Indholdsfortegnelse for May 2020 i Simply Knitting

At long last, Easter is here and it is utterly glorious! It’s such a wonderful feeling to see all those pastel shades, spring flowers and delicious chocolate eggs making their way into our house (mainly via the younger generations). I’ve taken to putting up an Easter tree in order to make this celebration, which in my book is on a par with Christmas these days, feel beautiful and welcomed. It’s simply a selection of thin branches painted white, but when I unwrap my Easter decorations and display them on there for all to see, it’s a real joy. In fact, I find it particularly difficult to take them down after the celebrations are over! This year I’ll definitely be adding one or two from the Amanda Berry collection in this…

Up early or slow to rise? It varies – I’m really not a creature of routine. First job of the day? I try and use my most alert morning hours for writing and planning new patterns. The actual knitting gets done later, when I can set my brain to ‘cruise’. Mid-morning pick-me-up? Going for a run. Much as I love knitting, it’s a very sedentary, indoors activity, so I run 20 miles per week in the Oxfordshire countryside. Fave time to sit back and take five? After walking the children to school and before starting work, I wander around the garden, noticing what the wildlife and the plants are up to. Patterns in nature are a big inspiration when I’m designing, so this counts as work, right?! Clocking-off time? I’ve…

SUMMER SORBET SURPRISE For knitters who can’t get enough of King Cole’s Beaches yarn, they’ve just released a new branch of the family, a range of delicious sorbet colours called Paradise Beaches. The new yarn is the same soft blend of premium acrylic and polyamide, which is soft to handle with a lovely lightness and each is named after a cocktail. We’re loving Electric Lemonade, Pink Gin and – of course – Pina Colada! Ladies’ and kids’ wear, including vest tops, sweet cardigans and slinky jumpers are just some of the patterns showing off these intoxicating yarns, which cost £3.99 for 100g. Visit your local King Cole stockist, find your nearest at www. kingcole.com or call 01756 703670.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Big Value DK (100% acrylic, 50g/145m) ❏ King Cole Truffle (fashion, 100% polyamide, 100g/180m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ Oddments of red and white DK yarn ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ A 3.25mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ A set of 3.25mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Stitch holder TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 KID’S SHEEP JUMPER Note Be careful not to cast off the neck too tightly. BACK Cast on 72 (76: 84: 88: 94) sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) *K1, P1; rep from *…

SECOND SNOWMAN Patrysha is already busy making a second Snowman and plans to make a larger one by using a worsted weight yarn. Patrysha O’Keefe, via email PERFECT PRESENT This beautiful Snowman was knitted by Hilary as a festive present for a loved one last Christmas. We love her careful attention to detail on the face. Hilary Fountain, via email DEDICATED KNITTER Gillian’s mum, Dorothy, did a brilliant job here. She’s a huge fan of SK with 84 years’ worth of knitting experience. We think her work looks amazing. Well done! Gillian Banham, via email…

“HAVE YOU TRIED MACRAMÉ? WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN?” I have never got round to trying it, but am interested in trying, I’d give it a go for sure! Ruth Smith, via Facebook Oh, I used to macramé a long time ago. It was fun and I would do it again for small projects such as ornament covers or plant hangers. LaVelle Nott, via Facebook I saw some lovely examples at Yarndale last year and would like to try at some point in 2020. Sara Elcock, via Facebook I did macramé in the girl Scouts during the late 70’s and found it to be really fun. Anne Rimkunas Edmunds, via Facebook I recently picked up some yarn to make a curtain set through macramé. I have completed one, now I…

It’s been a frustrating few months! The Accomplished Knitter was not impressed by my apparent over reaction to my last project – lacy fingerless gloves. I’d followed a pattern, worked with ultra-fine wool and actually completed a project, but then I put the two gloves side by side! Despite the care I took, keeping notes of each finished row to avoid mistakes, I somehow managed to produce two completely different gloves, which the Accomplished Knitter found hilarious! A BRIEF RESPITE Since then my knitting has been curtailed due to nerve damage in my right arm and wrist. Twisting, turning and even holding knitting needles has been impossible for several months, which has increased my frustration. It’s only recently that I’ve felt able to pick up my needles once more but…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Bergere de France Filomeche (chunky, 44% wool, 34% acrylic, 22% polyamide, 50g/60m) 8 balls of Yarn A Vareche (54601), and 6 balls of Yarn B Pepite (54606) ❏ A 6.5mm circular needle, 100cm long ❏ Pompom maker or card TENSION 14 sts and 18 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 6.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 90x132cm (35›x52 in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 POMPOM THROW Note Intarsia technique is used for side edges. Use separate balls of yarn for each colour indicated. Twist yarns at the colour change to avoid holes. CONCENTRIC SQUARES STITCH Worked over a multiple of 30 sts plus 2 sts. Row 1 (RS) Knit. Row 2 Purl. Row 3 Knit. Row 4 P2, *K28, P2, rep from *…

CARROT Start at the top. Cast on 8 sts using 3.5mm needles and Yarn D. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (RS) (Kfb) 7 times, K1. [15 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 K1, (kfb, K1) 7 times. [22 sts] Rows 5 to 9 Starting on a WS purl row work in st st. Row 10 K1, (k2tog, K5) 3 times. [19 sts] Rows 11 to 15 Starting on a WS purl row work in st st. Row 16 K1, (k2tog, K4) 3 times. [16 sts] Rows 17 to 21 Starting on a WS purl row work in st st. Row 22 K1, (k2tog, K3) 3 times. [13 sts] Rows 23 to 27 Starting on a WS purl row work in st st. Row 28 K1, (k2tog, K2) 3 times.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Paintbox Yarns Simply DK (100% acrylic, 100g/276m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Stormy Grey (104) Yarn B Paper White (100) Yarn C Bubblegum Pink (150) Yarn D Dusty Lilac (146) Yarn E Melon Sorbet (116) Yarn F Peach Orange (154) ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ Toy stuffing ❏ Stitch holders TENSION 26 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS 28cm (11in) high ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Unless stated our patterns are not copyright free, however, if you’re thinking of knitting other toys or projects for charity, or to sell, please refer to our information on page 97. BUNNY TOY FOOT AND LEG (MAKE 2) Cast on 16 sts using 3mm needles…

YES TO YARN OVERS Q I’ve heard of a yarn over. What is this and how can I do it? Helen M, via email Yarn overs are used to create increases and are usually worked in conjunction with decreases to maintain the stitch count. They are most commonly found in lace patterns. There are different methods of making yarn overs depending on the stitches either side. Debbie BRILLIANT BLOCKING Q Do you have any top tips for blocking yarn? Jennie A, Farnham I pin out my pieces on gingham fabric over padding or a towel. The checked pattern helps to keep the knitted pieces straight. I constantly measure the pieces to make sure they are the same as the pattern measurements. If ironing, take care not to over press a…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ DROPS Alpaca (4ply, 100% alpaca, 50g/167m) ❏ A pair of 5mm needles ❏ 5 (5: 5: 6: 6) DROPS Seashell buttons, no 521 For yarn quantites and measurements see size table TENSION 17 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over garter stitch using 5mm needles and two strands of yarn held together ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 BABY CARDIGAN Note This garment is knitted sideways using two strands of yarn held together and is started at the cuff of the Right Sleeve. INCREASE TIP (APPLIES TO NECKLINE) Inc by making 1 yo inside 2 edge sts in garter st. On next row knit the yo through back loop of st instead of front to avoid holes. Work the outermost st in…

Cat and Sparrow If you love fabulous, colourful hand-dyed yarn, then Cat and Sparrow will not disappoint! Run by Rachael who loves to create unique fibres with colour and texture, this online shop is a haven. To find more visit www.catandsparrow.co.uk. Black Cat Yarns Bridge Street, Chantry Place, Morpeth, Northumberland NE61 1PJ This online store stocks a huge range of Knit Pro accessories and yarns by Rico and James C. Brett. While their main website is being updated visit their social media at @blackcatyarns on both Facebook and Instagram. Cat’s Quarters Fabric and Yarn Store 40 High Street, Edwinstowe, Mansfield NG21 9QS While not exclusively a yarn shop, you’ll find some cool yarn and tools amongst all the fabrics For more visit www.catsquarters.co.uk.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Stylecraft Moonbeam (DK, 79% cotton, 21% viscose, 50g/123m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.75mm needles ❏ A pair of 4.5mm needles ❏ 2 stitch holders ❏ 4 large buttons from Duttons for Buttons (email harrogate@ duttonsforbuttons.co.uk or call 01423 502092) TENSION 20 sts and 36 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over main patt using 3.75mm and 4.5mm needles as indicated row by row in pattern ABBREVIATIONS Kb knit next st one row below For a full list see page 95 GRECIAN TUNIC LOWER BUTTON BORDER BACK (MAKE 2) Cast on 13 sts using 3.75mm needles. Row 1 (RS) K2, (P1, K1) 5 times, K1. Row 2 (WS) K1, (P1, K1) 6 times. Rep these 2 rib rows until Lower…

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…

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED To make all the birds: ❏ Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Black (0965) Yarn B White (0961) Yarn C Walnut (0927) Yarn D Signal Red (0977) Yarn E Sunflower (0978) Yarn F Bright Lemon (0819) Yarn G Bluebell (0969) Yarn H Grass (0825) Yarn J Silver Grey (0838) Yarn K Oatmeal (0964) Yarn L Punchy Pink (0728) ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ Toy filling, 200g ❏ A pair of toy safety eyes per bird, 10mm diameter ❏ Bobbins for intarsia TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS One size 15cm long from top of head to tip of tail ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see…

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 around 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.…

We Are Knitters Merida Blanket Knitted in Pima Cotton, in natural, olive and khaki shades, the Merida Blanket Knitting kit (£85) from We Are Knitters is the complete package, there’s even an embroidered label. We love! Find out more at www.weareknitters.co.uk. Opal Hundertwasser Sock Yarn This gorgeous sock yarn is inspired by an artist, and we love Hundertwasser’s colour palette in the Opal Hundertwasser collection (£8.99 for 100g). Choose from eight colourways. www.woolwarehouse. co.uk, 0800 505 3300. Clover’s Circular Stitch Holder The new Stitch Holder from Clover (£5.70) has a soft, pliable cord and will keep the shape of your work without messing up the stitches. For stockists, email clover@ stockistenquiries.co.uk or 01453 883581. Rico Design Knitting Idea Compact Patterns Knitted in Luxury Alpaca Superfine aran, which has a loosely…

With the new Bo Peep Pure DK collection WestYorkshire Spinners has treated us to a beautiful bundle of baby knits. Designer Jenny Watson has used pure Falkland wool to create timeless classics like the Isabella lace cardigan and blanket and Bobbins accessory sets (both shown here). Bo Peep Pure (£6.50 for 50g) is soft and luxurious and knits up into heirloom gifts and gorgeous keepsakes in vintage colours. Call 01535 664500 or view the collection (£12.95) at www.wyspinners.com.…

Designers in the Scheepjes studio have come together to create the Crying Koala Hat for knitters and crocheters. Having close ties with Australia, they were moved to try and help raise money to help koalas and all other wildlife affected by the bushfires.The hats can be made for babies, children and adults and they are priced around £2.50, with all profits in 2020 going to the Zoos Victoria Bushfire Emergency Wildlife Fund. Patterns for the Scheepjes #CryingKoala Project can be found on Ravelry and are available in English and Dutch. www.ravelry.com…

TEA COSY DELIGHT I thought you might like to see my latest finished items. I added some extra details and colour to the original design, which is by Tea Cosy Folk from issue 189 of SK. Julie, via email Both projects look stunning, Julie! PRETTY PENCIL CASE I have been collecting the past few issues of SK and have found the Christmas edition (Issue 191) to be particularly special. I have since been inspired to knit smaller objects such as gloves and pencil cases. I completed this pencil case using 5mm needles but with DK wool, the tension is not quite right. I am now using the 4mm needles to knit this design with DK wool. I hope you like my pencil case! Yvonne Cheung, via email Another great project,…

NOVA SCOTIA, CANADA Greetings Simply Knitting! I thought I would share a picture of my son, Jacob, wearing a sweater which I completed after one year. I was relieved he hadn’t put on weight since I took the measurements! He actually chose the pattern himself from Simply Knitting’s April 2012 issue, by Sirdar. This was a challenging project but it helped me during a difficult period. Beth Sherwood Nova Scotia, Canada What hard work – you should be proud! Our letter writer wins a mystery prize of yarny goodies worth £15!…

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I’M LOVING… Exploring and experimenting I’m trying out unusual and different-sized needles, including cocktail sticks and needles made from a tree branch! There is no time like the present to experiment! I’M MAKING… Miniature knitting cards These special makes are for my crafty friends, inspired by a project found at a local wool show. It’s such as simple idea, but it makes a lovely change to a standard card. I’M SHARING… The importance of exercise I’m having to do finger, hand and wrist exercises to avoid or ease annoying aches and pains. I recommend checking out YouTube for lots of helpful examples.…

Knitting can bring joy to people’s lives in so many unexpected ways. One fine example of this was done by the team at The Salvation Army in Wrexham, who co-ordinated a mass knit project which first started back in the spring of 2019. The project saw members of their church and community centre, along with members of other churches in the town, take up the challenge of making hundreds of little knitted ‘angels’ to spread around Wrexham. All in the hope of giving comfort to the local community ahead of the festive season, which can be a lonely and isolating time of year for some. “We designed a label to attach to each of the angels that had a Christmas blessing and a message of hope,” explains Karen Edwards, who…

LOOKING FOR LOCALS Q I’m always travelling for work and love to pop into as many local yarn shops as I can find while I’m away, but I sometimes find it hard to locate exactly where they are. Do you have any advice on a good resource I can use? Mrs Collins, Barnsley There’s nothing like the welcome you get from a local yarn shop, is there? Mine is filled with the most amazing yarns, the assistants always know how to help you and there’s usually a cup of coffee available if I’m lucky! We often team up with a brilliant group of people from UK Handknitting when we want to talk about local yarn shops as they have one of the best listings of local yarn shops in the…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Moordale (DK, 70% wool, 30% alpaca, 100g/230m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A 3.75mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ A 3.75mm circular needle, 80cm long ❏ 2 stitch holders ❏ 1 stitch marker ❏ A cable needle (cn) TENSION 34 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over cable patt using 3.75mm needles 27 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over 2x2 rib using 3.75mm needles ABBREVIATIONS T8B slip 4 sts onto cn and hold at back of work, K1, P2, K1; K1, P2, K1 from cn T8F slip 4 sts onto cn and hold at front of work, K1, P2, K1; K1, P2, K1 from cn For a full list see page 95 HOW TO USE OUR…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Novita Veljestä (7 Brothers) Aran (75% wool, 25% polyamide, 100g/200m) One ball of Yarn A Peony (550) One ball of Yarn B Rock (048) ❏ A pair of 3mm needles TENSION 20 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS 9x9cm (3›x3›in) ABBREVIATIONS byf both yarns forward byb both yarns back For a full list see page 95 DOUBLE KNITTING COASTER Cast on 32 sts using 3mm needles, alternating between Yarn A and Yarn B. Change Yarn A and Yarn B as follows: Row 1 *K1A, byf, P1B, byb, K1A, byf, P1B, byb, K1B, byf, P1A, byb, K1B, byf, P1A, byb. Rep from * to end. Row 2 Work all stitches and colours as they appear. Row 3 *K1B, byf,…

Jane Denton Volunteer and foster carer Charity Blue Cross Established 1897 What do you do? I volunteer at Blue Cross’s rehoming centre in Burford, Oxfordshire. I love crafting and knitting and am always busy making something! I sell my items on Etsy, with all proceeds going to Blue Cross. I make lots of items through the year which the team at Burford sell at fairs to raise money for the animals. I also foster pets who have come into the rehoming centre and need a little more TLC. This involves me taking them into my home until they are ready to go to their new homes. It can sometimes be a little bit difficult to part with each animal but it’s great to see them go off to loving new…

This month we chat to Alicia from Botanical Threads Tell us about Botanical Threads... Botanical Threads was founded in 2016 with a strong ethos and out of a desire to create chemical-free dyes that reflect the beauty of the plants that they are created from. All of the colours used at Botanical Threads are extracted directly from plants through a process using hot water. Natural plant dyes often need that extra little bit of help sticking to yarn and fabrics, so soya milk is also used as an alternative to harmful chemicals, for helping the colours to stick to the different fabrics. What will knitters find at your shop? If you are looking to try your hand at colouring your own yarn or fabric, then there’s lots of information to…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Scheepjes Metropolis (fingering, 75% wool, 25% nylon, 50g/200m) 2 balls of Ankara (010) ❏ 1 set of 2.75mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ Stitch markers TENSION 29 sts and 45 rounds to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 2.75mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit foot circumference 18-25cm (7-10in) Actual foot circumference 18cm (7in) unstretched, 25cm (10in) stretched Length from cuff to bottom of heel Adjustable to size Length from heel to toe Adjustable to size ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 SCATTERED FLOWERS SOCKS Note These socks are worked on DPNs, top down with a heel flap, gusset and rounded wedge toe. On the foot section, do not work any yo and decs on the outer edge of the outer ribs where there is no…

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…

ISSUE 196 APRIL Colourful striped jumper Kid’s robot jumper Pretty pansy brooch Baby Fair Isle cardi and hat Adorable narhwal toy Kaffe Fassett scarf KAL Cable mug-hug Flower cushion Official Harry Potter scarf Dotty socks PLUS! Brilliant alphabet pattern booklet! ISSUE 195 MARCH Cream cable jumper Baby jacket Simple cardigan Hot water bottle cover Men’s ribbed jumper Kaffe Fassett scarf KAL Fair Isle footstool cover Yellow bag Bright toy cars Snuggly beanie hat PLUS! Burda supplement and fab ISSUE 194 FEBRUARY Romantic eyelet tunic Kid’s ladder stitch sweater Heart gadget cases Hanging baskets Kaffe Fassett scarf KAL Stylish geometric cushion Goldilocks and the three bears Scarlet lace beret PLUS! WYS Baby knit pattern booklet ISSUE 193 JANUARY Lacy sideways top Kid’s owl jumper Hat, cowl & mitts set Rowan Fair…

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

ROBIN BODY Start at base. Cast on 9 sts using 3.5mm needles and Yarn C. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (RS) K1, (kfb) 8 times. [17 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 K1, (kfb, K1) 8 times. [25 sts] Row 5 Purl. Row 6 K1, (kfb, K2) 8 times. [33 sts] TUMMY PANEL Join bobbins of Yarn C and Yarn D and work as intarsia. Row 7 P10C, P14D, P9C. Row 8 K1C, (kfbC, K3C) twice, (kfbD, K3D) 3 times, kfbD, K1D, K2C, (kfbC, K3C) twice. [41 sts] Row 9 P12C, P18D, P11C. Row 10 K11C, K18D, K12C. Rows 11 to 18 Rep Rows 9 to 10 four more times. Row 19 Rep Row 9. Row 20 K1C, (k2togC, K3C) twice, (k2togD, K3D) 3 times, k2togD, K1D, K2C, (k2togC,…

ENTRELAC KNITTING by Mette Hovden and Heidi Eikeland (Search Press, £12.99) If you’re searching for inspiration for something that little bit different, this book is the answer. With a fabulous selection of over 40 entrelac patterns there’s plenty here to fire up your needles. Entrelac is a technique that creates a beautiful plaid-like textured effect, think stunning garments and gorgeous blankets. This book covers patterns for knits for both women and men. WORN AND WILD by Kerry Lucas (Berrcoft Books, £15.99) This inspiring selection of vintage-themed knitted gifts has patterns for a child’s tank top, felted elephant, knitted Christmas decos and more. Kerry Lucas incorporates her love of crochet and cooking into this book, making it appealing to all craft lovers! With simple makes for beginners and more intricate projects…

Regatta DK Skipper Zesty lemon and lime are served up in this shoulder-peeping top that’s perfect to wear in the summer breeze. Pattern 9739, £2.99. Regatta DK Harbour Bathe in beachy brights with swathes of sea blue and coral in a cardi knitted with Regatta DK Harbour yarn. Pattern 9738, £2.99. Regatta DK Oarsman Candy pink and neon blue add eye-catching style to a preppy V-neck knitted in Regatta DK Oarsman. Pattern 9735, £2.99.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Essentials Merino DK (100% wool, 50g/120m) For measurements and quantities see size table ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ A stitch holder ❏ 7 buttons TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 STRIPY CARDIGAN BACK Cast on 103 (115: 127: 139: 151: 163) sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) K2, *P1, K1; rep from * to last st, K1. Row 2 P2, *K1, P1; rep from * to last st, P1. The last 2 rows form rib. Rep these 2 rib rows twice more, then Row 1 again. Next row Purl.** Change to 4mm needles. Cont in…

DINO WITH A TWIST I thought I would share my recent project with you all! It was my friend’s 30th birthday, previously I made her daughter a Dinky Dino and she was asking if I could make her one. So on her 30th birthday I gave her a hand-made Dinky Dino, but with a Hogwarts’ scarf. As she happens to be a huge fan of Harry Potter, I was inspired to do something special that she’d love and treasure. I used Robin DK wool for the main body in shades 132 and 63. The pattern is from www.knittingbypost.com and called Dinky Dino. Although applying the glasses was quite fiddly, I found the project easy to knit. It took me a week to knit and I really enjoyed it! Emma Ainscow,…

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 a 3-ball yarn bundle of Stylecraft’s gorgeous Jeanie yarn, worth over £14! Perfect for topping up your stash! D Smith, Reading A Doherty, Uckfield M Elsden, Hyde 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.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Felted Tweed (DK, 50% wool, 25% viscose, 25% alpaca, 50g/175m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ 1 pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ 1 pair of 3.75mm needles ❏ Stitch holders TENSION 23 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.75mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong side rows from left to right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting KEY K on RS; P on WS in Yarn A P on RS; K on WS in Yarn D ZIGZAG JUMPER STITCH PATTERNS BODY STRIPE PATTERN 2 Rows in Yarn A. 2…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Light Grey Mix (0814) Yarn B Bright Lemon (0819) Yarn C White (0961) Yarn D Pumpkin (0766) Yarn E Grass (0825) Yarn F Signal Red (0977) Yarn G Iced Pink (0958) Yarn H Black (0965) ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ A 3.5mm crochet hook ❏ Toy filling, 100g ❏ 2 x black domed buttons per animal for eyes, 8mm diameter ❏ Black and pink embroidery thread to embroider Bee, Pig, Sheep and Rabbit features ❏ White pompom for Rabbit’s tail, 2cm diameter ❏ Split ring keychain, one per character TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Bee 7cm long; Carrot 12cm long;…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Deramores Studio Baby (DK, 100% acrylic, 100g/270m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Buttercup (002) Yarn B Apricot (014) Yarn C Midnight (013) Yarn D Lagoon (006) Yarn E Peppermint (008) ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ Toy stuffing ❏ Tapestry needle ❏ Stitch holders ❏ Length of white thread TENSION 24 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS 18cm (7in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Unless stated our patterns are not copyright free, however, if you’re thinking of knitting toys or other projects for charity, or to sell, please refer to our information on page 97. CHICK TOY WAISTCOAT RIGHT FRONT Cast on 22 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn D. Row…

ECO YARN SEARCH Q I’d love to knit a strong, summer eco shopper bag that has enough strength to hold its shape, but I’ve had real difficulty finding a suitable yarn. Do you have any suggestions at all? Kayleigh, via email There’s a brand new yarn called Mighty from the yarn geniuses at Scheepjes. It’s made from 32% jute and 68% cotton and could be the perfect choice for your summer bag. Jute is a long, soft, strong vegetable fibre that can be spun into coarse threads. It is the base fibre that’s weaved into fabrics such as burlap and hessian. Jute is already used to make mass produced bags, rugs, carpets and much more, so it’s been tried and tested over the years. Jute is also an incredibly eco-friendly…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Essentials Alpaca Blend Chunky (50% acrylic, 30% wool, 20% alpaca; 50g/90m) Cowl 1 (1: 2: 2) balls of Yarn B Dusky Pink (if making both pullover and cowl, only 1 extra ball needed for cowl in larger sizes) For T-shirt yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 6mm needles ❏ A pair of 5.5mm needles ❏ A 6mm circular needle, 60cm long ❏ A 5.5mm circular needle, 60cm long ❏ 3 stitch markers ❏ 2 stitch holders TENSION 12 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over ripple pattern using 6mm needles MEASUREMENTS T-shirt See size table Cowl 66.5 (66.5: 80: 80) x 17.5cm, (26¼ (26¼: 31½: 31½) x 7in) ABBREVIATIONS 1-to-5inc increase from 1 st to 5 sts, working…

This relatively new addition to your knitting skill set is well worth learning as it produces a squishy piece of double-sided, tubular knitting which can be worked up flat on straight needles. It’s the perfect quick technique for knitting things like tube scarves, double-sided pot holders and coasters, to name just a few. It doesn’t take any complicated stitches either because if you can knit and purl you can double knit too! Here we’ll focus on the basic flat knitting technique to get you started: HOW DOES IT WORK Explained simply, you’re knitting two sides of knitting at the same time as you work along your stitches. This double layer of knitting places the wrong sides back to back. When you’re knitting a double knitting pattern, the first stitch (knit)…

Happy Easter and welcome to our fabulous Knit Together feature filled with all things pretty and yarny! We start with our guide to the best yarn shops in Essex, then it’s time for a quick chat with our Shop of the Month, Amble Pin Cushion, before we discover the inspiring Derby Oddfellows Society on page 77. Next up, our Charity of the Month – Blue Cross – you can read about their yarny goings-on on page 78. Fancy knitting something for charity? Our copyright-free Easter chick egg cosy on page 78 is filled with fun stitches! Discover yarn dyer Botanical Threads on page 79 and plan your own Crafternoon charity event for Mind with their tips on page 81. Finish up with our super-cute Sheep of the Month, the Cambridge,…

Who’s in charge? Norma Arthur Where can we find you? 20-22 Queen Street, Amble, Northumberland NE65 0BZ When did your doors first open? September 2015 What is your shop like? We’re often described as an Aladdin’s Cave, with far too much packed in on all levels! We have affordable yarns from 2ply through to super chunky, loads of patterns and kits, with plenty for knitters! Upstairs we have our training room and alterations department. Additionally, we do dressmaking and millinery to order. Popular products? James Brett, King Cole, Sirdar, Hayfield, DMC, Stylecraft, Wendy plus a selection of other popular brands and some independent yarns. Who shops at your shop? Locals and tourists, also online customers for yarn and kits. Top shopping tip? Use our yarn put-away service if you don’t…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Patons Fab DK (100% acrylic, 100g/274m) One ball of Lemon (2330) ❏ A pair of 3.75mm needles ❏ Toy stuffing, ribbon, a scrap of orange felt, an oddment of black DK yarn ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 This sweet little Easter treat is cleverly designed to fit over a chocolate egg, it is sure to go down well at any fundraising raffles and stalls – what a cracking idea! CHICK EGG COVER Cast on 20 sts using 3.75mm needles and Yarn. Row 1 K10, place stitch marker, K10. Row 2 (RS) K1, M1, K to 1 st before the stitch marker, M1, K2, M1, K to last st, M1, K1. [24 sts] Row 3 Purl. Repeat the last 2 rows until you have…

Being a registered breed for over 50 years now, the Cambridge was originally founded at Cambridge University in 1964.The fleece of the Cambridge is a popular choice to use in blends of yarn for hand-knitting and to make high-quality knitted garments with. Its short, fine fleece is hailed for its lovely white gleam.The breed can typically be found residing on the beautiful pastures of theWelsh Borders. Discover more about the wonderful world of British sheep at www.britishwool.org.uk.…

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

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

Nature’s bold colours make these beautiful birds some of my favourite knits ever, after all, nothing says ‘spring’ better than a garden filled with British birds! They are worked in a budget-friendly yarn, so you can knit them for bird-loving friends and family too. Plus, check out our bonus tips on bird feeding on page 10! KNITTED A BIRD? GET IN TOUCH! Write to us at Simply Knitting magazine, Immediate Media Co, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN or email us at simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk. Find us on Instagram @simplyknittingmag or on Facebook.com/SimplyKnitting.…

BLACKBIRD BODY Start at base. Cast on 9 sts using 3.5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 and all foll odd-numbered rows (WS) Purl. Row 2 (RS) K1, (kfb) 8 times. [17 sts] Row 4 K1, (kfb, K1) 8 times. [25 sts] Row 6 K1, (kfb, K2) 8 times. [33 sts] Row 8 K1, (kfb, K3) 8 times. [41 sts] Rows 9 to 19 Starting on a WS purl row work in st st. Row 20 K1, (k2tog, K3) 8 times. [33 sts] Row 21 Purl. Cast off . HEAD Start at bottom edge. Cast on 33 sts using 3.5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 and all foll odd-numbered rows (WS) Purl. Row 2 (RS) K1, (kfb, K7) 4 times. [37 sts] Rows 3 to 11 Starting on a…

1 Bird tables and hanging feeders are healthier than feeding birds on the ground, but they need to be moved every few months to prevent too many droppings accumulating underneath. Make sure you always wash you hands after touching bird tables and feeders. 2 Birds require different foods at different times – high fat (ie high energy) foods in the winter to help them survive the cold winter nights, and high protein foods in the summer, to help them during the breeding and moulting periods. 3 During spring and summer offer the following food: black sunflower seeds, pinhead oatmeal, soaked sultanas, raisins, currants, mild grated cheese, mealworms, waxworms, mixes for insectivorous birds, seed mixtures without peanuts. 4 A cold or wet spring and summer affects the insect population, you can…

COAL TIT BODY Start at base. Cast on 9 sts using 3.5mm needles and Yarn J. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (RS) K1, (kfb) 8 times. [17 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 K1, (kfb, K1) 8 times. [25 sts] Row 5 Purl. Row 6 K1, (kfb, K2) 8 times. [33 sts] TUMMY PANEL Join bobbins of Yarn J and Yarn K and work as intarsia. Row 7 P10J, P14K, P9J. Row 8 K1J, (kfbJ, K3J) twice, (kfbK, K3K) 3 times, kfbK, K1K, K2J, (kfbJ, K3J) twice. [41 sts] Row 9 P12J, P18K, P11J. Row 10 K11J, K18K, K12J. Rows 11 to 18 Rep Rows 9 to 10 four more times. Row 19 Rep Row 9. Row 20 K1J, (k2togJ, K3J) twice, (k2togK, K3K) 3 times, k2togK, K1K, K2J,…

BULLFINCH BODY Start at base. Cast on 9 sts using 3.5mm needles and Yarn J. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (RS) K1, (kfb) 8 times. [17 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 K1, (kfb, K1) 8 times. [25 sts] Row 5 Purl. Row 6 K1, (kfb, K2) 8 times. [33 sts] TUMMY PANEL Join bobbins of Yarn J and Yarn B and work as intarsia. Row 7 P10J, P14B, P9J. Row 8 K1J, (kfbJ, K3J) twice, (kfbB, K3B) 3 times, kfbB, K1B, K2J, (kfbJ, K3J) twice. [41 sts] Row 9 P12J, P18B, P11J. Row 10 K11J, K18B, K12J. Row 11 Rep Row 9. Break Yarn B and join Yarn L. Row 12 K11J, K18L, K12J. Row 13 P12J, P18L, P11J. Rows 14 to 19 Rep Rows 12 to 13…