend a lot of time trying to avoid dropping stitches – but for this pattern you’ll do it deliberately! Pat Menchini’s summer top uses them to create ladders in the fabric, which are combined with bands of cables to produce a stunning stripy effect. Choose from one of the striking jewel tones in Sirdar’s pretty Amalfi DK yarn and you’ll have a top that will turn heads all summer long. YOU WILL NEED Sirdar, Amalfi DK (75% cotton, 25% viscose, 50g/110m) A pair of 3mm needles A pair of 3¼mm needles A pair of 4mm needles A cable needle 4 buttons (sample buttons supplied by For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts…

Revamp your summer wardrobe with this gorgeous ’70s-inspired top. Indulge in lattice lace and try your hand at a picot crochet edging. Plus, create a delicate back opening using a rouleau or crochet loop to close. This is the perfect pattern to develop your garment-making skills and really has that wow-factor that we love! YOU WILL NEED Rowan, Softyak DK (76% cotton, 15% yak, 9% nylon, 50g/135m) A pair of 4mm needles A 3mm crochet hook 1 x BN1264 button from Bedecked For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 681881 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 90 NOTE When working shaping through lace…

Ever since seeing the Alan Dart Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe pattern you published in Simply Knitting issue 90 our whole family has been waiting impatiently for a little baby to come along that we could knit it for. Four years later the first grandson, Jesse, arrived and so we all got together to create the incredible toy – aunts, great aunts and granny. All the children are based on people in the family and so now little Jesse has a reminder of his family all the way over in Australia, where he lives! Thank you for a lovely pattern! (Auntie) Natalie Warren, Hampshire That is one lucky nephew, Natalie! And what a lovely family, it looks like it was definitely worth the wait. We can’t wait to…

GREAT DAYS OUT GREAT AYTON A picturesque village on the banks of the river Leven, Great Ayton is ideal for walking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Rising above the village is Roseberry Topping, a viewing point offering stunning vistas in all the seasons. And no visit to the village would be complete without sampling the local delicacies of Petch’s pies and Suggitt’s ice cream. For more details visit www.great-ayton.org.uk. SCHOOLROOM Tour around the Captain Cook Schoolroom Museum and learn all about James Cook’s early life and education in the Charity School, the village he grew up in, and his amazing adventures on the high seas. Visit www.captaincookschool roommuseum.co.uk for info.…

Fancy the idea of getting some serious knitting time in? We know we do! What could be better than sharing a holiday with like-minded souls, taking time to knit, seeing some gorgeous sights and perhaps even learning some new skills along the way? This year, we are very excited to be working with Arena Travel on several holidays – see below for details. The trips to Yarndale and to Florence will have both knitting and crochet tutors (I’m so looking forward to being the knitting tutor!), so why not bring a friend? (It’ll be fun for you both and save on single supplements too!) Come and join us – book your place today! FAROES reader holiday INCLUDES ALL THIS… Travel dates 15th-22nd July Return flights Edinburgh – Vágar Airport (Faroe…

After the I dos have been said and the confetti thrown, it’s time to celebrate the newlyweds. Why not add some warmth to the party with these stunning lace tea light cosies? They’re made using easy stitches and could be knitted in subtle or bold shades. Decorate your own wedding venue or give them as a unique gift. YOU WILL NEED King Cole, Merino Blend DK (100% wool, 50g/104m) 1 ball of White (001) A set of 3mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) A set of 3¼mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) Stitch markers (optional) For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 23 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3¼mm needles SIZE Heart and Panel…

Add a dash of colour to your day with this bright and cheerful lace top. There are ten shades to choose from in Mirasol Pima Splash, so you’re sure to find one that suits your tastes – and the mesh pattern, notch neckline and button details mean there’s plenty of interesting knitting to keep you entertained. Perfect! YOU WILL NEED Mirasol, Pima Splash (100% cotton, 100g/200m) A pair of 5mm needles A pair of 5½mm needles 2 stitch holders 2 stitch markers 2 locking stitch markers 2 buttons, approximately 2cm in diameter For yarn stockists contact Intercontinental Yarns 01535 664222 www. intercontinentalyarns.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as aran to this tension: 19 sts and 26 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over blocked patt using 5½mm needles…

Stitch holders are the unsung heroes of your accessory kit. Use them to keep stitches in place when making gaps or holes in garments, for putting projects on hold, or even as make-do cable needles. Whether it’s metal, plastic, firm or flexible, there’s a holder out there for you. Take a look at our pick of the best. 1. Stitches are sure to stay put on Lion Brand’s easy open and close aluminium stitch holders. £3.09 for a set of three, www.craftsy.com 2. Set stitches aside with this flexible holder – with removable end piece. £3.10, www.bergeredefrance.co.uk 3. This spring-loaded holder from Inox is perfect for quickly picking up stitches. £2.05, www.claireslace.co.uk, 01425 483450 4. Simple and sturdy, this Essentials stitch holder is more than up for the task! £1.69,…

ASCENDING EYELETS Cast on a multiple of 4 sts plus 3. Row 1 (RS) P1, RT, *P2, RT; rep from * to end. Row 2 K1, *yo, p2tog, K2; rep from * to last 2 sts, yo, p2tog. Row 3 K1, *P2, RT; rep from * to last 2 sts, P2. Row 4 K3, *yo, p2tog, K2; rep from * to end. Rows 1–4 form pattern. LACE FLARES Cast on a multiple of 11 sts. Row 1 (RS) *K2tog twice, K3, ssk twice; rep from * to end. Row 2 Purl. Row 3 *K2, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, K2; rep from * to end. Row 4 Purl. Rows 1–4 form pattern. HOLES & DIAMONDS Cast on a multiple of 8 sts. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 Purl. Row…

CAST ON: CABLE METHOD Use it for a firm edge, and when adding stitches in your work. 1 Make a slip knot. Insert right-hand needle into the stitch as if to knit. Wrap the yarn around the point and pull through, slipping the stitch on to the left-hand needle. 2 Push the point of the right-hand needle between the first and second stitches. Wrap the yarn anti-clockwise round the point of the right-hand needle. 3 Pull the loop out with the right-hand needle, then slip it over the tip of the left-hand needle. 4 Repeat steps 2-3 until you have the number of stitches you require. KNIT Follow our simple steps to make the most important stitch you’ll learn. 1 Hold the needle with the stitches on it in your…

Abbreviations & Useful Info NEEDLE SIZES HOOK SIZES YARN WEIGHTS CHOOSE THE RIGHT YARNS TO KNIT WITH. 1, 2 & 3ply Knit on 2-3½mm needles. Use for delicate lace knitting and baby garments. Good for socks and gloves. 4ply Knit on 3-4mm needles. Great for baby clothes, heavier socks and lightweight tops. Double knitting (DK) Knit on 3½-4½mm needles. Usually double the weight of 4ply, this is the most widely used weight. Suitable for most garments and quick to knit up. Aran Knit on 4-5½mm needles. Originally created for fishermen’s jumpers. Use when DK isn’t heavy enough, and chunky is too bulky. Perfect for outdoor or warm clothing. Chunky Knit on 5½-7mm needles. Associated with outdoor wear and winter jumpers, great for oversized garments. Super chunky Knit on 7-12mm needles.…

BEST KNITTING TEACHER I learned to knit when I was a high school exchange student living in Japan, but I really got into knitting a few years later with the encouragement of my boyfriend’s mum, Bonney Teti, who happens to be the unchallenged owner of the world’s biggest yarn stash. She’s the best mother-in-law I could ask for. BEST SOURCE OF INSPIRATION I’m inspired by minimalist characters from Japan (like Hello Kitty), classic cartoons, stuff from my childhood like Pee-wee’s Playhouse and Dr Seuss, urban myths, and everyday objects. BEST TIP For beginners using double-pointed needles for the first time (which most of my patterns use), I advise them to work with lightweight needles made of wood or bamboo, and to choose needles that aren’t too long for their project.…

Welcome to this special supplement to celebrate Commit To Knit month this June, an event organised by UK Hand Knitting (UKHK). We know that many of you are interested in using your craft to benefit charities across the country – it’s one of the main reasons for visits to the UKHK website – so we’re always keen to find ways to help you. UKHK first launched Commit To Knit last autumn and so many people signed up that we decided to make this an annual event. The idea is simple – we’re asking you to Commit To Knit (or crochet) just one item for charity during June. To help you with this, we’ve put together a collection of patterns in our members’ yarns to offer some inspiration, and given information…

For cats awaiting their ‘furrever’ homes in rescue centres, it can be a long, dull time. A gift of this catnip mouse will make the wait a lot more fun! YOU WILL NEED Wendy, Merino Chunky (100% wool, 50g/65m) 1 ball of each: Pumice2472 Cloud2470 A pair of 5mm needles Oddment of black embroidery thread Stuffing Catnip (optional) For yarn stockists contact TB Ramsden 01943 872264 www.tbramsden.co.uk TENSION 16 sts and 24 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st on 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 7.5cm (3in) length from nose to tail ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 BODY Cast on 9 sts using 5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 Kfb in every st. [18 sts] Row 2 Purl. Row 3 Kfb in every st. [36…

Springtime can be enjoyed all year round when you crochet one of these fabulous pink tulips! YOU WILL NEED James C Brett, Cotton On (50% acrylic, 50% cotton, 50g/145m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Pink (08) Yarn B Variegated Green (20) 3mm crochet hook 20cm of 1mm craft wire For yarn stockists contact James C Brett 01274 565959 www. jamescbrett.co.uk TENSION Tension is not critical for this project MEASUREMENTS 14cm high ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 PETALS (MAKE 5) Using Yarn A, ch4. Row 1 Starting in 2nd ch from hook, 3dc. Row 2 1ch, 2dc in 1st dc, 1dc in next dc, 2dc in third dc. [5 sts] Row 3 2ch, 1 htr in each dc. Rows 4 & 5 2ch,…

ABBREVIATIONS C10B slip 5 sts onto cn, hold at back of work, K5 from left-hand needle, K5 from cn C6B slip 3 sts onto cn, hold at back of work, K3 from left-hand needle, K3 from cn For a full list see page 31 Warm hats are always welcome items of clothing when it’s chilly, and Rico’s unisex design has a ribbed brim to make it extra snug. The cables create a lovely texture, and once you’ve mastered the cabling pattern the hat will knit up quickly. Finish with a jaunty pompom! YOU WILL NEED Rico Design, Essentials Merino DK, (100% wool, 50g/120m) 2 balls of Burgundy (009) A pair of 3¼mm needles A pair of 4mm needles A cable needle For yarn stockists contact your local Rico Design retailer…

STYLE STAPLE Sublime, 6085. Smart open-front cardi in Egyptian Cotton DK. Perfect for parties! www.sublimeyarns.com, 01924 369666 CHECK IT OUT! Rico Design, 97437. Casual belted design using Fashion Jersey yarn. www.ricodesign.de/en/home +49 05 272 6020 BERRY PINK King Cole, 3111. Try some easy lace with this DK weight tie-front cardigan.www.kingcole.com, 01756 703670 COLOUR BLOCK Caron, ‘Walk in the Park Cardi’. Bright, bold design for Caron Simply Soft Light – and it’s free! www.yarnspirations.com A LITTLE LACE Sirdar, 1325. Sweet cardi in Snuggly Baby Bamboo DK for ages seven and under.www.sirdar.co.uk, 01924 231682 LOVE THESE? CAST ON OUR PRETTY LACY CARDIGAN ON PAGE 38!…

Desert island yarn? One of my favourite yarns is Rowan Big Wool. I like the simple chunky feel and it’s so quick to knit projects with. How did you learn to knit? My mum taught me when I was about five. What inspires you? My inspiration comes from yarns, stitches, interesting shapes and constructions for garments and other knits. Favourite knitting project? My favourite project is usually the current one. I’ve just finished working on a book of knitted bags and I’ve made a few of those, which I’ve enjoyed doing. Biggest knitting ambition? My biggest ambition is to try new techniques and learn to crochet. Must-have knitting gadget? Not a gadget, but a container to keep projects neat and not spread around, which they tend to do! Tips for…

What a cute outfit! This hat and dungarees set would make a lovely gift for a little one, and it’s a nice relaxing project too. Choose an easy-care superwash wool and go for a size or two bigger than baby currently wears to make sure there’s plenty of growing room. We’d love to see pictures of your finished knits – why not write to us at the usual address on page 32? YOU WILL NEED Rooster, Baby Rooster (100% superwash Merino wool, 50g/125m) A 3mm circular needle A pair of 3¼mm needles A pair of 3 mm needles Stitch holders 2 buttons Tapestry needle For yarn stockists contact Rooster Yarns 01829 740903 www.roosteryarns.com TENSION Yarn used knits as 4ply to this tension: 24 sts and 34 rows to…

Kids grow quickly, so you want your hand knits to last them more than a few months. This watermelon jumper is designed with that in mind: the cuffs can be turned up and there’s extra length in the body. Plus it’s comfy, colourful and quick to make – what more could you need? YOU WILL NEED Rico Design, Baby Classic DK (50% polyamide, 50% acrylic, 50g/165m) A set of 3¼mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) A 3¼mm circular needle, 50cm long A set of 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) A 4mm circular needle, 50cm long 2 stitch markers 2 locking stitch markers or safety pins Waste yarn Tapestry needle For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.de/en/home TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 30 rows to…

We spent a few days in New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington. I had my photo taken by the Beehive, which is part of our parliament buildings. I had issue 144 with me so I bought the wool to start my holiday project, the icy blue cable hat. Thanks for a great magazine which I know a lot of New Zealanders enjoy! Audrey Diehl, Timaru, New Zealand We'd love to see more pictures of you with Simply Knitting (or even just your knitting!) in foreign lands. The sender of every letter will receive a circular needle from Cooats Crafts UK.…

Doesn’t this beautiful yarn remind you of ice cream? We love how the colour changes complement Jo Allport’s shale lace design for a smart, stylish look – ideal for parties! YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft, Sundae DK (50% cotton, 50% acrylic, 100g/246m) A pair of 3¼mm needles A pair of 4mm needles 3 stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01535 609798 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Lace Pattern using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 90 CARDIGAN CHART (WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS) Row 1 (RS) *(K2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice, K11; rep from * to last 11 sts, (k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice. Row…

We really love this sweet little ring pillow – it’s perfect for soon-to-be newlyweds. Try making it your own by knitting the border in another colour. With such a simple chart to follow, we reckon you could knit it up in a few crafternoons! YOU WILL NEED King Cole, Merino Blend DK (100% wool, 50g/104m) 1 ball of White (001) A pair of 3¼mm needles A length of ribbon (approx 40cm long) Stuffing For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 23 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3¼mm needles SIZE Cushion 10 x 10cm Border 3cm deep, to fit around edge of cushion ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 90…

Space exploration has been headline news recently, due to Tim Peake’s exploits on the ISS, so Alan’s creation would be the perfect gift for anyone inspired by this real-life astronaut’s adventures! The level of detail achieved in simple yarn and stitches is absolutely incredible, making this toy a sheer joy to bring to life. YOU WILL NEED Hayfield, Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: White (961), Black (965), Powder Blue (960), Flesh Tone (963) and Dark Grey Mix (790) 1g oddments of red and cornflower blue DK yarn 1m length of lemon yellow DK yarn 50cm lengths of golden brown and dusky pink DK yarn A pair of 3mm needles Stitch holder A cotton bud Stiff card Pair of compasses Clear adhesive Long tweezers Hair spray 120g…

PURRRFECT We love how this jumper is looking so far! Frejasmas is blocking out her lovely rose garment, and it looks like her cat approves, too. WOW-FACTOR Sixty_toes’ Love Heart kid’s jumper from issue 142 looks amazing! Can you believe she’s now on her third one? Those colours really pop! PRIZE WINNER Grannysworld_sue (Sue Speechley) is pretty happy with her prize for issue 145’s Star Letter. What a fantastic bundle of goodies from Stylecraft!…

1 Insert the point of the right-hand needle through the loops of the next 2 stitches as if to knit. 2 Wind the yarn round the tip of the right-hand needle and pull the yarn through the 2 stitches, knitting them both together. 3 Drop the 2 stitches from the left-hand needle and keep the new stitch on the right-hand needle. 4 Knitting two stitches together decreases your stitch count by two, and the decrease stitch leans to the right. This is how a series looks.…

“My first play weaves together yarns about knitting” Supported by Craftspace and mac birmingham, Trevor Pitt’s debut play, Yarning, is a true passion project. It all began ten years ago when he masterminded an art project that culminated in the knitting of benches using yarns from specific parts of the UK. “I sought out sheep farmers and we sheared the sheep, then spinners spun the fleece into wool, and I and other knitters created benches from it,” Trevor explains. As he met with farmers, spinners and knitters, Trevor found himself being drawn into stories that spanned the whole history of Britain’s yarn industry. “People told me stories, big stories, often tragic stories,” he says. “In 2012 I retraced my steps so I could record these personal histories, and then I…

KING COLE CLICKETTY CLACK W clickettyclack.co.uk T 01844 273739 Specialists in the gorgeous King Cole yarn and pattern range. Fibres, prices and designs to suit all discerning knitters. Visit our shop in Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, browse online or ring us for mail order. STYLECRAFT & SIRDAR FORGET ME NOT W forgetmenot247.co.uk T 01329 668915 Forget Me Not is saving your unfinished projects across the country; check instore to our ‘stitch surgery’ or visit the ‘crochet clinic’ and let us help. We have everything you might need. Stockists of Sirdar, Stylecraft, James Brett and so much more. STYLECRAFT NEEDLES & PINS W needles-pins.co.uk T 01455 285800 Needles and Pins stock a variety of yarns, visit our website and have a browse to see what we do. New website…

CHAIN STITCH This is the foundation of all crochet stitches. 1 About 15cm (6in) from the end of the yarn, make a loop with the ball end on top. Insert the hook through this loop and catch the yarn, pulling it through the loop. Slide the slipknot up to the hook. 2 With the hook in your right hand, hold the slipknot between thumb and finger of the left hand. Move the hook under and over the yarn. 3 Pull the hook and yarn back through the slipknot loop to form your first chain (ch) stitch. Now repeat steps 1-2 until you’ve formed a chain. 4 This is what your row of chains will look like. Keep going until you have the number of chains that are stated on your…

Step into summer with a pair of breezy textured socks by Jane Burns. This cosy pair are knitted in a lightweight, custom spun yarn. Made from a mix of UK wool, alpaca and nylon, this yarn is perfect for creating warmth without weight. Whip them up in a few evenings for yourself or as a great gift for a friend. The simple stitches make these socks fab for beginners and the snuggly yarn has a real bounce to it! YOU WILL NEED Knitting Goddess, Britsock (60% wool, 20% alpaca, 20% nylon, 100g/400m) 1 skein of Turquoise 16M A set of 2 mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a circular needle, 80cm long, for Magic Loop method 2 stitch markers Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact The Knitting Goddess www.theknittinggoddess.co.uk…

Issue 146 June 2016 Swing top Summer cardigan Textured jumper Royal tea set Quick-knit tote bag Child’s slipover Tiny Clanger toy Men’s slippers Beer cosies Men’s colourwork socks Alan Dart’s Green Man PLUS! Cushion pattern Issue 145 May 2016 Lace panel jumper Easy-knit gilet Baby jumper Trinket bag Men’s textured jumper Lace mittens Sleeveless top Scarf Cushion covers Teen’s jumper Bed socks Alan Dart’s Lumberjack Beaver PLUS! Headband pattern Issue 144 April 2016 Lacy edge-to-edge cardi V-neck jumper Legwarmers Hot water bottle cover Kid’s cardi Lace panel jumper Quick-knit hat Fair Isle cushion Kimono cardi Socks Alan Dart’s Hansel & Gretel Plus! Kid’s jumper pattern Issue 143 March 2016 Cable sweater Men’s Fair Isle jumper Lion tea cosy Easter chicks Sixties-style top Lacy fingerless mittens Cape Double-knitted scarf Kid’s tank…

UK Hand Knitting (UKHK) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting hand knitting and associated yarn crafts. It has developed a nationwide network of volunteers, who pass on their skills to encourage newcomers to learn to knit or crochet at craft shows and other events across the UK. The UKHK board members are major distributors of yarn and related products in the UK – James C Brett, Rico Design, Coats Crafts, Designer Yarns, Groves, King Cole, Sirdar, Norland, Thomas B Ramsden and Stylecraft. The UKHK website (www.ukhandknitting.com) is a fantastic resource for knitters and crocheters, featuring how-to videos, information on knitting and crocheting workshops across the UK, the latest news, a directory of yarn shops and lots more. It also features a comprehensive list of over 550 knitting groups in…

Who can fail to smile when they see this cheery design? It would be a great project to make with a group, with each of you contributing a few squares to the finished blanket. YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft, Life DK (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m) 1 ball of each: Cascade (2308) Zing (2356) Pebble (2327) Mint (2342) Clover (2358) Stone Nepp (2324) Aqua (2357) Melon (2359) Fern (2311) Lily (2417) Copper (2312) Daffodil (2394) A 4mm (US G/6) hook For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01535 609798 www. stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION 9x9cm (3½x3½in) square on 4mm hook MEASUREMENTS The finished blanket measures 84x114cm (33x45in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 ARRANGING THE SQUARES The throw is made up of 108 squares, arranged in a rectangle 9…

For those babies who make an appearance early, this teeny hat will help keep them toasty. YOU WILL NEED Sirdar, Snuggly DK (55% nylon, 45% acrylic, 50g/165m) 1 ball of Wobble (403) A pair of 4mm needles A pair of 3 º mm needles For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 22.5 (26)cm actual hat circumference – to fit babies born 27-31 (32-34) weeks ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 HAT Cast on 49 (57) sts using 3¼mm needles. Row 1 K1, (P1, K1) to end. Row 2 P1, (K1, P1) to end. Rep rows 1 & 2, 6 times. Next row P7, p2tog, (P6 (8), p2tog) 4…

Making simple squares takes no time at all, so they’re a great project for knitting on the go. YOU WILL NEED DY Choice, Aran With Wool (75% polyacryl, 25% wool, 100g/100m) 1 ball in your preferred shade A pair of 5mm needles For yarn stockists contact Designer Yarns 01535 664222 www.designeryarns. uk.com TENSION 16.5 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) in pattern on 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 20x20cm (8x8in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 SQUARE Cast on 27 sts using 5mm needles. Row 1 K1, (P1, K1) 13 times. Row 2 K1, (K5, P3) 3 times, K2. Row 3 K1, P1, (K3, P5) 3 times, K1. Row 4 (K2, P3, K3) 3 times, K3. Row 5 K1, (P5, K3) 3 times, P1,…

alt alternate approx approximately beg beginning cb cable back CC contrast colour cf cable forward cn cable needle co cast on cont continue dec decrease(ing) (by working two stitches together) est established DK double knitting foll/s following/follows g st garter stitch (knit every row) inc increase (usually knit into same stitch twice) K/k knit kfb knit into front and back of stitch kwise knitwise; by knitting the stitch k2tog knit the next two stitches together k3tog knit the next three stitches together k(1)tbl knit (1) into back loop LH left hand meas measure(s) M1 make one by knitting into back of loop between two sts (increase 1 stitch) M1L make one twisted to the left (increase 1 stitch) M1R make one twisted to the right (increase 1 stitch) M1P make…

across to end of the row alt alternate/alternating approx approximate(ly) beg beginning bl insert hook under back loop only ch(s) chain/chain stitch(es) ch-sp(s) chain space(s) ch- refers to ch made previously, eg. ch-3 cl(s) clusters 4-tr cl (yrh, insert hook in sp/st, yrh & pull up loop, yrh & draw through 2 loops) 4 times, inserting hook in same sp/st, yrh & draw through all loops on hook cont continue dc double crochet dc2tog (insert hook in next st, yrh and draw a loop through) twice, yrh and draw through all 3 loops on hook dec decrease dtr double treble crochet dtr2tog work 2dtr together fl insert hook under front loop only foll/folls following/follows htr half treble htr2tog work 2htr together in next sts to be worked into the same…