Innholdsfortegnelse for December 2019 i Simply Knitting

With Christmas hot on our heels (well, it is for gift-knitting knitters) we’re in a hugely generous mood – after all, there’s no better time to maximise the knitting love than with our bumper Christmas issue! So, what are we so excited about? This issue we’re proud to bring you the first UK issue of Burda Knitting, packed with wow-your-wardrobe garment patterns from some of the best yarn manufacturers in Europe. From therapeutic colourwork to timeless chic shapes, there’s sure to be a knit to tempt you for winter and beyond. We’ve already picked out our favourites! If you’ve been thinking about taking out a subscription to Simply Knitting (or asking for one for Christmas) now is the perfect time, especially as this month’s gift is a beautiful knitting needle…

Pattern designer, owner and chief knitter at Gift Horse Kits, in the Brecon Beacons Up early or slow to rise? Definitely early! I usually start working around 8am, answering emails and getting yarn ready for the orders. First job of the day? Coffee and checking orders that have come in overnight; it’s amazing how many people order knitting kits at 2am! Fave time to sit back and take five? There’s no time in the morning as it’s full-on knit kit packing (every kit is hand-packed to order as lots of the kits are personalised). If I take a break it’s usually to knit something! I always have a bag of exciting test-knitting on the go for future kit ideas. Leisurely lunchtime? Fifteen minutes while I check Instagram and catch up…

There’s nothing quite like the sensation of pulling on a jumper that’s incredibly soft, and King Cole Truffle yarn (£3.99) delivers that indulgent experience in so many ways! Just like the softest teddy bear fur, 100g Truffle is 100% polyamide yarn that knits up quickly and easily on 4mm needles. This new yarn comes in six natural shades, each one as soft as the next. Check out the pattern collection below. Visit www.kingcole.com for stockists. Stylish cardi Cast on a cardi with a cool cable section (pattern 5513)… Cosy pullover …or knit a sweater to make the perfect pair (pattern 5513). Chic cover up This everyday cardi is packed with softness (pattern 5515). Soft tunic Classic, simple and stylish for winter (pattern 5514). Snuggly sweater Cuddle up with just the right…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Deramores Studio DK (100% acrylic, 100g/250m) Yarn A Jade (70053) Yarn B Ebony (70027) Yarn C Paprika (70055) Yarn D Frost (70001) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Stitch holder ❏ Embroidery needle TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS bobble K into front, back, front, back, front of the st that is to become a bobble, turn, P5 bobble sts, turn, K5 five bobble sts, turn, P5 bobble sts, do not turn, slip the second, third, fourth and fifth stitch on right needle over the first stitch, turn [1 st rem] For a full list see page…

A+ GLOVES Gillian made these Sanqhar gloves for her mum, using a very fine wool and thin DPNs, this was a pretty complicated pattern to work on! Gillian Thomas via email KNIT PURL Michelle struggled with purl stitch but managed to make a pair of wrist warmers. Although she says they turned out far too big, it’s a great achievement! Michelle West via Facebook ALASKA GIFT Deb recently completed the gorgeous Alaska hat by knitwear designer Camille Descoteaux for her husband. She might start one for herself next! Deb Taylor via Facebook…

“FAVOURITE FESTIVE KNITS?” I really enjoy designing and making my own knitted Christmas wreaths. Susan Evans, via Facebook I am starting to knit an elf on the shelf and also a chunky jumper in an aran blend for my Dad. Catherine Donley, via Facebook I have been making some festive baubles that my friend can decorate her tree with. Patricia McGuire, via Facebook I really enjoy making knitted silver stars and miniature trees to decorate the house with. They hang from the ceiling or the already very colourful and crowded Christmas tree! Leah, via Twitter I love making gifts in a sparkly yarn. Cowls, scarves and hats are my favourite festive projects to knit up as a delightful little gift. Janine D, via Facebook All my grandchildren get given a…

I’M LOVNG… Projects in a bag I have everything that I could need (apart from the needles) provided in a convenient little bag which can be used again. A huge plus is that it saves time and indecision! I’M MAKING… Lacy fingerless gloves These are my most ambitious project yet! I’m loving the pretty detail of the pattern. And so is my daughter, who is proudly modelling the glove and matching nails in the picture. I’M SHARING… A handy hint for beginner knitters Keep a note of the rows completed in a pattern to avoid going wrong. It’s easy to forget which line you are on when you are distracted or have to leave your project.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Alpaca Soft DK (70% wool, 30% alpaca, 50g/125m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ A pair of 4.5mm needles ❏ Stitch holders TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 FIND YOUR SIZE 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. KEY THORVALD JUMPER BACK Cast on 98 (110: 122: 130: 142: 154) sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) K2, *P2,…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Cygnet DK (100% acrylic, 100g/298m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Black (217) Yarn B White (208) Yarn C Cranberry (298) Yarn D Flash (159) Yarn E Light Grey (195) Yarn F Sunshine (184) Note You only require appox 2 metres of Sunshine (Yarn F) to embroider the belt buckle ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ Toy filling, 100g ❏ 2 x toy safety eyes, 6mm ❏ Black embroidery thread ❏ Pompom maker, 4cm diameter ❏ Pins for making up TENSION 24 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Santa approx 28cm (11in) tall (including hat) Sack approx 8cm (3in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 SANTA Notes Use the long tail cast-on for…

1 What would life be like if I was a sheep? How might I feel about being ordered about by a dog? 2 If I could spin yarn from candy floss, what edible knits would I make and devour? 3 Who would I invite to my fantasy knit ‘n’ natter (dead or alive) and what would we natter about? 4 What thoughts might I overhear if were a hat on the head of [a character real or fictional]? 5 Where would I go if I were a snippet of yarn caught in the winds of a tropical storm?…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Novita Moomin Moominhouse (DK, 75% wool, 25% polyamide, 100g/225m) 1 ball of Moomtroll (007) ❏ A pair of 3mm knitting needles ❏ Toy filling ❏ 2 x black glass eyes, 5mm diameter ❏ 2 x white mother of pearl buttons, tiny ❏ Blue felt for eyes ❏ Large-eyed sewing needle TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS Moomintroll measures 15cm (6in) tall HOW TO ATTACH THE BUTTON LIMBS ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 MOOMIN BODY Starting at the neck: Cast on 10 sts using 3mm needles. Row 1 (RS) (Kfb) 10 times. [20 sts] Rows 2 to 9 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 10 (Kfb, P1) 10…

KNITTING FLAT FACT Q Can circular needles also be used for knitting flat? Anne May, via Facebook Yes, I find that circular needles are particularly useful for when you are working with a large number of stitches which would otherwise be crammed onto straight needles. They are so simple to knit with because you just work backwards and forwards. It’s a handy method I recommend! Debbie PERFECT CAST ON Q Is there a good way to cast on when knitting socks? Linda Kelt, via email I love the thumb cast on for a more elastic edge when knitting. It’s the best way to cast on for any garment or project that needs a stretchy, elastic edge. You’ll find this technique especially useful when working the cuff on a pair of…

In association with the Keep Yarn on our Streets campaign We have pulled out all the stops for our festive issue and packed in some festive-themed inspiration to motivate you to cast on some charity knits or create that perfect present. Check out our guide on the best festive yarn and our special feature on Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal and their appeal for knitters. We chat to the fab EWEnited Yarns, reveal some awesome yarn shops in Cornwall and chat to Wilmslow Knit and Natter group about their exciting experience with RHS Britain in Bloom. Charity of the Month, Knitted Knockers UK, pop in to chat and cool Icelandic artist and designer, ›rúrarí, returns after a recent exhibition to tell us all about her amazing upcycling project with the Red…

Who’s in charge? John and Sonia. Where can we find you? We’re on Main Street in Long Eaton, Nottingham. When did your doors first open? 2016. What is your shop like? I would describe EWEnited yarns as a woolly paradise! Popular products? We stock a great variety of yarns and knitting accessories from many leading brands such as King Cole, Sirdar, Stylecraft and Katia. Regular knit and natter groups are also held in store where you can meet fellow knitters. Who shops at your shop? People from all walks of life who share a passion and love for the beauty, colour and texture of yarn and all things knitting related. Top shopping tip? Don’t be afraid to experiment with mixing and trying out new yarns, it’s fun to try something…

Tina O’Dwyer PR Trustee KKUK Charity Knitted Knockers UK Established 2015 What do you do? At Knitted Knockers we aim to give women who have had a mastectomy or lumpectomy after a breast cancer diagnosis, a comfortable choice of prosthesis. We do this by providing knitted 100% cotton prostheses in 15 sizes as standard free of charge to women who order them on our website. We have more than 100 authorised knitters based all over the UK and Southern Ireland, who give their time voluntarily. Post-surgery, the NHS provide a silicone gel prosthesis which some ladies find uncomfortable and heavy. The lightweight Knitted Knocker takes the form of a real breast and is soft against the skin. More than 17,000 orders have been dealt with since 2014 which shows how…

Christmas comes in stripes this season with West Yorkshire Spinners’ glorious Signature collection. Our favourite has to be the gorgeous Holly Berry, pictured right. This festive delight is a perfect mix of the quintessential Christmas colours. It knits up easily making it ideal for accessories. Tim Rickaby Designer For me the perfect festive yarn would have to be this delightful little seasonal edition from fab Lily Sugar n Cream. Mistletoe Ombre (pictured) is a fabulous candy cane stripy yarn with the perfect selection of red, green and a warm white. Available from Wool Warehouse from only £2.49 per 57g ball. Gill Bailey Marketing Manager This gorgeous Candy Cane colourway is dyed in a plain or silver sparkly superwash finish. Both are 75% Merino wool with nylon to make them durable…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Walnut (0927) Yarn B Bright Lemon (0819) Yarn C White (0961) Yarn D Ladybird (0698) Yarn E Chocolate (0947) ❏ A pair of 3mm knitting needles ❏ 3 stitch holders ❏ 4 black glass eye beads, 5mm in diameter ❏ Toy filling ❏ White ric rac, 2m ❏ Red ric rac, 70cm ❏ 2 small red buttons ❏ Narrow red ribbon, 50cm ❏ 4-ply yarn or embroidery thread in red ❏ Square of white felt, 6x6cm ❏ Large-holed sewing needle TENSION 25 sts and 33 rows to measure  10x10cm (4x4 in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS 20cm (8in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 MASTER GINGERBREAD HEAD Cast…

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…

We love the look of the Dalesbred with its gorgeous fluffy fleece and wonderfully curly horns! Bred in the northern mountain region known asThe Pennines, the Dalesbred is a fabulously sturdy breed, which originally came about through the cross-breeding of Swaledale and Blackface sheep.This sturdiness is reflected in the durability and resilience of its fleece, which is rather coarse and long.Thanks to its medium handle, the fleece of the Dalesbred is also deemed to be super-practical and has numerous uses – its beautiful good quality fleece is also hailed for its clean white finish, which is coated with a lovely vivid pearlescent glow! Discover more about the wonderful world of British sheep and wool at www.britishwool.org.uk. DISCOVER MORE! To find out more about this wonderful sheep visit www.dalesbredsheep.co.ukor follow @DalesbredSheep…

01 Crochet granny square sweater and polo neck From page 11 Sizes: One size: 36-40 Finished measurements: Sweater: Bust circumference: 124 cm Length: 62 cm Inner sleeve lenght: 42 cm Polo neck: 28 cm in width x 60 cm in length before sewing Materials: Katia, AZTECA. Blend: 53% wool, 47% acrylic. 100 g = 180 m. Sweater: 4 balls col. 7856 Katia, MERINO ARAN. Blend: 52% merino superwash, 48% acrylic. 100 g = 155 m. Sweater: 6 balls col. 9 Polo neck: 2 balls col. 9 Crochet hook: Size 5 mm Gauge: Measurements are taken after slightly blocking swatch. Using MERINO ARAN and size 5 mm crochet hook, in Double crochet: 12 sts and 6 rows = 10 x 10 cm. Charts Granny square (see chart A) Sides (see chart…

King Cole Tinsel Alpaca Kit Christmas knitting is taking a fabulous new turn with this gorgeous tinsel-clad alpaca kit (£17.27). Both large and small versions are knitted in mix of super-quick King Cole Tinsel Chunky and DK yarns. Buy from www.deramores.comor call 0845 519 4573. Peanuts Collection Take a trip down memory lane with the much-loved Peanuts comic strip kit collection from Stitch & Story. Choose from hats, baby booties, jumpers and more. For more information visit www.stitchand story.com. New Knit Kit Additions from Pony Refresh your knitting tool kit with these new crafty superstars from Pony. Keep on track with their simple row counter (£1.60), make sewing up a breeze with a set of perky marking pins (£2.05) and slip on a set of flat ring markers (90p) to…

We’re thrilled to announce that BIPOC in Fiber will soon be launching a website highlighting the work of Black, Indigenous and People of Colour working in the fibre community; from knitters, crocheters, weavers, yarn bloggers, indie dyers, writers, tech editors and more. This marks an exciting new chapter for what began as the POC Designers and Crafters List started in 2018 by Jeanette Sloan on her blog – jeanettesloan.wordpress.com. “Our remit is to celebrate the talent of BIPOC working with fibre and to improve the representation of BIPOC in the fibre industry. We hope the website will be the first port of call for anyone to use, whether it’s a publication looking for a tech editor, a consumer looking for an indie dyer, or a student looking to interview a…

When it comes to luxury, Debbie Bliss has always got it covered! This time it’s the turn of the little ones as new yarn, Luna, bounces onto the scene. Kitten soft and deliciously warm, Luna (£14.99 for 25g) is 100% decadent cashmere spun to a 4ply weight. You’ll find a perfect selection of baby hats, cardigans and booties in the accompanying collection also from designer Debbie Bliss. To buy, or for more details on available patterns vist www.lovecrafts.com…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Magnum Chunky (25% wool, 75% acrylic, 100g/138m) Yarn A Jade (3279) Yarn B Champagne (1435) Yarn C Brick (1980) Yarn D Berry (1440) Yarn E Black (1438) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table You will need 25g or less of Yarns B, C, D and E ❏ A pair of 6mm knitting needles ❏ A pair of 5.5mm knitting needles ❏ Stitch holders ❏ A small pack of silver sequins ❏ White sewing thread TENSION 14 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 FIND YOUR SIZE 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…

A COSY CHRISTMAS Here is a photo of the knitted crib and nativity scene from issue 178 that I made last Christmas. Although, I have yet to download and start knitting the stable! Perhaps I will try that this year! Veronica Whitehead, via email Such a delightful festive display! LACY LUXE I live in Fort Erie, Ontario, and am so happy that I can purchase Simply Knitting over here in Canada! I am a big fan of your magazine! I have just completed the lovely Lacy Luxe pattern in Simply Knitting from quite a while ago in issue 166. This pretty sweater is really soft and lovely to wear and I have already had a lot of compliments on the beautiful design. The pattern itself was quite easy to knit…

WALES Greetings from Wales! Here I am sat at the top of Snowdonia after a three hour climb, taking a well deserved rest with my copy of Simply Knitting. Nothing beats relaxing with a cup of coffee and my latest WIP. The incredible view did prove to be a little distracting. There were also so many sheep with wonderful fleeces that I’m now inspired to learn how to spin! Dotty, via email Wow, your view looks amazing from the very top, Dotty! *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, Eagle House, Colston Avenue, Bristol BS1 4ST. EMAIL US simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk FIND US AND FOLLOW US Facebook.com/simplyknitting @SimplyKnitMag ravelry.com/groups/simply-knitting-magazine @simplyknittingmag www.pinterest.com/simplyknitmag…

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.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Caron X Pantone (60% acrylic, 20% nylon, 20% Merino wool, 100g/116m), 1 x 100g braid in Fuchsia Foliage (consists of five shades 13, 16, 17, 18 and 19) ❏ A pair of 5.5mm needles TENSION 16 sts and 22 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Circumference 20cm (8in) Length 18cm (7in) ABBREVIATIONS sl1 wyif/sl1 wyib slip one stitch purl wise with yarn at the front/ slip one stitch purl wise with yarn at the back For a full list see page 95 RAINBOW MITTENS CARTRIDGE RIB Worked over multiples of 4 + 3 sts and 2 rows. Row 1 (RS) K3, *sl1 wyif, K3; rep from * to end. Row 2 (WS) K1, *sl1 wyif, K3; rep from * to…

There’s nothing more frustrating than finishing your gorgeous garment only to realise there’s a mountain of loose ends to sew in. But luckily for you, rather than leaving all your ends languishing at the back of your work, there is another more exciting way of making quick work of those random tails. In fact there are a number of effortless ways you can join in new yarn during your knitting! From the felted ends of ‘spit-splicing’ as it’s often known, to the popular twisted knitting and magical Russian joins, we have a trio of options you might like to try on your next knit. Simply take a look at our expert step by steps here and discover which method is soon to become your absolute favourite! FELTED ENDS TECHNIQUE Sometimes…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ UK Alpaca Superfine Alpaca DK (75% alpaca, 25% wool, 50g/112m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.75mm knitting needles ❏ A pair of 4mm knitting needles ❏ Cable needle ❏ 4 stitch holders TENSION 24 sts and 33 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS T3B slip 1 st onto cn and hold at back of work, K2; P1 from cn T3F slip 2 sts onto cn and hold at front of work, P1; K2 from cn T5B slip 3 sts onto cn and hold at back of work, K2; P1, K2 from cn C5B slip 3 sts onto cn and hold at back of work, K2; K3 from cn For a full list see…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Cascade 220 Superwash (100% superwash wool, 100g/200m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Aran (817) Yarn B Really Red (809) Yarn C Peppermint (226) ❏ A 3.75mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ 4.5mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ A set of 4.5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ Cardboard or large pompom maker, 9cm diameter ❏ A stitch marker TENSION 22 sts and 30 rounds to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st and stranded st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit head circumference 50-57cm (20-23in) Actual head circumference 50cm (19¾in) Actual depth 22cm (8½in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the right-hand corner. Read all rows from right to left. A row of squares represents a row of…

PURL A ROW Opening times are posted online weekly Purl A Row, 9 Fore Street, Lostwithiel, Cornwall PL22 0BP Knitting fans will find pretty much everything they desire at Purl A Row, with brands such as Blacker Yarns and WYS. Knit night social groups are held on a Tuesday and Thursday for a small donation and dates and times can be found online. Even more exciting is Purl A Row’s craft retreat held in beautiful Bodmin, combining meditation, yoga and craft workshops. This makes for a perfect short break, and change of scenery, where you can meet fellow knitters. Full information can be found on their website. For more information visit www.purlarow.co.ukor call 07788 240158. TRURO WOOL Monday to Saturday, 9:30am-4:30pm and Sunday, 10:30am-4pm St Mary’s Street, Truro TR1 2AF…

I like the self-striping yarns that you can find in smaller independent shops. They do some lovely festive hand-dyed yarns with fab colours, these will make a great gift for a knitter! Katie Beale, Production Assistant I really enjoy having a rummage around my LYS and finding little gems like cute stitch markers that can be gifted up, or added to a project bag. Emily Waite, Designer I will be knitting up a lovely scarf in Stylecraft Eskimo yarn. It is just so fluffy and soft, and while I plan to give it away as a gift, my cat might decide to claim it as their own cosy blanket! Sophie Jordan, Deputy Editor There is always a delightful festive vibe in my local shop, I think that the smaller independent…

At the heart of Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal is the annual festive pantomime, which encourages people from all walks of life to share the festive spirit through laughter and knitting. Yes, knitting has become an integral part of the Theatre and its continued successful performances. Each year, hundreds of knitted objects are incorporated into the show, sometimes as ‘missiles’ to be hurled by the audience at a specific point of the action or sometimes as elaborate decorations to adorn the historic building. It’s an unusual and rather unique opportunity for any keen knitter to see their knits up on the stage! This year the theatre is appealing for knitted or crocheted light bulbs, which will be used during the 58 upcoming performances of the pantomime, Aladdin. HOW IT ALL STARTED…

ISSUE 186 * JULY Lace green jumper Fair Isle bathroom tidy Kid’s cat jumper Mosaic pattern jumper Ballerina doll Pretty flower clips Men’s honeycomb jumper Cosy cable slippers Moss stitch cushion PLUS! Family Knits and brilliant Baby pattern booklets* ISSUE 187 * AUGUST Lacy short-sleeved cardi Ladybird game Textured beach bag Dog pencil case Vintage car and caravan Owl tea cosy Cute cat bed Rainbow socks Floral hair clips Baby blanket PLUS! A handy storage box in a gorgeous pink* ISSUE 188 * SEPTEMBER Sequin summer vest Baby cardi Gorgeous cushion Three little kittens KAL textured throw Solar system mobile Child’s pinafore Cool phone cover Purple lace shawl Grey lace socks PLUS! Toy Favourites pattern booklet and UK Yarn Shop Guide* ISSUE 189 * OCTOBER Aqua short-sleeved jumper Child’s hoody…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4ply (75% wool, 25% nylon, 100g/400m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Wildflower (872) Yarn B Sarsaparilla (545) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A set of 2.5mm double-pointed needle (DPNs) or a 2.5mm circular needle, 25cm or 80cm long ❏ A set of 3mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Stitch holder or spare needle TENSION 30 stitches and 42 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 2.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS LT (left twist) From behind work, insert RH needle into the back loop of the second st on LH needle, knit the st and leave it on LH needle, bring RH needle forward and knit into the first stitch on LH needle, then slide both…

ISSUE 191 CHRISTMAS Bold zigzag sweater Robin baby jumper The Snowman toy KAL textured throw Sparkly teenage jumper Festive mice decorations Fair Isle stocking Bright advent calendar Rowan longline cardigan Delicate yoga socks PLUS! More gorgeous festive projects ISSUE 190 NOVEMBER Lace panel jumper Stylish poncho Textured throw KAL Men’s cable jumper Delicate pink cardigan Pretty Fair Isle hat Kid’s monster jumper Halloween keyrings Cuddly cow cushion PLUS! A handy quick guide to rib stitch ISSUE 189 OCTOBER Aqua short-sleeved jumper Child’s hoody Geometric cushion Throw KAL Teddy bear Beehive tea cosy Frilly shoulder bag Fishbone jumper Striped lacy socks Pretty cardigan PLUS! Stylecraft Simply Classics and Knitdark pattern books ISSUE 188 SEPTEMBER Sequin summer vest Three little kittens Simple textured cushion Striped child’s pinafore Grey lace socks Textured throw…

NUDIKNITS: A NAUGHTY KNITTED NOEL by Sarah Simi (Collins & Brown, £9.99) Get in full festive swing with this knit-tastic little book, full of naughty festive knits! Follow the nude knitted villagers as they celebrate the festive season in style. Creator Sarah Simi has brilliantly combined humour and knitting into this hotly anticipated book. Not for the fainted hearted, inside you’ll find 25 hilariously cheeky patterns to amuse your guests this Christmas! WE ARE KNITTERS – KNITSPIRATION TO TAKE ANYWHERE AND EVERYWHERE by Alberto Bravo and Pepita Marin (Abrams, £18.99) If knitting is a huge passion and forms a large part of your life this knit-spirational book will resonate with you. It features brilliant photography and celebrates just how important knitting is in an increasingly digital-focused world. What better excuse…

Chevron Blanket Add a rainbow to a room with this chunky colour pack and pattern from Stylecraft (£21.99). www. blacksheepwools.com/products/www.blacksheepwools.com/products/stylecraft-specialchunky-colour-pack-knitted-chevron-blanketstylecraft-specialchunky-colour-pack-knitted-chevron-blanket Sweet As Honey Blanket This gorgeous honeycomb blanket pattern (£5), for babies and children alike, will be an utter joy to knit. Find it at www.ravelry.com/ patterns/library/as-sweet-as-honey-baby-blanket. Bernat Bear-y Cozy Knit Blanket Enjoy intarsia and duplicate stitches with this free blanket pattern. Visit www. readicut.co.uk/knit-patterns/baby/ afghans-blankets/www.readicut.co.uk/knit-patterns/baby/afghans-blankets/knitting-patternbernat-bear-y-cozyknit-blanket.htmlknitting-patternbernat-bear-y-cozyknit-blanket.html. Bella Baby Blanket Soft, squishy and edged with pompoms, this baby knit kit (£39.99) makes the sweetest gift for your smallest friends! To buy visit www.woolcouture company.com/product/ bella-babyblanket-knitting-kit. Snuggly Blanket Add just a touch of rainbow to your gift list with this super blanket in Sirdar Snuggly DK. It’s perfect for those who love minimalism. Find the pattern at Black Sheep Wools here www.bit.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Pale Pink (0963) Yarn B Ice Blue (0730) Yarn C Iced Pink (0958) Yarn D Sunflower (0978) Yarn E White (0961) ❏ A pair of 3mm knitting needles ❏ 2 black toy eyes, 4mm diameter ❏ Non-allergenic toy stuffing, 5g ❏ Small amount of red thread ❏ Narrow white ric rac, 15cm ❏ Thin golden wire for the halo TENSION 25 sts x 33 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4 in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS Angel is 10cm (4in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 ANGEL HEAD AND BODY Cast on 5 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) (Kfb) to end. [10 sts] Row 2…

BON VOYAGE I wanted to share the projects that I have taken with me to knit while off on my travels. My knits have been taken to Northern Ireland, Ireland, Wales and England, oh, and not forgetting the Irish Sea! The pink faux fur cardigan was made using Stylecraft Special DK in gorgeous Candyfloss and Stylecraft Eskimo pink. This is the first time I’ve tried the pink combination and an eyelash yarn, and I also love it in Christmas colours. I’m a mummy of one boy aged six and taught myself to knit from YouTube whilst I was pregnant. I started with knitted squares and progressed. My favourite designer is Tracy D and this cardigan is a mixture of her designs. It took me about three weeks to knit up…

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 Melissa Leapman’s 6000+ Pullover Possibilities book worth £21.99 – the must-have companion for any knitter, making it easy to customise jumper patterns to suit your style! D Claridge, Northampton R Scott, Berkamsted J Pickford, Elgin 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.…

Ideas for what to knit often inadvertently come to me following a conversation with the Accomplished Knitter! She has no idea but her comments can set me on a course I hadn’t initially planned. This was certainly true with my latest project after she accused me of being lazy! I’ve been knitting for some time now but have not completed a major ‘grown up’ project or in her words ‘challenged myself’ to follow a pattern independently. Her parting words to me that particular day were ‘Pull your finger out, stop relying on others to tell you what to do and try following a pattern for yourself!’ NERVOUS KNITTER Frustratingly she is right. I attend a fortnightly craft club where I rely on the ladies to sort out my problems, but…

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 192’s giveaways will close on Thursday 12 December 2019. GIVEAWAY CODES 1 SKMROWAN192 2 SKMSTITCHES192 3 SKMBLISS192 4 SKMBERGERE192 5 SKMANNIE192 6 SKMSCHEEPJES192 7 SKMSTOFF192 Incorrect codes will not be counted as entries, so please take care when entering them.…

Using knitting to help others is one of the most wonderful things about the craft. A group of knitters, under the name Handmade for Dementia, do exactly that – making and donating dementia comfort items to people affected by the illness. Founding member Sharon Holdstock, who’s from Chester, works as a care home and nursing home singer. She was volunteering at The Hospice of the Good Shepherd in Chester when she discovered the NHS Dementia Twiddle Mitt Pattern, which makes a mitt or hand warmer with objects sewn on to them to help dementia patients. Inspired by her mother and sister who suffer from vascular dementia, Sharon began to make numerous mitts and in May 2016 started a Handmade for Dementia Facebook group which now has over 5,800 members. “The…

When life gets hectic – and, let’s face it, that’s most of the time for a great many of us who are juggling work and family responsibilities – especially at Christmas – sometimes the best thing to do, for peace of mind, is to take time out to think about something completely different. For instance, instead of working out what I need to do to meet another looming commitment, I might sit in the conservatory with some knitting on my needles, leaving the Christmas game playing and watching the comings and goings of nature outside, contemplating a typical day in the life of a robin red breast. Taking time out Knitting provides us with a perfect opportunity to escape normal life, as we already know. When we’re knitting we can’t…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Yarn Stories Fine Merino DK (100% wool, 50g/120m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 4mm knitting needles ❏ A 3.75mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ Stitch holders ❏ Stitch marker TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS 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 right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting. KEY FIND YOUR SIZE JUMPER ICE MAIDEN PATTERN Row 1 (RS) K6, P3, k2tog, yo, K6. Row 2 and foll WS rows Purl. Row 3 K2, P6, k2tog, yo,…

YARN INGREDIENTS Q Does it make a difference what your chosen yarn is made from? Stacey Hill, Penrith Yes, it does, as this will effect the way your final make looks and wears. The easiest and most popular yarn to knit with and care for is wool. This is because it has a natural crimped or wavy texture that makes the yarn elastic with resilience (or rebound). You won’t necessarily find these qualities in all yarns, making them a little more tricky to work with, you may even find that garments stretch out of shape. These include other animal fibres (that don’t have a crimped section such as mohair, angora, alpaca and even wool from certain sheep breeds). This also applies to cotton, linen, rayon and silk. That’s not to…

We chat to eclectic designer, ›rúrarí, who’s making waves in the knitting world with her cool designs and quirky upcycling techniques... Hi, tell us about yourself… ›rúrarí is my professional name, I am an artist and designer based in Reykjavík, Iceland. What can we find at www.yrurari.com? Knitters can find inspiration to do brave and fun things with their knitting skills, breaking up the usual idea of patterns. I like to combine the practical elements of traditional wearable clothes into art and humour. For the past few years I’ve been working on upcycling old sweaters from charity shops and decorating them with my knitted art, with interactive elements that work with the movement of the human body. These experiments have also turned into workshops where students bring their old and…

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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…

When the globe spins a little too fast for our liking, many of us find solace in the simple things in life – a walk in the woods, a good book or creative knitting. It’s no surprise that we call this “slow living”. This issue provides plenty of opportunities for you to immerse yourself because it is full of different patterns – from quick and easy to slow and intricate. We hope you will enjoy these trendy knitted designs, which include checks, intarsia, zigzag stripes and bobbles. There are hot accessories to keep you cosy when the weather is chilly, and a very feminine selection of knits in pretty tones of blue, lilac and pink. Finally, you can immerse yourself in an array of Nordic inspired knitting projects with simple…

COLOURWORK CARDIGAN There’s true beauty in the simplicity of Nordic knitting designs and this wool cardigan is no exception. Note the simple colourwork pattern on the body and sleeves. This boxy knit has garter stitch edges and metal buttons. 23 32-48 • • • Yarn: Nalle TUNIC Stand out in the crowd when you wear this stunning tunic. It is knitted in a tweedy yarn with lots of colourful speckles. The V-neckline is edged with fine fringing for an irresistible Bohemian look. There is also a strikingly decorative textured pattern on the sleeves. 22 32-48 • • • Yarn: Nalle Pelto & Nalle SCARF If you are looking for an easy-knit project with true wow-effect, make this scarf! You use three shades of the same rainbow yarn and knit up in full…