Indholdsfortegnelse for June 2023 i Simply Knitting

There’s a wealth of love and kindness in the knitting world, and this community spirit is such an important part of Simply Knitting too! It’s why we have our Commu-knitty page and a copyright-free pattern for you to knit each issue for charity. We’re also supporting UKHK in their endeavours to knit hats and socks for Ukrainian soldiers on the front line. Turn to page 40 for how you can help. Summer also hits big time this issue. We have a myriad of pretty knits for you, your family and your home - from cable T-shirts and ladybird dresses to cute KAL animals and stashbusting cushions. We finish with an Andalusian stitch lavender bag, that quintessential smell of beautiful British summertime. Wishing much sunshine to you all! The SK Team…

Take time this summer to add a new, strikingly stylish garment to your wardrobe when you cast on one of the latest looks from Sirdar’s Soft Deco collection. These feminine designs, which translate the elegant fashions and architecture of the Art Deco period into knit and crochet patterns, are a real treat for modern makers. Benefitting from the soft handle and stitch definition, drape and sheen of the ever-popular Sirdar No1 double-knitting yarn, your gorgeous finished garments will come with a soft, silky feel. Individual patterns from £3.35. For stockists visit www.sirdar.com or call 01924 371501 New season knits!…

HEDGE-HUGS I lost my mum on 4 February this year. She taught many people to knit and inspired others to take up their knitting needles again. She was an amazing woman. She was battling oesophagus cancer and knew that she only had a few months left, so she bought a lot of tinsel yarn and knitted hedgehogs for everyone to be comforted by. She made quite a few before she passed away, but didn’t get to use all of her yarn. I wanted to thank my knit and natter group in Knaresborough who have all been supporting me during this hard time, and took it upon themselves to make more hedgehogs so that anyone who was missing my mum could have one in memory of her. I think sometimes we…

This is what comes of asking the kids what they want Nana to knit them for Christmas. The 11 year-old wanted a sandwich. White bread, ham and cheese with lettuce. This was circa 2014. Barb Weakley A coat for a Chihuahua. Cheryl Meehan A weird balaclava-type thing but with two eyeholes, a nose and a mouth hole and two earholes. I daren’t ask what he wanted it for! Sharon Rosen A pair of pink baby Doc Martens. Rachel Lee A jumper with fishing line and huge needles for my niece’s college project. Marie Grace I knitted my nan! Zoë Cooper A pigeon for my sister! Gill Watson Stump covers for a friend who is double amputee. Joan Liddell A dalek! (Extermi-knit) Kate Delp Gray Next month… “WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST-EVER…

FLOWER HEADBAND EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO SUMMER FESTIVAL ready! EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED KingColeCottonsoftDK(100% cotton, 100g/210m) 1 ball of each Lime1601 Rose712 Cloud1575 Buttercup1600 White710 Apairof4mmneedles Smallamountoftoyfilling TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Central part 80cm (31½in) long Length with ties 130cm (51¼in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 WHERE TO BUY ■ For yarn stockists contact King Cole on 01756 703670 or visit www.kingcole.com OR YOU COULD TRY… 01409404010or 08006226225or 15% off! LoveCrafts are offering 15% off King Cole Cotton Soft DK! Quote offer code COTTONS15 when you order. To place your order call 01409 404010 or visit www.lovecrafts.com. Offer ends 29 June 2023. FLOWER HEADBAND…

GET INVOLVED Knit socks for Ukraine If you've been watching the devastating conflict in Ukraine unfold and longed to help, UK Hand Knitting invite you to get your needles out to make socks and hats for those in need… Can you help? Huddersfield to Ukraine Humanitarian Aid have been fundraising and distributing aid to Ukraine since March 2022. The team have already sent five convoys to Poland and into Ukraine with medical supplies, hygiene products, dried food, baby milk and food, stretchers, wheelchairs, crutches, candles - the list is endless. They recently contacted UK Hand Knitting because they are desperately short of socks and beanie hats - for soldiers on the front line as well as for civilians in need - and knew that UKHK could share this important appeal…

CAST ON OUR KAL Collect all four parts to create our incredible kids’ playset Enjoy for years to come! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each Bronze596 Sand597 BrightLemon819 DarkGreyMix790) Emerald916 SoftRed617 White961 Sunflower978 SilverMist678 A pair of 3mm needles A 3mm crochet hook A 200g bag of toy filling Domed black buttons for eyes in sizes 4mm for Ducklings and Chicks, 6mm for all other animals, 2 buttons each Locking stitch markers TENSION 26 sts and 32 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over stocking stitch using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS Animals 3-13cm long ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 89 Not suitable for children under three years old due to small…

ZIGZAG CUSHION EXCLUSIVE TO Simply Knitting EXCLUSIVE TO SUPER Stashbuster IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED DK yarn from your stash Approx 15-20g each of the following 10 pattern colours Lightpink Darkpink Lightblue Darkblue Lightyellow Darkyellow Lightgreen Darkgreen Lightpurple Darkpurple Approx 60g of Lightgrey A pair of 4mm needles A tapestry needle 40×40 cushion inner Zip, 38cm long in light grey Grey sewing thread Sewing needle and pins TENSION 20 st and 28 rows to 10×10cm (4×4in) in st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 41×41cm (15¾×15¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 CHART KEY HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong side rows…

CABLE T-SHIRT In sizes 8 TO 38! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED Scheepjes Terrazzo (DK, 70% wool, 30% viscose, 50g/175m) A pair of 3.25mm needles A pair of 3.75mm needles A pair of 4mm needles Cable needle (cn) TENSION 23.5 sts and 30 rows to 10×10cm (4×4in) over rib using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS C2F Place next st on cable needle and hold at front of work, K1, then K1 from cable needle T2B Place next st on cable needle and hold at back of work, K1, then P1 from cable needle T2F Place next st on cable needle and hold at front of work, P1, then K1 from cable needle T3B Place next st on cable needle and hold at back of work, K2, then P1 from cable…

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.…

guest expert CAN'T SEE THE JOIN Q How do I join in a new ball of yarn in the middle of the row without using a knot? Is it a real ‘no-no’? Could you tell me whether it is better to always start a new ball at the beginning of a row? Sasha Olivetti, via email You’re thinking of one of those ‘rules’ we’ve all heard of – never join in yarn in the middle of a row. But this theory doesn’t always work. What if you’re knitting in the round, for example, or your yarn breaks, or you’re happily knitting along until you come across one of those irritating little knots in your yarn? It happens to the best of us! One of our favourite techniques to neatly join…

Perfect your FAIR ISLE! EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED KingColeForestAran(aran weight, 35% wool, 20% acrylic, 20% polyamide, 25% viscose, 100g/300m) A45mmcircularneedle, 80cm long A45mmcircularneedle, 40cm long A5mmcircularneedle 80cm long Stitchholders Lockingstitchmarkers TENSION 22 sts and 22 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over Fair Isle patt using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS Stitch (e.g. K, P, skpo) followed by A, B, C or D: work stitch in that colour For a full list see page 89 WHERE TO BUY For yarn stockists contact King Cole on 01756 703670 or at www.kingcole.com OR YOU COULD TRY… Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 or www.woolwarehouse.co.uk Delta Wool Shop 01772 456535 or www.deltawoolshop.co.uk KEY 10% off! Wool Warehouse are offering 10% off King Cole Forest Aran! Quote offer code…

LACE CARDIGAN EXCLUSIVE TO Simply Knitting EXCLUSIVE TO THE ULTIMATE cover up! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED Rico Essentials Alpaca Blend Chunky (50% acrylic, 30% wool, 20% alpaca, 50g/100m) A pair of 5mm needles A pair of 6mm needles A 5mm circular needle, 80-100cm long A 6mm circular needle, 80-100cm long TENSION 14 sts and 22 rows to 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 6mm needles 1 rep of Heart Lace Patt meas 9cm wide. Rib sections meas 4cm ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists visit Rico at www.rico-design.de OR YOU COULD TRY… 08005053300or 01707518966or LACE CARDIGAN HEART LACE PATTERN Workedover12sts RSK3 k2tog, yo, k2tog, M1, yo, k2tog, K3. WSPurl K2k2togyo, K4, yo, k2tog,…

“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…

Catch up on what you’ve missed in Simply Knitting by downloading a recent issue or rediscover one of our earlier issues ISSUE 237 MAY ✽ Lace sampler tunic ✽ Rainbow blanket and cushion ✽ Kid’s lace cardigan ✽ Forever Friends™ Bearer ✽ Stylecraft twin set ✽ Men’s cable jumpers ✽ Farmyard playset KAL (part 3) ✽ Union Jack tea cosy ✽ PLUS! Bust That Stash book and download of Ultimate Toy Collection BUY IT NOW! RETURN TO THE APP TO BUY BACK ISSUES ISSUE 236 APRIL ✽ Vintage-style cable top ✽ Mosaic stitch cowl ✽ Kid’s flower jumper ✽ Textured jumper ✽ Farm play set KAL (part 2) ✽ Snail tea cosy ✽ Men’s striped jumper ✽ Stashbuster shopper bag ✽ Rowan pastel striped cardigan ✽ Bunny and babies cushion…

ACROSS Apurloraknit (6) Containertoholdyarnwhile knitting (4) Boxofknittingsupplies(3) Mattingwoolfibrestogether(4) Design7 Beginanewproject(4,2) Fastenerforcardigans6) Shadeorhue6) First-timeknitter8 Finishededge6 Double-pointedneedle8 Takeapartstitchesora project (7) Woolalternative6 Knit spelled backwards (4) WoollyTop7 DOWN Twodifferentyarnsorstitches (8) Holdshankwhenwindingyarn (5) Consistencyofstitches7) Knittingmeasurement5 Hiddenyarnsupply5) Superfineorsockweightyarn (9) Techniquetocreatedesigns(10) V-shapedknittingpattern7) Feeloffabric7) Wearableitem7 Purltwostitchestogether(8) Springsummerautumn, winter (6) Knittedbraiddesign5) Solutions on page 43…

BOTTLE BAG IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each Cornflower0610 White0961 Black0965 LightGreyMix0814) Ladybird0698 A pair of 3.25mm needles A set of 3.25mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needle, 80cm long, if using magic loop method A pairof 4mm needles A set of 4mm DPNs or circular needle, 80cm long, if using magic loop method 4mm crochet hook for seaming Stitch marker A tiny amount of toy filling or cotton wool balltostufftheseagull Two black beads, 3mm diameter Sewing needle and thread Yellow DK yarn, 1 metre Strong glue Clear fishing line, 30cm TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 27cm (10¾in) tall, 12cm (5in) across,…

GEOMETRIC CUSHION IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Rico Essentials Mega Wool Chunky (chunky, 55% wool, 45% acrylic, 100g/125m) 3 balls of Mustard A pair of 6mm needles 5 buttons Cushion pad, 40×40cm TENSION 13 sts and 19 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 6mm needles MEASUREMENTS 40×40cm (15¾ixl5¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists visit Bergère at www.bergeredefrance.co.uk YELLOW CUSHION BACK 54stsusing6mmneedles. RSK1, P1; rep from * to end. WSP1, K1; rep from * to end. RepRows1and2 once more. Begwithaknitrow, work in st st until Back meas 30cm from cast-on edge, ending after a WS row. RSKnitto end, inc 4 sts evenly across. [58 sts] TurningrowWS Knit. FRONT RSP1…

SHADOW SHAWL IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Hobbii BabyWool (100% wool, 50g/165m) 3 balls of shade06 shade14 A 4mm circular needle, 80cm long Stitch markers TENSION 20 stitches × 36 rows to 10×10cm (4×4in) in pattern before washing MEASUREMENTS 170cm 75cm ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine WHERE TO BUY For yarn visit Hobbii www.hobbii.co.uk SHADOW SHAWL Note This shawl is worked top down, flat, using a circular needle and 2 contrasting colours. EDGE 41stitcheswithYarnA and work back and forth on the circular needle. RSK40 PM, K1, PM, K40. Knit JoinYarnBDo not break Yarn A. Carry colour not used up the side of the work. Continueasfollworking 2 rows in Yarn B and 2 rows in Yarn A…

WHAT'S NEW UK Alpaca Bashful Basque Designer Chrissy Smith brings you a modern, close-fitting vest that comes with a faux-boned pattern effect. Knitted in UK Alpaca 4ply, it's super light, soft and easy to wear, and the ideal top to wear with virtually everything. We think teens and adults alike will love it! Pattern £4, www.ukalpaca.com Modern Knits Magazine Planning for winter already? You'll find plenty of stylish accessories to snuggle up with inside this brand-new collection of 32 knitting projects. It includes 15 snuggly garments to make, plus gorgeous home decor and accessories, and all for just £9.99 (includes UK delivery). www.buysubscriptions.com/special-editions/modern-knits-22 New Rico Baby Collection Dive into Rico’s latest baby fashion show of super cute knitwear in Rico Baby Organic Cotton (made from 100% organic cotton). Look out…

New Nellie and Eve Yarn Nellie and Eve launched two yarns at Wonderwool Wales this year – Single Farm BFL and Limited Edition from 100% Shetland. Nellie and Eve are passionate about producing yarns from selected small farms in their rural, sheep-farming community. £25 per 100g skein, www.nellieandeve.com Hobbii Bingo DK and XL Not one but two new yarn lauches into the huge Hobbii range this month. Both reliable contenders for your knitting bags and boxes. Add Bingo DK and Bingo XL to your everyday knitting yarn lists for great results. Bingo DK 100g from £4.90, and XL 100g balls from £2.40 each. www.hobbii.co.uk Cascade Heritage 6 Yarn Heritage 6 is a soft yet durable yarn that is machine washable and dryable. It has amazing stitch definition and is available…

GET the LOOK Page 18 Simply knitting loves EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED Rico Creative Chic Unique Chunky (75% acrylic, 15% wool, 10% polyamide, 200g/310m) A pair of 5mm needles A pair of 6mm needles A pair of 6.5mm needles 2 stitch holders TENSION 15.5 sts and 24 rows to 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 6mm needles 19.5 sts and 24 rows to 10×10cm (4×4in) over bramble st using 6mm needles ABBREVIATIONS Kfbf K into the front, back, front of next st. [2 sts inc'd] For a full list see page 89 For the best SELF-STRIPING YARNS visit www.gathered.how 10% off! Black Sheep Wools are offering 10% off Rico Creative Chunky with code SK238 when you order. To place your order…

MOTORHOME GNOME I recently travelled from Portsmouth to Santander on the ferry to start my latest motorhome trip. On the way I created a Ladybird gnome. I used my own Cosypot Bumble gnome pattern and just changed the colours. One pattern to create two different looks! He has a weighted base so sits very happily on the shelf. I hope you like him. £25 GIFT CARD Cosypots We love him! We might have to make a few ourselves for our desks in the office. Our letter writer wins a fab gift voucher from retailer Black Sheep Wools worth £25!…

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 BS1 4ST. 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…

MEN’S STRIPED SWEATER NEW from ROWAN EST 1978 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED RowanCottonGlaceDK, 100% cotton, 50g/115m) Apairof275mm needles Apairof325mm needles A275mmcircularneedle no more than 30cm long Stitchholders TENSION 23 sts and 32 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over striped st st using 3.25mm needles ABBREVIATIONS Fora full list see page 87 WHERE TO BUY For yarn stockists contact Rowan on 01484 668200 or www.knitrowan.com OR YOU COULD TRY… 01829740903or 01780763838or 15% off! Laughing Hens are offering 15% off Cotton Glace! Quote offer code LHENS15 when you order. To place your order call 01829 740903 or visit www.laughinghens.com. Offer ends 29 June 2023. For more MEN’S PATTERNS visit www.gathered.how MEN'S STRIPED SWEATER STRIPE SEQUENCE UsingYarnA UsingYarnB UsingYarnA UsingYarnC UsingYarnB UsingYarnA UsingYarnD…

OTTER AND PAPPOOSE PAMELA VINER Tell us about your company… I launched Otter and Pappoose Yarn in 2021, a year after my handdyed yarn obsession began. I learnt to crochet in 2015 and have since learnt to knit too. I always loved playing with different colours and dreamed of creating my very own colourways. Now it's amazing that I receive photos of what my customers have made with my yarns. What can we find in your shop? Exciting bundles of mini skeins, separate minis, shawl kits, sock sets, happy accident one-of-a-kind skeins, vibrant semi-solids and heavily speckled skeins varying from saturated to pastel colours to name but a few! What are your plans for 2023? I have plenty of new bases, colourways and stitch markers in the works. I'm looking…

Nicky Dewar, Director of Learning and Skills Charity Crafts Council Established 1972 What do you do? As the national charity for craft, we believe craft skills and knowledge enrich and uplift us as individuals, and collectively. We inspire making, empower learning and nurture craft businesses. We champion craft and its positive impact on society, increasing participation, and building a sustainable and inclusive craft sector. Latest fundraising news We have teamed up with Hobbycraft and regional partners across England to launch the 'let's Craft' appeal to get 20,000 craft packs into the hands of children who don't have art and craft supplies at home. Creativity can feel a low priority during a costof-living crisis, but it can provide children with hours of happiness and escape through their own imaginations and inherent…

FOR MORE CHANCES TO WIN GREAT PRIZES, turn to page 50 GOODIES UP FOR GRABS WIN PRIZES! We love a good puzzle here at SK HQ! This issue the lovely folks at Gorgeous Alpacas (www.gorgeousalpacas.co.uk) are offering bundles of their yarn (containing two balls each, worth £17) for five crossword winners, and Scheepjes (www.scheepjes.com) have given us five copies of their new bookazine ‘YARN 15: Metamorphosis’ (£9.99) to give away as sudoku prizes. Once you’ve completed 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 Thursday 29 June 2023. Prizes sent within 28 days of closing date. SUDOKU TIME ISSUE 236 SOLUTION 5 copies of scheepjes’ bookazine to win! FOR MORE PUZZLES… …scan this QR code with…

TREASURE TROVE Q I have inherited my great-aunt’s yarn stash – a huge suitcase crammed with balls of yarn in every colour of the rainbow. I’d love to make use of it – where should I go for inspiration? Davina Bateman, by email You need look no further than this very magazine for inspiration, Davina! We have a fab stashbusting pattern every month – from smaller scale projects like bunting and accessories (see right), to cushions, totes and more. You’ll also find plenty of patterns on Ravelry, have a quick Google search or rummage through Pinterest. If you wanted to donate some of the yarn, the charity Knit For Peace – www.knitforpeace.org.uk – will pass it onto community groups, those on low incomes and other good causes to be used…

Q I’ve not used circular needles before and would love to know what the benefits are as opposed to regular needles. Also, when measuring your circular needles, do you measure from tip to tip or just the cable? Penny James, Faversham Circular needles are essentially two tips connected with a flexible cable. The cable comes in various sizes meaning you can knit projects of all sizes from baby hats to bulky blankets. They have several advantages – you will never drop a needle, and they’re perfect for knitting on the go as your knitting won’t slip off in transit – just push your work to the centre of the cable and they’ll be safe and sound! They can make knitting easier on your hands and reduce the risk of wrist…

Brill FOR PICNICS! EXCLUSIVE TO Simply knitting EXCLUSIVE TO IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Scheepjes Chunky Monkey (100% acrylic, 100g/116m) 2ballsofYarnA Baby Blue (1034) 1ballofeach Aqua1422 Chartreuse1822 CandyApple1083 Cream1005 Canary2004 3ballsof BabyBlue1034 1ballofeach Mellow1420 Canary2004 Cream1005 CandyApple1083 Orange2002 A pair of 5mm needles 5 buttons, 15mm diameter (per cushion) TENSION 13 sts and 18 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 40×40cm (15¾×l5¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists visit www.scheepjes.com OR YOU COULD TRY… 01925764231or 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…

CABLE CAST-ON METHOD Use it for a firm edge, and when adding stitches to your work THUMB CAST-ON METHOD A great all rounder, use it to cast on stitches quickly and easily KNIT Follow our simple steps to make the most important stitch you’ll learn PURL To make purl stitches, just reverse the action of plain knit stitches K2TOG Knit two stitches together to give a right-leaning decrease KFB Increase 1 stitch by knitting into the front and back of an existing stitch CAST OFF Finish off your knitting with this straightforward cast-off technique…

Kirstie McLeod Editor “A red and black striped jumper in a fluffy yarn, so I could be just like Dennis the Menace!” Rachael Prest Technical Editor “A simple cardi for my baby girl (now 13). It got thrown on the floor whilst being knitted, but I finished it. Sadly, she grew out of it after about a week!” Jennifer Bartlett Technical Editor “A jumper for my five year old. Not realising how important tension was, it didn’t fit him until he was eight! Jennifer May Production Assistant “A blue stocking stitch jumper in my aunt’s leftover aran. It was in a chunky pattern I had to adapt. Miraculously it fitted perfectly!”…

We know how much you all love puzzling because thousands of you enter our prize crossword and sudoku competitions every month. So we’ve teamed up with puzzle maker, Debbie Deitke, to create a summer pattern and puzzle extravaganza! Each pattern has been chosen as travel-friendly, making our book perfect for taking on your trips. Don’t forget to send us a photo if you find yourself knitting and puzzling this summer. Here’s to a season of quizzy stitches!…

LACE HEADBAND IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED King Cole Bamboo Cotton (DK, 50% bamboo, 50% cotton, 100g/230m) 1ballofIce(518) A pair of 4mm needles TENSION 24 sts and 40 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over zigzag lace pattern using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 54cm21in) 75cm3in ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine CHART BLUE HEADBAND ZIGZAG LACE PATTERN RSK6 k2tog, (yo, k2tog) four times, M1R, K2. WSK3 P9, K6. K5k2tog(yo, k2tog) four times, M1R, K3. K4P9K5. K4k2tog(yo, k2tog) four times,M1R, K4. K5P9K4. K3k2tog(yo, k2tog) four times, M1R, K5. K6P9K3. K2k2tog(yo, k2tog) four times, M1R, K6. K7P9K2. RSK2 M1L, skpo, (yo, skpo) four times, K6. K6P9K3. K3M1Lskpo, (yo, skpo) four times, K5. K5P9K4.…

CUDDLES IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft Special DK (100% acrylic, 100g/295m) 1 ball of each Mocha1064 Silver1203 Wisteria1432 Spearmint1842 StormBlue1722 PaleRose1080 Black1002 White1001 A pair of 3.25mm needles 2 stitch holders Toy stuffing TENSION 24 sts and 32 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over stocking stitch using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS 14cm (5½in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft on 01484 848435 or visit www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk CUDDLIES Notes For embroidery, tie a knot in the end of the yarn, begin at the back of the toy and push the needle between two stitches, through to the start position, pull the yarn so the knot is hidden…

LACE SCARF IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Orkney Angora St Magnus 50/50 DK (50% angora, 50% lambswool) 2 balls of Natural A pair of 6mm needles TENSION 20 sts to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over patt using 6mm needles MEASUREMENTS 20×106cm (8×41¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Orkney Angora on 01857 600240 or visit www.sheepdrift.com LACE SCARF Note Slip the very first stitch on every row as this will create a much neater edging on the finished lace scarf. 41stsfairlylooselyusing 6mm needles. Work3rowsingarter stitch. Beginpattern WSK3 purl to last 3 sts, K3. K3K1 k2tog, yo, K1, yo, skpo, K1; repeat from * to last 3 sts, K3. WorkthesameasRow 1. K3k2tog yo,…

PHONE COVER IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft Special DK (100% acrylic, 100g/295m) 1 ball of Gold (1709) A pair of 3.5mm needles A 3.5mm crochet hook A button TENSION 28 sts and 32 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 7.5×14cm ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft on 01484 848435 or www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk PHONE COVER 43stsusing35mm needles. RSK1 *K1, P1, K1, P1; rep from * to last 2 sts, K2. P1P1 K1, P1, K1; rep from * to last 2 sts, P2. Repeat these 2 rows once more. [4 rows of rib] RSK1 *P1, K3; rep from * to last 2 sts, P1, K1. P1K1…

A KNITTER'S GUIDE TO GLOVES by Angharad Thomas (£16.99, The Crowood Press) Keep your family’s hands warm this winter with ‘A Knitter’s Guide to Gloves’. Suitable for improvers, readers are walked though the key points of construction with step-by-step instructions and photos. Five full patterns are included for you to try, along with a chapter on design to teach you how to adapt and customise your glove, and outlining how to design from personal inspiration. KNITTING MENAGERIE by Sarah Keen (£16.99, GMC Publications) Author of ‘Knitted Wild Animals’, Sarah Keen is back with a collection of 30 easy-to-follow patterns for an eclectic array of international animals. The designs vary in complexity, ensuring that there’s something for every skill level to cast on and enjoy. Some of the cute critters include…

Introducing King Cole Prize DK yarn and its massive range of 32 shades – a wonderland of choice when it comes to creating your next project. This premium yarn is just £1.99 per 100g ball, making it accessible to all crafters. But that’s not all – there’s an added element of excitement to the launch of Prize DK. Hidden inside five balls is a Golden Ticket, which entitles you to £100 worth of Prize DK yarn! Imagine the possibilities of all that yarn added to your stash! For stockists call King Cole on 01756 703670. Competition terms and conditions at www.kingcole.com/content/2023/03/The-Golden-Ticket-TERMS-CONDITIONS.pdf…

YOUR KNITS Find this pattern in issue 233 ROAR-SOME I completed this for my dinosaur-mad grandaughter, Elsie, who is three years-old. Elsie picked the colours herself. Jane-Ann Castleton And what lovely shades she chose! They remind us of sherbet. FAMOUS FACES I read your magazine and wanted to show you the hat I made for the Farming Community Network. I designed mine with sheep around it. I thought the best person I could make it for would be Jeremy Clarkson, as everyone loves his ‘Clarkson's Farm' show, so I sent it to him a got a reply! Lauraine Wishart We'll have to keep an eye out to see if he wears your fab hat on TV. THRIFTY KNITS I love to support a local yarn store when I find one, but…

Every month, three subscribers win a prize as a thank you for their loyalty to Simply Knitting. This month, the winners (below) will each win a Caron Cakes yarn bundle, worth £38! Each 200g cake contains 350m of gorgeous yarn. J Mayall, Harpenden D Beasley, Daventry C Harrison, Littlehampton WORTH £38 OUR MEDIA LTD, 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.…

KID’S LADYBIRD DRESS EXCLUSIVE TO Simply Knitting EXCLUSIVE TO KNIT for kids aged 1-8 years! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED Sirdar Country Classic 4ply (50% wool, 50% acrylic, 50g/200m) A pair of 3mm needles A pair of 3.25mm needles A pair of 3.5mm needles (optional to maintain tension in colourwork) Locking stitch marker Stitch holder TENSION 28 sts and 38 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st-st using 3.25mm needles WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Sirdar at www.sirdar.com OR YOU COULD TRY… 01795570303or 07806627754or ABBREVIATIONS Knit1stitchusingYarn A (Yarn B) Purl1stitchusingYarn A (Yarn B) For a full list see page 87 KID'S LADYBIRD DRESS BODY 236246256: 266: 276) sts using 3mm circular needles and Yarn C. PMandjointowork in the round, taking care…

Joan's Wools and Crafts 5b-6b Village Walk, Onchan, Isle of Man IM3 4EA The place to be for a comprehensive range of fabrics, craft kits, knitting and sewing equipment and essential resources for all crafters. 01624 626009, www.facebook.com/joanswoolsandcrafts Bay Wool Crafts Shore Road, Whiting Bay, Isle of Arran KA27 8PX This top shop has a wide selection of wool, plus knitting, embroidery and crochet accessories, buttons, threads, ribbon and haberdashery. 01770 700481, www.baywoolcrafts.co.uk The Stitching Elmers 73-74 High Street, Ryde PO332S The Stitching Elmer's compact collection of top brand-name yarns will help to keep your hand in whilst on your travels around the UK. 01983 716380, www.stitchingelmers.com…

There's nothing more exciting than discovering a brand new yarn collection brimming with possibilities. Luckily, we're offering one winner a special summer yarn selection as a huge prize from yarn retailer and brand Hobbii so they can try some of their yarns for free! Hobbii.co.uk is a one-stpp shop for yarn lovers all around the world! They have a huge range of exciting new yarns at great prices - delivering all you might need for your next knitting project. Located in beautiful Copenhagen, Denmark, (where all their products are designed) your orders are packed and shipped directly to you. When you order you can expect smiling customer servic; products developed in-house at great prices; free patterns designed by their Scandinavian design team and easy and safe delivery. They allow returns…

EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED Paintbox Yarns 100% Wool Worsted Superwash (100% wool, 100g/200m) 1 ball of Dusty Lilac (1246) A pair of 4mm needles Zip, 20cm length Sewing thread Pins TENSION 22 sts and 37 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over the pattern using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS 10×20cm (4×8in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 PENCIL CASE Cast on 50 sts using 4mm needles. RSP1 *sl1, K2, psso 2 sts, K3, P1; rep from * to end of row. K1P4yo, P1, K1; rep from *to end of row. P1K3 sl1, K2, psso 2 sts, P1; rep from * to end of row. K1P1 yo, P4, K1; rep from * to end of row. Repthese4rowsuntil knitting measures 20cm. MAKING UP Weave in all…

Get set for summer! EXCLUSIVE TO Simply Knitting EXCLUSIVE TO IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft Special DK (100% acrylic, 100g/295m) 1 ball of each White1001 Sherbet1034 Apricot1026 Lavender1188 Toy1844 Fondant1241 SpringGreen1316 Lemon1020 Candyfloss1130 Walnut1054 A pair of 4mm needles Toy filling 35cm flat-backed wreath form Oddment of black yarn for embroidery 1cm wide pink polka dot ribbon, 50cm long Sewing thread and needle Cardboard for beach hut Glue for attaching items to wreath (optional) Hanging ribbon or string TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Wreath 35cm diameter (13¾in) Finished wreath cover 17cm wide × 85cm long (6¾×33½in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 WHERE TO…

TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED World of Wool Woolaby DK (80% superwash Merino wool, 20% bamboo, 50g/90m) 4 (4: 5) balls of LambWBY41 ball each of BillyWBY14 PuggleWBY13 A pair of 3.25mm needles A pair of 4mm needles A 4mm circular needle, 20cm long or DPNs for working in the round A set of 3.25 DPNs A 4mm crochet hook A 3mm crochet hook Stitch markers TENSION 26 sts and 34 rounds to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles 22 sts and 31 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS upto49cm19¼in) 47cm18in) 21cm8in) Newborn-3m6-9m1-2yrs) 355-4243-46 48-51)cm [14-16½ (17-18¼: 19-20)in] 41455 50)cm [16¼ (18: 193/4)in] Note The hat is designed to be loose fitting…

Q I’ve picked up my knitting after a long time away and I can’t make up my mind which way to continue knitting. For some reason, I stopped in the middle of a row and I’m not sure which direction I’m meant to be working in now! Could you help me to get started again? Jocelyn Verney, Armagh First of all, don’t panic! It’s a common occurrence especially if you’re like us and prefer to have a few projects ticking along at the same time. Take a look at your piece of knitting – the yarn that is connected to the ball or skein you’re using should be hanging from the last stitch you worked all that time ago! If you’re right-handed, make sure that stitch is on the knitting…

BUSY HANDS Q Do you prefer to work on one project at a time, or do you always have a few on the go? Precious Stephens, via email I usually work on one collection at a time, so will be putting together a moodboard, swatching and sketching. The next step is to work out the specs for each design in the collection! Debbie Debbie's Top Tip With Swiss darning, the most important thing is to make sure that the yarn you are using is the same weight as the original yarn that you are covering. This ensures it is the correct width to cover the stitch below. Be sure to use a blunt needle so you don’t split the stitches. TOP TEXTURE Q What is your longest Work In Progress?…

KITCHENER STITCH The best way to graft your sock toes together DUPLICATE STITCH/SWISS DARNING CHAIN STITCH Perfect for hanging loops ABBREVIATIONS AND USEFUL INFO…

EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED MillaMia Naturally Soft Merino (sport, 100% wool, 50g/125m) 1 ball in Haze Grey (107) Apairof3.75mm needles Tapestry needle 45cm length of 1cm wide ribbon Dried lavender TENSION 12 sts and 19 rows to measure 5×5cm (2×2in) over main pattern using 3.75mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 MEASUREMENTS 10cm wide × 12cm deep (4×43/4in), laid flat without the drawstrings closed WHERE TO BUY □ To buy call LoveCrafts on 01409 404010 or visit www.lovecrafts.com STITCH of the month LAVENDER SACHET BAG 25stsusing375mm needles. RSKnit WSPurl K1P1 rep from * to last st, K1. Purl Rows1to4make up the pattern. RepeatRows1to4 until the work measures approximately 26cm Knit purlwiseandfastenoff leaving a long tail for sewing up. MAKING…

SUMMER TOP IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Cascade 220 (aran, 100% wool, 100g/200m) A pair of 5mm needles Stitch holders TENSION 18 sts and 34 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over double garter st (rested and unstretched - see note) using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine SUMMER TOP Note Leave knitting to rest before measuring so that the single and double garter stitch close up. BACK 8493102 sts using 5mm needles. WSKnitto end. Knittoend K252831), purl to end. P596571), knit to end. These4rowsformthe double garter st with single garter st and are repeated. WorkinpattuntilBack measures 35 (37:39)cm from cast-on edge, ending with a Row 3. SHAPE ARMHOLES 121314 sts knitwise at beg of next 2…

PASSPORT COVER IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Cascade Ultra Pima (100% cotton, 100g/200m) 1skeinofeach Buttercup3748 Lavender3778 A pair of 3mm needles A pair of 3.25mm needles 8mm wide elastic, 50cm length Button TENSION 24 sts and 30 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over sl st patt using 3.25mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists visit Cascade at www.cascadeyarns.com PASSPORT COVER Note Slip all sts purlwise with yarn on wrong side of work. 51stsusing325mm needles and Yarn B. Sl1K2 to end of row. Row2Purl ChangetoYarnA Row3K2 sl1) to end of row. Row4Purl Rows1to4form patt. RepRows1to4, alternating colours as set, until work measures 11.5cm, ending with Row 2 of pattern. LOWER AND…

STRING BAG IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Cascade Ultra Pima (100% cotton, 100g/200m) 1 skein of each Sprout3740 Chartreuse3746 Buttercup3748 A Pair of 3.25mm needles TENSION 21 sts and 28 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS 34×34cm (13½x13½in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists visit Cascade at www.cascadeyarns.com SUMMER BAG FRONT AND BACK (MAKE 2 THE SAME) 72stsusing325mm needles and Yarn A. Knit Purl K1K1 yfwd, k2tog; rep from * to last 2 sts, K2. P1P2 K1; rep from * to last 2 sts, P2. K1K1 k2tog, yfwd; rep from * to last 2 sts, K2. P2K1 P2; rep from * to last…

HOW TO COMPLETE THE WORD SQUARE Work out the jumbled up knitty anagram in the box above. notes HOW TO COMPLETE THE CRYPTOGRAM Crack the code and work out the knitting quotes! TIFKKFIQ FL Y SHYCK KEYK CNHGAGH ZFITL DL KN NDH QHYIPWNKEGHL YIP QHGYK-QHYIPWNKEGHL. - W.Z XDSEWYI Clue: K=T SJD YAQC FQBTD GJDXD JYNMDGYXW TYEDM ZDOYXD WAUSSUAK UM UA SJD RUTSUYABXC. - EBXC WNXSL Clue: U=I Solutions on page 43…