Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 159 i Simply Knitting

Sunny days are here again (at least for now)! We’ve had two beautifully bright weekends this month, the first visiting Cologne for an amazing trade show and taking in all the new yarn trends for the Autumn/Winter season.There was so much to see, with companies attending from all over the world.We walked for miles, seeing old friends and new yarns – it was great fun! I can’t wait to share the new ideas and products with you in future issues of Simply Knitting. More recently, we’ve spent time having fun with the fabulous Debbie Bliss and the lovely teams from DesignerYarns and Black Sheep Wools on our Stitchtopia reader weekend in Harrogate. It was wonderful to meet everyone, and we had a great time on Debbie’s workshop exploring creativity and…

There’s something for everyone in the latest Bergère de France’s Le Wooling #4 magazine, especially when it comes to glorious summerwear. Whether you’re new to knitting, have been a knitter for years, or like to mix up your knitting with a little crochet, you’ll have plenty of choices. We love their collection’s loose fits, light cotton blend yarn choices, open weave patterns and pretty lacy details. Find all you need to know about these great patterns at www. bergeredefrance.co.uk . Gift inspiration for knitters Those with a passion for fun, original things will love Tilly Flop Designs’ range of knit-inspired stationery gifts over at Etsy... SUMMER STORAGE… WHAT? Knitters can never have enough storage soloutions for their ever-growing yarn stashes. But…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Jo Allport “I wanted to create a simple striped scarf, but with a bit of a twist. The lace pattern over the top of the stripes adds interest without overcomplicating things. It’s such fun to knit and to wear! YOU WILL NEED • Rooster, Almerino Aran (50% baby alpaca, 50% Merino wool, 50g/94m) 2 balls each of: Yarn A Ocean (309) Yarn B Smoothie (324) 3 balls of Yarn C Gooseberry (306) • A pair of 5mm needles For yarn stockists contact Rooster Yarns 01829 740903 www.roosteryarns.com TENSION Yarn used knits as aran to this tension: 21 sts and 25 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 25cm (10in) wide x 158cm (62in) long ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Jo Allport “I love this essential summer cardigan. Its split hemline and deep edges in lace remind me of dandelion clocks drifting slowly in the breeze.” YOU WILL NEED • Rico Design, Fashion Cotton Spray DK (100% cotton, 50g/170m) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • 8 stitch markers • 10 ( 10 : 10 : 10 : 11 : 11 : 11 : 11 : 11 : 11 ) 13mm buttons For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.de TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 23 sts and 33 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles, or 16 sts and 37 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Lace Pattern using 4mm needles…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Siân Brown “I’ve always been a fan of Mackintosh and his beautiful rose designs, so I thought what better way to show off my interpretation than on a bag of my own design?” YOU WILL NEED • Debbie Bliss, Mia (50% cotton, 50% wool, 50g/100m): 3 balls of Yarn A Ecru (02) 1 ball of each: Yarn B Rose (10) and Yarn C Apple (26) • A pair of 4mm needles • Lining fabric • Wadding For yarn stockists contact Designer Yarns 01535 664222 www.designeryarns.uk.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 27cm (103/4in) tall x 27cm (103/4in) wide ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95…

Here I am with issue 152 in front of the famous lighthouse on the Sea Pines Plantation, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina U.S. Normally the marina would be filled with beautiful, huge yachts, but Hilton Head got a direct hit from hurricane Mathew one month before we arrived. The devastation on the island was severe but the residents remain “Hilton Head Strong” as they deal with the enormous damage and clean up. For the 19 hour drive, I knitted myself the headband, chunky rib scarf and hat from The Winter Warmers booklet. I knew I would need them upon my return to winter in Canada! Debbie Hurley, Canada WE’D LOVE TO SEE MORE PICTURES OF YOU WITH SIMPLY KNITTING (OR YOU AND YOUR KNITTING!) ON HOLIDAY. THIS MONTH’S LETTER WRITER…

Five lucky knitters can whip up a luxury hooded cowl worth £13.50, from Cygnet Yarns. www.cygnetyarns.com 01274 743374 SKMCYGNET159 We’re giving away eight balls of Hoooked Eco Barbante Solid for you to get your needles stuck into, worth £41.52. www.hoooked.co.uk +31-70-3351886 SKMHOOOKED159 Five of you can go a little pompom crazy with four different-sized Clover pompom makers courtesy of Minerva Crafts, worth £14.98 per prize. www.minervacrafts.com 01254 708068 SKMPOMPOM159 Vanessa Bee are treating one of you to a fab accessories collection, worth £19.47. www.vanessabeedesigns.co.uk SKMVANESSA159 Designer Yarns are giving away ten balls of Conway + Bliss Lolli plus two child pattern booklets, worth £46.90 all together! www.designeryarns.uk.com 01535 664222 SKMLOLLI159 Welcome little ones to the world with this easy-to-knit diaper cover kit, worth £23. www.stitchandstory.com SKMSANDS159 Update your needle collection with one of three pretty bamboo…

Check out Yeoman Yarns’ new and improved website. They’ve rephotographed 1100 yarns to show off colours and textures brilliantly, making it even easier to choose the perfect yarn. www. yeoman-yarns.co.uk . News flash ! Due for launch mid-May, DY Baby Cloud Aran is the latest in the DY Choice range. Soft and warm, it makes gorgeous clothes for babies. READER POLL Do you only buy yarn for a specific pattern? 51% of you buy yarn just ‘because’! New on Hobbycraft The latest adorable additions to the Phildar Nuage, Flocon and Myriade yarn ranges are ready to be perused over at www.hobbycraft.co.uk. NEW WEBSITE! Eden Cottage Yarn www.edencottageyarns.co.uk There’s exciting news from Eden Cottage Yarn this month with the relaunch of their website. Packed…

We’ve all been there. Happily knitting away when your ball of yarn decides it’s time to roll away for a little adventure. Well, no more! Whatever your style, we’ve found a pretty and practical bowl to keep your yarn unwinding in one place. 1 These little lovebirds will watch over your current WIP! Made from ÃÌÕÀ Þ›ViÀ>››V›>› ›w››Ã›i ›Ü›Ì›› stunning raspberry and gold glazes, this medium-sized bowl is ideal for smaller projects around the house. £33, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/  TheHappyBirder 2 Made to order, Jenny Barton’s carefully crafted bowls are really one of a kind! You can head down to her studio and paint your own pre-made bowl or get stuck into some clay and shape your own unique one. We just love those stunning contrast glazes. £25,…

CLOUD PATTERN NOTE Knit into yo stitches through back loop to avoid holes appearing in work. CAST ON 6 sts. ROW 1 Knit. [6 sts] ROW 2 P1, yo, P4, yo, P1. [8 sts] Work 2 rows of st st, starting with a knit row. ROW 5 (K1, yo) three times, K5. [11 sts] Work 2 rows of st st, starting with a purl row. ROW 8 Ssp, P5, (yo, P1) four times. [14 sts] ROW 9 Knit to last st, yo, K1. [15 sts] Work 4 rows of st st, starting with a purl row. ROW 14 P7, (p2tog) four times. [11 sts] ROW 15 Knit. ROW 16 P8, (yo, P1) three times. [14 sts] Work 2 rows of st st, starting with a knit row. ROW 19 K10,…

1 DELIGHTFUL DOGGIE This sweet jumper by Amanda Jones features a dachshund which wraps around the side of the garment. It’s worked in King Cole Merino DK, a classic wool yarn that’s machine washable, making this a fun staple for your wardrobe. Simply Knitting 88, www.ravelry.com/ patterns/library/walking-the-dog 2 SUPERHERO STITCHES Here’s one for the superhero fans, Ruth Maddock’s fun tank uses King Cole Big Value yarn for an economic knit that really makes a knock-out statement! Simply Knitting 143, www.ravelry.com/ patterns/library/to-the-rescue-tank-top 3 FEELING FRUITY Jane Burns’ delightful jumper for teens features just a small amount of colourwork around the neckline, which can be worked using either the stranded or intarsia method. Before knitting it, make a swatch first…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Sarah Dennis “My inspiration came from the sunlight streaming through stained glass windows at Truro Cathedral. I love the contrast of a dark frame with the glorious colours shining brightly.” YOU WILL NEED • Stylecraft, Life 4ply (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/450m), 1 ball of Yarn A Black (2307) • Stylecraft, Head Over Heels 4ply (75% wool, 25% nylon, 100g/400m), 1 ball of Yarn B Matterhorn (3100) • A length of 4ply waste yarn (approximately 50cm) • A set of 3mm DPNs • Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01535 609798 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as 4ply to this tension: 32 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit a 21.5cm foot circumference Actual circumference…

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…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Baby Merino Silk DK (66% superwash wool, 34% silk, 50g/135m) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • A 3¼mm circular needle, 60cm long • 4 small buttons For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 20 sts and 44 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over garter st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 of Simply Knitting A Sleeve length: 12 ( 14.5 : 17 : 19 : 21 : 23.5 : 26 )cm 4¾ ( 5¾ : 6¾ : 7.5 : 8¼ : 9¼ : 10¼)in B Width: 26.5 ( 27.5 : 28.5 : 29.5 : 30.5 : 31.5 : 32.5 )cm…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Baby Merino Silk DK (66% wool, 34% silk, 50g/135m) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • 13 small buttons • Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) measured over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 of Simply Knitting A Sleeve length: 12 ( 14.5 : 17 : 19 : 21 )cm 4¾ ( 5¾ : 6¾ : 7 : 8¼)in B Width: 26 ( 27.5 : 28 : 29 : 30 )cm 10 ( 10¾ : 11 : 11 : 11¾)in C Body length: 42 ( 46.5 :…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Baby Merino Silk DK (66% wool, 34% silk, 50g/135m) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • A 3¼ circular needle, 60cm long • 2 buttons For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 30 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 of Simply Knitting A Sleeve length: 12 ( 14.5: 17: 19: 21: 23.5: 26 )cm, 4¾ ( 5¾: 6¾: 7 : 8¼ : 9¼: 10¼)in B Width: 26 ( 27 : 27.5 : 28.5: 30.5: 31.5: 32.5 )cm, 10¼: ( 10 : 10¾: 11¼: 12: 12 : 12¾)in C Body length: 25…

Jen Bartlett Technical Editor Funnily enough, I only learned about 14 years ago, when I was pregnant with my youngest. I remember making a hat for my mum before learning about tension! Kirstie McLeod Editor I learned while I was at primary school. My teacher taught me, and my mum as well. I made a square that ended up being a triangle with quite a few mistakes... Kate Evans Digital Editor I remember mum and nan taught me when we were on holiday, when I was about six or seven. I practised with a dog that you knitted flat and then seamed. Louise Smith Production Assistant My dad showed me how to cast on, knit, then cast off. After that, I practised stitches from a book he and my mum…

“Recently, I was chatting to a friend whose knitting obsession is even worse than mine. I swear she emerged from the womb V>ÃÌ››}›››››iÀ›wÀÃÌ›À›Üt›-›i½Ã›Ì›i›Ã›ÀÌ› of knitter who can identify the pattern name of your shawl and the yarn from a distance of 20 paces. Honestly, this woman is a yarny encyclopaedia in wedge-heel boots. Needless to say, her knitting is rather amazing. She can rip out and completely reshape the collar of a jumper without iÛi››w}ÕÀ››}››Ỡ̛i››>̛ÛLiv›Ài›>› ]› and her lacework is stunning. SHOCK, HORROR Why am telling you this? It’s so you’ll share my surprise at the fact that she can’t knit cables. I didn’t believe her when she told me, and assumed that what she meant was that she can’t work vÀii›À>›}››}›V>L›iÛ›››››Ûi›ÌÞ›yÕvvÞ› yarn to Olympic standard with her eyes closed.…

6000+ Pullover Possibilities Melissa Leapman (Sixth & Spring Books £16.99) Indulge a passion for adapting and reshaping your knitting with this exceptional book. Making one of the most daunting aspects of knitting refreshingly easy, 6000+ Pullover Possibilities by Melissa Leapman shows you how to modify a basic jumper pattern to create a new sleeve, neckline, pockets, collars and so much more. It’s the perfect buy for yi`}›››}››››Ì› iÛ}›iÀÃt Crush Kim Hargreaves (£10.95) Update your early summer wardrobe with a selection of irresistible knits from this top designer. Crisp white cotton jumpers sit happily alongside casual denim cardigans and jackets – the perfect complement to a cotton skirt or swishy summer dress. As the days heat Õ«›Þ›Õ½›››>›Ã››w› ›Ã›iiÛi›iÃÛÌ>›››Ì›«Ã› and vests and featherlight loose knit jumpers, each with the characteristic modern stitch…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Jane Burns “I wanted to show how easy it is to knit a simple motif and end up with a really cute jumper. It wasn’t until I was sewing it up that I realised it would make a fab pocket for a little one.” YOU WILL NEED • Sublime, Baby Cashmere Merino Silk DK (75% extra fine Merino, 20% silk, 5% cashmere, 50g/116mm) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A set of 3¼mm DPNs • A pair of 4mm needles • Stitch markers • Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Sublime 01924 369666 www.sublimeyarns.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see…

ADDICTED TO ALAN ›››>Ûi››ÕÃÌ›w››Ã›i ›č›>›››>À̽Û›Àii›› ›››}iÀÛ}›››i›vÀ››››ÃÃÕi›££n°›››i›››Þ›››Ã› «>ÌÌiÀ›Ã]››››>Ûi››››ÌÌi ›Ì›Àii››Ì›iÀÃƛ̛i› y>›››}›]›Ì›i›››>›>]›>› ›>›L>››iÀ››>›››ÕÃi° Sue Bradford, Worcestershire OUR LETTER OF THE MONTH WRITER WINS AN AIR SNOOD KIT WORTH £50, COURTESY OF WE ARE KNITTERS! We Are Knitters has all you need to start your next knitting project. www.weareknitters.co.uk, +1 (855) 676-3019…

For Megan Warre, a passion for knitting began with a love of yarn. “I’ve always enjoyed going to yarn shops,” she comments. “I love squishing all the different skeins and picturing all the possible things they can become.” After Megan rediscovered knitting eight years ago, learning about the construction of yarn seemed like the logical next step. “My step-mum found a beautiful vintage spinning wheel in a charity shop and asked if I wanted it – it was meant to be!” Megan took a spinning class to learn the basics and was instantly hooked. “I spent a couple of years ë›››››}›>›››Ì›i› ›vviÀi›Ì›wLÀiÛ››V›Õ› ›}iÌ››Þ› hands on. I try to predominantly use British wool and support smaller farms. I love John Arbon Textiles and The Little Grey Sheep.” Megan enjoys substantial projects…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Siân Brown “I love designing pretty summer knits filled with pastels and lace details, they remind me that soon shorts, floaty dresses and days in the garden will be filling my weekends!” YOU WILL NEED • Paintbox, Cotton DK (100% cotton, 50g/125m) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • 1 button • Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Love Knitting 0845 544 2196 www.loveknitting.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  y2rn Wrap yarn twice around needle For a full list see page 95 Cotton-knitted, lace-finished cardigans are well-loved during a British summer and this sweet lace pattern is one of…

NEW PRODUCTS? Following the launch of our maiden collection of Corozo buttons in 2016, we’re aiming to release new ranges as often as we can. We have already introduced two new colours to the initial pattern range (Cornbury 965) and have also launched a new pattern (Bibury 425) in two colours, and two different sizes in 2017. Further colours and sizes are being added all the time. WHAT ELSE IS NEW? Plenty is going on at button HQ, as we are working on other natural materials, and those WIPs are for another day. ANY SHOWS? We have just joined Make it British, which is an association of committed and passionate UK manufacturers. We’ll be at MiB’s Meet the Manufacturer trade show in May. We are also looking at taking part…

YOU WILL NEED • DROPS, Karisma (100% wool, 50g/100m) • A 3mm circular needle, 80cm long • A set of 3mm DPNs • A 4mm circular needle, 40cm long • A set of 4mm circular needles, 80cm long • A set of 4mm DPNs • A cable needle • 6 buttons For yarn stockists contact Garnstudio www.garnstudio.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 21 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS C10F Sl 5 sts onto cable needle (cn) and hold to front of piece, K5, K5 from cn C10B Sl 5 sts on cn and hold to back of piece, K5, K5 from cn For a full list see page 95 Perfect for casual days when…

Lovers of animal sweaters will probably have already tried intarsia knitting. But if the thought of all those ends and fiddly bits of yarn is putting you off giving it a go, be afraid no longer! Intarsia really isn’t as tricky as it looks and learning the basics of the technique will open up your knitting to all sorts of possible future projects. Read on for our guide to getting a great finish to your intarsia knitting. WHAT IS INTARSIA? Intarsia is a great way of making your knitting really colourful. You can use it to add large motifs, images or repeated patterns to your project. IS IT THE SAME AS STRANDED COLOURWORK? No. In stranded colourwork, also known as Fair Isle knitting, the colour not in use is held…

YOU WILL NEED • Rico Essentials, Soft Merino Aran (100% Merino wool, 50g/100m), 12 balls of Yarn A Cream (61) 9 balls of Yarn B Pistachio (50) • A pair of 4 mm needles • A pair of 5mm needles • A 4 mm circular needle, 100cm long For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.de TENSION Yarn used knits as aran to this tension: 18 sts and 25 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Approx 106cm wide x 126cm long ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Take your work out on the road with you when you knit this garden-inspired blanket this summer. Constructed from individual squares which are stitched together, each one is easily packed away in a workbag…

SIRDAR & KING COLE COLDSPRING MILL A Haworth Rd, Cullingworth, BD13 5EE T 01535 275646 Spring Summer 2017 yarns and patterns by Sirdar, King Cole, Hayfield and James C. Brett. Lots of bargain packs too. Open every day except Easter Sunday. Probably the biggest hand-knitting yarn shop in the UK. Visit us at coldspringmill.co.uk. KING COLE HORNCASTLE HOBBY HOUSE W horncastlehobbyhouse.co.uk T 01507 522659 King Cole Cottonsoft Crush now arrived. Lovely colour mixes in 100% Cotton ready for Spring. Three different yarn cakes in stock: Katia Spring Rainbow, Katia Paint and Woolcraft Cakes. Varying thicknesses and 21 colour ways in all. Peter Pan Petite Fleur for the baby knitting with lovely patterns. SIRDAR RUDDOCKS OF LINCOLN A 287 High St. Lincoln, LN2 1AW T 01522 528285 Independent Department Store…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Baby Merino Silk DK (66% Merino, 34% silk, 50g/135m) • A pair of 3¾mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • A stitch holder • 8 small buttons For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 30 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 of Simply Knitting A Sleeve length: 12 ( 14.5 : 17 : 19 : 21 : 23 : 26 )cm 4¾ ( 5¾ : 6¾ : 7 : 8¼ : 9¼ : 10¼)in B Width: 26 ( 27 : 27.5 : 28.5 : 30.5 : 31.5 : 32.5 )cm 10 ( 10 : 10¾…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Baby Merino Silk DK (66% wool, 34% silk, 50g/135m) • A pair of 4mm needles • 4 small buttons For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 20 sts and 38 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) measured over moss st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 of Simply Knitting A Sleeve length (with 3cm cuff turned back): 12 ( 14.5 : 17 : 19: 21: 23.5: 26 )cm 4¾ ( 5¾ : 6¾ : 7 : 8¼: 9¼: 10¼)in B Width: 26.5 ( 27.5 : 28.5 : 29.5: 30.5: 31.5: 32.5 )cm 10 ( 10¾: 11¼ : 11 : 12: 12 : 12¾)in C Body length: 25.5 ( 27…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Fran Morgan “I pulled inspiration ›om the 20s and 30s for this design – using different aspects of both the eras’ fashions. The cold shoulders are my nod to the strappy flapper dresses worn during the 20s!” YOU WILL NEED • King Cole Bamboo Cotton DK (50% bamboo, 50% cotton, 100g/230m) • A pair of 3¾mm knitting needles • A pair of 4mm knitting needles • Stitch holder For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 31 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Garter Stitch Ridge pattern using 4mm needles 26 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Slip Stitch Ridge pattern using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Monica Russel “I’d been admiring lots of sweet baby dresses and thought it was about time I designed one myself. I think stripes always work well during the summer months.” YOU WILL NEED • Rooster, Almerino DK (50% baby alpaca, 50% Merino wool, 50g/113m) • A 4mm circular needle, 60cm long • 3 cable needles or DPNs • 1 button For yarn stockists contact Rooster Yarns 01829 740903 www.roosteryarns.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 20 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Dressing baby in a bright, fresh knit is the ultimate summer joy for parents, and stripes always create a stylish look. This 50% baby…

KNITMORE GIRLS WWW.KNITMOREGIRLSPODCAST.COM Jasmine and Gigi are a highly entertaining duo who simply love knitting, spinning and absolutely everything to do with yarn. Their podcast, blog and Facebook page are packed with great ideas, top reviews and interviews, not to mention their escapades knitting with and for children and so much more. Join them for knitalongs and laughs. THE GEEKY KNITTER WWW.THEGEEKYKNITTER.CO.UK Knitter, crocheter and cosplayer, Jenny, loves to create, whether it’s knitting, crochet or fashioning her latest cosplay outfit. Check out her blog which is filled with free patterns, works in progress and inspirational knit news. EMMA VARNAM WWW.EMMAVARNAM.CO.UK Are you looking for a little bit of yarn escapism? We’ve found a little nook of knitting heaven at Emma Varnam’s blog. It’s updated with dreamy new Fair Isle knits,…

YOU WILL NEED • Hayfield, Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: White (961), Flesh Tone (963), Black (965), Pumpkin (766), Chocolate (947), Classic Red (833) and Walnut (927) • 50cm length of dusky pink DK yarn • A pair of 3mm knitting needles • Stitch holder • 60g washable toy stuffing • Long tweezers • Pair of compasses • Hole punch • Plastic drinking straw • Stiff card • Corrugated card • Clear adhesive • Pink pencil For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 26 sts and 36 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS 30.5cm (12in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 There’s no need…

A QUACKING KNIT WE LOVE @SOUL. KNIT.SEW’S CUTE DUCK FROM ISSUE 157 (EVEN IF IT’S IN TWO HALVES AT THE MOMENT). AND WE THINK IT WAS A FANTASTIC IDEA TO, IN HER OWN WORDS, “ADD WINGS FOR EXTRA ‘DUCKINESS’”. GOT THE BLUES @BIANKA.PERSSON USED STUNNING FALKGARN ULLIS YARN TO KNIT HERSELF A PAIR OF CLARE DEVINE’S CABLED SOCKS FROM ISSUE 137. CHECK OUT THOSE BLUE HUES AND COSY ROLLED RIB! WOOF WOOF! TIME FOR WALKIES! @LAMA.THE.KNITTER MADE HER POOCH THE WINTER WALKS COAT FROM ISSUE 155’S QUICK AND EASY KNITS BOOKLET – IT’S PAWSITIVELY PERFECT – AND IT LOOKS LIKE HER MODEL AGREES.…

YOU WILL NEED • Knit Picks, Gloss DK (70% Merino wool, 30% silk, 50g/112m) 4 balls of Yarn A Cream (24985) 2 balls of Yarn B Honey (24986) • A pair of 4 mm needles • 6 small wooden buttons • 45x45cm cushion insert For yarn stockists contact Knit Picks 080 8234 6084 www.knitpicks.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 27 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4 mm needles MEASUREMENTS 45x45cm (17¾x17¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 The quickest way to perk up a tired sofa or frumpy armchair is with a cleverly placed cushion, and the best ones are always those with a huge helping of wow factor. Cast on this two-colour, button-backed option…

“It’s the trivialisation of knitting that is the greatest problem, rather than its associations.” Somehow, while chatting recently with a friend and a young woman I’d only just met, the conversation came round to knitting. “Yeah, I can knit,” the young woman said with a laugh, “but I don’t want anyone thinking I’m old!” At this point my friend, who is aware of the importance of knitting in my life (for the record, slightly above eating and just a little below breathing), changed the subject. But I was left thinking how sad it was that this 20-something woman didn’t feel she could be seen with yarn, at least until she’d reached pensionable age. This is the stereotype that just won’t ›i]›Ì›>Ì››››ÌÌ››}››Ã›>›ÌÀ›Û›>››Ì››i›w››iÀ›v›À› ‘old ladies’ (what a demeaning term!). Such an idea…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Fran Morgan “I wanted a fabric that drapes softly but isn’t so lacy that you need to wear something over it to keep warm! This pattern is fairly solid, so it works for a cushion and mug hug too.” LACY JACKET Raglan sleeves and a flare around the hip create lovely curving detail on this jacket-style cardi. It’s ideal for wearing over a summer party dress. YOU WILL NEED • King Cole, Cottonsoft DK (100% cotton, 100g/210m) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • Stitch holders • 6 small buttons For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt…

“We knit together in public not only because we love to do so, but because when people see male knitters, something amazing happens!” When Ricardo Higuera discovered a knitting group in Chile especially for men, he was determined to join. The fact that the group aims to break down gender stereotypes was even more appealing. “Hombres Tejedores is a group created by Claudio Castillo,” explains Ricardo. “He’s an artist who had a plan to create a safe space for men interested not only in knitting, but also in discussing what it means to be a man nowadays, in particular to analyse how stereotypes and prejudices stop us from being free and living happily.” Claudio set up knitting workshops for men living in Santiago, Chile. “The date that we identify as…

“I get holes when changing colours” If you are using very sheeny yarn, like mercerised cotton or merino wool, you may find your joins aren’t snug enough because the yarn has a tendency to unravel. When using these yarns, try using a double twist to better secure the join made when you change colours. “I want to work in the round” Intarsia is tricky to work in the round, because your yarn is left at the wrong ‘end’ of your work. When you come back to the same point the yarn will be on the other edge of the motif. You can get around this by adding the motif using duplicate stitch. Alternatively, when working a piece in the round and adding an intarsia motif, start your first round, work…

ZRXOG OLNH HYHU\ ÀUH ,› › › › › engine to carry the bears so all children in trauma can have a woolly friend.” Lisa Bradley’s teddy tale all started when her husband told her about a charity he’d heard about in Australia. This just happened to be the Australian Red Cross’ Trauma Teddy™ campaign and it was all Lisa needed to spark her own Trauma Teddy™ mission. “In May 2016 my husband, who is a Community First Responder, asked if the knitting group I am part of would make bears to carry on the ambulance, to be given to children in trauma,” says Lisa. “He told me the idea started in Australia. ›››> i››Þ›wÀÃÌ›Li>À› while my daughter, Molly, was in hospital, then I posted a photo of it to…

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. CAST ON: THUMB METHOD A great all-rounder, use it to cast on stitches quickly and easily. 1 Make a slipknot and place…

Happiest knitting memory My mum teaching me the basics ›Ü››V›››Ã›>Ûv>À›>Û››}›Ìt®›Ü›i››››Ü>Û>L›ÕÌ›wÛi° Worst knitting disaster Throwing a large cable knitted container into the washing machine then realising I’d calculated the felting incorrectly so it had to be done again (the original is still used as a yarn container though). Pet hate ››>Û››}›Ì››Ã«i› ›››ÕÀÛÀiÜ›À›››}›Ã››iÌ›››}t Prized possession A copy of Angela Jeffs’ Wild Knitting which was published in 1979 and was really inspiring when I was at art college. Favourite time of day A relaxing bath with a book after work, followed by a glass of wine… and chocolate. Tips for new knitters -Ì>À̛ܛ̛›Ì›i›L>ÛVƯ̂›}›Ûi›Þ›Õ›>› vii›››}››v›>VV››«››Ã››i›Ì›>› ›Ì›i›V››w`i›Vi›Ì››ÌÀÞ››iÜ› techniques. YouTube is great for learning new techniques. Non-negotiable knitting time When there’s a deadline, which is usually all the time! Stash situation My yarn is kept in…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Baby Merino Silk DK (66% wool, 34% silk, 50g/135m) 3 balls of Yarn A Leaf (692) 2 balls of Yarn B Straw (671) 1 balls of Yarn C Dawn (672) 2 balls of Yarn D Strawberry (687) 2 balls of Yarn E Bluebird (684) 2 balls of Yarn F Pebble (690) 1 balls of Yarn G Emerald (685) 1 balls of Yarn H Candy (695) (Alternative yarn colours from the same range have been suggested by Rowan for discontinued shades) • A pair of 4mm needles For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 26 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over pattern using 4mm needles. MEASUREMENTS Completed blanket is 80x120cm…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Baby Merino Silk DK (66% wool, 34% silk, 50g/135m) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • 4 buttons For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 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 95 of Simply Knitting A Sleeve length: 12 ( 14.5 : 17 : 19: 21 : 23.5 : 26 )cm 4¾ ( 5¾ : 6¾ : 7 : 8¼ : 9¼ : 10¼)in B Width: 26 ( 27 : 27.5 : 28.5: 30.5 : 31.5 : 32.5 )cm 10¼ ( 10 : 10¾ : 11¼: 12 : 12 :…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Baby Merino Silk DK (66% wool, 34% silk, 50g/135m) • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 3¾mm needles For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 40 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) measured over garter st using 3¾mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 of Simply Knitting PATTERN NOTE A small amount of same yarn in a contrast colour was used for embroidery. (photographed in Sunshine 688 embroidered with Zinc 681) BOOTEES SOLE (MAKE 2, BEG AT HEEL EDGE) Cast on 2 ( 3 : 4 : 5 : 6 ) sts using 3¾mm needles and Yarn A. Beg with a RS…