Innholdsfortegnelse for issue 119 i The Knitter

Winter warmers Creative ways to keep you cosy! Looking for inspiration for your next knitting project? We’ve filled our pages with 15 patterns, ranging from quick-knit seasonal essentials such as hats, gloves and scarves, to cosy jumpers and cardigans. Choose from gorgeous cable sweaters by Sarah Hatton and Andrea Rangel; Fair Isle and Scandinavian-inspired colourwork; an innovative sock design from Sockmatician; and try your hand at entrelac with Jennie Atkinson’s feminine shrug. HAPPY KNITTING! from The Knitter team…

Hazel Tindall and Elizabeth Johnston are Shetlanders who have decades of knitting experience between them. They have distilled their knitting wisdom into a brand-new DVD, entitled 50 Tips from Shetland Knitters. It’s an excellent way to refine your knitting and learn new techniques. The two-DVD set has more than three and a half hours of advice, much of which was inspired by the questions Hazel and Elizabeth are regularly asked during teaching sessions. Everything a knitter needs to know is covered here, from cast-ons and shaping to two-colour knitting, reading charts, grafting and blocking, fixing mistakes, and much more. Hazel and Elizabeth guide us through each subject in a calm, friendly way; everything is so easy to follow, and it feels like spending time with two old friends. Right from…

Designer Carol Feller’s first yarn offering, Stolen Stitches Nua, has won rave reviews from knitters for its light, silky feel and gorgeous colours. Her second book of patterns for Nua has five new designs, which, like all of Carol’s designs, will be easy to wear and entertaining to knit. The five patterns include ‘Korat’, a boxy sweater worked in the round with short-row shaping, a garter stitch yoke, and a playful colourwork band around the lower body and sleeves. The ‘Cymric’ cardigan has an unusual construction, starting at the centre of the yoke, and has cables running down the sleeves and a brioche shawl collar. Turn heads with the ‘Birman Shawl’, which uses slip stitch cables flowing across a striped garter background for a stunning effect. Dense, modern-looking cables create…

Q I need to sew a zip into a handknit cardigan. How can I make it neat? A If you need to attach a zip to a knitted project, such as the ‘Snowtrees’ jacket in our supplement, a little preparation goes a long way! Block your garment first, and choose a thread that matches your yarn, rather than the zip. With the zip closed, pin one side carefully along the front band, with the pins facing in towards the zip.…

Nicki Merrall Seed Heads WARM WITHOUT being bulky, this winter accessories set by Nicki Merrall has a sophisticated look. It comprises a loose cowl, a hat and a pair of smart gloves. All are decorated with a pattern of bobbles and twisted stitches, inspired by the seed heads seen on wintry plants; the motifs stand out on a background of reverse stocking stitch. Nicki has used the 4ply Devonia yarn from John Arbon Textiles. This is a beautifully sleek and lustrous blend of British wools that has a subtle halo. SIZE Cowl: 20cm deep x 70cm circumference Hat: Gloves: YARN John Arbon Textiles Devonia 4ply (4ply weight; 50% Exmoor Blueface wool, 30% Bluefaced Leicester wool, 20% Wensleydale wool; 388m/424yds per 100g skein) Colour: Bleeding Heart Cowl: 1 x 100g skein…

Martin Storey Wilkie TAKING INSPIRATION from modern Scandinavian and Icelandic knits, Martin Storey has created this cosy hat and scarf set. The eye-catching pattern is worked in two shades of red and grey, with a contrast shade of camel used for the edgings. The scarf is knitted in the round, so the wrong side of the stranded colourwork is hidden. Martin’s design uses Cashmere Tweed, a super-soft, DK-weight blend of extra fine merino and cashmere which comes in eight muted, tweedy colours. SIZE Scarf: 210cm (82¾in) long, 20cm (8in) wide Hat: Actual circumference 53cm (21in) YARN Rowan Cashmere Tweed (DK weight; 80% wool, 20% cashmere; 88m/96yds per 25g ball) A Andorra Red (006); 10 x 25g balls B Smoke (002); 5 x 25g balls C Camel (007); 1 x 25g…

SIZE To fit a 60cm x 60cm (23½in x 23½in) cushion pad, after felting Actual Front measures 57cm x 61cm (22½in x 24in) Actual Back measures 66cm x 58cm (26in x 23in) YARN Rowan Felted Tweed (DK weight; 50% wool, 25% viscose, 25% alpaca; 175m/191yds per 50g ball) 1 x 50g ball of each: A Bilberry (151); B Rage (150); C Cinnamon (175); D Peony (183); E Avocado (161); F Ginger (154); G Frozen (185); H Clay (177) NEEDLES & ACCESSORIES 1 pair 3.25mm (UK 10/US 3) knitting needles 1 pair 4mm (UK 8/US 6) knitting needles 10 x 15mm buttons 60cm (23½in) square cushion pad TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm over st st on 4mm needles, measured after felting 30 sts and 30 rows to 10cm…

Andrea Rangel Braided Brook “THIS COSY cabled pullover is truly lush,” says designer Andrea Rangel. “Elaborate cables pop as an allover pattern, while a generous cowl neck creates practical elegance. Use a yarn such as Berroco Ultra Alpaca for warmth, stitch definition, and a very subtle halo. The sweater is worked in pieces, resulting in seams that offer stability and allow for more portable knitting. Pair your masterpiece with jeans for winter farm chores or a tulle skirt for a holiday party.” SIZE YARN NEEDLES & ACCESSORIES 1 pair 3.75mm (UK 9/US 5) knitting needles 3.75mm (UK 9/US 5) circular needles, 60cm long 4mm (UK 8/US 6) circular needles, 60cm long 1 pair 4.5mm (UK 7/US 7) knitting needles 4.5mm (UK 7/US 7) circular needles, 60cm long Stitch markers Cable…

To advertise in The Knitter Boutique please contact Chris Gibson on 0117 300 8109 SOUTH WEST Spin A Yarn www.spinayarndevon.co.uk customerservices@spinayarndevon.co.uk 01626 836203 Exciting and unusual yarns from around the world. Rare and Touch yarns from NZ, Rowan, Debbie Bliss, Noro, Arctic Qiviut, Malabrigo, Mirasol, Araucania and Juniper Moon. 26 Fore Street, Bovey Tracey, Devon TQ13 9AD SOUTH EAST The Yarn Dispensary www.theyarndispensary.co.uk Design led natural fibres specialist in a beautiful medieval building. Workshops, events, Knit Night. Hedgehog Fibres, Erika Knight, Fyberspates, Sylvan Tiger, The Knitting Goddess, Socks Yeah, Baa Ram Ewe, Navia, SweetGeorgia, The Fibre Co., Sublime, Debbie Bliss, KnitPro, PomPom Quarterly. 6 Market Place, Faversham, Kent, ME13 7AG NORTH EAST/ONLINE Fine Fettle Fibres www.finefettlefibres.uk judith@finefettlefibres.uk 01670 600001 Specialising in British and fair trade yarns in natural fibres, Fine…

Jennie Atkinson Jennie has a worldwide fanbase, thanks to her feminine designs which have appeared in the likes of Vogue Knitting, The Knitter and Rowan’s magazines. Her latest pattern is a shrug in a vibrant hand-dyed yarn, which will make a lovely layer for winter and spring. Find it on page 30. Nathan Taylor Also known as the Sockmatician, Nathan is an inventive designer who loves to explore colour and construction. His first pattern for The Knitter is an amazing pair of socks on page 69, which he accompanies with a Masterclass sharing his technical know-how. Pat Menchini Pat is a prolific designer whose work regularly appears in many of the UK’s top knitting magazines, including our sister title Simply Knitting. Her designs often feature unusual, decorative stitch patterns and…

A lifelong fascination with books inspired Karie Westermann to create this collection of 11 patterns, exploring the connections between books and knitting. Karie is known for her beautiful shawls, and here she brings us four lovely designs, such as ‘Psalter’, which pairs a two-colour slip stitch pattern with an intricate lace edging, and ‘Woodcut’, an ethereal hap shawl. Flattering garments include ‘Vellum’, with its colourwork yoke; ‘Marginalia’, a top-down raglan sweater with decorative slip-stitch details; and ‘Incunabula’, which has textured front bands and a neat fit. They all have bust measurements of 28in-54in. Accessories include a hat and fingerless mitts with an elegant Fair Isle pattern, a textured cowl, and cosy colourwork mittens. The patterns are accompanied by thought-provoking and personal essays, atmospheric photographs, and practical knitting advice. £18.99 from…

KNITTER’S BLOCK by Cocoknits Price £80. Includes 18 interlocking foam tiles, stainless steel T-pins and gingham guide fabric. www.ayarnstory.co.uk 01225 429239 FAIR ISLE TAM BLOCKER by Obscure Designs Price £17.50, can be custom-made in different sizes. Hap, sock and glove blockers also available. www.etsy.com/uk/shop/ObscureDesignsph MOUSE MITTEN BLOCKER by Ainsworth & Prin Price £16. Bunny sock blockers also available. www.theknittingshed.com 01903 683 683…

Craftsy.com is known for its excellent online craft workshops, and its knitting line-up is particularly impressive. Whether it’s a new way of working that you’ve always wanted to learn, such as continental knitting or Magic Loop, or exploring styles such as cables, Fair Isle or brioche, there’s so much to try. Amy Herzog shares her secrets on creating the perfect fit with her class ‘Sweater Modifications for a Custom Fit’. Want to knit neater Fair Isle? Mary Jane Mucklestone gives her expert advice on stranding and steeking, while Bruce Weinstein shows how you can knit faster with combination knitting. You can view all your video lessons in the comfort of your home, and get answers to your questions direct from your tutor. www.craftsy.com/knitting Merit badge For achievements in knitting, award…

MARTIN STOREY is a giant in the world of handknit design. From his home on the North Devon coast, he has been producing exquisitely beautiful patterns for many years, and is rightly regarded as a national treasure by Britain’s knitters. His work is much admired by people all over the world, too, as he has been central to the Rowan design team for many years. His designs for Rowan’s magazines and pattern collections are always eagerly anticipated by his fans, and Martin’s creativity is seemingly boundless, with dozens of new patterns being published every year. On top of all of this, he has been busy producing a range of books, and their mix of classic and modern styles has been winning over new knitting fans. Martin’s latest book is Afghan…

Elsa Nielsen Sverri THIS JUMPER for babies aged from birth to 18 months has a charmingly old-fashioned look. The body is worked in a stranded colourwork pattern, while the sleeves are striped; the edgings are finished with crochet, with a contrasting red colour being used for the lower body edge. The neck has a buttoned opening for easy dressing. It’s knitted in Navia’s Uno 2ply yarn, which blends Faroese wool with Shetland wool and Australian lambswool. SIZE YARN NEEDLES & ACCESSORIES 3.5mm (UK 10-9/ US 4) circular needles, 40cm long Set of 3.5mm (UK 10-9/ US 4) double-pointed needles (DPNs) 3mm (UK 11/US C/2-D/3) crochet hook 3 buttons Stitch markers TENSION 32 sts and 30 rounds to 10cm over Chart pattern on 3.5mm needles YARN STOCKISTS Navia c/o The Island…

Nathan Taylor Quant THESE EYE-CATCHING socks are inspired by the bold monochrome fashions of the 1960s, and are the first in a trilogy of sock patterns from Nathan Taylor, all referencing the fashions of 20th-century decades. “With these socks, think Mary Quant, and the space-age geometry of the moon landing era!” says Nathan. He has used an unusual way of working his socks that combines elements of top-down and toe-up methods, plus a brand-new heel construction which will “hug your foot brilliantly, and look fantastic!” according to Nathan. SIZE To fit foot a foot 20cm circumference x 22cm long. Length is adjustable. For changes to circumference sizing, read sizing note below. YARN West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4ply (4ply weight; 75% wool, 25% nylon; 400m/437yds per 100g ball) 1 x 100g…

Abbreviations alt alternate approx approximately beg beginning ch chain cn cable needle cont continue dc double crochet (US single crochet) dec decrease (work two stitches together) DK double knitting DPN double-pointed needle dtr double treble (US treble crochet) est established foll following inc increase K knit KFB knit into front and back of stitch K2tog knit the next two stitches together kwise knitwise meas measures M1 make one (see M1L) M1pw make 1 st purlwise: with LH needle lift the strand between next and last st from front to back and purl through the back loop M1L left leaning increase: with left needle tip, lift strand between needles from front to back. Knit lifted loop through back of loop M1R right leaning increase: with left needle tip, lift strand between…

ENCIRCLED Knit Picks Circular yoked sweaters are more popular than ever, and the design team at Knit Picks has put together a book of lovely, intricate designs. Palettes for the colourwork yokes range from sophisticated monochromes to bright rainbow hues, and the sweaters have finished busts of 32in to 64in. It’s available in e-book and printed format; individual patterns can be downloaded from £3.89 each. £11.69 (£18.71 for printed version) www.knitpicks.com THE MITTEN HANDBOOK Mary Scott Huff This is a book of ‘recipes’ to enable knitters to design and knit their own customised mittens. Choose from a wide range of edges, cuffs, thumbs and tops, and different construction methods. You’ll find all the techniques you’ll need, too, along with advice on achieving the perfect fit. The book also offers a…

A host of international designers has contributed patterns to the latest collection from Peruvian yarn brand Amano. Exploiting its gorgeous alpaca, llama and silk blends, the likes of Isabell Kraemer, Cathy Caron and Andrea Rangel have created a range of modern feminine knits for winter. The 24 designs include a wonderfully cosy cabled asymmetric wrap, a choice of hats with patterning inspired by the brand’s South American roots, a chunky cape, and an unusual cabled necklace. The ‘Jessica Shawl’ has a woven-effect slip stitch pattern, while the ‘Flor Cowl’ has a lovely lace motif, and ‘Awaq’ is a chic lace poncho. For stockist details call 01535 664222 or visit www.designeryarns.uk.com Surprise! Debbie Abrahams has launched her Mystery Blanket Club for 2018 - and it’s sure to be lovely! £225 (includes…

13 January Warrington Fair Isle Knitting www.blacksheepwools.com 01925 764231 20 January Warrington Sock Blank Dyeing Workshop with Debbie Tomkies www.blacksheepwools.com 01925 764231 21 January Waltham Abbey Waltham Abbey Wool Show www.walthamabbeywoolshow.co.uk 01992 679261 21 January London Fair Isle Workshop www.loopknittingshop.com 020 7288 1160 21 January London Colourwork Magic Part 1: Stranded Knitting www.wildandwoollyshop.co.uk 020 8985 5231 27 January Ipswich Finishing Techniques www.jennywrensyarns.co.uk 01473 805208 27 January Morpeth Steeking www.finefettlefibres.uk 01670 600001 28 January London Next Steps with Double Knitting: Shaping & Beyond www.wildandwoollyshop.co.uk 020 8985 5231 3 February Warrington Professional Finishing Techniques www.blacksheepwools.com 01925 764231 3 February Norwich Knit a Fair Isle Tam www.norfolkyarn.co.uk 01603 927034 10 February Warrington Beginners Spinning Workshop www.blacksheepwools.com 01925 764231 11 February London Fair Isle Workshop www.loopknittingshop.com 020 7288 1160 16 February Warrington Knit &…

Jennie Atkinson Emmeline “THIS FEMININE shrug is knitted in entrelac construction,” says designer Jennie Atkinson. “This technique gives an interesting textural finish, but is difficult to shape! Because of this I have used it to make a large shrug – which doesn’t require much shaping. A dropstitch pattern at the centre of each rectangle adds interested to the design.” Jennie’s shrug is knitted in Fyberspates Vivacious DK, a soft yet tough merino that comes in hand-dyed colourways. SIZE YARN NEEDLES & ACCESSORIES 1 pair 4mm (UK 8/US 6) knitting needles 1 pair 3.75mm (UK 9/US 5) knitting needles Stitch markers (including 2 removable markers) Stitch holders or waste yarn TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm over st st on 4mm needles. 22 sts and 32 rows to 10cm…

Pat Menchini Selma GLORIOUSLY FEMININE, this jumper by Pat Menchini uses Celtic-inspired knot cabling to add shape to the waist and wrists. The cable motifs incorporate long sections of ribbing, which will flatter your figure. The fabric feels soft and warm, thanks to the aran-weight yarn from Wendy, called Purity. It’s formed from a cotton chainette with an air-puffed merino wool interior; this unusual construction makes the yarn feel incredibly light and soft. SIZE YARN NEEDLES & ACCESSORIES 1 pair 4.5mm (UK 7/US 7) knitting needles 1 pair 3.75mm (UK 9/US 5) knitting needles Cable needle (cn) 2 stitch holders Stitch marker TENSION 19 sts and 28 rows to 10cm over st st on 4.5mm needles YARN STOCKISTS Wendy c/o TB Ramsden 01943 872 264 www.tbramsden.co.uk SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS T6B: Slip…

The Knitter FEATURE IN THE past few years, the British spinning industry has experienced something of a renaissance, especially among those companies manufacturing yarn for knitters. Juliet and John Arbon epitomise this resurgence, which is characterised by innovation and resilience. John Arbon Textiles was set up around 16 years ago, but John’s experience goes back to the 1980s, when the UK still had quite a substantial yarn industry. Originally he studied textile printing at the London College of Printing, but his sense of curiosity meant he wanted to know more about the textiles he was printing on. He pursued a BSc in Textiles at De Montfort University, majoring in machine knitting and spinning, and soon after graduating, found himself working in the midlands as a design technician for a jersey…

About our expert Nathan Taylor, also known as Sockmatician, is a designer, knitting teacher and podcaster who enjoys exploring sock construction and double knitting techniques. YOU MAY not have noticed it, but I bet you’ve seen it: when you look at the ribbed cuff of a striped sock, somewhere, buried in the hollows of the purl ditches - blips! That’s right: blips! By blips, I mean those annoying little spots of the wrong colour distorting and breaking up the lovely and otherwise clean lines of your stripes. Blips don’t happen where the yarn changes colour in stocking stitch, just where the sock is ribbed. Actually, that’s not quite true. They DO happen in a stocking stitch part of the sock, they just happen on the inside. Check it out for…

NATHAN TAYLOR is an actor and knitwear designer who publishes his exciting socks, scarves and accessories under the name Sockmatician. He is passionate about double-knitting, and teaches workshops on the technique around the UK. Who inspired you to take up knitting? “When I was about eight, my sister was given a kit to make a Pink Panther toy. I always wanted to do whatever she did, so my mum gave me some thin, dark green yarn, and some big fat needles, and I set about knitting what essentially became a dark green string vest, vaguely shaped like the Pink Panther. I still have him to this day. Fast-forward to seven years ago, and my two friends, Sam and Julie, both keen knitters themselves, bullied me for about six months to…