Innholdsfortegnelse for Issue 160 i Simply Knitting

Our knitting diaries are getting pretty full! Just when you think you’ve got a quiet minute or two to get a bit of knitting done, along come a host of fantastic knitting shows.We’ll be heading up to Cumbria for the very woolly Woolfest (23-24 June), and we’ve made sure to mark 15-16 July on our calendars for the second ever Yarningham, in (you guessed it) Birmingham. We can’t wait to get our hands on all those scrumptious hand-dyed yarns and give them a good squidge – every knitter deserves to treat themselves once in awhile. And we’re a little more than excited to have the chance to meet a few friendly sheep and cuddly alpacas! To keep your needles going until it’s showtime (whichever show you’re going to!) we’ve packed…

Finding the perfect wool for a pattern, and in turn the right size needles for that wool, can be a bit of a chore when you’re raring to get going with a knitting project. But with a We Are Knitters kit, you don’t have to worry about any of that. We Are Knitters sells a wide selection of DIY knitting kits, each containing everything you need to knit your own unique garment. The kits include high-quality sustainable yarn, hand-crafted beechwood wooden needles, a pattern, a sewing needle and a We Are Knitters tag to sew onto your finished item – and it all comes specially packaged in a reusable, recycled brown paper bag. From women’s and men’s clothing to home accessories, there are kits available for knitters of all levels…

We loved it... THE HANDMADE FAIR What? /›i››>› ›> i››>›À››i› › ››››>Þ›>Ì›,>}›iÞ››>››]›7>ÀÜ›V›Ã››Ài]› ››ÃÌi ›LÞ›Üi››››››Ü››VÀ>vÌ››}›Vi›iLÛ ›››i›››ÀÃÌ›i››››Ã›««° What did we do?››› Õ›}i ››ÕÀ› «>ÃÛ›››v›À›Þ>À›VÀ>vÌ]›iÝ«iÀ››i›Ìi › ܛ̛››iÜ›VÀ>vÌÃ]›ÜiÀi›››Ã«›Ài ›LÞ› Ì>›i›Ìi ›>ÀÌ›Ã>›Ã]›>› ›iÝ«››Ài ›Ì›i› ›>}››wVi›Ì›,>}›iÞ››>›››>› ››ÌÛ}>À i›› iÛ}›i ›LÞ››>«>L›››ÌÞ››À›Ü›°› What did we buy? ››À}i›ÕÛÞ>À›]› Li> Û>› ››>LiÀ >ÛiÀÞ°›7i›Ã«›>Ûi › ›ÕÌ››››>›viÜ›«ÀiÃi›ÌƯ̂›°››› ]›ÌÀÞ›>Û Üi›››}›Ì]›Üi›V›Õ› ›½Ì›ÀiÛÃÌ›Ã>›«›››}› Ì›i›ÃVÀÕ››Þ›L>›i`›}›› ð Why you should go It’s a Vi›iLÀ>Ì›››››v›>›››Ì›››}Û›>› ›> i› ܛ̛›VÀ>vÌƯ̂›«›>ޛܛ̛]›iÝ«iÀÌƯ̂››iiÌ› >› ›«ÀiÌÌޛ̛››}Ư̂››››››>Ì°›*›ÕÃ]›Ì›iÀi› >Ài››ÕÌÃÌ>› ››}›Þ›Li>ÕÌ›vÕ›››>› ›> i› }›vÌƯ̂›LÕޛÛ›Þ›Õ›V>››}iÌ›ÃÌ>ÀÌi › i>À›Þ›Ü›Ì››Þ›ÕÀ›››À›ÃÌ›>ÛÛ›««››}° Want to go next time? Sign up for Ì›i››iÜÛiÌÌiÀ›>Ì›ÜÜÜ°Ì›i›>› ›>`i v>›À°V›››>› ›Þ›Õ½›››}iÌ›> Û>›Vi›››Ì›Vi› ›v›>›››Ì›i›À›VÀ>vÌÞ›iÛi›Ìð Show off! World Wide Knit in Public Day is Saturday 10 June this year. Find out how you can join KIP (Knit in Public) events near you at www.wwkipday.com. 60 seconds with Avril Best What makes your workshop different? I am on my own crafting…

“ My mother-in-law-to-be has turned me into a monster and not in the usual way. The woman has given me a Wendy knitting pattern from the 1970s for a suit. A knitted suit. A knitted culottes suit. And I love it. It’s emerald green, accessorised with a matching headscarf and utterly glorious. It doesn’t matter how many times she tells me it was a joke and not intended for serious use, I won’t listen: I am in love. MORE BESIDES And that’s not even all this one gift had to offer. There was more – yes, I tell Þ›Õ]›››Ài°›››y›««i`››Ì››ÛiÀ›>› ›v›Õ› › a pattern for a full-length, beige cable knit suit that was less ‘leisurewear’, more ‘serious option for the respected woman going about her business’ ››À›}››>››«À›Vi\›wÛi››iÜ›«i›Vi®°› You can tell that’s…

BOOK OF THE MONTH Baby Botanicals Alana Dakos (£11) As the title aptly suggests, plant life is the theme in this V›››iVÌ›››››v›wÛi››››ÌÛv›À›L>L›iÛ>› › V››› Ài››vÀ›››Ã›Ý››››Ì›Ã›Ì››£Ó›Þi>Àð› /›iÞ½Ài›Ã›>››iÀ›ÛiÀÛ››Ã››v›››>›>½Ã› Botanical Knits ›v›À›> Õ›Ìð››iÛ}›Ã› ››V›Õ i›>››Õ›«iÀ]›>›V›>Ì›>› ›Ì›Àii› V>À ›}>›Ã›i›L›ÃÃi`›Ü›Ì›››i>v]›LÀ>›V›]› ÌÀii›>› ›Û››i›››Ì›vÛVÀi>Ìi`››››À>›Ãi`› ÃÌ›ÌV›Ü›À›°›/›i›› i>››Þ>À››Ì››ÕÃi›v›À› Ì›iÃi›«>ÌÌiÀ›Ã››Ã›«›>›››V›››ÕÀi ›Þ>À›Ã› Ì›>Ì›}›Ûi›ÃÌÀ››}›ÃÌ›ÌV›› iw››Ì››››v›À› ۛܛ›}››vv›Ì›i›i›L›ÃÃi`›››Ì›vð Mosaic & Lace Knits Barbara Benson (£16)››Ài>Ìi› V›››ÕÀvÕ›››>Vi›Ì›i›i>ÃÞ›Ü>Þt›››Ã>›V› ›››ÌÌ››}›ÕÃiÛÛ›«›ÃÌ›ÌV›iƯ̂›VÀi>Ìi› ›Õ›Ì››V›››ÕÀi ›v>LÀ›V]›Þi̛ޛ՛›››Þ› ›ii ›Ì››Ü›À››Ü›Ì››››i›V›››ÕÀ›«iÀ›À›Ü°› -›]››v›Þ›Õ›Ì››Õ}›Ì›Ü›À›››}››>Vi›>› › V›››ÕÀÜ›À››Ì›}iÌ›iÀ››Ã›Ì›››V››«››V>Ìi`› v›À›iÛi››Ì›i›››ÃÌ›iÝ«iÀÌ››v›iÝ«iÀÌ› ›››ÌÌiÀÃ]›Ì›››››>}>››°››>ÀL>À>½Ã›L›››› ›>›i̛ۛi>Ãޛܛ̛›«À››iVÌÛv›À›>›››Ã››››› ›iÛi›Ã›››V›Õ ››}›Li}›››iÀð›/›iÀi›>Ài› Ó䛫>ÌÌiÀ›Ã›v›À›Ã›>Ü›Ã]›V›Ü›Ã]›ÃV>ÀÛiÃ]› ›>ÌÛ>› ›>VViÃÛÀ›iÃ]›«›ÕÛ››ÃÌÀÕVÌ›››Ã› ›››Ã››«›ÃÌ›ÌV›››}›ÌiV›››µÕiÛ>› ›››Ü›Ì›› Ài> ››>Vi›>› ›››Ã>›V›V›>ÀÌð Sweater Workshop Cocoknits/Julie Weisenberger (£34)›/››Ã››Ã›>›v>LÕ››ÕÛ«>ÌÌiÀ›› V›››iVÌ››››v›À››››ÌÌiÀÛܛ››Ü>›Ì›Ì›› VÕÃÌ›››Ãi›Ì›i›À››Ü››}>À›i›ÌÛv›À›>› «iÀviVÌ›wÌ°››>V›››v›Ì›i››››i› iÛ}›Ã››Ã› Ü›À›i ›vÀ›››Ì›i››iV››››i› ›Ü››>› › Ì›i›V›››ÕÀ›V› i ›Ü›À›Ã›iiÌ›i›>L›iÛ ޛ՛̛›> ›ÕÃ̛̛i›Ã›>«i›>› ›Ã›â››}› >Ûޛ՛}›°›/›i›L››››>›Ã››››V›Õ iÛ>› V›>«ÌiÀ››››››Ü›Ì››V›››Ãi›Ì›i›À›}›Ì› Û>«i ››››ÌÜi>À›v›À›Þ›ÕÀ›L› ޛÛ>«i°› Modern Mini Knits Sarah Hatton (£12.99)›->À>›½Ã››>ÌiÃÌ› V›››iVÌ››››ÕÃiÛ,›Ü>›½Ã›ÃVÀÕ››Þ›››› Þ>À›Ã›Ì›››>›i›V››Ìi›«›À>ÀÞ›}>À›i›ÌÛ v›À›L>L›iÛ>› ›Ì› ›iÀð›/›i›£Ó› iÛ}›Ã›v›À›L›ÞÛ>› ›}›À›Ã›>Ài›Ã›âi › v›À›>}iÛä›Ó{››››Ì›Ã›>› ›››V›Õ i› V>À ›}>›Ã]››Õ›«iÀÃ]›>› ÀiÃÃ]››>Ì]› «››V›››>› ›L›>››iÌ°››>V›››Ã› iV›À>Ìi`› ܛ̛›v>ÃV››>Ì››}›ÃÌ›ÌV››«>ÌÌiÀ›Ã›>› › ÃiÛiÀ>››vi>ÌÕÀi›«›«Ã››v›V›››ÕÀÜ›À›°› /›i›ÀiÃÕ›ÌÛ›››››V››«›iÝ›>› ›››ÌÀ›V>Ìi› ÞiÌ›>Ài›i>Û›Þ›>V››iÛi ›LiV>ÕÃi]››››i› >››››››ÌÌ››}]›Ì›iÞ½Ài›Ì>V››i ›››i›À›Ü›>Ì›…

INNOCENT LITTLE KNITS Inspired by the Simply Knitting Fair Isle knitting gift and information about the innocent Big Knit, I made the three little beanies in issue 156. This led to me knitting up all my odds and ends of DK yarn, left over from various projects. I Ì>À}iÌi ›xä››>ÌÃ]›LÕÌ››››>Ûi››ÕÃÌ›w››Ã›i › my 110th! The hats are based on some really good patterns online (thanks to lots of people more creative than me), > >«Ì››}›Ã››i›w›}iÀ›«Õ««iÌ›«>ÌÌiÀ›Ã› and of course, your beanie patterns. Thank you for helping me clear out my pile of leftover yarn and help a worthwhile cause in the process. I think I spent around 80 hours knitting them all! I will post them all tomorrow and get on with learning to knit socks using the magic loop method (thanks…

Stella Hamilton taught herself to knit at the age of 20, with an illustrated booklet as her guide. “I bought a kit so I could make a stocking for my infant daughter,” she says. “It was an ambitious undertaking and turned out less than ideal, but my daughter (now 61) still brings it out each Christmas.” Stella has retained her adventurous attitude to knitting over the years. “I’m very happy trying out new techniques or patterns!” Her favourite projects to date are the sweaters she knits for newborn Nigerian ›Ü>Àv›}›>ÌÛ>Ì›-Õ›y›ÜiÀ››>À››››››>››i°›› “I was completely charmed by a video of them in pyjamas and learned that the farm could be followed online,” she says. “During the kidding season, the goats’ owner Hope Hall maintains a barn cam which allows you to watch…

YOU WILL NEED Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: Black (965), White (961) 4g oddment of pink DK yarn 2g oddment of pale pink DK yarn 1g oddment of parma violet DK yarn 50cm length of dark grey DK yarn 1g oddment of Twilley’s Goldfingering in Gold (002) A pair of 3mm needles 60g washable toy stuffing Long tweezers 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 18cm (7in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Step into Mademoiselle Pong’s silky boudoir and discover the magic of clever shaping, delicate embroidery, and the wonders of careful toy…

Hoooked.co.uk  continues with their commitment to developing sustainable yarns: this time it’s jute yarn. Produced while leaving the surrounding natural vegetation intact, it’s a sturdy, soft vegetable fibre, perfect for indoor and outdoor hobby projects. Visit www.hoooked.co.uk for more information. News flash ! Chevron knits are big news – give them a go with Loop London’s free scarf pattern. You V>››w› ››Ì›>Ì www.loopknit lounge.com. READER POLL Have you ever designed your own knitting pattern? 56 %  have designed their own pattern Looking for exciting yarn inspiration? Check out www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk new Batik DK. This rippled wonder knits up into a tweedy fabric you’ll love! ENJOY FREE PATTERNS! Are you a Rowan member? Well, now’s the time to sign up! You’ll get regular newsletters packed with details on the latest free patterns,…

JUMPER PATTERN BODY CAST ON 16 sts. Work 2 rows of 1x1 rib. ROW 1 & EVERY ALT ROW (WS) Purl. ROW 2 K6, C2B, C2F, K6. Repeat these two rows 5 times more. ROW 14 (Ssk) twice, K2, C2B, C2F, K2, (k2tog) twice. [12 sts] ROW 16 (Ssk) twice, C2B, C2F, (k2tog) twice. [8 sts] ROW 18 Ssk, C2B, C2F, k2tog. [6 sts] ROW 19 Purl. Work 2 rows of 1x1 rib. Cast off in rib. RIGHT SLEEVE With RS facing, pick up and knit 8 sts on top-right side. ROW 1 (WS) Ssp, P4, M1, P1. ROW 2 K1, M1, K4, k2tog. Repeat these two rows once more. ROW 5 Ssp, p to end. [7 sts] ROW 6 K to last 2 sts, k2tog. [6 sts] Repeat these…

Whether they’re for practical purposes or for decoration, a good button can really make a project! Take your pick from our fab selection of the best buttons around. 1 Brighten up your knits with Tilda Bumblebee’s fabric covered buttons, available in a range of colourways. £5.24 for 6 (20mm), www.sew  andso.co.uk, 0800 013 0150 2 Treat your project to a luxuriously classic Corozo button – each button has its own unique marbling pattern. £4.99 for 4 (20mm), £5.49 for 4 (25mm), www.courtneyandco.uk 3 Perfect for plainer knits, this crystal effect button has a smooth w››Ã›]›Ü›Ì››>›Ã›››Þ›Ã››ÛiÀ›L>V›››}° 50p each (18mm) www.abakhan.co.uk 4 Available in ten summer shades, ››«iݽÛVÕÌi›y›À>››LÕÌÌ››Ã›>Ài››>`i› from a sturdy, long-lasting plastic. 19p each (13mm), www.minerva  crafts.co.uk, 01254 708068 5 Dainty and colourful,…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Siân Brown “I designed a simple but effective stitch for this cushion – the one used is a repeating motif with a ›ist at the top. I also created tassels for the corners for a little bit of interest.” YOU WILL NEED Debbie Bliss, Cashmerino Aran (55% wool, 33% acrylic, 12% cashmere 50g/90m) 5 balls of Lime (502) A pair of 4 mm needles 6 buttons 40x40cm (15¾x15¾in) cushion insert For yarn stockists contact Designer Yarns 01535 664222 www.designeryarns.uk.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 20 sts and 25 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4 mm needles MEASUREMENTS 40x40cm (15¾x15¾in) ABBREVIATIONS Tw2L Twist 2 to left. Pass needle behind first st, K second st, K first st and…

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…

This June 2017 is Commit To Knit month, a charity knitting event organised by UK Hand Knitting (UKHK) aimed at giving knitters the chance to knit for meaningful causes all around the world. We know from visits to our website that many of you are looking for charity patterns, and we also know that there are charities out there who use hand-crafted items to raise awareness, to campaign and to raise money. So we decided to launch Commit To Knit. We launched our first annual Commit To Knit campaign last year asking knitters and crocheters to make just one item for charity during the month of June and the response from all over the country was simply amazing. In this special booklet, which has been so generously put together by…

YOU WILL NEED • Sirdar, Snuggly 4ply (55% nylon, 45% acrylic, 50g/226m) 1 ( 1 : 1 : 1 : 1 : 2 ) ball(s) of Pastel Blue (321) • A pair of 2¾mm needles • A pair of 3¼mm needles • Stitch holders • A medium-sized button For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as 4ply to this tension: 28 sts and 36 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3¼mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit an average head circumference of the following sizes: Prem small Prem large 0-6m 6-12m 1-2yrs 2-3yrs ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 Knit this baby blue hat on straight needles and not in the round (a seam is worked along the back after…

YOU WILL NEED • Wendy, Roam Fusion 4ply (75% wool, 25% nylon, 100g/370m) 1 ball of Fell (2032) • A set of 2 mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a circular needle, 80cm long, if using Magic Loop method • Stitch markers • Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact TB Ramsden 01943 872264 www.tbramsden.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as 4ply to this tension: 36 sts and 46 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 2 mm needles MEASUREMENTS Small 15cm (6in) diameter around palm of hand Medium 18cm (7in) diameter around palm of hand Large 19cm (7 in) diameter around palm of hand ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 Whip up these flecked woolly warmers by knitting on DPNs or a circular needle using magic…

YOU WILL NEED • Stylecraft, Batik (80% acrylic, 20% wool, 50g/138m) 1 ball of each: Gold (1902), Coral (1903), Cherry (1904), Raspberry (1905), Heather (1906), Plum (1907), Pistachio (1910), Olive (1911) • A 4mm crochet hook For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01484 848435 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION Diameter of each motif measures 14cm (5 in), using a 4mm hook or the size required to give the correct tension MEASUREMENTS 103x103cm (40x40in) ABBREVIATIONS Crochet abbreviations use UK terms For a full list see page 31 This hexagon blanket would look bright and cheery in a conservatory or sunny room. Throw over a bed, a sofa or a chair. HEXAGON MOTIF BLANKET The blanket is made from 37 motifs, which are joined together as they are worked. The Blanket Chart on…

Faye Perriam-Reed Technical Editor It’d have to be sock yarn for me! It’s so versatile.You can make socks (obviously), shawls, and garments to be worn all year (maybe layer up in the winter!). Claire Watkins Art Editor I’d definitely go for something chunky. Quick knits are all I have time for, so a nice thick yarn is ideal for me. I’d make hats, scarves, jumpers - you name it! Sophie Jordan Production Editor I have to pick one?! I suppose I do love a good DROPS yarn. They’re always good value for money, but I don’t think I could pick just one yarn to knit with... John McAllister Art Editor Whichever yarn it was, it’d have to be orange. Maybe a sturdy cotton? I’m pretty new to knitting so it…

Do you love discovering delicious yarns that turn simple knits into luxurious ones? Sita from Debbie Bliss (£9.95 for 50g) is just one of those buys. An opulent blend of mulberry silk, Mako cotton and polyamide, it knits up as aran and flows off the needles as a beautifully supple fabric. Pick up the Pure Bliss Collection book filled with classic tanks and cardis and find plenty of inspiration – if you cast on now you’ll be summer ready soon. Visit www. designeryarns.uk.com . Need a little inspiration? Perfect for summer and filled with lovely lacy stitches, the summer cotton pattern range at www.garnstudio.com is a must-see this year. FAMILY FRIENDLY... WHAT? Fans of the scrumptious fashion-coloured Yummy yarn from King Cole will be pleased…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Pat Menchini “Teens will love the ›o yarns in this jumper – one filled with sequinned sparkle and the other lovely and soft against the skin. They make a great contrast!” YOU WILL NEED KingColeEmbraceDK (60% nylon, 40% acrylic, 100g/245m) King Cole, Galaxy DK (65% acrylic, 31% wool, 4% soft payette, 50g/175m) A pair of 3¼mm needles A pair of 4mm needles 2 stitch holders 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 st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Cool sparkly yarn and soft fluffy stripes make this teen-inspired jumper one of our favourite fashion knits. We’ve…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Siân Brown “Sirdar Colourwheel is an interesting, long-space dyed yarn. I chose a really simple design and stitch in order to focus on the colour changes. It has a retro 70s look.” YOU WILL NEED SirdarColourwheel80% acrylic, 20% wool, 150g/520m) A pair of 3¾mm needles A pair of 4mm needles A 3¾mm circular needle, 60cm long For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles For a full list see page 95 Summer days were made for bright knits like these! Use Sirdar’s new gradient yarn Colourwheel to create blocks of bold colours. With a whopping 520m tucked into each ball,…

TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW BOOK ›Ì½Ã›>›V›››iVÌ›››››v›£Ó› iÛ}›Ã›v›À› L›ÞÛ>› ›}›À›Ã›vÀ››››iÜL›À››Ì››ÌÜ›› Þi>Àð›››Ü>›Ìi`›Ì››VÀi>Ìi›>›V›››iVÌ›››› ›v››› iÀ››ÞiÌ›V›>ÃÛV›«›iViÛܛ̛› Û›iÌ›››}›v›À››››ÌÌiÀÛ›v›>›››Ã››››››iÛi›Ã° YOUR FAVOURITE TECHNIQUE? ››››Ûi›ÌiÝÌÕÀi›Ã››V>L›iÛ>› ››>Vi› >««i>›Ã›LÕÌ›››››Ûi›››Ü››ÕV››V>››Li› >V››iÛi`›Ü›Ì››Ì›i››Õ›L›i››››Ì›>› ›«ÕÀ›° ENGLISH OR CONTINENTAL? ›› ››Ã››iÌ››iÛÕÃi››››Ì››i›Ì>››LÕÌ]› >Û>›¼«›Ì½››››ÌÌiÀ]›››}››Ã›››Ã››Þ›}››Ì›› ›››ÌÌ››}›ÃÌÞ›i° ANY TIPS FOR FINISHING? ›½ ›Ã>Þ››i>À›››>ÌÌÀiÃÃÉ›>``iÀ›ÃÌ›ÌV››>Û ›Ì›Ài>››Þ›V›>›}iƯ̂i›Ü>Þ›Þ›ÕÀ›w››Ã›i`› ›Ìi››››››Ã°›››Ã›]››v›Þ›Õ››>Ìi››>›››}› Õ«]›Ü›Þ›››Ì› ›››Ì››››ÃÌ>}iÛ>Ûޛ՛w››Ã›› i>V››«>ÀÌ]›Ì›i››L››V››Ì›i›}>À›i›Ì› Ü›››i›À>Ì›iÀ›Ì›>›››››«›iViö YARN YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT? ›Ì›Ü›Õ› ››>Ûi›Ì››Li›>›››Vi›Ã›››Ì››Þ>À›› ›››››i›V›››ÕÀ›Ì›>Ì››ÕÃÌ›À՛Ư̂À›Õ}››Þ›ÕÀ› w›}iÀÛ>› ›Ü›Õ› ›Ã››Ü›Õ«›>›››Ì›i›››Ûi›Þ› ÌiÝÌÕÀiÛ›v››››ÌÌ››}›«iÀviV̛ް MUST-HAVE GADGET? ›½››µÕ›Ìi›Ã››«›i›>Ì››i>ÀÌ›q›>Û›››}›>Û›››>Ûi› ÌÜ››ÃÌ›V›Ã›>› ›Ã››i›ÃÌÀ››}››½›››>««Þt WORST KNITTING HABIT? -›››Þ›>̛ۛÛ՛ Ã]›>vÌiÀ›Þi>ÀÛ›v› i>`›››i››››ÌÌ››}››½››››Ì›ÛiÀÞ›}›› › >̛ۛܛ›}› ›Ü››>› ›i›››Þ››}››Þ› «iÀÛ›>›››››ÌÌ››}° ›› iÀ››››››››››ÌÛLÞ›->À>›››>ÌÌ››› ›Ë£Ó°››®››Ã›>Û>››>L›i›vÀ›››ÜÜÜ°Ã>À>› ›>ÌÌ››°L›}V>ÀÌi›°V›››>› ›,›Ü>››ÃÌ›V››ÃÌð…

FANCY FAIR ISLE LINDA KENNET HAD FUN KNITTING THESE MITTS FROM ISSUE 156! “I WENT WRONG AT THE BOTTOM OF THE FIRST ONE, SO I MADE THE SECOND TO MATCH,” SHE SAYS. “THE BEAUTY BEING, THE RECEPIENT WON’T KNOW!” IN THE BOOKS PROFESSOR BOOK WORMINGTON, FROM ISSUE 158, IS SUE BRADFORD’S LATEST KNITTING TRIUMPH! WHILE SHE ENJOYED KNITTING HIM, SHE WASN’T A FAN OF FIXING ON THOSE FIDDLY (BUT VERY NEAT) SPECTACLES. TEDDY SNUGGLES IS THAT OUR TEDDY TEATIME COSY FROM ISSUE 158 WE CAN SPOT IN SOOZ LOOLOO’S BABY BLANKET? SOOZ KNITTED THE CHART AND CROCHETED AROUND IT TO MAKE HER FRIEND A CUTE, SPRING BLANKET.…

HOW TO ENTER Visit www.theyarnloop.com/simply-knitting and click on the ‘Win & Save’ tab. Then, simply enter the correct code, along with your name and your address. If you don’t have your own email address, feel free to use ours, simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk, to submit your competition entry form. To enter the crossword and sudoku puzzles on pages 37 & 38, enter the code SKM______160 with either the prize word or prize numbers from the shaded squares, in the blank space. Find terms and conditions on page 7. Competitions close on 23 June 2017.…

NEW PRODUCTS? Sirdar Colourwheel, Scheepjes Whirl and the new Stylecraft Special DK shades have recently been added to the site. We’re very excited to launch Stylecraft’s newest range, Candy Swirl later in the year too! WHAT ELSE IS NEW? Along with being stockists for all the top brands’ latest ranges, we’re continuously adding new and exciting features to our site, from our recent launch of Deramores Rewards – a loyalty program for our customers, to the Social Hub – an area where knitters and crocheters can share their work and talk yarn. We’re even bringing back Stitch of the Week – a collection of different knit and crochet designs for crafters to add to their skill set. IMPROVEMENTS? To make purchasing yarn even easier we’ve recently added a shop section…

YOU WILL NEED • Rowan, Cotton Glacé (100% cotton, 50g/115m) • A pair of 2¾mm needles • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A cable needle For yarn stockists contact Mez 01484 950630 www.mezcrafts.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 32 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 3¼mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 This on-trend knit combines the robust nature of structured cables with soft summery cotton yarn to great effect. It’s knitted sideways too which means the side shaping is greatly reduced, leaving you free to knit your best cables ever! We love the calm Dawn Grey shade chosen for this jumper, but you can choose from 24 beautifully honed shades for your knit. BACK…

“Not having any feathers means Rhea gets chilled easily if temperatures drop. Fortunately, she has received mini sweaters ›om all over the world!” Back in June 2016, Isabella Eisenmann was scrolling through her Facebook feed and noticed a post from a local veterinary clinic. “It was about this birdie, Rhea, who needed a new home,” says Isabella. “I immediately sent the link to Marcos, my boyfriend, and told him I needed Rhea in my life.” Rhea had suffered from psittacine beak and feather disease, resulting in permanent feather loss. She’s contagious to other birds but not to humans or other animals. Isabella registered her interest and soon received a phone call with the great news that Rhea was hers. “Excitement is an understatement of what I felt,” she said. When…

YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft, Jeanie (60% cotton, 40% acrylic) A pair of 4 mm knitting needles A pair of 5mm knitting needles Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01484 848435 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 18 sts and 24 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Gansey jumpers are a lovely way to show off your knitting skills, though they can be a daunting big knit if you’re new to the techniques. We have the solution – a simple, gansey-style sweater with easy-to-learn cable and simple-to-knit moss stitch. Use Stylecraft Jeanie yarn to create wardrobe-friendly wear for the man of your choice, especially if he’s an outdoor chap. You can…

YOU WILL NEED DROPS, Paris (100% cotton, 50g/75m), 1 ball of each: LightGrey23 OpalGreen11 A set of 5mm double-pointed needles For yarn stockists contact Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as aran to this tension: 17 sts and 22 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit a 500ml water bottle (length approx 21.5cm, diameter approx 6.5cm) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Here’s a simple knit to keep your needles busy for a few hours. Make a stocking stitch base, then work some lace before topping off with more stocking stitch. BOTTLE BAG Cast on 8 sts using 5mm needles and Yarn A in the disappearing loop method (for a video tutorial visit bit.ly/2pHL1iS).…

MATTRESS STITCH Thread your yarn on to a needle, then weave along an edge to where you want to start. Bring it to the front between the first and second stitches of this edge, then insert the needle between the first two stitches of the other edge. Bring it back up through the opposite piece, between the two stitches and below the horizontal strand you just made. Keep stitching in this way, pulling the yarn tight every few stitches. BACKSTITCH First, pin your two pieces together and secure the yarn by making a couple of stitches over each other at the base of the seam. Now working from right to left, bring the needle up a couple of stitches away at 1 . Take the needle down at 2 and…

UK Hand Knitting (UKHK) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to promoting hand knitting and 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 associated products in the UK – the list includes James C Brett, Rico Design, 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…

CHARITY SHOPS Charity shops are always looking for stock to sell and handmade items are in demand. Why not pop to your local shop and ask if they need anything in particular? Our cushions or teddies on page 5 & 13 perhaps? BLANKETS Blankets are useful for many charities – from animal shelters to premature baby units. If our crochet blanket (page 28) is too big why not get together with your craft group to make one between you? There are some charities, such as Knit for Peace, that will accept individual squares. Check for any special requirements beforehand. THE HOMELESS AND REFUGEES Hats and mittens (on pages 22 and 18) are ideal for homeless or refugee charities during the colder months. Check out St Mungo’s, Knit for Peace, Shelter…

YOU WILL NEED • King Cole, Merino Blend DK Prints* (100% wool, 50g/104m) *This yarn has been discontinued, but King Cole Drifter DK in New Orleans (1365) is a great alternative. Always take care with your tension when substituting yarn, be sure to knit a tension square beforehand. • A pair of 3¼mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • A cable needle • A pompom maker (optional) For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 27 sts and 31 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 31 A warm hat is always a welcome gift for those chillier occasions. King Cole’s cable creation is ideal for…

alt alternateapprox approximatelybeg beginningcb cable back CC contrast colourcf cable forwardcn cable needleco cast oncont continuedec decrease(ing) (by working two stitches together)est established DK double knittingfoll/s following/followsg st garter stitch (knit every row)inc increase (usually knit into same stitch twice) K/k knitkfb knit into front and back of stitchkwise knitwise; by knitting the stitchk2tog knit the next two stitches togetherk3tog knit the next three stitches togetherk(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 one purlwise by purling into back of loop between two sts (increase 1 stitch) MB make a…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Jo Allport “I put together a jumper that mixed traditional construction with sideways knitting. I love combining textures and colours to create unusual designs!” YOU WILL NEED ScheepjesStoneWashed(78% cotton, 22% acrylic; 50g/130m) A pair of 3 mm knitting needles 2 stitch holders 4 stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Scheepjes www.scheepjes.com TENSION Yarn used knits as sport weight to this tension: 21 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3 mm needles 22 sts and 42 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over garter stitch (g st) using 3 mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Picnics in the park, strolls along the beach, parties in the garden; whatever the occasion, Jo Allport’s unique knitted tee is…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Monica Russel “I see a gap in the ‘market’ for kni›ear for boys. I think there are insufficient modern patterns for boys’ garments and thought that creating a design using cables would be really fun.” YOU WILL NEED StylecraftLifeDK(75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m ball) Stylecraft, Life Vintage Look (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m ball) A pair of 3 mm needles A pair of 4mm needles 1 cable needle 2 stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01535 609798 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 26 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over cable patt using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Monica Russel’s jumper is packed with texture. The cable stitch pattern creates a…

YOU WILL NEED Rowan, Handknit Cotton (100% cotton, 50g/85m balls) A pair of 3¼mm needles A pair of 4mm needles A pair of 5mm needles Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 20 sts and 27 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Sarah Hatton can be relied on to give us something different. This top is knitted sideways. You start with a cuff and end with a cuff and in between you shape a sleeve, work the front and back, then shape the other sleeve. Sewing up the side seams is all that’s left to do for it to be ready to wear.…

RAINBOW TEATIME I made the free unicorn kit and thought what better way to showcase it than putting it on a tea cosy! This is the finished cosy. I think the bright colours work well with the unicorn. It really brightens up my shelf wonderfully! Maddie Knight, via email TREASURED HEIRLOOM When issue 158 dropped through my letterbox I read it immediately, as usual. I was surprised to see in My Life in Stitches, by Ruth Maddock, a picture of her first ever magazine cover featuring the foxglove cardigan (in Pins & Needles October 1981) I knitted many years ago now. It is a treasured heirloom and I emailed Ruth to thank her for this design. She responded to me, thanking me for taking the trouble to contact her. Thank…

I think I might possibly be the only subscriber in Namibia, yes in Africa. My daughter subscribed for me from London, where she lives. This was the best birthday present – I can look forward to it each month. I just wanted to let you know I love your magazine and all the patterns. Linda Goncalves, Namibia WE’D LOVE TO SEE MORE PICTURES OF YOU WITH SIMPLY KNITTING (OR YOU AND YOUR KNITTING!) ON HOLIDAY. THIS MONTH’S LETTER WRITER WINS A TOTE BAG AND NEEDLES WORTH £25, COURTESY OF WE ARE KNITTERS.…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Caroline Birkett “This season I wanted to design a summer slipper that looked great and could be popped into your suitcase to take on holiday - perfect on those cold stone floors!.” YOU WILL NEED Bernat, Maker Home Dec (72% cotton, 28% nylon, 250g/290m ball) 1 ball of Aqua A pair of 6 mm needles Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Readicut 01162 713759 www.readicut.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as heavy aran weight to this tension: 16 stitches and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4 x4in) over st st using 6 mm needles NB: The tension is worked tighter than usual to create a firmer fabric suitable for slippers. Tension is normally chunky weight on 8mm needles MEASUREMENTS Fits shoe size 36 to 39 (size…

Give your time, not your money. That’s the motto of Bristol Knititiative. Born from a growing sense of the homelessness issue in their local area and a lack of funds, several Bristol University students came together to create a project that would allow them to help tackle the issue with their time, not with their wallets. “We didn’t really have any money,” says Harriet Clapham, currently helping to manage the group. “We had time though and some of us already knew how to knit. Another girl taught herself how to knit over Christmas, especially for the group.” The young group found its beginnings around three years ago, in one of the founding member’s living rooms. Since then, meetings have taken place in a surprising array of locations, from the Student…

MEET OUR DESIGNER Fran Morgan “I was inspired by the fashion of the Fifties for this set. The simple cap sleeve top and the colours chosen echo this era.” STRIPED TOP A simple square neckline, worked with a garter stitch border adds a touch of texture to this short-sleeved jumper filled with fresh summer stripes. YOU WILL NEED Sirdar, Snuggly Baby Bamboo (80% bamboo-sourced viscose, 20% wool, 50g/95m) A pair of 3¾mm needles A pair of 4mm needles Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 PATTERN NOTES It is easier to weave in ends…

YOU WILL NEED • Hayfield, Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Signal Red (977) Yarn B Black (965) A small amount (8g) of Yarn C Silver Grey (838) A small amount (3g) of Yarn D White (961) • A pair of 5 mm needles • A pair of 4mm needles • A pair of 3¼mm needles • Stuffing • A clean plastic milk bottle For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 20 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles 14 sts and 23 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5 mm needles and yarn held double MEASUREMENTS To fit a 6 cup teapot…

Making pockets isn’t difficult but when patterns mention words like ‘afterthought’ or ‘inset’ it can be a little intimidating. You can make pockets by adding them to your project after it’s finished, or including them as you work: patch pockets are separate pieces of fabric, which are stitched on in one complete piece to the outside of the garment; picked-up pockets are similar to patch pockets, but they are knitted onto the front of the garment; and inset pockets are created by adding a pocket to the inside of the garment. Read on for expert advice on how to make these different types of pockets for your knits. WHAT YOU’LL NEED Luckily of these , you things ’ll already in your have workbag most . To make all the pocket…

“SPANA exists to help animals and their owners. I hope my contribution ZLOO›PDNH›D›GL›HUHQFH›µ Animals around the world need the help of knitters. SPANA, a UK-based charity, is calling on knitters to knit a toy to raise funds to help relieve the suffering of working animals. The charity provides veterinary treament to sick and injured animals in the world’s poorest communities, and educates people about animal welfare. Like all charities, they need funds to carry out their essential work, and knitters can get involved by being a part of SPANA’s Big Knit for Vets campaign. TOY MENAGERIE Val Pierce, one of Simply Knitting’s own designers, has created a menagerie of toys to represent the animals the charity helps. There’s Duncan the donkey, Hattie the horse, Oscar the ox and Emma the…

SIRDAR/DEBBIE BLISS SEASIDE YARNS W seasideyarns.co.uk T 01964 530473 Situated in the seaside town of Hornsea. A family run business stocking a fantastic range including Sirdar, Designer Yarns, King Cole, Opal, Debbie Bliss, Louisa Harding, Noro, James Brett and KnitPro. A great selection of patterns, needles, bags, buttons etc. KING COLE/STYLECRAFT/SIRDAR THE KNITTING MARKET A Birmingham Rag Market, B5 4RB T 07834 898627 Stocking a wide range of the latest on-trend quality yarns. 4ply, DK, chunky, aran, to mega chunky. Knitting patterns, knitting needles, crochet hooks and all accessories. A helpful and friendly service. Visit my website www.theknittingmarket.co.uk STYLECRAFT KNIT KNACKS A Lake, Isle of Wight, PO36 9JL T 01983 716890 An Old Fashioned Wool Shop With A Modern Twist. Stockists of James C Brett, Stylecraft and Woolcraft Yarns.…

Daily knitting routine I try to write patterns in the morning, then spend the rest of the day and evening knitting. Fave home I grew up in Clerkenwell in central London. I felt like I was at the centre of the universe. I spent my childhood in museums, marvelling at the wonders of the world, and walking around streets steeped in history. It was like living in the pages of a Dickens’ novel. Happiest knitting memory Watching my teacher, Mr Swan, showing the class a scarf I’d made as a project. I felt like a star. Knitting hero Elizabeth Zimmerman. I love the way she encourages knitters to go for it. Her percentage formula for jumpers works. How did she think up the Baby Surprise pattern? I would have loved…

YOU WILL NEED BOBBLE STRIPES CUSHION • DY Choice, Cotton Fresh DK (100% cotton, 100g/170m) 2 balls of each: Yarn A Rose (16) Yarn B White (01) • A pair of 4mm needles • 45x45cm (18x18in) cushion pad LACE CUSHION • DY Choice, Cotton Fresh DK (100% cotton, 100g/170m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A White (01) Yarn B Rose (16) • A pair of 4mm needles • 30x30cm (12x12in) cushion pad For yarn stockists contact Designer Yarns 01535 664222 www.designeryarns.uk.com TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 20 sts and 28 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Bobble Stripes Cushion 45x45cm (18x18in) Lace Cushion 30x30cm (12x12in) ABBREVIATIONS MB Make bobble: (K1, P1, K1, P1, K1) into next st, turn, P5,…

YOU WILL NEED BLANKET • Rico, Baby Merino DK (100% Merino, 25g/53m) 14 balls of Pebble (006) • A 4mm circular needle, 80cm long TEDDIES • Rico, Baby Merino DK (100% Merino, 25g/53m) Small Bear 4 balls of chosen shade Medium Bear 4 balls of chosen shade Large Bear 6 balls of chosen shade • A pair of 4mm needles • A small amount of contrast yarn for embroidering face details • Washable toy stuffing For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.de TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 28 rows to 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Blanket 60x80cm (23¾x31 in) Teddies Small 20cm (8in) tall Medium 30cm (11¾in) tall Large 35cm (13¾in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list…

YOU WILL NEED • James C Brett, Woodlander DK (80% acrylic, 20% wool, 100g/250m) 1 ball of shade L7 • Oddments of DK yarn • A pair of 4mm needles • Cable needle • Assorted buttons • Ribbon or cord For yarn stockists contact James C Brett 01274 565959 www.jamescbrett.co.uk TENSION Yarn used knits as DK to this tension: 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 30cm circumference 30cm long ABBREVIATIONS MB make bobble. K1, P1, K1 into next st, turn, K3, turn, P3, turn, K3, turn, slip 2nd and then 3rd bobble st over the 1st on left hand needle, K1tbl C2B slip next st to cn & hold at back, K1; K1 from cn| C2F slip…

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 hookcont continuedc double crochet dc2tog (insert hook in next st, yrh and draw a loop through) twice, yrh and draw through all 3 loops on hookdec decreasedtr double treble crochetdtr2tog work 2dtr togetherfl insert hook under front loop onlyfoll/folls following/followshtr half treblehtr2tog work 2htr togetherin next sts to be worked into thesame stitchinc increase LH left handlp(s) loop(s)meas measuresp or pc picotpatt(s) pattern(s)pm…