Indholdsfortegnelse for 86 i Simply Crochet

Are you a sun soaker or a shade seeker? Whatever your holiday preference, this issue we’re uniting the two camps with our sun and shade collection, a set of cool geometric homewares picked out in warm tones – check it out from page 14. If you’re staying home and the weather’s a little chilly, you’ll be pleased to get going on the bright cushions and throws in our summer homewares book, too – they’ll cheer your day and keep you warm! Other must-makes this issue are our fantasy creatures from Hook2Hook on page 59, and bright mandala doily on page 27. Enjoy!…

Every month, three subscribers win a prize as thanks for their loyalty. This month, the winners will each receive this Lily Sugar ‘n Cream yarn pack, including a ‘Let’s Dish’ pattern book worth £39.99! Check your issue next month to see if you’re a winner! Sarah Wilson, Southport Helen Roberts, Birkenhead Ray Fay, Wickford Immediate Media Company, publishers of Simply Crochet, Subs Stars giveaway T’s & C’s 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.…

SUNNY SIDE UP Come rain or shine, these cool mosaic crochet cushions will make an ace statement piece for your sofa. Plus, they have a Pac-Man maze vibe going on that pleases our inner gamer. DARK SIDE OF THE SPOON With their reality-challenging, eye-melting geo-hexagons you’ll have a hard time covering these coasters with your teacup. They’re just perfect for the modern home. CRADLE STASHER Where better to keep your Simply Crochet magazine than in a simply crocheted magazine holder? Put it up by your armchair and impress guests with your self-evident hooky credentials. DON’T LEAVE ME HANGING ... or rather do, as this mobile-a-like wall art brings bold shapes and contrast colours into your interior. Choose where you’ll mount it beforehand so you can add or remove motifs to…

Crochet is one of those obsessions, ahem, I mean hobbies that can sometimes seem less appealing in the summertime. The thought of sitting under the weight of that blanket you’ve been making while the sun is blazing, or working on the winter woolly wonders of jumpers and bobble hats can be an instant turn-off. That’s not to say that there’s not a place for working on the odd granny square here or there – on the contrary, there’s nothing better than letting the hands do what they know while sitting in the garden as the sun sets, with a chilled glass of something. But that is why the term WIP was invented, so that you can put those makes in a pile, come back to them when you’re ready and…

1 First, make sure you fasten off, weave in ends and block pieces. Place pieces wrong sides together. With a slip knot on the hook, insert it into the far right stitch on both pieces and work a slip st. 2 Make ch1 (the t-ch for dc). Insert hook into the 2nd stitch of both layers and work a dc stitch. Work more dc stitches in this way along the edge, as far as you need to. 3 Fasten off, weave in ends, open out the seam and lightly press from the wrong side. You’ll create a raised seam for a decorative effect on the right side (see above), using any colour of yarn. 4 In step 1, if you were to place your pieces with right sides together and…

Kate McCully “When I found out the theme was fantasy I knew I could really have fun with it. My kids had recently watched the film Coco and the animal spirit guides sparked an idea. I discovered they were based on Mexican folk art, called alebrijes. These imaginary creatures have elements from different animals. I based my design on a Fennec fox, but he looks a bit like a bunny too!”You can find Kate M online at www.makemeroar.co.uk Kate Duszynski “When I’m not making amigurumi, I’m reading a fantasy book, and so I jumped at the chance to combine the two. My mind immediately went to dragons and unicorns, and as I was unable to decide between them, the Dragicorn was born! Cotton has always been my favourite yarn to…

On (or before) August 15, take a photo of your granny square and crop the photo into a square shape, so that the granny square neatly fills up the entire space (“A four-round traditional granny works well, but go ahead and get creative,” advises Susan). On the day, upload the picture onto your Instagram account, and – most importantly of all – make sure to post it with the hashtag #grannysquareday2019. Your square will then be added to the virtual blanket! To see the blanket, search #grannysquareday2019 – you will need to be viewing in Instagram’s standard three-wide format to get the full effect. Resources On www.simplycrochetmag.co.uk • Free Granny Square Day downloadable booklet • Video tutorial on creating collages using the Granny Square Day posts…

* Search for Simply Crochet on your chosen app store Available on Apple, Google Play, Zinio and Nook iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. NOOK is a registered trademark of Barnes & Noble, Inc. NOOK Tablet is a trademark of Barnes & Noble Inc. *Free trial is for new users on annual subscriptions only. Cancel at any point during the trial to avoid being charged. Free trial not available on Zinio.…

HOLDING THE HOOK Try these methods and see which works best PENCIL METHOD Hold the hook like a pencil, in your right hand (if you’re right-handed), about 3-5cm from the hooked end. If your hook has a flat area, you’ll find it comfortable to hold it here. KNIFE METHOD Hold the hook between your thumb and forefinger, about 3-5cm from the hooked end, resting the end of the hook against your palm. This will give you lots of control. HOLDING THE YARN Even tension results in even stitches METHOD ONE Pass the ball end of the yarn between the little finger and third fingers of your left hand (if you are right-handed), then behind the third and middle fingers, over your index finger. METHOD TWO Loop the ball end of…

My most important make to date has to be the Everyday Hugs Cardigan. It was the first cardigan I ever designed, and the research I did to get the shaping and structure right started an unexpected obsession with understanding crochet garment design, and a passion for demystifying the process for others. I started the design for this piece with the intention of creating a really comfy, really wearable, really cosy cardigan. We all have those old faithful items in our wardrobe that we pull out time after time, the ones that go with anything and we feel comfortable and confident in. That’s what I wanted the Everyday Hugs Cardi to be. Designing this pattern was the first time I really started digging deep into garment construction and began to learn…

How did you get started as a crochet designer? It started as a bit of fun – I’ve always loved making things, and although not many of my friends are very interested in crafts, through Instagram and Etsy I discovered there were people out there like me who loved crochet and crafts and actually liked what I made. I’m a bit of a maths geek at heart and love following a pattern, which is what I think attracted me to writing patterns of my own and why I enjoy it so much. How would you describe your design style? Fun and quirky. I like my designs to be colourful and simple to make. What was your inspiration behind this cushion? My inspiration comes from everywhere and anything. It’s a bit…

How did you get started as a crochet designer? I began to crochet after my first son was born, as I really wanted to learn how to make him some crochet bootees. I learned it step-by-step from YouTube right from the basics – before that I had never touched a crochet hook before! Soon after I knew the basic stitches I started to design myself. How would you describe your design style? Fun and colourful. Though I love the simple Scandi style, I always come back to colour! What are your favourite colour combinations? I love to work with lots of different colours. It also depends a bit on my mood. As I am a quite positive person I love working with bright colours. My favourite colours at the moment…

1 Work to the point where you want to change colour and on the last stitch in the first colour, work the final yrh using the second colour. 2 Work a stitch using the second colour, leaving the first colour yarn floating free at the back of the fabric. 3 Change colour again in the same way as before: on the last stitch in the second colour, work the final yrh using the first colour. Let the yarn form a long strand behind the stitches worked in the other colour. 4 This is the WS of the fabric. Don’t pull the ‘floating’ yarn too tightly when you use it again, otherwise the fabric may pucker. On wrong side rows, you’ll need to strand the yarn floats across the fronts of…

1 Follow the instructions in your pattern, or try this method. Cut two pieces of yarn, twice as long as you want the fringe to be. Fold in half. 2 Insert hook through the edge of the fabric, where you want the first piece of fringing to be placed. Loop the yarn lengths over the hook and pull back through the fabric. 3 Pull the yarn lengths to make a small loop next to the fabric. Pass the ends of the yarn lengths through this loop and pull tight to secure. 4 Repeat from step 1 along the edge of your fabric, as close together or far apart as you wish. Use a matching or contrasting yarn colour. Trim any uneven lengths of yarn to create a neat finish.…

1 To work a treble crochet, start by winding yrh and then insert the hook under the top two loops of the stitch on the previous row. 2 Wrap the yarn around the hook (yrh), and pull the yarn through the stitch only. 3 You will now have 3 loops on the hook. Yrh again, and draw the yarn through the first 2 loops on the hook. 4 You will now have 2 loops on the hook. Yrh again, and draw the yarn through the remaining 2 loops on the hook. Your treble crochet will be complete.…

In Barcelona, Chrissie found a gorgeous yarn shop, All You Knit Is Love, tucked down a side street in the city’s Gothic Quarter. A placard outside read ‘Rethink your souvenir!’ – which Chrissie took to heart, leaving the shop with a smile on her face and a bag full of locally produced linen and wool yarns! Back home in the UK, Chrissie got to thinking about all the lovely local yarn shops dotted across the country, and all the wonderful yarny souvenirs they could offer travelling knitters and crocheters. And voilà, the UK Yarn Shop Guide was born!…

Clare Wools 13 Great Darkgate St, Aberystwyth SY23 1DE 01970 617786, www.clarewools.co.uk Mon-Sat 9am-5pm Dolphin watchers at Cardigan Bay can pop into Clare Wools to find a selection of local Welsh undyed yarn from Cwmchrefru, near Builth Wells. Sirdar, Hayfield, Sublime, Rowan, King Cole, James C. Brett and Araucania yarns are also available. Knit one… Maes Gwyn, Cader Road, Dolgellau, Gwynedd LL40 1RB 01341 422194, www.knitonedolgellau.com Tues-Sat 10am-5pm Local yarns from Llanfachreth and Abersoch will give visitors to Knit one... a proper Welsh yarn keepsake! In addition to local producers, the shop offers Rowan, Erika Knight, Sirdar, Hayfield, Sublime, Katia, James C. Brett, Stylecraft, Wendy, Adriafil, Baa Ram Ewe and West Yorkshire Spinners. The shop is situated in the historic wool town of Dolgellau, nestled in the foothills of Cader…

VERONIKA CROMWELL Veronika’s Mum taught her to crochet and she’s been hooked since. She loves designing modern garments and accessories for the whole family. See her wall hanging on page 22. KATI BROWN Kati designs to make people smile. She specialises in patterns for lovable amigurumi and funky home décor. Check out her cheery pineapple cushion on page 44. MELISSA MASTERSON Melissa, aka Millie, has been hooked on crochet for eight years and loves to play with shape and colour. She is known for her quirky, simple and fun patterns. See her scarf on page 41. BECKY SKUSE Cross-crafter and Simply Crochet regular Becky is a magpie for new hooky skills. In this issue she’s turned her talents to shaped pompoms – check them out on page 80. OTHER CONTRIBUTORS…

HOOKED ON AMIGURUMI MELANIE MORITA (£17.45, Page Street Publishing) An adorable amigurumi book from the founder of Knot Too Shabby Crochet, comprising 40 designs each with a smile on their face. Divided into six playful sections including a bento box set and ocean critter collection, this is a charming set with something for all skill levels. STRIPY BLANKETS TO CROCHET HAAFNER LINSSEN (£10.99, Search Press) A sensitively created set of straightforward blankets from the author of Mandalas  to Crochet, these blankets are made with not just the finished design in mind but the joy of creation. The 20 blankets come with colour suggestions and sizing advice, making them easy to personalise to your needs. SUPER CUTE CROCHET JANINE HOLMES (£13.49, Thunder Bay Press) Playful, cute and super-duper quick to make,…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Scheepjes Maxi Sweet Treat (100% cotton, 25g/140m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Delphinium (113) Yarn B Garden Rose (251) Yarn C Green Yellow (245) Yarn D Willow (395) ■ A 2.25mm (US B/1) hook ■ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Scheepjes www.scheepjes.com/en TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but may affect yarn quantities required MEASUREMENTS Mandala measures 30cm (12in) in diameter ABBREVIATIONS  beg 3-tr cluster (Ch3, yrh, insert hook in st indicated, yrh, pull up loop, yrh draw through 2 loops) twice, yrh and draw through all loops on hook 3-tr cluster (Yrh, insert hook in sp/st indicated, yrh and pull up loop, yrh and draw through 2 loops) 3 times, yrh and draw through all loops on hook ch-4 picot Ch4,…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Scheepjes River Washed (78% cotton, 22% acrylic, 50g/130m), 1 ball of each: Mississippi (946) Congo (954) Ural (959) Mekong (943) Yarra (949) ■ Scheepjes Stone Washed (78% cotton, 22% acrylic, 50g/130m), 1 ball of Moon Stone (801) ■ A 4.5mm (US 7) hook For yarn stockists contact Deramores www.deramores.com TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect the yarn quantities required MEASUREMENTS Approx 19x280cm (7½x110¼in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 92 Take a fashion tip from the medieval courts with this pastel-tone harlequin scarf. The undulating edges and shaping of the diamonds give it fabulous drape, making an attention-grabbing accessory. NOTES The Scarf is made up of 12 Diamond Motifs and 28 Half Diamond Motifs, which are joined together at…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Paintbox Metallic DK (55% cotton, 45% polyamide, 50g/120m) Daiquiri (12) Sangria (10) Tequila Sunrise (09) See table for measurements and yarn quantities ■ Stitch markers ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook For yarn contact Love Crochet 01409 404010 www.lovecrochet.com TENSION 18 sts and 10 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Larksfoot stitch pattern using a 4mm hook or size needed to obtain stated tension 19 sts and 9 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Sleeve stitch pattern using a 4mm hook or size needed to obtain stated tension ABBREVIATIONS  spiked treble Yrh, insert hook in ch-1 sp 2 rows below, working over sts of previous row, yrh and pull up a loop, draw up yarn to height of current row, (yrh, draw through 2 loops on…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Bernat Blanket Pet (100% polyester, 225g/246m) 4 balls of Red (34018) 2 balls of Dark Grey (34020) ■ A 6mm (US J/10) hook For yarn stockists contact Wool Warehouse 01926 882818 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk TENSION 11 sts and 8 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over half treble using a 6mm hook or size needed to obtain correct tension MEASUREMENTS Blanket measures approx 170x110cm (67x43¼in) ABBREVIATIONS  reverse dc As standard dc st but working around from left to right (if right-handed) or right to left (if left-handed) For a full list, see page 92 Walkies will take second place to snoozies once you’ve worked up this two-tone blanket. The Bernat Blanket Pet yarn it’s made with features ‘Everfresh Probiotic Technology’, to help reduce doggy odours. NOTES Blanket is worked…

We’ve been double tapping on Instagram and admiring your makes. Tag us @simplycrochetmag and use the hashtag #SCtreblemaker IN A FLAP Bee-ing such a quick make, we knew it wouldn’t bee long until we’d bee seeing 84’s jar cover. Thanks @crochet.in.the. woods for rising to the challenge! MOOM’ RAIDER It hardly took @jennyfibrecraft a moominute to hook up this pair from issue 83 – and she’s added hair to make a Snork Maiden, too. Amazing job, Jenny! SHOOTING STAR With some clever calculations, @thewoollenbird scaled down 81’s star jumper to child-size proportions. The neon bobbles are a great touch as well! EYE OF THE TIGER The excellently named @punk.haiku now has a tiger rug to call her very own, courtesy of issue 79’s animal print collection and her own hard…

Most crochet patterns state the tension required, in rows and stitches of a specific type. Make a swatch at least 15cm square and check that your tension matches. Place a ruler across the swatch and insert two pins, 10cm apart. Then place the ruler along a column of stitches and insert two pins 10cm apart. Count the stitches and rows between the pins – if you have less than the pattern, your tension is too loose so you need to use a smaller hook, but if you have too many, use a larger hook. It’s usually better to match the stitches than rows, because you can always work more or fewer rows.…

There’s something about summer that makes us yearn for bright yarns and eye-catching patterns. With that in mind we’ve created this exclusive collection of blankets and cushions using a selection of the gorgeous ColourLab yarns from West Yorkshire Spinners. Designed to power up your interior with a vibrant colour injection, you can choose from every colour combination but plain. We’re certain you’ll find a pattern you love in amongst these fun makes – and discover a few new techniques along the way!…

YOU WILL NEED ■ West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK (100% British wool, 100g/225m), 2 balls of each: Crimson Red (556) Zesty Orange (476) Citrus Yellow (229) Lime Green (198) Deep Teal (716) Thistle Purple (717) ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook For yarn stockists contact WY Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION Each Square measures 12.5x12.5cm (5x5in) Each Flower measures 8cm in diameter MEASUREMENTS Blanket measures approx 150x95cm (59x37½in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 92 of SImply Crochet magazine Take home décor from drab to fab with this vivid granny square blanket. Worked up in primary brights and finished with tri-colour flowers, this is a straightforward make and simple enough to extend or reduce by adding or removing squares. NOTES The Blanket is made of 68 Squares and 26…

How did you get started as a crochet designer? Ever since I taught myself to crochet, I have been too impatient to follow patterns, and would just wing it. It was often very unsuccessful, but it was a great way to learn about how designs work (or don’t!). I started making up my own patterns in 2013 but it was only when I started my blog in 2017 that I actually started writing them down. It’s been a steep learning curve, but I have fallen in love with the process of design, and it gives me huge pleasure to create my own clothes and soft furnishings. How would you describe your design style? With every design, I think about the William Morris quote, “Have nothing in your house that you…

How did you get started as a crochet designer? I believe that crocheting and hand-making is funny, creative and rewarding, and it helps people become happier. I learnt crochet from my grandmother when I was six years old, and now I design happy patterns for crocheters. Since 2012 I’ve been working as a freelance designer, collaborating with both yarn companies and magazines to create patterns. I’ve been featured by both Italian and UK publications, including Simply Crochet and Love Crochet. In 2017, my first Italian book went out, I Balocchi del Tipo Strano, which translates as ‘crochet games for little ones’. Tell us a little about your popcorn blanket make? This popcorn power blanket could be a picnic blanket, a throw or a bed blanket. Wrap yourself in my colourful…

How did you get started as a crochet designer? I designed my first ever crochet pattern when I was expecting our first son, Jacob. The lack of cool clothes for boys led me to create my own designs. I discovered the Tunisian crochet technique and instantly fell in love. That’s how Jacob’s Cardigan – my first design – was born. How would you describe your design style? I love designing practical and wearable crochet garments and accessories for the whole family. What was the inspiration behind this cushion? My mum used to buy these sweets as a treat when I was a child, that were wrapped in colourful stripy wrappers, in all different shades. This design has taken me back to my childhood and reminded me of their fruity taste!…

SOUTH EAST Banbury Sewing Centre Limited 57 Parsons Street, Banbury, Oxon OX16 5NB 01295 262344 www.banburysewingcentre.co.uk Mon-Sat 9am-5pm ‘When it’s gone, it’s gone’at Banbury Sewing Centre – the shop takes on a full range, such as Cygnet, and when it has sold out, they choose another yarn. Sirdar, Stylecraft and Patons feature alongside knitting needles, and they offer a lay-by service as well. Damaris Crafts 112 Bartholomew St, Newbury RG14 5DT 01635 359924 www.facebook.com/damariscrafts Tues-Sat 10am-5pm Damaris Crafts features yarns from Sirdar, James C. Brett, WYS, Rico and Woolcraft. Visitors can also pick up accessories such as KnitPro needles. Dotti Di’s 10 High Street, Hythe, Kent CT21 5AT 01303 772870, dianerichardson80@yahoo.com Travelling to the south coast? Find your way to Hythe in Kent and you can browse the wide range…

Jolly Yarn Co SEE OFFER ON P29! 33 South Street, Newtownards, Co Down BT23 4JT 028 91229434 Mon-Wed, Fri 10am-5pm Thurs 10am-5pm & 7-9pm Sat 9.30am-4.30pm Jolly Yarn Co offers a rainbow selection of yarns from Drops, Stylecraft, Cygnet, Studio Donegal and others, as well as a comprehensive selection of needles and accessories. With easy access for wheelchairs and prams, and with the beautiful Ards Peninsula nearby, the Jolly Yarn Co ensures visitors to Newtownards will feel…jolly! The Knitting Room 99 Malahide Road, Donnycarney, Dublin D03 DY27 01 831 4464 www.theknittingroom.ie Tues-Sat 10am-5pm Visitors taking in the sights of Dublin should not miss The Knitting Room to add some craft-related memories to the holiday! The Knitting Room prides itself on being “not just a wool shop, but a community of…

30 April-3 May 2020 Nuno Felting Bag/Large Tote Bag Host for workshop: Lydia Tapley 25-28 June 2020 Beanie Style Hat – Twisted Rib and Latvian Braid Host for Saturday workshop: Alison Crowther-Smith 2-5 July 2020 Natural Dye Workshop and knit a ‘one of a kind’ shawl with your own yarn or a pair of unique socks Host for Friday workshop: Caroline Bawn; hosts for Saturday and Sunday shawl workshop: Belinda Harris-Reid and Brenda M. Watson 16-19 July 2020 Wet Felting Fantasy Animals; cats and dogs Host for two-day workshop: Lydia Tapley 22-25 October 2020 Mitred Squares (felted bag project) Host for weekend: Claire Crompton 19-23 November 2020 Professional Finishing Techniques Host for workshop: Claire Crompton 26-29 November 2020 How To Knit Garments Host for two-day workshop: Anniken Allis…

PRICKLY CHARACTER Don’t even pretend you haven’t fallen in love with this amazing crochet cactus scarf! HELLOhappy has adapted the desert flower from sunny plains to suit windy nights – find the pattern on Etsy. SPIKE ON Put your hands in the air like you just don’t care, just like this cactus cushion, a fun and young’un friendly make. Find the pattern on Etsy – search FloAndDotShop POTTERMORE Not even the humble flowerpot is safe from our hooky talents! This is a particularly nice version. Pattern available from CraftsComfortStore at www.etsy.com NO-DRAMA LLAMA Look at this blissful boy: he appreciates the sense of peace that comes from a plant-laden home. Or back, in his case. Find the pattern on Etsy – search for HELLOhappy. TOP PICK Delight in the year-round…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Rico Creative Cotton DK (100% cotton, 50g/115m) Light Yellow (003) White (001) Pistachio (016) See table for measurements and yarn quantities ■ A 3.25mm (US D/3) hook ■ A 3.5mm (US E/4) hook ■ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION 18 sts and 7.5 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over 3-tr group on Body and Sleeve patt using a 3.5mm hook or size needed to obtain correct tension MEASUREMENTS Motif measures 6.5cm at top and 8.5 (8.5: 9: 9)cm at bottom ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 92 Bust width a: 46.5 (53: 58: 65)cm, 18¼ (20¾: 22¾: 25½)in Length b: 58 (60: 62: 64)cm, 22¾ (23½: 24½: 25)in Sleeve Length c: 4.5cm, 1¾in You might be too old for daisy-chain…

YOU WILL NEED ■ King Cole Pricewise DK (100% acrylic, 100g/282m) 2 balls of Yarn A Natural (046) 1 ball of each: Yarn B Carnation (3286) Yarn C Gold (055) Yarn D Topaz (341) Yarn E Baby Lilac (3208) Yarn F Orange (144) Yarn G Jade (022) Yarn H Amber (3207) Yarn I Shamrock (039) ■ A 5mm (US H/8) hook ■ Cushion pad, 50x50cm ■ 4 buttons, 2cm For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION 13 sts and 13 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over half treble crochet using a 5mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension MEASUREMENTS Front measures 55x50cm (21¾x19¾in) Back measures 50x50cm (19¾x19¾in) ABBREVIATIONS  v-st (Tr, ch1, tr) in st indicated crocodile st 5tr around first post of v-st in previous…

1 Follow the instructions in your pattern, or try this method. Cut two pieces of yarn, twice as long as you want the fringe to be. Fold them in half. 2 Insert hook through the edge of the fabric, where you want the first piece of fringing to be placed. Loop the yarn lengths over the hook and pull back through the fabric. 3 Pull the yarn lengths to make a small loop next to the fabric. Pass the ends of the yarn lengths through this loop and pull tight to secure. 4 Repeat from step 1 along the edge of your fabric, as close together or far apart as you wish. Use a matching or contrasting yarn colour. Trim any uneven lengths of yarn to create a neat finish.…

1 Secure yarn at back of fabric and bring needle to the front. Using your thumb and forefinger, hold the yarn as it comes out of the fabric – keeping it taut, twist the needle around the yarn three times, as shown above. 2 Insert the needle back into the crochet fabric, very close to where it came out – you’ll need to pierce the fabric so use a sharp needle. 3 Hold the yarn taut and push the twists of yarn so that they sit right up next to the fabric. 4 Pull the needle through gently to form a knot on the surface of the fabric.…

One of the biggest, most anticipated days of the year is fast approaching! No, we don’t mean Christmas – we’re talking about Granny Square Day! On August 15, crafters around the world will be posting their individual granny square designs on Instagram, along with the hashtag ‘#grannysquareday2019’ – meaning when this hashtag is searched, a beautiful, virtual granny square blanket is created. Want to learn more about the biggest day in crochet? We’ve got the skinny on how Granny Square Day first began, and interviews with its official ambassadors. Plus, find out how you can get involved and become part of this beautiful project. HOW IT ALL BEGAN… Granny Square Day was born in Northern California, and was the brainchild of avid crocheter Susan Regalia. After exploring knitting, Susan went…

These quick liúúle moúifs would make greaú appliquks! ASTERISK MOTIF Ch2. ROUND 1 6dc in second ch from hook, ss to beg dc to join. [6dc] ROUND 2 *Ch5, dc in third ch from hook, dc in next 2 ch, ss in dc at base of ch-6, ss in next st from Round 1; rep from * another 5 times. FASTEN OFF and weave in ends. HEYJAY YARN PLANTY YARN WEIGHT 4ply CONTENT 70% bamboo, 30% linen SKEIN 100g/400m HOOK 3.5mm RRP £18 If you’re looking for a linen yarn that is ethical as well as awesome, then you’ll love this Planty Yarn. As a blend of linen and bamboo it’s purely plant based, making it vegan-friendly and suitable for those with animal allergies. The bamboo fibre complements the…

It’s simple to be in with a chance of winning a great hooky prize in a future issue! Show us your Simply Crochet makes on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or via email or post by 24 July 2019. For all terms and conditions, and more information, visit www.simplycrochetmag.co.uk/competitionrules COMPETITION RULES By Promoter: Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited (“Promoter”). By taking part in one of our Competitions, you agree to be bound by these Competition Rules. Late or incomplete entries will be disqualified. No responsibility accepted for lost, delayed, ineligible or fraudulent entries. Proof of posting (if relevant) shall not be deemed proof of delivery. Entries must be submitted by an individual (not via any agency or similar) and, unless otherwise stated, are limited to one per household. The Promoter reserves the…

YOU WILL NEED ■ West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK (100% wool, 100g/225m), 1 ball of each: Deep Teal (716) Aqua Green (705) Natural Cream (010) Phantom Black (099) Zesty Orange (476) Cerise Pink (539) ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook ■ Cushion pad, 40x40cm For yarn stockists contact WY Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION Granny Square Motif measures 8.5x8.5xm (3¼x3¼in) using a 4mm hook or size needed to obtain correct tension MEASUREMENTS Cushion measures 40x40cm (15¾x15¾in) ABBREVIATIONS  joining tr Work standard tr, remove loop from hook, insert hook into st/ sp being joined, replace loop on hook and pull through st joining ch Ch1, remove loop from hook, insert hook into st/sp being joined, replace loop on hook and pull through st, ch1 For a full list, see page 92…

1 After working the last stitch, you’ll have one loop left on your hook. Cut the yarn leaving a 15cm-long tail. Work yrh and pull the yarn right through the stitch. 2 Now remove the hook and pull the yarn tail through the last stitch to tighten it up and make sure your hard work doesn’t unravel. 3 Thread the tail end onto a tapestry needle. On the wrong side, weave the needle up and down, in and out of the back of the stitches to secure the tail end. 4 Make sure you weave the yarn tail in two different directions to prevent it from being pulled out. Also check that the tail end of yarn is not visible from the right side.…

YOU WILL NEED ■ West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK (100% British wool, 100g/225m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Crimson Red (556) Yarn B Zesty Orange (476) 2 balls of each: Yarn C Citrus Yellow (229) Yarn D True Blue (111) ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook ■ Cushion pad, 45x45cm For yarn stockists contact WY Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION 18 sts and 11 rows measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over treble crochet MEASUREMENTS The finished Cushion measures 45x45cm (17¾x17¾in) ABBREVIATIONS  trcl (treble cluster) (Yrh, insert hook in st, yrh, pull up a loop, yrh, pull through 2 loops) 4 times into the same st, yrh, pull through all 5 loops on hook For a full list, see page 92 of SImply Crochet magazine This super bold, sunny cushion will add…

YOU WILL NEED ■ West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK (100% British wool, 100g/225m), 2 balls of each: Yarn A Pear Green (186) Yarn B Citrus Yellow (229) Yarn C Thistle Purple (717) Yarn D Deep Teal (716) Yarn E Aqua Green (705) Yarn F Very Berry (647) ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook For yarn stockists contact WY Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect yarn quantities required MEASUREMENTS Blanket measures 95x150cm (37½x59in) ABBREVIATIONS  pop (popcorn stitch) Work 5tr in indicated st, remove loop from hook, insert hook into top of first tr from front to back, place loop back on hook, pull through For a full list, see page 92 of SImply Crochet magazine Evoking the bustle and spice of…

YOU WILL NEED ■ West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK (100% wool, 100g/225m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Lime Green (198) Yarn B Deep Teal (716) Yarn C Crimson Red (556) ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook ■ Bolster cushion insert, 40x15cm For yarn stockists contact WY Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION 2 pattern repeats to measure 9cm (3½in) and 11 rows to measure 10cm (4in) using a 4mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension MEASUREMENTS Cushion measures 40cm (15¾in) in length and 15cm (6in) diameter ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 92 of SImply Crochet magazine With its retro foil-wrapped sweetie shape, this bolster is a real blast from the past. There’s something so fun about an oversized candy lounging round your living room. A repetitive…

Wherever you’re headed for your holidays this summer, we think the local yarn shop should be in your top ten of must-visit tourist attractions! It’s always such a tonic to pop in off the busy streets to a woolly haven, browse the local yarns and chat knitting and crochet with the fellow yarnaholics! It’s a great way to meet the local community too. To help you find your way, we’ve gathered together this comprehensive guide to the best yarn shops in the UK and Ireland – and we’ve even included an online listing for those of you who aren’t leaving your armchair! And if you fancy a whole weekend of yarny fun, turn to page 26 to find out about the knitting and crochet retreats at The Knitting Hotel in…

Craic’n’Yarn 15A Main Street, Drymen, Stirlingshire G63 0BQ 01360 661476 www.craicnyarn.com Weds-Sat 10am-5pm Craic’n’Yarn loves British/Scottish fibres and natural yarns – yarns with a story are a favourite! This is the place to get an extra-special memento of natural yarn, such as local, hand-dyed yarn from Strathearn Fleece and Fibre, Kate Davies Buachaille, The Knitting Goddess, Baa Ram Ewe, West Yorkshire Spinners, Jamieson & Smith, Erika Knight and Opal sock. Craic’n’Yarn sits at the south-east end of Loch Lomond. The village of Drymen, 45 minutes from Glasgow and Stirling, is on the West Highland Way, with great pubs and shops dotting the magnificent hills and Scottish countryside. Ginger Twist Studio 11 London Road, Edinburgh EH7 5AP 07599 479445 www.gingertwiststudio.com Mon, Wed, Fri-Sat 11am-5pm, Thurs 11am-6pm Sun 11am-4pm Tourists to Edinburgh…

NORTH WEST £5 OFF! HANDMADE BY YOU 38 Curzon St, Maryport, Cumbria CA15 6DA 07899 902419 handmadebymaryport@gmail.com www.facebook.com/handmadebymaryport Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri 9am-4pm Weds & Sat 9am-2pm OFFER DETAILS: £5 off when you spend a minimum of £30 on yarn and patterns in store. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Voucher expires on 31 August 2019. SOUTH EAST £5 OFF! IDA'S HOUSE 27 High Street, Caterham on the Hill, Surrey CR3 5UE 01883 345220 www.idashouse.co.uk Mon-Tues, Thurs-Sat 10am-5pm Social Club Tues & Thurs 7-9 OFFER DETAILS: £5 off when you spend a minimum of £50 in store. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Voucher expires on 31 August 2019. EAST £5 OFF! THE FIBRE LOUNGE 15 High Street, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire…