Indholdsfortegnelse for March 2023 i Simply Knitting

We all have a favourite kids’ TV show we'll never forget. The joy they brought us every time we tuned in is unique and unmatched. To celebrate those childhood memories we present five characters from a firm TV favourite, The Wombles™. Using Angela Turner's incredible designs you could cast on the calm and thoughtful Madame Cholet, or everyone's favourite Orinoco. Or perhaps wise Great Uncle Bulgaria, tech boffin Wellington and creative Tobermory are first on your list. You can knit just one or the entire set as a collector's piece. Whatever you do with your creations, if you knit and gift you'll be sharing the joy of The Wombles™, and their incredibly important message about recycling responsibly too! MAKE THE ENTIRE SET! THIS ISSUE'S EXCLUSIVE TREATS! only in Simply knitting…

Keep Chills at Bay A practical, decorative home décor idea, these two colourful Mosaic Draught Excluders are by Black Sheep Helen, who used to be head designer of Patons many years ago. The complete kits include the chart, yarn, pattern, buttons and cushion pad. Stylecraft Batik DK kit (front), £26.99, Stylecraft Highland Heathers DK kit (back), £23.50 from www.blacksheepwools.com Stash Buster Keep wool, needles and other kit ready to hand with this savvy storage solution for any knitter, not just grandma! You can personalise it with any name and a phrase of your choice underneath. Personalised Knitting Storage Basket, £25, www.sundaysdaughter.com Get Planning No more woolly thoughts! Jot down your knitting plans in a notebook covered in thirteen of the most popular UK sheep breeds from Herdwick to Swaledale, Rough…

Floor cushion Hop to It Cuddle up to big bunny energy with this arm-knitted rabbit in super chunky yarn. The pattern is for a giant bunny and a smaller one! Pattern download costs $10, flaxandtwineshop.com/products/giant-arm-knit-bunny-pattern Sweet dreams Cat Cuddles Your essential travel companion, Rian Anderson's adorable stretchy kitty pattern download fits a standard travel pillow! Snoozing Cat Travel Pillow pattern, £3.52, www.etsy.com/uk/shop/RianAnderson Stash buster Turtle power Two for the price of one! Knit a family of cute little turtles with this super-easy step-by-step pattern. A great way to use up your stash! Turtle Family knitting pattern, £4. PDF pattern download from gifthorsekits.co.uk/turtle-family-knitting-pattern/…

STAR LETTER CHRISTMAS QUEENS In November my daughter Laura turned up to see me with Claire, my daughterin-law, and presented me with a pattern to knit Queen Elizabeth II and said she would like hers in lilac, please. I looked at Claire and asked if she would like one too – she didn't reply but just gave me a ‘yes please’ look. I asked what colour she would like and she replied that I could choose but she did like the yellow. Once they had left, I checked with my stash and found I had all the colours to set about knitting our beloved Queen, first in lilac and then in yellow. She was great fun to knit and I then had to keep them hidden in readiness for Christmas.…

Here is my version of your recent pattern in Rico Creative Chic. I matched all of the stripes and when sewing up used the same colours – quite a job but it turned out fine. I made it for my daughter's Christmas present, she had seen the pattern in your magazine and admired it. She was delighted with the surprise when I gifted it to her on Christmas day. Mind you – it meant I had to hide my knitting bag whenever she visited! Valerie Hankin, via email Wow, that's quite a feat to match your stripes, it's really beautiful. We love your additional touch of wooden buttons on the cuffs of the sleeves too.…

“WHAT PROJECT ART TOU MOST EXCITED TO MAKE THIS YEAR” I'm knitting a cardigan that a friend ordered and I also need to make a blanket for my new grandson who is due at the beginning of February. Tess Lane, via Facebook I'm on the sleeves of my hubby's cardigan and can't wait to get it finished, hopefully for Christmas. I hate doing sleeves as it seems to take ages doing all the increasing. Russett Greig, via Facebook After finishing all of my Christmas gifts for family and friends, I like to spend the first few months of the year knitting for myself. I already have a big list and I can't wait to get started. Faith Diaz, via Twitter I'm moving house soon and planning to make some new…

 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact West Yorkshire Spinners on 01535 664500 or www.wyspinners.com OR YOU COULD TRY… □ Laughing Hens 01829 740903 or www.laughinghens.com □ Wool Stack 01242 300280 or www.woolstack.co.uk 15% off Laughing Hens are giving SK readers 15% off West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK! Quote offer code C0L0UR15 when you order. To place your order call 01829 740903 or visit www.laughinghens.com. Offer ends 5 April 2023.…

PART one CAST ON OUR KAL Collect all four parts to create our incredible kid's play set Enjoy for years to come! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Sirdar Hayfield Bonus Aran (100% acrylic, 100g/256m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Bottle Green (839) Yarn B Lagoon (645) 2 balls of Yarn C Lemongrass (699) □ A pair of 5mm needles □ A 5mm crochet hook (for optional border) □ 9cm, 7cm and 6cm pompom makers TENSION 18 sts and 26 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Blanket Approx 74x96cm (29¼x 37¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Not suitable for children under three years old due to small parts. “This spectacular set will provide hours of fun for everyone (I've…

WIZARD YARNS JON JAMES Tell us about Wizard Yarns… We are a unique hand-dyeing company specialising in magical sock yarn colourways that are completely out of this world! Our most popular product is handpainted yarns, which we like to think we do with finesse and, of course, a little bit of magic. At Wizard Yarns, our focus is on trying to recreate colours from the real world, such as fluffy clouds, rainbows and city lights at night, but we do also enjoy the challenge of creating custom yarns. What can knitters find at your online shop? Primarily sock and 4ply yarns, but also some DK weights, mystical stitch markers, cotton tote bags and gift vouchers. We utilise a variety of dyeing techniques to create yarns that are varied and exciting…

SWEET MOTIF make IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Sirdar Snuggly 4ply (55% nylon, 45% acrylic, 50g/226m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 3mm needles □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ Stitch holders TENSION 28 sts and 36 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 KIDS' BUNNY JUMPER BACK Cast on 70 (74: 76: 84) sts using 3mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) *K1, P1; rep from * to end. Work 9 more rows in rib as set in row 1, inc 0 (0: 1: 0) sts in the centre of the last row. [70 (74: 77: 84) sts] Change to 3.25mm needles. Beg with a knit row,…

SUPER Stashluster IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ 4ply yarn from your stash, approx 20g of each Yarn A Dark green Yarn B Yellow Yarn C Purple Yarn D Light green Yarn E Pink □ A 2.75mm circular needle, 40cm long □ A 3mm circular needle, 40cm long □ Stitch marker □ 2.5mm crochet hook or tapestry needle to secure cut ends TENSION 28 sts and 32 rounds to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Fair Isle pattern worked in the round using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS Depth 12cm (4.75in) Circumference 51cm (20in) Note Headband will stretch to fit up to 58.5cm (23in) head ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong…

FINDING A FAVE Q What is your favourite design out of everything you've released? Jean Hartley, via email I can honestly say I don't have one absolute favourite. There are classic styles that I will aways love, such as Aran and Ganseys as I'm very interested in the history behind them. By using them in my collections I feel like I am helping to keep the tradition alive. Debbie Did you know…? If you like to knit in the evenings but struggle to find good light, here's a budgetbusting hack. Swap your regular lightbulb for a daylight bulb – it's cheaper than buying a daylight lamp and you can find them in good craft and DIY stores with bayonet and screw fittings. MINI KNITS Q I've been fascinated by miniature…

WHERE TO BUY □ To buy contact LoveCrafts on 01409 404010 or visit www.lovecrafts.com TOP TIP To line your bag you'll need a rectangle of fabric measuring 44x62cm and a circle of fabric with a diameter of 20cm for the base.…

SPLIT-HEM SWEATER COOL new shape TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ West Yorkshire Spinners, The Croft DK (100% Shetland Islands wool, 100g/225m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 3.75mm needles □ A pair of 4mm needles □ 2 stitch holders □ Stitch markers TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 SPLIT-HEM SWEATER STITCH PATTERNS 1X1 MOCK RIB (OVER AN ODD NUMBER OF STS) Row 1 (WS) *K1, P1; rep from * to last st, K1. Row 2 (RS) Knit. 1X1 RIB (OVER AN ODD NUMBER OF STS) Row 1 (WS) *K1, P1; rep from * to last st K1. Row 2 (RS) *P1, K1; rep…

Ideal housewarming GIFT EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED ■ Stylecraft Special DK (100% acrylic, 100g/295m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Cypress (1824) Yarn B Meadow (1065) Yarn C Raspberry (1023) Yarn D Pistachio (1822) Yarn E Tomato (1723) Yarn F Buttermilk (1835) ■ A pair of 3.25mm needles ■ Toy filling ■ Six 10mm safety eyes ■ Locking stitch markers ■ Oddment of black DK yarn TENSION 26 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS Overall height 22cm (8¾in) Papa cactus 17.5cm (7in) tall, 5cm (2in) diameter Mama cactus 11cm (4½in) tall, 5cm (2in) diameter Baby cactus 7cm (2¾in) tall, 7cm diameter ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 CACTUS FAMILY PAPA CACTUS BODY Cast on 24 sts using…

“Don't rush the sewing!” 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…

ISSUE 234 FEBRUARY * Bud-rib jumper * Lattice cardi * Rowan Patti wrap * Kid's sister jumper * Hooded jacket * The Knitted Year Blanket KAL (part 4) * Baby rhino plushie * Vine-stem cardigan * Men's striped jumpers * PLUS! Beautiful Blankets Booklet and Exclusive Burda Knitting Magazine BUY IT NOW! RETURN TO THE APP TO BUY BACK ISSUES ISSUE 233 JANUARY * Sweet diamond sweater * Lattice cardi * Men's cable jumper * Toadstool cushion * Lace shawl * Alice in Wonderland tea cosy * Heart slippers * Dino toy * Kid's textured cardi * Stashbuster scrunchies * The Knitted Year blanket KAL (part 3) * PLUS! Exclusive Burda Knitting Magazine ISSUE 232 CHRISTMAS * Long luxe mohair cardigan * Beaded evening bag * Baby dungarees * Holly…

TAKE ON A CHALLENGE FOR MADAME CHOLET YOU WILL NEED □ Stylecraft Life DK (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Oatmeal 2303 Yarn B Caramel 2446 Yarn C White 2300 Yarn D Navv 2313 Yarn E Cherry Nepp 3524 Yarn F Cardinal 2306 □ Pair of 2.25mm needles □ Toy filling □ 2 amber 7mm safety toy eyes □ A plain black 10mm safety toy eye, (for nose) □ Locking stitch markers □ Length of white sewing thread □ White felt, 7x3cm □ Black embroidery thread TENSION 34 sts and 44 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 2.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS Madame Cholet Approx 27cm tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 of Simply Knitting magazine Not suitable for children under…

There's something magical about knitting a sock – small, fine and detailed, it's a project you can take with you everywhere. Add to that pretty lace and colourwork and a made-to-measure finish, and a simple pair of handmade socks becomes altogether luxurious. Discover your love of socks with our bonus pattern booklet next issue! Looking for a bright and breezy children's project in anticipation of the warmer weather? You're going to love Oksana Dymyd's sunshine and flower's jumper, available in sizes 2 to 7 years! This design is sure to test your skills and help you learn a new technique or two – with a circular construction and yoke. Save the date! ISSUE 236 OF SIMPLY KNITTING ON SALE WEDNESDAY 22 MARCH…

SCANDINAVIAN STYLE EASTER KNITS by Thea Rytter (£14.95, Quiller Books) Packed with springtime inspiration, this book is not just for Easter! Welcome in the new season with Thea Rytter's collection of Scandinavian decorations, ornaments and much more. Knit colourful eggs and fluffy hares as well as flowers, birds and other favourite spring animals. With step-by-step instructions, the book is packed with projects for all levels, including the kids! BRIOCHE by Judith Schur (£9.99, The Crowood Press) Discover the secrets of the brioche technique in this new 96-page book, whether you're a new knitter or more experienced. This easy-to-follow guide will take you through the basics and expand your skills: learn how to create textured, reversible knitted fabrics in a single shade or by using two contrasting colours to create texture…

Nothing but the best for baby's delicate skin – and multi-tonal Sweet Dreams from Stylecraft ticks all the boxes. Super-soft, it's 100% washable acrylic and knits up like a dream. This spring, Stylecraft has added three new shades – Unicorn, Blue Splash and Mermaid. Check out the adorable collection of jumpers, cardigans, tanks and accessories featuring cables, lace and texture for the little ones in your life! Sweet Dreams DK, £4.95 per 100g ball. For stockists, visit www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk or call 01484 848435…

GET the LOOK Page 19 CHIC LACY style! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ Stylecraft ReCreate DK (40% wool, 30% polyester. 30% acrylic, 100g/350m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ A pair of 4mm needles □ 8 buttons □ Stitch holders TENSION 25 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over main patt using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 LACE STRIPE CARDIGAN BACK Cast on 134 (150: 164: 180: 194: 210: 224: 240) sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn A. Knit 19 rows. Change to 4mm needles. Work in Main Patt as folls: Row 1 (RS) Using Yarn A, K7 (0: 7: 0: 7: 0: 7: 0), *K1, (skpo) twice, (K1, yo) 4…

We always keep up with what our readers are making – this month it's Christmas jumpers… MAKE IT PURPLE! My four-year-old grandson caught me knitting one of these for someone else and promptly put in an order for a purple one, so grandma happily obliged! Angela Bain, via email SHEEP SUPERFAN I knitted the jumper from issue 230 for my friends granddaughter. Her grandma loves sheep – they now have similar jumpers for Christmas. Susan Gellatly, via Facebook A TRUE ORIGINAL I slightly altered the Arne and Carlos sweater pattern from a previous issue (205). Just for Christmas, the deer will get a sparkly gemstone red nose! Carole Mooney, via email…

We love hearing from our readers so don't delay, pop up a post on Facebook, tweet us on Twitter, tag us on Instagram, follow us on Pinterest, add to our Ravelry Finished Projects Board, drop us an email or post us a letter! Here are all the details you need: WRITE TO US Stay in Touch, Simply Knitting magazine, Our Media Ltd, Eagle House, Bristol BS14ST. EMAIL US simplyknitting@ourmedia.co.uk. For subscription queries visit our website at www.buysubscriptions.com/contactus FIND US AND FOLLOW US Facebook.com/simplyknitting @SimplyKnitMag ravelry.com/groups/simply-knitting-magazine @simplyknittingmag www.pinterest.com/simplyknitmag…

Knitting can bring people together in a multitude of ways. “My work is about interconnectedness, and how our experiences shape and define us,” says Rania. “I'm known for my large-scale installations inspired through visuals related to knitting. They speak to how we're all connected, and I show this through materials representing threads connecting us to our pasts and futures.” The five main themes Rania works with embody ideas of time, memory, identity, synchronicity, and community. “My greatest inspiration is knitting itself,” explains Rania. “With one line of thread and the same stitch as every generation that came before, anything is possible. The thread represents our lives, and all the different interpretations and paths we may follow. My work is about levels of interconnectedness. From a single strand of thread, we…

GET INVOLVED A Touching Tribute Diane Lewis founded Alice's Embrace in memory of her beloved mother, Alice Figueira, who suffered from Alzheimer's disease Whilst her mother was in the midst of her illness, Diane knitted her a beautiful sage green blanket, which not only provided comfort and warmth, but also gave her something to do with her restless hands, as she often intertwined her fingers in the stitches. Alice unfortunately passed away in 2011, but after seeing the positive effect the blanket had had on her, Diane decided to help as many other people suffering from this dreadful disease as possible, and gathered together a group of crafters to knit and crochet lap blankets and prayer shawls for memory care facilities and hospices. COPYRIGHT-FREE CHARITY PATTERN on p57 SPREADING JOY…

POMPOM PONCHO TRY A NEW shape! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ ScheepjesTerrazzo (DK, 70% recycled wool, 30% recycled viscose, 50g/175m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ 3 sets of 6.5mm circular needles, 100cm, 60cm and 40cm long □ Stitch markers □ Stitch holders □ Pompom maker (optional) TENSION 14 sts and 21 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over bobble P pattern using 6.5mm needles and 2 strands of yarn held together ABBREVIATIONS MB (Make bobble) (P1, yo, P1, yo, P1) in next st, turn, Sl 1, K4, turn, Sl 1, P4, turn, Sl 1, (k2tog) twice, turn, Sl 1, p2tog, psso For a full list see page 87 POMPOM PONCHO Note The pattern uses 2 strands of yarn held together throughout. SPECIAL TECHNIQUES 3-NEEDLE…

We love The Caledonian Wool Company 68 High Street, Fort William PH33 6AD Open Wednesday to Saturday 11am to 5pm, The Caledonian Wool Company is one of the closest yarn shops to Ben Nevis. Ideal for climbers! www.caledonianwool.com Needles & Pins 78 Main Street, Keswick CA12 5DX This quaint shop is filled with goodies and friendly, knowledgeable staff. It makes the perfect stop off for those heading to the stunning Scafell Pike. 017687 80340 Find Me Knitting Unit A2, Yr Hen Stablau, Betws-v-coed LL24 OAH Take a short drive from Glyder Fawr and you'll locate Find Me Knitting. Packed with Peruvian and independent yarns to tempt you. 07778 779867, www.findmeknitting.co.uk…

TURN to page 44 for more charity stories! COPYRIGHT-FREE PATTERN Brighter days ahead This speedy scarf could help you complete the Versus Arthritis Knitting Challenge! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS We love YOU WILL NEED □ Bernat Softee Chunky (100% acrylic, 99m/100g) 2 balls of each Yarn A Hot Pink (28416) Yarn B Grass (28223) 1 ball of Yarn C Clay (28041) □ A pair of 12mm needles □ Chunky crochet hook (optional, for tassels) TENSION 11 sts and 12 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 12mm needles MEASUREMENTS 20cm (8in) wide and 160cm (63in) long ABBREVIATIONS Kfbf knit into the front, back and front of the next st [2 sts inc'd] Ktl insert RH needle through all three loops of k3tog st on row below from left to…

1 Tension is key Avoid puckering or floats that are too loose (and catch on your fingers when you put your garment on) by staying conscious about your tension. Spreading your stitches out on the needle and giving each row a little stretch can even things out a little as you work. 2 Weave as you go Weave in your ends as you go or, if you're working with a sticky, Shetland-style wool, leave cut ends about 10cm long at the end of rounds when joining in new colours. Use these later to duplicatestitch any messy sections or mistakes. 3 Wood is good Use wooden knitting needles instead of metal if you're new to stranded colourwork. The wood will grip the stitches better than metal needles, stretching them out a little more…

CHUNKY SCARF TRY A NEW stitch! EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED □ Paintbox Yarns Wool Mix Super Chunky (50% wool, 50% acrylic, 100g/55m) 4 balls of Washed Teal (932) □ A pair of 10mm needles TENSION 12 sts and 14 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over slip st patt using 10mm needles MEASUREMENTS 18x230cm (7x90½in) Length per pattern repeat 8cm (3¼in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 CHART KEY HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner of the chart. 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. CHUNKY SCARF Cast on 21 sts using 10mm needles. Work stitch pattern (or follow Chart): Row 1 (RS) K2,…

Call 03330 162147† or visit www.buysubscriptions.com/backissues to order and we'll send your magazine straight to you!* FROM £8.99! ISSUE 229 AUTUMN* * Sideways cable jumper * Poppy Flower Fairy™ * Men's gilet * Kids’ witch jumper * Pompom hat * Baby bee jumper * Cable slippers * Pastel Fair Isle yoke jumper * Stashbuster mitts * PLUS! The Knitter's Year bookazine and handy notion bag ISSUE 230 NOVEMBER* * Snowman jumper * Christmas cowl * Festive tea cosy * Kids’ baa humbug jumper * Santa wellie boot toppers * Bright Fair Isle jumper * Cuddly snowman toy * Christmas stocking PLUS! Christmas Cuties supplement and Nativity pattern downloadable PDF ISSUE 231 DECEMBER* * Fair Isle Christmas jumper * Cable headband * Kids’ donkey jumper * Poinsettia brooch * The Knitted…

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…

Kirstie McLeod Editor “I don't have a single favourite – I love learning new ones! I'm always going through stitch libraries.” Nicola Lynn Art Editor “I love accessories I can knit quickly with chunky yarn and big needles – garter stitch always seems to fit the bill for this.” Sophie Jordan Deputy Editor “As a Fair Isle fan I love stocking stitch. It's the perfect canvas to show off all that creative colourwork.” Jennifer May Production Assistant “There are so many! I have always loved the texture of moss stitch though and do try to work it into my projects whenever I can.”…

The Wombles™ make an essential addition to your knit list this springtime We all have a favourite kids’ TV show we'll never forget. The joy they brought us every time we tuned in is unique and unmatched. To celebrate those childhood memories we present five characters from a firm TV favourite, The Wombles™. Using Angela Turner's incredible designs you could cast on the calm and thoughtful Madame Cholet, or everyone's favourite Orinoco. Or perhaps wise Great Uncle Bulgaria, tech boffin Wellington and creative Tobermory are first on your list. You can knit just one or the entire set as a collector's piece. Whatever you do with your creations, if you knit and gift you'll be sharing the joy of The Wombles™, and their incredibly important message about recycling responsibly too!…

HEAD IN THE CLOUDS This heavenly creation may well be the cosiest cardi you've ever knitted! Designed by Fabienne Glassman for Loop Knitting, choose one of three colourways – Olive, Dusty Pink or Slate Blue – and two kit sizes (covering five pattern sizes), in a kit with all the Woolfolk Flette Bulky and BC Garn Semilla DK GOTS yarn you'll need, printed pattern, and a Loop cotton bag. Cloud Cardigan kit, £150, www.loopknitting.com…

From publishing their first book ‘Conscious Crafts Knitting’ in March, to sharing their work on BBC radio, ITV, and at the Cheltenham Literature Festival, 2022 was a whirlwind year for Sicgmone and Vea of the Black Girls Knit Club. And this talented duo finished the year on another high note, winning the Holly & Co Female Founder Award, set up by Holly Tucker MBE. “This cash prize is really going to help us grow our community and content during 2023. We will continue to pay it forward and empower our community through craft.” We can't wait to see what comes next! For more information visit www.blackgirlknitclub.com We love…

CHUNKYHAT Knit in a WEEKEND EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED □ Rowan Big Wool (100% wool, 100g/80m) 2 balls of Golden Olive (088) □ A pair of 12mm needles □ Stitch marker □ Rowan Faux Fur Pompom (optional) TENSION 6.5 sts and 8 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 12mm needles ABBREVIATIONS K1B (knit 1 below) Insert left needle into the stitch below and knit For a full list see page 87 CHUNKY HAT Cast on 32 sts using l2mm needles. Row 1 (RS) *K1, P1; rep from * to end. Rep last row 3 times more. Row 5 (RS) Purl across row. Place marker on this row. Row 6 (WS) *K1, P1; rep from * to end. Rep last row 3 times more, dec 1 st…

THE SWEATER THAT LOVES TO SHRINK I knitted this jumper and was really pleased with the result. Unfortunately it snuck itself into the washing machine and shrunk. I then knitted another and it happened again! So I made it for a third time and have managed to keep it the right size. It's a fabulous pattern to knit and I'm going to make another in a plain colour. Margaret Bradley, via email We hope you get many years of wear from it! Our letter writer wins a fab gift voucher from retailer Black Sheep Wools worth £25!…

My nephew and his wife opened their home to a Ukrainian family, including two children aged 5 and 7. The children are in a local school where they learn Welsh and the families are learning and sharing each others traditions. Hopefully they will be able to return to their home country as they still have relatives there. I found some blue and yellow wool and thought that I would knit them a hat each in their home colours. Dorothy Williams, via email How incredibly thoughtful of you to find a way to bring a bit of their country to ours.…

KNIT for KIDS from 1-9 year IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ West Yorkshire Spinners ColourLab DK (100% British wool, 100g/225m) For yam quantities and measurements see size table □ A Pair of 3.25mm needles □ A pair of 4mm needles □ Stitch holders □ 3 x pink buttons approximately 1cm in diameter □ 2 x 2.5cm sew-on googly eyes TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 KIDS'PANDA JUMPER STITCH PATTERN MOSS STITCH Row 1 (RS) *K1, PI; rep from * to end. Row 2 (WS) *P1, K1; rep from * to end. BACK *Cast on 60 (68: 74: 80: 84) using 3.25mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 *K1, P1; rep…

MEN'S CABLE JUMPER COOL CABLES to go! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ King Cole Homespun DK (22% fine Merino superwash wool, 22% alpaca, 23% polyamide, 23% acrylic, 10% viscose, 50g/175m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 3mm needles □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ A pair of 4mm needles □ Cable needle (cn) □ 2 stitch holders TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles Each 16 st repeat meas 5cm wide when relaxed ABBREVIATIONS M1P Pick up and purl into back of horizontal strand lying before next st TW2 SIl knitwise, K1. pass slipped st over st just knitted and K into back of it TW3 SI2 knitwise, K1, pass 2nd…

STYLE WITH A twist! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ DROPS Karisma (DK, 100% wool, 50g/100m) 6 balls of Off White (01) □ A 3.5mm circular needle, 80cm long □ A cable needle (cn) □ Cushion pad, 45x45cm TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Approx 43x43cm Fits cushion size 45x45cm The cover fits a slightly larger cushion as it sits better when stretched a little ABBREVIATIONS T3F SI 2 sts on cn and hold at front, P1, K2 from cn T3B SI 1 st on cn and hold at back, K2, P1 from cn Tw2 Skip 1st st on the left needle, knit 2nd st without slipping it off the needle, knit the skipped stitch, slip both…

Cat Howourth, Community and Events Fundraising Officer Charity Versus Arthritis Established 2018 (following a merger of Arthritis Care and Arthritis Research UK) What do you do? Alongside volunteers, healthcare professionals, researchers and friends, we do everything we can to push back against arthritis. Together, we'll continue to develop breakthrough treatments, campaign relentlessly for arthritis to be seen as a priority, and support people with arthritis. What can knitters do to help? Join the Versus Arthritis Knitting Challenge – back for 2023! The idea is simple: pick up your needles and knit throughout March to raise as much money as possible to support the 10 million people in the UK living with arthritis. You can adapt the challenge to suit you, so whether that's finishing that project you started last year…

CONTACT US! Got a question for our experts? Then email us at simplyknitting@ourmedia.co.uk or write to us at Simply Knitting, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST. KNIT GURU Debbie Bliss Knitwear Designer Famed for her effortlessly stylish knit creations and extensive knowledge of knitting. Rachael Prest Technical Editor Detail obsessed and a numerical master, Rachael welcomes your challenging knit questions. Jen Bartlett Technical Editor Stitch expert and technical whizz, Jen likes to tackle the trickiest of knitting problems. guest expert Faye Perriam-Reed Knitwear Designer Dressmaker and yoga enthusiast, Faye enjoys exploring construction and finishing techniques. QUESTION OF THE MONTH DIY COLOURWORK Q l've never knitted with selfpatterning yarn before and I love the effect it can give, so now is the time to try! I thought I'd start with something small…

GREAT GIFT idea IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Paintbox Yarn Wool Mix Super Chunky (50% wool 50% acrylic, 100g/55m) 5 balls of Dolphin Blue (936) □ A 7mm circular needle, 120cm long □ An 8mm circular needle, 120cm long □ A set of 8mm DPNs (double-pointed needles) □ Smooth waste yarn for lifeline □ 5mm cord, approx 1m long □ Cotton webbing, 25x2cm □ 2 wooden toggles with large eyes TENSION 11 sts and 16 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4 in) over st st using 8mm needles MEASUREMENTS 40cm (15¾in) high 60cm (23¾in) circumference ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 DUFFLE BAG Note The bag is knitted flat – the circular needle is used to accommodate the width of the fabric. If you do not have…

FOR MORE CHANCES TO WIN GREAT PRIZES, turn to page 64 GOODIES UP FOR GRABS WIN PRIZES! We've teamed up with James C. Brett (www.jamescbrett.co.uk) to give away one bumper ball of their new Huggable Super Chunky yarn (RRP £9.99), complete with three snuggly baby blanket designs on the ball band, to five crossword winners. CICO Books (www.cicobooks.co.uk) are also gifting ‘Mindful Knitting’ (RRP £14.99) to four readers who complete the sudoku correctly. Once you've finished the puzzles, go to www.gathered.how/simplyknitting and follow the links to the giveaways to enter. Find terms and conditions at www.gathered.how/competition-terms-and-conditions. Competitions close on Wednesday 5 April 2023. Prizes sent within 28 days of closing date. SUDOKU TIME ISSUE 233 SOLUTION 4 KNITTING BOOKS TO WIN! QUICK SCAN… TO ENTER NOW! Scan this QR code…

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…

EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED □ Scheepjes Truly Scrumptious (aran, 50% recycled polyester, 50% acrylic, 100g/108m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Rose Barfi (321) Yarn B Custard Pie (341) Yarn C Orange Cheesecake (332) □ A 4.5mm circular needle, 40cm long □ A 4.5mm needle (for 3 needle cast-off) □ Polystyrene balls, rice or dried peas for filling TENSION 14 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stitch pattern using 4.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 32x29cm (12½x11½in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 STITCH of the month STRIPED CUSHION Cast on 92 sts using a 4.5mm circular needle and Yarn A, join into the round. Round 1 Using Yarn A, *K1, sl1 with yarn in front; rep from * to end. Round 2 Knit. Round 3…