Innholdsfortegnelse for May 2019 i Simply Knitting

As you may already know, we start our celebrations early here at Simply Knitting and this issue we’re all about Easter – egg cosies, bunny jumpers and toys, pastel shades, brand new DK yarns and even a few blooming cacti! This wonderful celebration of new life is such a positive time of year – a time when we’re thinking about holidays and all the gorgeous, cool yarn we’re going to squish in preparation for summer knits. For families, Easter brings a generous bank holiday and lots of free time together, which comes at just the right moment as our energy flags after winter. Hopefully, this means more knitting time during the longer evenings too, to help pep up your well-being – if you’re lucky you may get to perch outside…

Meet the ever-busy Jeni, owner of yarn hand-dyeing company, Fyberspates Up early or slow to rise? I hate alarms, so I wake up when I wake up (about 7.30am). First job of the day? Give my cat his morning treats, and check my plants are alive. Mid-morning pick-me-up? Coffee! Coffee! Coffee! And sometimes my lunch if I’m hungry. Fave way to sit back and take five? I generally take a look at Instagram, normally @Katgoldin. Leisurely lunchtime? No, I normally eat and work at the same time! Post-lunch priorities? Swatching yarns for designs, or dyeing new colours, anything that’s not in front of the computer. Clocking-off time? I used to work long hours, but now I am really strict and finish at 4. I have to call US shops at…

Lulu Sweater Brighten up their day with this gorgeous jumper – the Lulu Beret and Handwarmers are also included in the pattern! Ethan Sweater Children in smart cables create a classic look. Modernise your knits with a shade from the Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino range. Lulu Beret For the perfect match to the Lulu Sweater (and to keep them toasty) cast on the jazzy beret and handwarmers too! Jojo Sweater The Jojo Sweater looks neat, casual and surprisingly grown up, despite the explosion of fun rainbow stripes. Nora Cardigan This gingham inspired knit brings the traditional firmly into their wardrobe, and is finished with flashes of bright red flowers. Jojo Scarf Included in the same pattern as the Jojo Sweater is this jaunty scarf, complete with a strong black background.…

Ò7KH›ULVLQJ›WUæV››ëH›QHZ› áRZHUV››DQG›ELUGV›ëDW› EHDXWLIXç\›VLQJ››ZKLVSHU›WR› PH›ëDW›LWÐV›(DVWHU››+HUH›LV› ZLVKLQJ›D›NLQGQHVV›Iè›\RXU› VRXO›RQ›(DVWHU›DQG›DOZD\V›Ó Unknow› Take a look at the real-life tales and patterns by lively blogger, Kristen Jones from www.weallknithere.com . Read about her journey from ill-fitting clothes to made-to-measure knits, her enthusiasm for mindful knitting and discover her range of feminine patterns. We love her summery Mango Flower Top (www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/mango-flower-top) and stylish Bramley Pullover (https://www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/currentcardi).…

›7KH›ZRRO›QæGV›QR›VSHFLDO›HTXLSPHQW›WR›SURFHVV››,›FDQ› VLPSO\›SURFHVV›LW›LQ›P\›NLWFKHQ››ëHQ›JHW›FUHDWLQJ›RQ›P\› ODUJH›NLWFKHQ›WDEOH››7KLV›PDNHV›PH›VHOI›VXIàFLHQW›Ó The freedom that wool provides you with to unleash your creativity is like no other. Fibre artist Catherine Kaufman, aka Woolly Queen, uses the material in an entirely unique way, producing enigmatic large-scale sculptures and sculptural garments made from wool. Using wool needle felting and spinning, Catherine explores her own sense of self and that of the female narrative within the yarns she chooses, with a strong message of how females overcome obstacles through their diversity. Having had a natural love of textiles from a young age, she undertook a City and Guilds textiles and soft furnishings exam when she was in her twenties, before pursuing a degree in fine art as a mature student, which is where she met Judith Beckett, a remarkable spinner and teacher…

STAR LETTER ANGEL KNITIVITY You are now quite simply my favourite knitting magazine. You have the best mix of patterns and interesting info, and the bonus of seeing each others’ knits! Every year I make a different ’knitivity’ and I was so delighted with the one featured in the festive issue for 179. Here is my latest angel. I decided to turn the angel into a teddy-like gift for my goddaughter, who will celebrate her 1st birthday on my birthday, in February! For this project I used my own wool stash as my budget for wool purchases is limited at the moment and I simply have so much wool already. I had to alter the numbers in the pattern to accommodate my yarn. However, the pattern is so well written…

The other day I picked up my knitting, took a deep breath, and ripped back 14,000 stitches of complex stranded colourwork. I had spent the previous days in denial, knitting fast, and trying to deny that the colours in this piece weren’t playing nicely together. Because if I’m too busy knitting to notice a problem, then there isn’t a problem, right? Wrong. TOTALLY IN DENIAL Keeping busy with my head down, on and on I knitted. The project in question was my own design: a picture of an underwater scene, totalling well over 100,000 stitches because I’m masochistic like that. But eventually the mismatched colour combination was so obvious that the only way I could have maintained my denial, would have been by working on my knitting in a completely…

1 Insert the point of the right-hand needle through the loops of the next two stitches as if to knit. 2 Wind the yarn round the tip of the right-hand needle and pull the yarn through the two stitches, knitting them both together. 3 Drop the two stitches from the left-hand needle and keep the new stitch on the right-hand needle. 4 Knitting two stitches together decreases your stitch count by one, and the decrease stitch leans to the right. This is how a series of k2tog decreases will look.…

1 Insert the point of the right-hand needle through the loops of the next two stitches as if to knit. 2 Wind the yarn round the tip of the right-hand needle and pull the yarn through the two stitches, knitting them both together. 3 Drop the two stitches from the left-hand needle and keep the new stitch on the right-hand needle. 4 Knitting two stitches together decreases your stitch count by one, and the decrease stitch leans to the righ t. This is how a series of k2tog decreases will look.…

1 Caramel rooibos tea with oat milk 2 If I’m sitting and knitting, sometimes I’m Netflix and chilling 3 Looking at all of the beautiful knitting images on Instagram is definitely a favourite – ocean_bythesea is where you can find me, botanically dyeing the yarn I can’t get enough of 4 Eating and knitting can be tricky: use a pair of chopsticks, you’ll thank me later 5 Sometimes multitasking can be done, so if I’m going to read a book and knit, I’ll be indulging in Bad Feminist by Roxane Gay…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Felted Tweed (50% Merino wool, 25% alpaca, 25% viscose, 50g/175m) 1 ball of Vaseline Green ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Stitch holder For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 668200 www.knitrowan.com TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over lace patt using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit a woman’s medium size hand, circumference 19.5cm ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 TEXTURED MITTENS LACE PATTERN Row 1 K1, (K3, yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo) to last st, K1. Row 2 Purl to end. Rep Rows 1 and 2 once more. Row 5 Knit. Row 6 Purl. Row 7 K1, (yo, sl1, k2tog, psso, yo, K3) to last st, K1.…

ROUND TECHNIQUE Q How can I convert a flat pattern to one that works in the round? Sarah Bishop, via email This depends on the style and the stitches used. It’s fairly straightforward for stocking stitch, but the pattern writer will have added extra stitches to be ‘lost’ in the seam, usually one stitch at each side of the front and back, so you need to remove four stitches before working in the round. Be aware of any side shaping and incorporate these decreases or increases into your pattern for working in the round. Debbie LACE KNITTING QI’m petrified of lace knitting. How can I overcome this? Jackie Marsh, Lincoln To tackle patterns for lace, work from a chart. You can see exactly what the fabric should look like as…

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…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Dollymix DK, (100% acrylic, 25g/73m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A White (001) Yarn B Black (048) Yarn C Gold (055) Yarn D Orange (144) Yarn E Pink (006) Yarn F Sky (005) ❏ 1 set of 2.75mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ 6 black sequins ❏ 2 silver sequins ❏ Black and white sewing thread For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION 20 sts and 50 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over garter st using 2.75mm needles MEASUREMENTS Height 6cm (2› inches) ABBREVIATIONS B&T Break yarn and thread through rem sts to fasten off For a full list see page 95 EGG COSIES BASIC BODY (FOR ALL COSIES) Note Use Yarn A for the Lamb, Yarn C for the…

Dame Hilary Blume, Director Charity Knit For Peace Established 2007 What do you do? We provide a distribution service so people can knit for those in need. We believe knitting benefits both the knitter and the recipient and helps bring people together. We have over 22,000 knitters in the UK and send knitting to over 300 organisations. Knitting for those in need can be done regardless of age, health, mobility and is an activity that can be carried on into extreme old age. Our oldest knitter is 105! What can we (our knitters) do to help? Send us your knits, or donate yarn and needles which get sent to community groups. Come on a Knit for Peace Holiday at The Green Hotel Mysore, South India. The holidays are led by…

We caught up with Lilith Green to find out about Scottish brand, Old Maiden Aunt Tell us about Old Maiden Aunt… The business started in 2007 as a way to keep my mind occupied when I was unemployed due to illness and stress. I was initially just dyeing yarn for myself, but it quickly grew into a part-time, then a full-time business. Now I work from a home studio and sell online, as well as through a few select local yarn shops. What can knitters find and do at Old Maiden Aunt? I make unique and beautiful hand-dyed yarns from my home studio in Scotland. Because I work from home I don’t have a retail space that’s open to the public. However, I try to do a couple of yarn…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Stylecraft Life DK (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Olive (2302) Yarn B Copper (2312) Yarn C French Blue (2447) Yarn D Zing (2356) Yarn E Lily (2417) Yarn F Daffodil (2394) ❏ A pair 3.25mm knitting needles For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01484 848435  www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION 24 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS Cactus 1 13cm (5in) tall Cactus 2 8cm (3in) tall Cactus 3 15cm (6in) tall Cactus 4 11cm (4›in) tall ABBREVIATIONS S2kpo Sl2 tog knitwise, K1, pass slipped sts over For a full list see page 95 CACTI COLLECTION CACTUS 1 Cast on 32 sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn A. Work in g st (knit every row)…

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…

Bergère de France Kids’ Bear Jumper Pattern Cast on this knit for kids who love to look roar-some every day! Visit www.bergeredefrance.co.uk/mag-21-29-striped-sweater.html for more details. Amanda Berry’s Elephant Snuggle up with a cute knit that’ll save the day at bedtime. Turn to p44 and cast on now! Jimenez Joseph’s Chrysler Mitts Double up on knitting joy with this two-layer mitts pattern from Jiminez Joseph (£5.60). Visit www.jimiknits.com to see all her great designs. Rico Cotton Dégradé Yarn For that fashionably faded look, Rico’s new yarn is simply a must-buy (£15.49 per cake). Each yarn cake delivers a slightly different but exciting new gradient. Order online at www.woolwarehouse.co.uk or call 0800 505 3300 for more details. Scheepjes Whirligigette Yarn Scheepjes have done it again with a great new yarn! Whirligigette is…

Enjoy the latest Bo Peep Luxury Baby DK shades (£3.79 for 50g) from the experts at West Yorkshire Spinners. Created with a silky soft blend of the purest Falkland Island wool and the finest nylon, this versatile yarn knits up into a durable fabric, making it ideal for babies and children. You can even machine wash it at 40°C. Explore their range of brights, pretty pastels and unique prints, alongside their Story Book 3, a collection of new handknit patterns that you’ll fall in love with! For details of your nearest stockists visit www.wyspinners.com  or call 01535 664500.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Sublime Isla DK (50% cotton, 50% bamboo-sourced viscose, 100g/220m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Stitch holders ❏ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Sublime Yarns 01924 369666 www.sublimeyarns.com TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles 24 sts and 26 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 CHART KEY RAGLAN JUMPER BACK Cast on 102 (114: 122: 134: 146) sts using 3.25mm needles. Row 1 (RS) K2, yo, skpo, K2tog, yo, K1, P1, *K2, P2, rep from * to last 10 sts, K2, P1, K1, yo, skpo, K2tog, yo,…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Chunky (50% wool, 50% acrylic, 100g/100m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Midnight Blue (1037) Yarn B Washed Teal (1032) Yarn C Champagne White (1002) Yarn D Mustard Yellow (1023) ❏ A set of 6mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Love Knitting 01409 404010 www.loveknitting.com TENSION 14 sts and 18 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles MEASUREMENTS Actual foot length 26cm (10¼in) Actual height 22cm (8½in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 KEY 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 right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting.…

KNITTING FOR LOVE Hilary was motivated to take up knitting six years ago, after her mother passed away. She has been an avid knitter since and loves to knit as often as she can. Hilary Pegrum Email BON VOYAGE Veronica decided to take her project away with her, and knitted this stunning seahorse whilst on holiday in France. She decided to use slightly darker shades of blue for the design. Veronica Morgan Email IN MEMORY After losing her partner, Patrysha decided to turn two of his jumpers into pillows. She hopes that readers will share the comfort that she felt using her unique idea. Patrysha O’Keefe Email…

Coffee for me, I use my knitting to stop me snacking whilst I’m on a slimming journey. Busy hands mean no time to snack! Fiona Boath, via Facebook Fudge and cappuccino, as much as possible! Mary Puchert, via Facebook Pretzels, no mess! Gail Burrows, via Facebook I’ll occasionally snack whilst knitting. If I do, then I like to have a healthy, balanced snack of apple slices that I dip into peanut butter. Marsha Jones, via Facebook I have to admit that I like clean hands for knitting, so try to avoid food completely. However, I do make time to stop for a cuppa. Janet Treanor via Facebook I’d like to think that knitting stops me from snacking, but if my husband has some chocolates out, I use kids’ chopsticks so…

I’M LOVING… My mini-swatches of all the Stylecraft Special shades Perfect for working out new colour combinations, this pretty batch of swatches will provide plenty of inspiration for so many future projects. I’M MAKING… A complex stranded colourwork Did I mention the 100,000-stitch underwater picture that I have been working on? Well, here is a photograph of it in the early stages of its progress – it was definitely a labour of love! I’M SHARING… My projects from start to finish I love looking back over a project during the various stages of its progress. You can view the highs and lows of the design process in more detail via my blog, www.thetwistedyarn.com…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Stylecraft Cosy (chunky, 59% acrylic, 15% metallic polyester, 14% alpaca, 12% polyamide, 100g/213 m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 6mm needles ❏ cable needle ❏ 6mm crochet hook for ties For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01484 848435 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION 14 sts and 19 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles Cable panel measures 3.5cm (1¼in) wide ABBREVIATIONS C8B slip next 4 sts onto cn and hold at back, K4, now K4 from cn For a full list see page 95 WRAPPED PONCHO FRONT Work sideways. Begin at right-side edge. Cast on loosely 80 (84: 87: 91) sts using 6mm needles. Rows 1 to 4 Purl. Row 5 (RS, on which hole for Tie…

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 184’s giveaways will close on Thursday 2 May 2019. GIVEAWAY CODES 1 SKMSTYLECRAFT184 2 SKMWOOLJ13184 3 SKMPAINTBOX184 4 SKMJOMO184 5 SKMRICO184 Incorrect codes will not be counted as entries, so please take care when entering them.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab (DK, 100% wool, 100g/245m) 1 ball of Deep Teal (716) ❏ A pair of 4mm needles For yarn stockists contact West Yorkshire Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Headband measures approx 10cm (4in) wide and 52cm (20›)in circumference. ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 HEADBAND Cast on 25 sts using 4mm needles. Row 1 Knit. Row 2 (RS) *P1, K1, P1, K1, P1; rep from * to end. Row 3 *K1, P3, K1; rep from * to end. Rep Rows 2 and 3 until work measures 52cm. Cast off in rib. WRAP Cast on 13 sts using 4mm needles. Row 1 Knit. Row…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Lion Brand New Basic 175 Aran (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/160m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 5mm needles ❏ A pair of 5.5mm needles ❏ Split ring markers ❏ Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Love Knitting 01409 404010 www.loveknitting.com TENSION 16 sts and 22 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 LEOPARD-PRINT JUMPER BACK Cast on 76 (82: 86: 90: 96: 100: 106: 110: 114: 120) sts using 5mm needles and Yarn C. Work in Single Rib for 2 rows as follows: Row 1 (RS) *K1, P1; rep from * to end. Row 2 *K1, P1; rep from * to end. Change to Yarn…

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. DOUBLE-POINTED PAIN Q Every time I try knitting with DPNs I feel so clumsy. Plus, I always end up with holes. Do you have any tips? Cheryl McPherson, via Facebook Although it seems awkward at first, with practice you should get the hang of it. If you find it clumsy to cast on, try casting…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Hemp Tweed (75% wool, 25% hemp, 50g/95m) 2 balls of Yarn A Pumice (138) 1 ball of each: Yarn B Mauve (145), Yarn C Teal (131), Yarn D Almond (141) ❏ A pair of 4.5mm needles ❏ 5 buttons ❏ A cushion pad (40x40cm) For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 668200 www.knitrowan.com TENSION 19 sts and 25 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit a 40x40cm (15›x15›in) cushion pad ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 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. CHART A CHART…

In association with the Keep Yarn on our Streets campaign With spring bursting out all over, we are all searching for stunning landscapes to inspire our knitting and get us knitting outdoors too (after all, Knitting in Public day is just around the corner)! Check out the awesome Buxton Wool Gathering this May in the Peak District and the fab yarn shops in the Derbyshire area too, to help get your knitting mojo on track. Would you like to get involved with a charity knit? We chat to our Charity of the Month, Knit for Peace, to find out about their amazing cause, and don’t miss out on the charity projects we’ve been sent by our readers (on page 76) for inspiration on your next knit. There’s nothing better than…

Who’s in charge? Me, Jayne Coleman, but I could not function without my tutors Sarah, Caroline and Maggie who help with all the projects at our social groups. Where can we find you? Caterham on the Hill, and at many national shows. When did your doors first open? Ten years ago (I took over three years ago). What is your shop like? The first thing you see when you enter is the long table where we teach, help plan your projects and inspire you – it’s the hub of the shop! Popular products? Isager, Sirdar, Rico, Manos de Uruguay and Stylecraft, to name just a few. Plus a growing range of indie dyed yarn. Who shops at your shop? Some customers travel from as far as Sevenoaks in Kent and…

The name says it all: Fashion Cotton Light & Long is a wonderfully light and also voluminous cotton blend. Furthermore, it impresses with its extremely soft touch and running length. The unique colour gradient of the yarn is characterised by beautiful and subtle flowing transitions. Nicola Tack, PR & Marketing Manager The Amber Wheat Collection showcases Kettle Yarn Co.’s Northiam DK, in Sarah Shepherd’s fresh balloon sleeved jumper and accessories. Northiam DK is a velvety non-superwash Bluefaced Leicester yarn, produced at a British mill. Choose Shale with a pop of Amber or check out the other 9 colours available – you’re sure to find one you’ll love. Linda Lencovic, Brand Owner Amy is a super-bulky cardigan, worked top-down and seamless on 12.75mm needles at less than 2 stitches per inch!…

SOUTH WEST | WELLS 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. 01749 677548. Wells, BA5 2AS wellsknittingcentre@gmail.com SOUTH WEST | SWINDON CRICKLADE CRAFTS To celebrate Rowan’s 40th and our very own 25th Anniversary we are offering 10% off all Rowan yarns stocked inc. Kidsilk Haze, Felted Tweed and the new Alpaca Classic. Quote Code CC2018. 89a High Street, Cricklade, Near Swindon SN6 6DF info@crickladecrafts.co.uk 01793 750 604 crickladecrafts.co.uk SOUTH EAST | CLACTON THE WOOL CABIN Extensive yarn range at 28 High St, Clacton, CO15 1UQ. 01255 428352. Yarn, fabric, haberdashery, linen, at 71 Connaught Ave, Frinton, CO13 9PP. 01255 674456 woolcabin.co.uk SOUTH | ISLE OF WIGHT KNIT KNACKS An old…

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…

ISSUE 183 MARCH Cable cushion Nursery toys Bright Knits Cuddly doggy jumper Fabulous spring knits Fun cable socks Fluffy bunny rucksack Beautiful tweed yarns Sheep armchair tidy Vintage sweater Child’s striped jumper PLUS! Fab bunny pattern booklet ISSUE 182 MARCH Diamond textured jumper Rainbow shawl Lacy mohair bolero Giraffe toy Girls’ jumper & doll Leafy textured jumper Dress-up doll & outfit Paw-print cushion Soothing tablet cover Apple cosy PLUS! Mother’s Day gifts pattern booklet ISSUE 181 FEBRUARY Roll-neck sweater Snood & mittens Long cable jacket Child’s poncho Peacock cushion Cherub toys Lace & bobble cardi Sea otter toys 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…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Aran (993) Yarn B Pink (0992) Oddments of: Yarn C Iced Pink (958) Yarn D Ice Blue (730) ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ 2 black glass eyes 7mm in diameter ❏ 1 black glass eye 5mm in diameter ❏ Tapestry needle ❏ Toy filling ❏ 4 mother-of-pearl buttons, 1cm diameter ❏ 20cm baby blue ric rac ❏ 20cm yellow ric rac ❏ 20cm green ric rac ❏ Red thread (beaks) ❏ Yellow thread (paws) ❏ Black thread (eyes) For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION 25 sts and 33 rows to 10x10cm (4x4 in) over stocking stitch using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS Baby Bunny 17cm tall Mother Bunny 21cm…

BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO COLORWORK KNITTING By Ella Austin (www.sewandso.co.uk, £18) Whatever you do, don’t miss this opportunity to get to grips with colour. Starting with the very basics, and working with many stocking stitch patterns, this handy book holds your hand as you work your way from hats to socks, to a wonderfully colourful yoke sweater. Discovering the joy of colour is a real treat and this book delivers expert advice, inspirational projects and a bevvy of beautiful gift items! GRADIENT STYLE Edited by Kerry Bogert (Interweave, £17.99) Inspired by all those colour-changing yarns and wowed by modern colour-gradient jumpers? Then this book could be for you. Inside you’ll discover what and how to knit with these exciting yarns. You’ll learn how to select and combine colours, blend yarns to…

Fierce Friends Hat Squishy, soft and super-simple to knit, what’s not to love about this Langyarns’ Fierce Friends Hat pattern (£3.10)? Visit https://bit.ly/2U699YE to download the pattern and start knitting today. Bergère de France Child’s Beanie Beat the flowers at their own game by knitting this bright and beautiful beanie pattern (£3.74) for your little ones. www.bergeredefrance.co.uk/mag-06-12-beanie.html Rowan Dover Scarf This cool scarf comes in a modern cable pattern and is perfect for spring. Find it in Rowan’s new book, Ocean Blue, by Martin Storey (£12.99) or as a single pattern (£4) at www.knitrowan.com or by calling 01484 668200. Bergère de France City Set Be city ready with this sweet shoulder warmer and headband pattern set knitted in pretty Bergère de France Arlequin yarn. Find it here https://bit.ly/2X0XHPQ for just…

1 BOUNCY BUNNIES One of our favourite Easter knits is HuggableBears’ Elderberry Bunny. The pattern includes all the clothes too! www.etsy.com/uk/shop/HuggableBears 2 PRETTY PASTEL EGGS Knitted in 4ply cotton, these sweet ‘decorated’ eggs are a great alternative to calorific chocolate. The free pattern is here: www.littlecottonrabbits.typepad.co.uk. 3 BUNNY BONNET Dress your little ones in the cutest outfits as Easter approaches. This dreamy bonnet pattern is available from www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Patternery. 4 CHEERFUL CHICKS Cast on Alan Dart’s free chick pattern this Easter. Its delicate detail and brilliant shaping make them cracking gifts for your little chickadees. Find it at www.alandart.co.uk/product/all-patterns/chick-egg-free/ 5 BEEHIVE EGG COSY Wake up on Easter Sunday to a lovely warm egg using Amanda Berry’s Beehive Egg Cosy free pattern! What’s not to love? www.ravelry.com/patterns/library/beehive-egg-cosy.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Stylecraft Life DK (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m) ❏ Stylecraft Life Changes (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ Oddment of charcoal DK yarn ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ A stitch holder ❏ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01484 848435 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 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 CHART BUNNY JUMPER Note This…

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 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 just 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 ones will create a left-leaning decrease.…

LAPLAND Here is a photo of my Manhattan Mist KAL shawl on the verandah of our chalet in Utsjoki, Lapland. I went there with my son Ben for his 21st birthday in January and we were lucky enough to see the Northern Lights, as well as some reindeer. The pretty little bag was made for me by a very dear friend and it has taken my knitting halfway around the world. Helen Ridson, via email This bag looks ever-so practical and handy, and what a simply stunning view you had! Our letter writer wins a mystery prize of yarny goodies worth £15! *Prizes subject to change…

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.com/simplyknitmag…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Summerlite 4ply (100% cotton, 50g/175m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 2.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ A 2.25mm circular needle (at least 120cm long) ❏ 6 buttons (BN1624 from www.bedecked.co.uk) ❏ Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 668200 www.knitrowan.com TENSION 27 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 3mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 LACE CARDIGAN BACK Cast on 121 (133: 147: 161: 175) sts using 2.25mm needles. Work in g st for 10 rows, ending with RS facing for next row. Change to 3mm needles. Now work in patt as folls: Row 1 (RS) Knit. Row 2 Purl. Row 3 K2 (1:…

1 Push the point of your right-hand needle through the first two stitches on your left-hand needle, going from right to left as you would for a purl stitch. 2 Bring yarn anti-clockwise around the needle, between the two needles. 3 Pull the yarn through both stitches, as you would when working a purl stitch, and drop both stitches from the left-hand needle. 4 Purling two stitches together decreases your stitch count by one, and the decrease stitch leans to the right. This is how a series looks on the right side of stocking stitch.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Hayfield, Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Silver Mist (0678) Yarn B Bright Lemon (0819) Yarn C White (0961) Yarn D Emerald (0916) Yarn E Signal Red (0977) Yarn F Royal (0979) ❏ A pair of 3.5mm knitting needles ❏ A 3.5mm crochet hook ❏ 2 domed black buttons for eyes, 10mm size ❏ Toy filling, 200g ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Sewing pins for finishing For yarn stockists contact Sirdar 01924 231682 www.sirdar.co.uk TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 17cm tall by 19cm long ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 ELEPHANT TOY Note Use a cable cast on for all pieces unless otherwise stated. BODY (MAKE…

My heart rises and sways, a night in a foreign countryside, where the sky is painted lilac; peace and dusk, a tropical bird being pulled home to nest, by an invisible strand of sock weight yarn... it seems I’ve done it again. Suddenly I’m present, sitting on my comfortable sofa, knitting and hands still working together, weaving a fabric in tandem.› Where will I go? Knitting takes me places I’ve yet to lay my eyes on, it’s my escapism, not quiet therapy, but it’s the moment I carve out for myself, it’s mindfulness.The end of a busy day can render us exhausted, wanting to search for easier moments to melt into and rediscover ourselves.The mind, a basket filled with tangled threads, odds and ends from various projects, and knitting…

1 Insert the tip of the right-hand needle into the front of the stitch and knit as normal, but don’t drop it from the left-hand needle. 2 Then take the right-hand needle behind the left-hand one and insert the tip of the needle down through the back of the stitch on the left-hand needle. 3 Wrap the yarn around the tip of the right-hand needle to knit the stitch. Bring the needle through to make the stitch, keeping it on the right-hand needle. 4 Take the stitch off the left-hand needle. You will have increased one stitch by knitting twice into the original stitch, first at the front, then at the back.…

GOING LOOPY Q How is loop stitch worked? I’ve seen it in a few patterns, but the instructions are rarely the same! Melissa Sheppard, via email Loop stitch is one of those stitches that can be done in different ways – there’s no consensus among designers and knitters. The fact that loop stitch, like some other stitches, can be done in numerous ways is a great example of why you should always read through a pattern before you start knitting. This is so you don’t get caught out making an assumption about a technique that turns out to be incorrect, and have to start again! Loop stitch is characterised by, well, loops. They’re created by wrapping longer lengths of yarn in yarn overs when knitting, than is normally the case.…

1 These images show what happens to the yarn that you carry over on the wrong side of the work. Work a stitch in the first colour as usual. To change colour, twist the two yarns together before working the next stitch. 2 Work the next stitch in the new colour as normal. When working alternating stitches of two colours, try and keep an even tension and do not pull the yarn too tight. 3 Change back to the original colour, remembering to twist the two yarns together before you work the stitch. 4 A completed row shows the yarn ‘floats’ carried across the back of the work. If you always keep the floats of one colour above the other colour, your work will look neater.…

Are you new to knitting and wondering how to connect with fellow knitters in your community? Whether you wish to learn handy hints, find new patterns or knit in an informal social environment, there are several ways to network. Check out these top places to mingle: LOCAL LIBRARY Weekly knitting groups held at your local library are a modern and great way to meet local knitters in your area. Why not pop along to your local library and ask about craft groups? Or set one up yourself! SOCIAL MEDIA If you haven’t already, join us on social media and like the Simply Knitting Facebook group. Fellow like-minded knitters love to share patterns and advice on there, and you may even be able to find out about other knitting groups that…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4ply (75% wool, 25% nylon, 100g/400m) 1 ball of Foxglove (802) ❏ A set of 2.5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs), or a circular needle, 60cm long, if using the magic loop method For yarn stockists contact West Yorkshire Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION 34 sts and 48 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 2.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit foot circumference of approx 21 (23)cm or (81/4 (9)in) Foot and Leg length is adjustable ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95. RIBBED SOCKS CUFF Cast on 60 (66) sts using 2.5mm needles and join to work in the round, taking care not to twist stitches. PM to mark the beg of round. Rounds 1 to 12 *K1, P1;…

THE KNITTING GIFT SHOP The Knitting Gift Shop specialise in unique high quality gifts for knitters. They have their own range of natural undyed and dyed wool, knitting designs and knitting kits. Tricia designs all of the patterns and the wool is produced from fleece that they buy from farms throughout the UK. They have a large range of locally produced wooden & ceramic yarn bowls, wooden yarn servers & swifts and accessories. info@theknittinggiftshop.co.uk 07528 812731 theknittinggiftshop.co.uk JUST KNOTS YARN We offer just about everything a yarnaholic could wish for! With one of the UK’s most extensive ranges of knitting needles and crochet hooks, fabulous yarns and project kits, we are a one-stop shop! We stock the world’s leading knit and crochet brands, including Knit Pro, Hiya Hiya, Clover, Addi…

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…

This gem of a knit has been waiting in the wings for what’s seemed like ages, and I’m sure you’ll agree, she’s definitely been worth waiting for! Since arriving, Bella Bunkins has been cooed over, cradled, hugged and smiled at by almost everyone in the office. Crammed with effortless detail and incredibly cute, she’s a flufftail you’ll never get tired of knitting (to the relief of all your little friends and relatives)!You can easily knit both baby and mum by hunting down some DK yarn from your stash. Or opting for the Hayfield Bonus DK yarn suggested.Whatever you choose, we’re sure you’ll love our super-special treat!…