Innholdsfortegnelse for March 2019 i Simply Knitting

I once read a definition that said, ‘Mother’s Day is a celebration of all mothers in society,’ and it started me thinking about everyone who could possibly qualify – biological mums, step-mums, pet mums, in fact, anyone who’s ever ‘mothered’ or simply been there for another human being or animal. In my family we celebrate all the women we love, turning Mother’s Day into a truly inspiring acknowledgment of wonderful ladies. No one is left out, and I have absolutely no doubt they wholeheartedly deserve it (and that generous box of luxury chocolates). I knit more for my mum now than I ever did. As we both get older I’m finding that we have most things we need and so I cast on a challenging Fair Isle tam, or a…

DESIGNER KNIT HOME by Erin Black (Stackpole Books, £15.95) We love knitted and handmade homewares, but it’s easy to end up with lots of individual pieces rather than coordinated rooms and decor. This new book is the answer, with quick-knit chunky designs to suit different rooms and create a stylish finish. With cable knits for the living room, lacy honeycombs in the garden, striking monochrome bedroom knits and more, there’s sure to be a look for you. MORE SUPER SOCKS by Christine Perry (www.winwickmum.co.uk,£14.99) Stretch your sock knitting skills with this guide to cables, lace, intarsia and stranded colourwork. Written by Christine of www.winwickmum.co.uk,the book contains tutorials for each technique, then four stylish sock designs to show them off. We particularly love the intarsia colourblock design, evoking pretty paint swatches,…

Scheepjes Mug Pair your latest project with a cup of tea or coffee made in this gorgeous new Scheepjes mug (£10.99), complete with crafty illustration. Visit www.woolwarehouse.co.uk. or call 0800 505 3300 to buy. Yarn On Our Streets Tote Made with 100% recycled plastic, this tote bag with its fun yarn illustration (£6.50) supports the new Keep Yarn On Our Streets campaign. Order at www.keepyarnonourstreets.co.uk. KnitPro Knitting Charms This first-of-its-kind knitting treat comes with a mini needle and crochet hook, in a number of different designs, and can be used as a bag charm or keyring (£5.75).Visit www.knitpro.eu for stockists. TOFT Stitch Markers for Knitters For just £8 you could be the proud owner of a tin of sweet, wooden stitch markers styled to look like cute knitted garments and…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Cascade 220 (aran, 100% Peruvian Highland wool, 100g/200m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 4.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 5mm needles ❏ Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Love Knitting 01409 404010 www.loveknitting.com TENSION 19 sts and 29 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 JUMPER PATTERN PANEL Row 1 P6, K3, P1, K1, P1, K3, P5. Row 2 and every WS row P the P sts and K the K sts as they appear. Row 3 K8, P1, (K1, P1) twice, K7. Row 5 P4, K3, P1, (K1, P1) 3 times, K3, P3. Row 7 K6, P1, K1, P1, K3, P1, K1, P1, K5. Row…

1 Working with the yarn at the back of your knitting, insert the point of the right-hand needle into the next stitch as if to knit, but instead slip the first stitch across onto the right-hand needle. 2 Now slip the next stitch from the left-hand needle onto the right-hand needle in the same way as for Step 1. 3 Push the point of the left-hand needle through the front of both the slipped stitches. 4 Bring the yarn around as you would for a knit stitch and knit these two stitches together. You will now have a single stitch on the right-hand needle, and your two slipped stitches will have created a left-leaning decrease.…

FABULOUS FLAMINGO Eileen made Florence from issue 176 for her sitting room windowsill, proudly surveying all who pass by – and much amusement she causes, too! Eileen P Bourne Cambridgeshire DOWN ON THE FARM Oink oink! Saranna didn’t lose any time in casting on Amanda’s cute pig from issue 174, and is now getting on with his pals the sheep and cow! Saranna Watkins Email WOOF! MEOW! We just love Rosenne’s expertly knitted Fido & Fifi, the adorable cat and dog pair from issue 173. They’re sure to be the very best of friends! Rosenne Zippi Email…

We love hearing from our readers so don’t delay, pop up a post on Facebook, tweet us on Twitter, tag us on Instagram, follow us on Pinterest, add to our Ravelry Finished Projects Board, drop us an email or post us a letter! Here are all the details you need: WRITE TO US Stay in Touch, Simply Knitting magazine, Immediate Media Co, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN EMAIL US simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk FIND US AND FOLLOW US Facebook.com/simplyknitting @SimplyKnitMag ravelry.com/groups/simply-knitting-magazine @simplyknittingmag pinterest www.pinterest.com/simplyknitmag…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Scheepjes Stone Washed (4ply, 78% cotton, 22% acrylic, 50g/130m), 7 balls of: Yarn A Moon Stone (801) 2 balls of each: Yarn B Coral (816) Yarn C Blue Apatite (805) Yarn D Peridot (827) Yarn E Beryl (833) 1 ball of each: Yarn F Garnet (810) Yarn G Amazonite (813) Yarn H Rose Quartz (820) ❏ Scheepjes River Washed (4ply, 78% cotton, 22% acrylic, 50g/130m), 2 balls of: Yarn I Danube (948) 1 ball of each: Yarn J Nile (944) Yarn K Mekong (943) Note Each square uses approximately 20 to 22g of yarn and there are 36 squares in total. The border uses 1 ball each of Yarn A, Yarn B and Yarn C. Tassels and duplicate stitch can be made with any colours of…

Before taking the plunge into a freelance career, I worked as creative developer at Butser Ancient Farm, an archaeological research site in Hampshire that specialises in ancient houses, rare breed›animals and prehistoric crops. It was a wild and wonderful place, a forgotten world hidden away from the chaos of modern life. A new birth The buildings included several Iron Age roundhouses, their pointed roofs silhouetted against the skyline like witches’ hats, and I soon learnt that it was during the Bronze and Iron Ages the British textile industry first began to blossom. In the last century, archaeologists have unearthed sheep bones, spindles and weaving looms across Iron Age sites, all ancient clues that help us visualise the everyday lives of our ancestors. Learning how to spin When winter came to…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Cascade 220 (aran, 100% Peruvian Highland wool, 100g/220m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 4.5mm circular needles ❏ A pair of 5mm circular needles For yarn stockists contact Wool Warehouse 01926 882818 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk TENSION 18 sts and 24 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 CHECKED JUMPER This pattern is worked back and forth on a circular needle. This allows Yarn A to be carried up the side of the work to avoid sewing in ends. After you have worked the first row in Yarn A, simply slide the stitches to the end of the needle, back to the beginning of the last row, and continue…

KNIT GURU Debbie Bliss Knitwear Designer Famed for her effortlessly stylish knit creations and extensive knowledge of knitting. Kirstie McLeod Editor Queen of socks and gadget hoarder, Kirstie has many years of knitting knowledge to share. Faye Perriam-Reed Technical Editor Lace expert and exciting designer, Faye likes to tackle the trickiest of knitting problems. Sophie Jordan Operations Editor Product expert and Fair Isle fanatic, Sophie loves talking about the latest trends and cool colour combos. CONTACT US! Got a question for our experts then email us at simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk or write to us at Simply Knitting, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Hemp Tweed (75% wool 25% hemp, 50g/95m), 5 balls of Yarn A Kelp (142), 1 ball of Yarn B Eclipse (147) ❏ A pair of 4.5mm needles ❏ A cushion pad approx 50cm (19›in) square For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION 19 sts and 25 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over st st21 sts and 25 rows to measure10x10cm (4x4in) over patternedst st, both using 4.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit a cushion pad approximately 50cm (19›in) square ABBREVIATIONS K1A/B Knit number of stitches given in Yarn A/B For a full list see page 95 CHART HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong side rows from left to…

In association with the Keep Yarn on our Streets campaign From charity knits to handmade gifts, we’re rarely without a project on the go, and this section of the magazine is here to help celebrate all of the wonderful things you can do locally and globally with your beloved craft. Thinking of joining a new knitting group? Take a look at our fab selection of sessions. Planning some charity knits? How about contributing to Comic Relief or knitting toys for the cats at Battersea? Looking to get away? Check out our knitters’ guide to Pembrokeshire. And don’t miss our great looks at local yarn stores – we introduce you to top shop Yarn Fest and chat with the owner of For the Love of Yarn. Please do tell us about…

Who’s in charge? Definitely Bodie the dog – we humans are simply here to give treats. Where can we find you? Literally 5 mins drive from J13 on the M4 in Hermitage. When did your doors first open? 2011, but we bought the business in Oct 2015. What is your shop like? It’s become a bit of a community centre with some people bringing in their knitting rather than sitting at home. We have a decent coffee machine too! Popular products? Katia, Mondial Merino, Stylecraft Special DK, King Cole… Any special events? Knit and Natter on Tues and Thurs afternoons (2-4pm); Wed craft evening (6:30-8:30pm) and Dementia Knit and Natter on Fri (10:30-noon). Who shops at your shop? All sorts – we have a very wide eclectic range of customers.…

RED NOSE CORSAGE YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Pure Wool DK (100% wool, 50g/130m) 1 ball of Kiss (36) ❏ Rowan Kid Silk Haze (70% super kid mohair, 30% silk, 25g/210m) 1 ball of each: Marmalade (596) Garden (645) ❏ A pair of 3.75mm needles ❏ Toy stuffing ❏ Brooch pin or safety pin For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 668200 www.knitrowan.com RED NOSE CENTRE Cast on 7 sts using Kiss. Row 1 (RS) Kfb every st to last st, K1. [13 sts] Row 2 Purl. Row 3 (K1, kfb) to last st, K1. [19 sts] Row 4 Purl. Row 5 (K1, kfb) to last st, K1. [28 sts] Rows 6-12 Beg with a P row, work 7 rows in st st, ending with RS facing for next…

As soon as the wintry weather becomes a distant memory, we’ll reach for those summery cotton yarns such as Patons Tahiti or Stylecraft Classique Cotton. The colours, available together with lovely designs, make everyone want to pick up their needles. Arran Roberts, Marketing Manager With the advent of warmer and longer summers, garments are becoming more lightweight as that’s more comfortable to wear. Fashion Light and Long, a new yarn from Rico, is amazingly light, has stunning colour gradients and sumptuous drape. Nicola Tack PR & Marketing Manager When it comes to springtime knitting Scheepjes Cotton 8 is my absolute all-time favourite yarn. It’s a very affordable, lightweight, soft and non-mercerised cotton that offers fabulous drape and is available in 48 fresh colours. My particular favourite jewelled shade is the…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Berroco Vintage (Aran, 52% acrylic, 40% wool, 8% nylon, 100g/198m), 1 skein of each: Yarn A Berries (5150) Yarn B Holly (5135) Yarn C Cork (5144) ❏ A set of 3.75mm DPNs ❏ A 4mm crochet hook ❏ Stitch marker For yarn stockists contact Love Knitting 01409 404010 www.loveknitting.com TENSION 20 sts to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.75mm needles with yarn held double MEASUREMENTS 10cm (4in) wide by 10cm (4in) high (excluding stem) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 APPLE COSY Note Hold 2 strands of yarn together throughout. APPLE HALF (MAKE 2) Cast on 6 sts onto 3.75mm needles using Yarn A. Row 1 *Kfb; rep from * to end. [12 sts] Distribute 12 sts evenly on DPNs.…

CABLE CAST-ON METHOD Use it for a firm edge, and when adding stitches to your work 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. Push the point of the right-hand needle between the first and second stitches. Wrap the yarn anti-clockwise around the point of the right-hand needle. Pull the loop out with the right-hand needle, then slip it over the tip of the left-hand needle. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until you have the number of stitches you require. THUMB CAST-ON METHOD A great all rounder, use it to cast on stitches quickly and easily Make a slip knot and place it on a needle, leaving…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Cashmere Recycled DK (95% cashmere, 5% wool, 50g/70m), 2 balls of Powder (008) ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ Stitch holder ❏ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION 23 sts and 31 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Actual hand circumference 19.5cm (7¾in) Length 13cm (5¼in) ABBREVIATIONS Cl3 sl3 to RH needle with yarn to back, pass yarn to front, sl3 back to LH needle, K3 K5to1 sl3 with yarn in front to RH needle, *pass 2nd st on RH needle over first, sl 1 back to LH needle and pass 2nd st over*, sl 1 to RH needle, rep from * to *, K rem…

There's nothing like a birdsong choir to herald the arrival of spring,and these knitted beauties look like they could add to the chorus with no trouble at all! You can find 21 feathered fancies in Sue Stratford's latest book, Knitted Aviary,along with a flock of easy-tofoolow paterns.Cast on a perky puffin, flamboyant flamingo or bubbly bluetit and turn your home into a vertable knitted aviary to welcome in the season. Buy sue Strarford knittedAviary, £9.99.published by Search Press at www.searchpress.com…

Meet Mary, the lady behind a plethora of beautifully traditional Fair Isle knit designs Up early or slow to rise? Always early to rise; I love spring and summer – waking up to sunlight and beautiful birdsong. First job of the day? Listening to the Shipping Forecast on BBC Radio 4 with coffee and knitting any project that I have on the go. Mid-morning pick-me-up? More coffee and then my favourite walk into the town centre – it goes along the river and feels very country-like. Fave time to sit back and take five? 4pm with perhaps a bit of a catch-up with the radio or BBC iPlayer, or an episode of a favourite show. Leisurely lunchtime? My favourite thing to do is have lunch with my friend Lin. Post-lunch…

01 Long Jacket This chunky knit jacket is worked in quick-and-easy-to-knit stocking stitch and soft, warm colours and makes for cosy winter wear. 03 Roll Neck Sweater Slouchy roll-neck sweaters are always popular, not to mention comfy to wear and simple to knit. 04 High Neck Jacket Cast on a classic jacket for the man in your life. This pattern’s high collar, deep rib and large buttons make for a stylish finish. 05 Raglan Sweater Garments knitted in a fancy rib (like fisherman’s rib seen here) are super trendy this year! 07 Snood & Mitts Arlequin creates a thick, chunky fabric that’s perfect for keeping your loved ones warm. 11 Sweater Cape This extra-wide cape sweater is so cosy for warmer months, and looks amazing in cool variegated shades.…

1 CAST ON A CLASSIC We think giving a knitted gift is always the best way to say you care. Not only have you spent time and effort creating something heartfelt, you may well be delivering a gift that is 100% unique as a consequence. Choosing a classic yarn, pattern and style will guarantee your gift is worn or used for many years to come. 2 TEACH THEM TO KNIT If your nearest and dearest has yet to learn to knit, offer to spend time teaching them! We all know that knitting is the best way to sit back and relax, but sharing this with others is an incredible gift to give. Why not buy some luxurious yarn and a set of needles, and wrap it up with a card…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Merino Blend DK (50g/104m) ❏ King Cole Dolly Mix DK (25g/73m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A set of 3.25mm DPNs ❏ A set of 4mm DPNs ❏ A set of 4mm circular needles, 60cm long ❏ A set of 4mm circular needles, 80cm long ❏ Darning needle ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Scrap yarn or stitch holders ❏ Oddment of black DK yarn ❏ Toy stuffing For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 DOLL JUMPER Note The Doll and Pocket can be made with regular straight needles if preferred. RAGLAN AND CABLE…

SHAGGY DOG STORY I wanted to make a tea cosy of Brodie, my Labradoodle, as I make a lot of them from the patterns in your magazines. However, I couldn’t find one suited to Brodie so I thought to invent my own. It took me a while to figure it out, but I got there in the end. Angela Rosemary, via email That’s amazing, Angela – it’s so lifelike! PERFECT PRESENTS I knitted these two lovely presents from issue 179. I chose the cardigan as it looked very classy and I immediately thought of my friend in South Africa. The jumper is for my daughter – she has just had a baby girl and I thought it would be fun to knit her a Christmas jumper to say ‘well done’!…

Check your issue next month to see if you’re a winner! Every month, three subscribers win a prize as a thank you for their loyalty to Simply Knitting. This month, the winners (below) will each receive this gorgeous bag worth £27.99. It’s got loads of storage space and pockets to keep your WIPs tucked away neatly when you’re out and about. It’s perfect for knitting on-the-go! Mr M Booth, Ruthin Ms J Harris, Par Ms J Strange, Hartlepool IMMEDIATE MEDIA COMPANY, PUBLISHERS OF SIMPLY KNITTING, SUBS STARS GIVEAWAY TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Prizes were dispatched before the on sale date of this issue. There are no cash alternatives. Three winning entries will be chosen at random from all current subscribers. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into.…

February is a bit of an odd month; not nearly as exciting as December or early January, but with no sign of spring on the way either. However, the yarn show season is starting and this is a great time of year to sit down and decide which events might be good to visit. With shows being held from the Shetland Islands to Cornwall in a variety of venues from conference halls to rural auction marts to community centres, there’s bound to be something that takes your fancy. The UK Handknitting website (www.ukhandknitting.com/events) is a great place to start. It’s a mine of information about these events, which all have two main things in common: they’re places where you can mingle with like-minded people and where you can squish fabulous…

Visit www.theyarnloop.com/simply-knitting and click on the ‘Win & Save’ tab to find this issue’s giveaways. Then, enter the correct code (see below), along with your name and address. If you don’t have your own email address, feel free to use ours simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk, to submit your giveaway entry form. Find terms and conditions at www.theyarnloop.com/competition-rules. Issue 182’s giveaways will close on Thursday 7 March 2019. GIVEAWAY CODES 1 SKMRICO182 2 SKMALICEPALACE182 3 SKMBEEHIVE182 4 SKMSTITCHTEE182 5 SKMTHISTLE182 6 SKMWOOLJ13182 7 SKMPRYM182 8 SKMTRIBE182 9 SKMYARN182 10 SKMSUGARNCREAM182 11 SKMPATONS182 12 SKMLOVEKNITTING182 13 SKMDERAMORES182 14 SKMDOULTONBLY182 15 SKMBERGERE182 16 SKM25WW182 Incorrect codes will not be counted as entries; take care when entering them.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Creative Wool Dégradé Super 6 (DK, 70% acrylic, 30% wool, 200g/800m), 1 ball of Purple Salmon (002) ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Length 160cm Width 74cm ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 MOSS LACE DIAMONDS PATTERN Row 1 (RS) K1, *P1, K1; rep from * to end. Row 2 K1, *P1, K1; rep from * to end. Rep the last 2 rows once more. Row 5 K1, *yo, skpo, K3, k2tog, yo, K1; rep from * to end. Row 6 Purl. Row 7 K2, *yo, skpo, K1, k2tog, yo, K3; rep from *…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Scheepjes Catona (4ply, 100% mercerised cotton, 25g/62.5m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Champagne (248) Yarn B Chocolate (507) Yarn E Powder Pink (238) Yarn G Charcoal (393) 2 balls of each: Yarn C Colonial Rose (398) Yarn D Saffron (249) Yarn F Amethyst (240) ❏ Scraps of black and red yarn for eyes, mouth and details ❏ A pair of 2.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ Two 2.5mm DPNs ❏ Stitch holders ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Tapestry needle ❏ 3 circles of white felt, 15mm wide ❏ Toy stuffing ❏ 8 buttons, 6mm wide For yarn stockists contact Scheepjes www.scheepjes.com TENSION 35 sts and 48 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 2.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 28cm (11in) tall…

›)éRP›ZRRçHQ›VRFNV›DQG›6KHWODQG›VKDZOV››WR›)DLU›,VOH› MXPSHUV›DQG›6DQTXKDU›JORYHV››NQLWZHDU›V\PEROLVHV›6FRWWLVK› KHULWDJH›DQG›LV›KLJKO\›YDOXHG›LQ›ëH›PRGHUQ›PDUNHWSODFHÓ Have you ever dreamt of making your own brand of wool? Well, the University of Glasgow did exactly that – with fleece from sheep reared on their own farm. The idea was the brainchild of academics Professor Lynn Abrams and Dr Marina Moskowitz, both keen knitters and historians. We spoke to Professor Lynn Abrams to discover more about the project. The idea for producing the wool came from a research project on the history of Scottish knitted textiles. “We were interested in how knitting as an economic, creative and cultural practice in the past has informed contemporary knitting,” Lynn says. “Hand knitting has had a prominent place in the Scottish economy since the 19th century. Its products, from the softest woollen socks to the finest Shetland shawls,…

DARN IT! Q What is Swiss darning? Apart from the fact that I don’t know how to do it, I don’t understand how it’s different from other colour techniques. I can’t help but think it’s cheating. Janet King, St Davids Swiss darning, also known as duplicate stitch, is a technique for adding sections of colour to your knits. Essentially, you ‘duplicate’ the knitted stitch beneath it so that it looks like a knitted stitch itself. No, it isn’t cheating! Usually, other colourwork techniques, such as Fair Isle and intarsia, are difficult to use, because the area to be coloured is too small or the stitches are scattered, for example. There are two main differences between Swiss darning and Fair Isle or intarsia. First of all, it isn’t worked in conjunction…

SIGN UP TO THEIR NEWSLETTER OR MAILING LIST Your local yarn shop newsletters should tell you about upcoming sales, offers and new knitting groups. Be the first to know! CHECK OUT THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA FEEDS So much marketing is done online, especially over social media. If you’re online visit their pages and follow them to show your support. LIKE, COMMENT AND SHARE THEIR FACEBOOK POSTS Go one further and be an engaged Facebook friend. Liking, commenting and sharing their posts increases their visibility to others. TELL YOUR FRIENDS ALL ABOUT THEM Word of mouth is an incredibly powerful tool – if you love your local yarn shop, enthuse about it! LEAVE THEM A GOOD, DETAILED REVIEW Say all the right things, they’ll love you for it.…

ISSUE 181 FEBRUARY Colourblock roll-neck sweater Fair Isle snood and mittens Long cable jacket Child’s Fair Isle poncho Peacock cushion Cherub toys Lace & bobble cardi Sea otter toys Classic baby cardi Fringed cowl Scarf Textured cushion PLUS! Simply Socks pattern booklet ISSUE 180 JANUARY Diamond lattice cardigan Mohair cowl Bobble hat Christmas raccoon bag Polar bear Lace top Slip stitch socks Fisherman’s jumper Fox toy Cute penguin jumper Fair Isle mittens Chunky blue jumper PLUS! Nordic knits pattern booklet ISSUE 179 DECEMBER Ombre snowflake jumper Sophisticated cardi Yoked jumper Men’s tank top The Snowman jumper™ Cowl Angel tea cosy Amanda Berry’s Nativity Baby Christmas jumper One-ball shawl Tree dec trio PLUS! Brand-new knit-along ISSUE 178 CHRISTMAS Jumper dress Polar bear jumper Cable jumper Green cardigan Fun Xmas wreath Festive…

SOUTH WEST WELLS KNITTING CENTRE We pride ourselves on good service and knowledgeable staff, stock a huge range of haberdashery, wool and patterns, and offer a prompt postal service. 5 Mill Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2AS wellsknittingcentre@gmail.com SOUTH EAST THE LOST SHEEP We are a family run shop based in the heart of the Norfolk Broads stocking a wide range of wools and yarns, needles, patterns and knitting sundries. Norfolk, NR29 5EG 01493 748811 ISLE OF WIGHT KNIT KNACKS An old fashioned wool shop with a modern twist. Stockists of James C Brett, Stylecraft, Adriafil Wools and Woolcraft; knitting needles, crochet hooks etc; DMC embroidery silks; haberdashery including elastic, zips, buttons; knitting bags and gifts from Vanessa Bee Designs.Come in for our weekly ‘Sit n Stitch’ sessions! 01983 716890 11,…

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

Mother’s Day is a great excuse to get knitting and spoil any or all of your female relatives and friends, and they are sure to love receiving these gorgeous knits! Lace, frills, cables and springtime colours are the theme and all are knitted in yarns we love from King Cole, Rico and Rowan. Each of the projects is designed to be a relatively quick make for expert knitters, while providing an ideal opportunity for the less experienced to practise new skills. Choose from a stylish cable jumper, pretty fingerless mitts, trendy frilled bag and chic lacy scarf. Or make all four for a truly special ensemble! We know mums, grans, sisters and best friends deserve a treat, and these patterns are just the ticket. Happy knitting!…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Essentials Cotton DK (100% cotton, 50g/130m), 2 balls of each: Yarn A Mauve (17), Yarn B Berry (15), Yarn C Dusty Pink (19) ❏ A 4mm circular needle, 50cm long ❏ A 7mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ set of 7mm double-A pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ Sewing thread and needle ❏ A pair of 71cm long black rolled leather bag handles from www.bag-clasps.co.uk ❏ A sew-on brass magnetic clasp from www.bag-clasps.co.uk For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles with yarn held single 14 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 7mm needles with yarn held triple MEASUREMENTS 21cm high x 25cm wide…

Pixie Yarns Drawstring bags Pop your treasured knitting in a perky, drawstring project bag (£19.50) courtesy of www.pixieyarns.etsy.com. Fabric patterns may vary. Bernat Baby Marly Jacket Pattern Ideal for beginners, this cosy new jacket knits up super-quickly in Bernat Baby Marly yarn. Visit https://bit.ly/2C3TXVj for the free pattern. Scheepjes Special Edition Whirl Ombre Dive into 15 new shades in this hot new ombre range from the yarn experts at Scheepjes. Their 1000m cotton/acrylic mix is just £19.98. www.scheepjes.com for stockists. For the Love of Yarn Silky Singles luxurious blend A of Merino wool, yak and silk creates this exciting new yarn with a beautiful drape (£22 for 120g). www.fortheloveofyarn.co.uk. Giraffe baby hat This adorable hat kit with pure Merino wool costs just £24.99 – or readers can get 15% off…

WHAT IS IT? This handy tool is used when knitting garments. It can help determine pin gauges, stitch counts and rows, and convert the desired number of stitches and rows for any chosen size and yarn thickness. HOW DO I USE IT? First the amount of stitches and rows per 10cm is calculated using the counting frame.Then the knitting calculator’s slider can be set to the calculated value on a scale of 8-49 stitches per 10cm. A viewing window shows the stitch and row counts for lengths 1-100cm. WHY DO I NEED IT? Once mastered it’s a quick and easy way to create and check your tension, giving you the perfect fit every time. Added to your knit kit, it will give you the ability to knit to size with…

Ò&D \RXU PRëHU 7H KHU ç› › ›› ç› › \RX ORYH KHU 5HPHPEHU › › ›› ›› \RXÐUH›ëH›RQO\›SHUVRQ›ZKR› NQRZV›ZKDW›KHU›KHDUW› VRXQGV›OLNH›IURP›ëH›LQVLGH›Ó› RACHEL WOLCHIN If practical pockets are your thing, you simply can’t go wrong with the Neusu Deluxe Knitting Organiser (£19.99). With the perfect slots for needles, compartments for scissors and pins and plenty of room for squishable yarn balls, what’s not to love? There’s even a handle plus a strap to make transporting your treasured knits as easy as pie. Discover this great find and many others at www.amazon.co.uk/neusu.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ John Arbon Devonia 4-ply (100% wool, 100g/388m), 1 skein of Devonia Cream ❏ A set of 2.25mm DPNs or a circular needle, 60cm long for Magic Loop method ❏ A set of 2.75 DPNs or a circular needle, 60cm long for Magic Loop method ❏ Cable needle (optional) ❏ 3 stitch markers ❏ Waste yarn ❏ 1m ribbon, 4mm wide ❏ Sewing needle and thread For yarn stockists contact John Arbon 01598 752490 www.jarbon.com TENSION 30 sts and 38 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 2.75mm needles MEASUREMENTS Adult S ( M: L) To fit hand circumference 16 (18: 20)cm (61/4 (7: 8)in) Actual circumference 15 (17: 19)cm (6 (6.5: 7.5)in) unstretched Actual length 20cm (8in) ABBREVIATIONS Cabling without a cable…

SIMPLY WIZARD! My grandson has always been a fan of Harry Potter in all forms; films, books, exhibitions etc. So I attempted a few characters for his birthday last year. I used many different Alan Dart patterns as a base, but designed clothing, broomsticks and wands as I went along. I was pleased to find the large green eyes which fasten inside at my local dressmaking shop and a Gryffindor notebook to complete his look. This year I decided to make a near life-size house elf Dobby, with a black sock tucked inside a Hogwarts book to set him free. I only knit a few hours a day, so it took me about five days to finish off the pieces. I did have a few attempts at creating the nose…

Seeing my daughter walk down the aisle, wearing the silk and beaded veil I knitted for her… she looked beautiful. Catherine Brassington, via Facebook Learning to knit on the wooden sticks out of the roast beef with a ball of red wool when I was five in 1955. One of the best life skills I ever learnt, it was. Elaine Checker, via Facebook Having been able to find and knit a pattern for Harry Potter, which my niece requested months ago. Will be handing it over next week. Teresa Curtis, via Facebook Honestly, anything I make from start to finish, without starting five other projects in between. Allison Tunaley, via Facebook I’ve been organising our knitting community to make Big Knit hats for Age UK/innocent over the past seven years…

I’M LOVING… Preseli organic 4ply sock yarn It’s a mix of 60% single flock organic Falklands Polwarth shearling and 40% single flock organic English Romney shearling and it comes in 25 yummy shades. See it at www.garthenor.com. I’M MAKING… Mind the Gap socks for my husband Inspired by the 12 colours of the London Tube map, these are a riot of stripes in Bluefaced Leicester. It certainly makes a change from his usual black socks! Go www.trailingclouds.bigcartel.com I’M SHARING… Lots of free patterns and tutorials In a shameless plug for my blog, there’s lots to see on www.winwickmum.co.uk.You can join a sockalong or download free patterns. I hope you enjoy them!…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Design Essentials Alpaca Twist Chunky (50% alpaca, 35% acrylic, 15% wool, 50g/65m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 4.5mm knitting needles ❏ A pair of 5mm knitting needles ❏ A pair of 6mm knitting needles ❏ 2 stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.de TENSION 14 sts and 19 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles 5-st panel measures 4cm wide ABBREVIATIONS M1P pick up and purl into back of horizontal strand lying before next stitch M1L pick up and knit into back of horizontal strand lying before next stitch For a full list see page 95 BASIC LEFT PANEL CHART FINAL LEFT PANEL CHART BASIC RIGHT PANEL CHART FINAL RIGHT…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners Fleece Wensleydale Gems DK (100% wool, 100g/225m), 1 skein of each: Yarn A Moon Stone (113) Yarn B Granite (181) ❏ A set of 4mm DPNs or circular needle for Magic Loop method ❏ Tapestry needle For yarn stockists contact West Yorkshire Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com MEASUREMENTS Stretches to fit a tablet up to 25x18cm (10x7in) TENSION 16 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 4mm needles and yarn held double ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 TABLET COVER Note Holding the yarn double creates a lovely dense fabric to help protect your tablet from bumps and scratches. If you haven’t done colourwork before, this easy-to-remember slipstitch and stripe pattern is a great place to…

When you’re knitting from a pattern you’ll see tension (or gauge) listed at the beginning. Tension is the number of stitches and rows that makes up a standard-sized piece of fabric – usually 10cm square. To create a correctly sized, similar-looking item you’ll need to knit to the same tension. On smaller projects, like hats or gloves, a small difference in tension may not be the end of the world because you’re working with a small number of stitches. But correct tension is vital if you’re making a garments because when you’re working with more stitches the impact of a small difference in tension is multiplied. Whatever you’re knitting, taking 20 minutes to make a tension square can save you a lot of wasted 1 MAKING AN ACCURATE TENSION SQUARE…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Sirdar Temptation (chunky, 70% acrylic, 30% mohair, 50g/100m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 4.5mm knitting needles ❏ A pair of 5.5mm knitting needles ❏ Stitch holders ❏ A spare 5.5mm needle for 3-needle cast off For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION 14 sts and 19 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st and patt using 5.5mm needles 1 repeat of wider pattern (k2tog, (K1, yo) twice, K1, skpo) meas 9cm wide 1 repeat of narrower pattern (yo sk2po, yo, P2) meas 4.5cm wide ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions. Simply follow our colour-coded measurements and you’re off.…

GAUGE RAGE QI’m having trouble with my gauge. I knit a tension swatch, but the gauge in my garments is almost always different. Help! Sasha Miller, Tenby You are not necessarily doing anything wrong. The gauge can change over a larger amount of stitches, the way you hold your needles can be different and the added weight of a project can have an impact too. If you have a very noticeable difference I would advise you to knit as large a gauge swatch as possible or even knit part of a sleeve. JUMPER JURY Q Which is better – knitting a jumper from the top down or starting from the bottom up? Caroline, Ann Derby, Derry I think it all depends on the style, there are some patterns that work…

Cast on a multiple of 4 sts + 1. Try 45 sts. Row 1 and all odd rows (RS) Purl. Rows 2 and 4 K1, *sl3 wyif (holding yarn loosely), K1; rep from * to end. Row 6 K2, *insert needle under the long loose strands of 2 prev rows and knit the next st, K2; rep from * to last 2 sts, K2. Rows 8 and 10 K3, *sl3 wyif, K1; rep from * to last 2 sts, K2. Row 12 K4, *insert needle under the long loose strands of 2 prev rows and knit the next st, K3; rep from * to last st, K1. These 12 rows form the pattern.…

Name and postition Naomi Le Page, Community Fundraising Manager Charity Comic Relief. Established 1985. What do you do? Comic Relief is a UK-based charity where everyone is safe, healthy, educated and empowered. Since 1985, Comic Relief has raised over £1 billion for good causes. That money has helped, and is helping, people living incredibly tough lives, both here at home in the UK and across the world. What can we do to help? Get creative with your crafts to fundraise for Red Nose Day 2019. Why not host a craft party, with a donation to get involved, and sell your craft pieces to boost your total? Order a fundraising pack at comicrelief.com/pack – it’s packed with ideas, tips and tools on how you can get your fundraising off to a…

Tell us about FTLOY… We started the business more than seven years ago when I saw my mum struggling with the mental health impact of having rheumatoid arthritis. I knew the positive effects crafting can have on our health and wellbeing, both in terms of our mental health, but also in keeping us active in older age, and so in turn keeping joints supple. I designed a handle for a crochet hook from polymer clay that mum could hold and it all took off from there! What can knitters find and do at FTLOY? We have over 500 hand-dyed yarn colourways on a variety of bases, a wide range of ergonomic crochet hooks, kits, books, patterns, notions, project bags… the list goes on. We’ve also started running our very first…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Hayfield, Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Bright Lemon (0819) Yarn B White (0961) Yarn C Walnut (0927) ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ Toy filling 200g ❏ Two 10mm domed black buttons for eyes For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 39cm (15›in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 GIRAFFE PATCH IDEAS EYEBROW CHART KEY HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong side rows from left to right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting. GIRAFFE Note Use long-tail cast on…

KNITTING NEEDLE LANE From bespoke hand dyed yarns through to acrylic yarns and hand made yarn bags we have a beautiful selection of stock for all your crochet/ knitting needs. We also stock a selection of ‘Make Your Own’ project bags from hats through to shawls. Visit our online shop or you can visit our award winning bright and vibrant Cambridge market stall any Sunday from 10am-4pm. Email or call if you can’t find what you are looking for. camilla@knittingneedlelane.co.uk 01223 561865 knittingneedlelane.co.uk JACKO’S CRAFTY CORNER Jacko’s Crafty Corner is an ever-growing website with plenty in store for 2019. From hand-dyed yarn and silky embroidery threads to premium-grade wax melts for the home. The unique thing about this website is that it aims to support multiple charities with a percentage…

MATTRESS STITCH Place your knitted pieces RS up side by side. Thread your yarn on to a needle, anchor the end and weave along an edge to your start point. Working from back to front, push your needle up between the first and second stitches of the left piece’s edge, then insert the needle down between the first two stitches of the right piece’s edge (on the equivalent row). Moving upwards, bring the needle back up on the right piece, scooping up the bar that lies at the back of the stitch. Return to the opposite piece and repeat. BACKSTITCH Pin your two pieces together and secure your sewing yarn tail a stitch length to the right of where you are starting. Now working from right to left, bring the…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Panache (50% wool, 50% acrylic, 100g/312m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ A cable needle ❏ 2 stitch holders For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS Work 5 tog (work 5 sts together) wyib, slip 3 sts pwise, *pass 2nd st on RH needle over 1 st (centre st), slip centre st back to LH needle, pass 2nd st on LH needle over*, slip centre st back to RH needle; rep from *to * once more, purl rem st MK5 (make 5 from 1) insert RH needle between…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Kid Classic (70% wool, 22% mohair, 8% polyamide 50g/140m), 2 balls of Drought (876) ❏ A pair of 5mm needles For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION 20 sts and 22 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 22cm wide x 80cm long ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 in Simply Knitting magazine SCARF Cast on 42 sts. Knit 4 rows. LACE PATTERN Row 1 K3, *K1, yo, K2, skpo, k2tog, K2, yo; rep from * to last 3 sts, K3. Row 2 K2, P to last 2 sts, K2. Row 3 K3, *yo, K2, skpo, k2tog, K2, yo, K1; rep from * to last 3 sts, K3. Row 4 K2, P to last 2…