Indholdsfortegnelse for November 2023 i Simply Knitting

Luxe for LESS With FREE pattern…

Inspired by Shetland and Nordic Fair Isle design, Martin invites you to embark on a festive journey this winter. The Midwinter knit-a-long is a beautiful heirloom blanket created using Rowan Felted Tweed. There are two versions of Midwinter Blanket – a multicoloured version featuring colourways Festive and Garland, and a two-colour version available in Mulled Wine or Wintry. Patterns are free and started being released weekly on the 17 August 2023. The last instalment is on 28 September. Visit the Rowan website to catch up today! Free pattern PDFs available from www.knitrowan.com start a new KAL…

We all love a new tool for our knitting kit, and who can resist when it's as beautiful as this one!? Keep track of your knitting or crochet work with KnitPro's hypoallergenic stainless steel ring row-counter in a rainbow-hued metallic finish. Not only is it a fabulously useful tool but it's so pretty you'll want to keep looking at it, which means not missing the chance to chalk up another row – result! Pop one in your knitting bag this month. KnitPro Rainbow Row Counter £20, www.knitproneedles.co.uk…

At Christmas I knitted Queen Elizabeths for my daughter Laura and my daughter-in-law Claire and you very kindly published my photo of them with their Queenies. At the time I said I should find a pattern to knit a corgi which I managed to do, and have since knitted corgis to go with the Queens that I have knitted, including one for myself for my 70th birthday. Each corgi has a collar to match the colour of the Queen's outfit. My Porgi and Bess sit on the windowsill looking out onto the world and they bring a smile to people as they walk by. Suzie Brewer We hope you had a brilliant 70th birthday! Pattern by knittingbypost on Etsy…

“WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE STITCH OR TECHNIQUE?” I love stranded colorwork. Watching the colours build into a pattern is addictive. Kate Delp Gray I love aran. Sylvia Whelehan Aran is beautiful! I also like fisherman's rib. Kathryn Anderson Double rib is always effective. Garter stitch for baby knitting gives a lovely chunky appearance. Bev Dickey I love eyelets! Tina Lever Moss stitch. So simple but a lovely texture. Ann Cooper I like colourwork, something bright and cheerful. @goldenhazefs…

READER PRIZES THE BIG GIVEAWAY WOW YARN AND PATTERN BOOK BUNDLE! Rico Design delivers a world of exciting yarns to your fingertips – from pastels to brights, fluffy to smooth, plain to variegated with so much more in between. Many of the yarns in the Rico range are truly unique and designed to fire up your imaginations, every single day. This issue Simply Knitting have paired up with Rico to offer you a gorgeous prize consisting of both patterns and yarns to one lucky reader. If you're pulled out of the hat you'll win the chance to knit a Rico jumper, cardi, scarf, hat and more. Or, you could cast on your own fabulous design! www.rico-design.de/en/home/ WHAT YOU COULD WIN! One lucky winner will get this bumper prize of Rico…

Knit a FESTIVE HEIRLOOM IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each (some colours only require oddments of yarn) Yarn A Ladybird (0698) Yarn B Biscuit (0963) Yarn C White (0961) Yarn D Emerald (0916) Yarn E Royal (0979) Yarn F Walnut (0927) Yarn G Sunflower (0978) Yarn H Oatmeal (0964) □ A pair of 3.5mm needles □ A pair of 3.5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) □ Toy filling, 200g bag □ A stitch holder □ For Santa's eyes, two 3mm black beads and small circles of white felt fabric for backing, sewing needle and black thread □ For Santa's mouth, 30cm of black embroidery thread □ For each reindeer's eyes, two 5mm black beads □ Three 10mm pet collar/craft bells…

MEN'S CARDIGAN SOFT WOOL MIX TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ Rico Essentials Mega Wool Chunky (55% wool, 45% acrylic, 100g/125m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 4.5mm needles □ A pair of 5mm needles □ A pair of 6mm needles □ A cable needle □ A stitch holder □ 8 buttons from Duttons for Buttons (call 01423 502092 or email harrogate@duttonforbuttons.co.uk) TENSION 14 sts and 19 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles Zigzag panel measures approx 10cm in width not stretched using 6mm needles ABBREVIATIONS M1K(P) Pick up and knit (purl) into back of horizontal strand lying before next st Tw2 Slip next st knitways, K1, pass slipped st over st just knitted and K into…

PAPER CHAINS SUPER Stashbuster EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED □ DK yarn from your stash 10g of each strand shade: Mix of 3 dark blue DK strands Mix of 3 orange DK strands Mix of 3 green DK strands Mix of 3 light blue DK strands Mix of 3 yellow DK strands Mix of 3 pink/red DK strands Mix of 3 blue/green DK strands Mix of 3 purple DK strands Note Shade colours provided are only a guide, the idea with this project is to combine 3 DK yarns together to form a ‘chunky’ yarn and vary shades as you work each ring. □ A set of four 7mm doublepointed needles (DPNs) TENSION Achieveing accurate tension is not necessry for this project MEASUREMENTS Each chain measures approx 9cm (31/2in) diameter…

WIN knitting goodies worth over £304! 1 TIME FOR TEA TeaCosyFolk has created these Terry's Chocolate Orange cosies – 12 stunning designs in this bright and colourful A4 wall calendar for 2024. The calendar is professionally printed on glossy paper and each calendar page includes the full knitting pattern to knit that month's cosy, with Youtube videos for the trickier cosies! Links and QR codes to the how-to videos are included. The patterns are knitted on 4mm straight knitting needles with Stylecraft Special DK yarn, and each cosy fits a Terry's Chocolate Orange – win, win! There are five calendars to win, worth £15 each. www.teacosyfolk.co.uk 2 SWEET SHADES In ‘Colourful Baby Crochet’ (CICO Books, £14.99), expert crafter Laura Strutt shows you how to make 35 rainbow-coloured projects that will be enjoyed…

KNIT in sizes 4 to 26! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED ■ West Yorkshire Spinners Elements (DK, 60% Lyocell, 40% Falkland Islands wool, 50g/112m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ■ A pair of 4mm needles ■ A set of 3.25mm circular needles ■ 7 buttons, 15mm diameter TENSION 22 sts and 26 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 4 mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 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 ■ Weft Blown 07930 657900 or www.weftblown.com QUICK SCAN… FOR LACE BLOCKING Scan this QR code with your phone, tablet camera or via a QR code reader app.…

SCAN HERE… FOR TIPS AND TUTORIALS! Scan this QR code with your phone or tablet camera or via a QR code reader app. 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…

EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED ■ King Cole Luxury Merino DK (100% Merino wool, 140m/50g) 1 ball of Mustard (2624) ■ A pair of 4mm needles ■ A pair of 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ■ 1 button, 2cm diameter TENSION 18 sts and 34 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over main pattern using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 MEASUREMENTS 20×7cm (8×2¾in) without button loop WHERE TO BUY ■ For yarn stockists contact King Cole on 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com OR YOU COULD TRY… ■ Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 or www.woolwarehouse.co.uk ■ SMD Knitting 0800 622 6225 or www.knittingwool.com SCAN HERE… FOR MUG COSY IDEAS! Scan this QR code with your phone or tablet camera or via a QR code reader app. MUG COSY COSY…

PENGUIN DECORATION USE YOUR YARN kit! EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED □ Patons Baby Smiles Fairytale Fab 4 Ply (100% acrylic, 50g/184m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Sundance (01022) Yarn B Black (01099) Yarn C White (01001) Yarn D Red (01030) □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ Toy filling □ Black embroidery thread 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 in Simply Knitting magazine WHERE TO BUY □ Find Patons yarns at www.yarnspirations.com PENGUIN DECORATION BODY Cast on 9 sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn B. Start at the base. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (RS) K1, (kfb) 8 times. [17 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 K1, (kfb,…

MINI STOCKING IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ 4ply yarn in small amounts from your stash Yarn A Red Yarn B Cream □ A set of 2.75mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) □ A 3mm crochet hook □ A tapestry needle TENSION 28 sts and 34 rounds to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 2.75mm needles (exact tension is not critical for this pattern) MEASUREMENTS Approx 18cm long (7in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine 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. MINI STOCKING Cast on 36 sts using 2.75mm needles and Yarn A. Join…

HOW TO MAKE… FELT MISTLETOE YOU WILL NEED ■ Sheet of green felt ■ Permanent marker or fabric pencil ■ Pearl embellishments ■ Hot glue or fabric glue ■ Ribbon of your choice ■ Iron-on fabric stabiliser (optional) How much would we love to have a house packed full of beautiful evergreens come Christmas time? We'd have halls decked with holly and ivy – and a bunch of mistletoe in every doorway, of course. But for now we're happy to settle for this adorable felt version – it won't wilt on us, and can be reused year after year. Pucker up, folks! 01 If you'd like your felt to be more structured, you can use iron-on fabric stabiliser on the wrong side of the felt. This will stiffen the fabric…

DECORATIONS TREE TOPPER HOW TO MAKE… A FELT FAIRY TREE TOPPER + FOX YOU WILL NEED ■ Felt in turquoise, white, yellow, beige and brown ■ Buttons ■ Toy stuffing ■ Embroidery thread in brown, black, red, pink, white and yellow ■ Embroidery needle ■ Pink pencil ■ Pipe cleaners ■ Scissors ■ Pinking/ scalloped shears (optional) How early do you put your tree up? There's a bit of debate at Craft for Christmas HQ as to when's the ideal time (“I'm going for wait until December,” says Charlie – Editor), but we all agree that you need plenty of kitsch, colourful decorations to adorn it with. This cute doll – complete with her own star glove and fox mascot – would look great atop a mini tree on a…

DECORATIONS AMIGURUMI HOW TO MAKE… CROCHET TREE DECORATIONS YOU WILL NEED ■ Rico Creative Cotton Aran, 100% cotton, 50g/85m per ball, one ball each in White (80) (Yarn A), Light Green (40) (Yarn B) and Red (05) (Yarn C) ■ Twilley's Goldfingering, 80% viscose/20% polyester, 25g/100m per ball, one ball in Gold (002) (Yarn D) ■ Small amount of DK yarn in grey (Yarn E) ■ Black embroidery thread ■ Soft toy stuffing ■ 3mm (UK 10, US D/3) crochet hook ■ 4mm (UK 8, US G/6) crochet hook ■ T apestr y needle ■ Six black safety eyes, 1cm (3/8 “) wide ■ Stitch marker TENSION Tension is not important for this project, but your stitches do need to be tight so no stuffing shows through. To avoid this,…

ADVENT + STOCKINGS YARN STOCKING HOW TO MAKE… A TEXTURED YARN STOCKING YOU WILL NEED ■ Anchor Metallic Fine, 65% viscose 35% polyester, 250m per 25g, Gold (0300) (Yarn A) ■ Cygnet Chunky, 100% acrylic, 156m per 100g, one ball in Emerald (377) (Yarn B) ■ Cygnet Chunky, 100% acrylic, 156m per 100g, one ball in Blushberry (766) (Yarn C) ■ Cygnet Chunky, 100% acrylic, 156m per 100g, one ball in Red (167) (Yarn D) ■ Cygnet Chunky, 100% acrylic, 156m per 100g, one ball in Sorbet (539) (Yarn E) ■ Cygnet Chunky, 100% acrylic, 156m per 100g, one ball in Cream (259) (Yarn F) ■ Cygnet Chunky, 100% acrylic, 156m per 100g, one ball in Gold (686) (Yarn F) ■ 50 x 50cm (19¾ x 19¾”) monk's cloth ■…

PIN UP…

HOW TO MAKE… AN EMBELLISHED FABRIC STOCKING YOU WILL NEED ■ 50cm (19¾”) white felt ■ Wool roving in dark pink, light pink, green, blue and turquoise ■ Selection of trimmings, including ribbons, pom-pom trim and ric-rac ■ Pink sewing thread ■ Embroidery thread in gold, light green, dark pink and turquoise ■ Crochet yarn in fuchsia, light pink, dark blue, light blue, turquoise and light green ■ Crystal gems (we used Swarovski sew-on crystals) ■ A6 piece of card ■ Embroidery needle ■ Yarn needle ■ Felting needle ■ Felting mat Pom poms, tassels and bling – these are a few of our favourite things. And, they've all been incorporated into one jewelcoloured, texture-filled, yarn-tastic tactile stocking. Using a range of techniques, from felting to embroidery, this project is…

HOW TO MAKE… A CHRISTMAS SWEATSHIRT YOU WILL NEED ■ Selection of iron-on vinyls including glitter, flock, fluorescent and holographic finishes (ours were from www.happyfabric.co.uk) ■ Greaseproof paper ■ Coins ■ Plain sweatshirt Ready to embrace the Christmas jumper season? We're easing ourselves in with this playful confetti-spangled sweatshirt. Grab a plain top, or jumper, and prepare to get excited about ironing, because iron-on vinyl is a game changer when it comes to customising. Unbelievably easy to use (not to mention super-easy to cut into shapes), it allows you to get creative and go as crazy as you like with glittery shapes and layering. Enjoy! 01 When using an iron to fix vinyl, it's better to use a really solid surface rather than an ironing board, so place a thick…

HOW TO MAKE… A GINGERBREAD CAKE AND CLAY TOPPERS YOU WILL NEED ■ Polymer clay in mint, turquoise, green, white and gold colours (we used Fimo) ■ Christmas tree-shaped biscuit cutters in various sizes ■ Craft knife ■ Rolling pin ■ Wooden skewers ■ Baking tray ■ Baking paper ■ Craft glue INGREDIENTS FOR THE CAKE ■ 190g (6½oz) plain flour ■ 1½ tsp baking powder ■ ½ tsp salt ■ 1 tsp ground ginger ■ 1 tsp ground cinnamon ■ ½ tsp ground cloves ■ 115g (4½oz) unsalted butter ■ 100g (4oz) granulated sugar ■ 75g (2½oz) dark brown sugar ■ 125ml (4 fl oz) treacle ■ 1 tsp vanilla extract ■ 125ml (4 fl oz) buttermilk ■ 2 large eggs FOR THE FROSTING ■ 225g (8oz) unsalted butter…

HOW TO MAKE… HANDMADE GIFT WRAP YOU WILL NEED ■ Wrapping paper ■ Sticky tape ■ Washi tape ■ Velvet ribbon FOR THE CONFETTI PARCEL ■ Sheets of colourful paper ■ Circle hole punch ■ Cellophane FOR THE POM POM PARCEL ■ Wool roving ■ Washing-up liquid ■ Glue FOR THE PAPERCUT PARCEL ■ Patterned wrapping paper ■ Craft knife ■ Cutting mat Once the Christmas shopping, making or baking is done, it's time to unleash your inner paper artist. Playing with colour combos, pattern vs texture and all the ribbons, that's the kind of wrapping we're here for. These three ideas will inspire you to ramp up the fun factor for this year's Christmas gifts, and you can go wild raiding your paper and trimmings stash to come up…

GIFTS + WRAPPING MITTENS HOW TO MAKE… KNITTED PENGUIN MITTENS YOU WILL NEED ■ Sublime Superfine Alpaca DK, 100% alpaca, 50g/120m per ball, one ball each in Soft Grey (433) (Yarn A), Tusk (430) (Yarn B) and Flannel (434) (Yarn C) ■ Drops Fabel 4 ply, 25% polyamide/75% wool, 50g/205m per ball, small amount in Mustard (111) (Yarn D) ■ 3.25mm (UK 10, US 3) circular knitting needles ■ 4mm (UK 8, US 6) circular knitting needles ■ 4mm (UK 8, US 6) doublepointed needles ■ Scrap yarn ■ Stitch markers ■ Tapestry needle TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm (4”) over stocking stitch on 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS st(s) stitch(es) k knit p purl M1R make one right, pick up the bar between the sts on the right…

FAIRY TREE TOPPER BY PALOMA ROCHA PAGE 29 Photocopy at 133% BABY VEST UPDATE BY KIRSTY HARTLEY PAGE 112 Photocopy at 133% Thank you for making this project from Animal Friends. The copyright for these templates belongs to the originators of the project. They work hard to create projects for you to make and love, so please don't re-sell or distribute their work without permission. We don't mind if you make a copy for a friend but please do not make any part of the templates or instructions available to others through your website or a third party website, or copy it multiple times without our permission. Please pass on this information if you make a copy for a friend. Copyright law protects creative work and unauthorised copying is illegal.…

KNIT A MINI OCEAN by Sachiyo Ishii (£7.99, Search Press) Knit 20 tiny, adorable sea creatures! Choose from a shoal of ocean favourites, including sharks, dolphins and orca, as well as dazzling blue tangs, colourful clown fish and even a few mischievous mermaids. The sizes range between 3 and 12cm, so these sweet little projects are perfect for using up your yarn stash. Complete with step-by-step sewing-up, stuffing and embroidery techniques. THE NEW KNITTING STITCH DICTIONARY by Lydia Klös (£21.99, Stackpole Books) Within this book's pages, you will find 500 innovative stitch patterns to inspire your designs. The stitches are helpfully divided into sections to make it easier to find what you are looking for – whether it's texture, lace, cables, bobbles, lifted stitches, Fair Isle or intarsia. This stitch…

merry makes Chunky variegated kid's jumper Part of a two-pattern offering from Stylecraft is this quick-to-knit sweater in festive shades. £3.50 for 2 patterns, www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk Chunky stocking A riot of Christmas colour brings festivities to your hearths and hearts with this quick knit. £3.50, www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk Kid's cable hoody This cosy hoodie in a bold scarlet is from the same pattern as the jumper knit above £3.50 for 2 patterns, www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk…

GET the LOOK Page 16 TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED □ Paintbox Yarns 100% Wool Worsted Superwash (100% wool, 100g/200m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A pair of 4mm needles □ A pair of 4.5mm needles □ Yarn bobbins (optional) □ Stitch holders, waste yarn or spare circular needles TENSION 21 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 4.5mm needles. ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 89 WHERE TO BUY □ LoveCrafts on 01409 404 010 or www.lovecrafts.com For more FESTIVE PROJECTS visit www.gathered.how SHOP SMART SHOP LOCAL! Turn to Page 78 CHRISTMAS ROBIN JUMPER FRONT Cast on 94 (104: 114: 126: 136: 146: 156) sts using 4mm needles and Yarn B. Row 1 (K1, P1) to end. Row 2…

CREATIVE PLAY I was inspired to create your exciting Teddy Bears’ Picnic using my stash. If only I could have captured my granddaughter's enthusiasm when she was given it! ■ Sue Hill JUST IN TIME Our local choir concert on July 15 had a theme of ‘A Teddy Bears’ Picnic’ so your pattern was very timely. I made it for the event and then the MD had the set for his family. ■ Glynis Smith A BEAR-Y GOOD TIME I enjoyed making this even though I have no one to give it to. I'm looking forward to making Amanda Berry's piratethemed Playset from issue 240 of Simply Knitting next. ■ Rhoda Dick…

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 this nine-ball Scheepjes Colour Crafter yarn bundle! Perfect for topping up your stash with bright new colours. Happy knitting! R Sumner, Mold J Cubberley, Paignton S Kerr, Newtownards WORTH £24.95 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.…

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…

FAIR ISLE KIDS’ JUMPER FOR AGES 2-11! YOU WILL NEED □ King Cole Merino Blend DK (100% superwash wool, 50g/104m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table □ A set of 3.25mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) or circular needle, 60cm long if using the magic loop technique □ A set of 4mm DPNs (optional) for neck □ 4mm circular needle, 60cm long □ A set of 4mm DPNs □ Stitch markers □ Stitch holders TENSION 22 sts and 29 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact King Cole on 01756 703670 or www.kingcole.com OR YOU COULD TRY… □ Little Wool Shop 01495 239416 or www.littlewoolshop.com □ LoveCrafts 01409 404010 or…

GET INSPIRED Terrific trauma teddies Staff and customers at Brio Retirement Living's Landale Court in Chapelton have been knitting trauma teddies for youngsters Fourteen teddies have already been handcrafted by the talented knitters, with their efforts being sent to local charity The Haven to give to young children to calm and distract them from their traumatic situations. SUPPORTING THEIR COMMUNITY Sandra Farquhar, receptionist at Landale Court, shared, “Our team heard about the trauma teddies project and were keen to help The Haven in their quest to recruit more knitters in the area. We have a number of keen knitters and the the young children facing traumatic times of late. We're already on our next batch and hope to encourage our neighbours in the community to join us.” COPYRIGHT-FREE CHARITY PATTERN…

TURN to page 46 for more charity stories! Charity of the MONTH Each issue we find out more about one of the good causes you could help out with your knitting… Zena Hawkins, Retail Supervisor Charity The Donkey Sanctuary Established 1969 What do you do? We are the largest equine welfare charity in the world, with around 6,000 donkeys and mules in our care across the UK and Europe. Founded in 1969 by Dr Elisabeth Svendsen, The Donkey Sanctuary has grown from a charity rescuing UK donkeys from neglect and abuse, to an international welfare organisation transforming the lives of millions of donkeys and mules, and the people who depend on them for a living. The Donkey Sanctuary are the world experts on ‘all things donkey’ and our experience over the last 54…

PUZZLES FOR THE CHANCE TO WIN SOME GREAT GIVEAWAYS, turn to page 67 CHILL OUT WITH A CROSSWORD ACROSS 1 Findings (7) 5 Throat pastille (7) 9 Female fox (5) 10 Decorate fabric with needlework (9) 11 Fire residue (3) 12 Wet and soft (5) 13 Devoted (5) 14 Scare (5) 16 Powerful (6) 18 Highest point of a mountain (6) 19 Foe (5) 22 French college (5) 24 Colloquial language (5) 26 Move soil with a spade (3) 27 Professional building designer (9) 29 Goodbye (5) 30 Examine in detail (7) 31 Admire (7) DOWN 1 Uncovers (7) 2 Final two years of education (5,4) 3 Vital organs (5) 4 Snow vehicle (6) 5 Hotel foyer (5) 6 Animal attraction (3) 7 Big Ears’ friend? (5) 8 Noise-reducing aid (7)…

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 Amanda Berry Toy Designer What Simply Knitting contributor, Amanda, doesn't know about knitting toys isn't worth knowing! 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 Susan Cowper Designer Owner of www.teacosyfolk.co.uk, Susan creates cute cosy patterns for Simply Knitting and her website. QUESTION OF THE MONTH KNITTING WITH MERINO Q What is the best Merino yarn? @ Mary Baker Most brands (from big names to independent businesses) produce at least one Merino yarn. This popular fibre…

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

ISSUE 242 SEPTEMBER ✽ V-neck tank top ✽ Fair Isle beanie ✽ Kids’ monkey jumper ✽ Men's roll-neck jumper ✽ Mosaic stitch cushion cover ✽ Remembrance soldier ✽ Boot toppers Eyelet cardigan ✽ Advent calendar KAL (part 1)✽ Squishy turtle✽ PLUS! Black Sheep Wools pattern book BUY IT NOW! RETURN TO THE APP TO BUY BACK ISSUES ISSUE 241 SEPTEMBER ✽ Fair Isle jumper ✽ Fingerless chevron gloves ✽ Forever Friends™ kids’ jumper ✽ Men's cable tank top ✽ Loop-stitch sheep cushion ✽ Boo the ghost decoration ✽ Crew-neck jumper ✽ Monster romper suit ✽ Birdhouse bunting ✽ Shire horse toy ✽ Angler fish tea cosy PLUS! Home designs booklet ISSUE 240 AUGUST ✽ Lace tunic ✽ Garden chair cushion ✽ Kids’ star jumper ✽ On the bias scarf ✽…

K2TOG KNIT TWO STITCHES TOGETHER…

DECORATIONS REINDEER HOW TO MAKE… A REINDEER DECORATION YOU WILL NEED ■ Felt (in beige, light brown, dark brown, pink and blue) ■ Embroidery thread (in black, brown, turquoise, pink and gold) ■ Small orange pom pom trim ■ Turquoise yarn ■ Toy stuffing ■ Fabric glue ■ Pins 01 Cut out the deer shapes using the templates on page 146. 02 Pin the head gusset to one body piece, matching the marked ends. Sew using whipstitch, starting at the nose, then repeat to add the second body piece to the other side of the head gusset. 03 Mark the leg darts on the underside. Fold one leg under, along the marked line, then sew along the leg dart, through the two layers to make the leg ‘stand’. Repeat for…

DECORATIONS YARN BAUBLES HOW TO MAKE… SPARKLY CROCHET BAUBLES YOU WILL NEED ■ Rico Creative Cotton Aran, 100% cotton, 85m/93yd per 50g, one ball in each White (80) (Yarn A), Rose (00) (Yarn B), Light Blue (32) (Yarn C) and Silver Grey (22) (Yarn D) ■ Twilley's Goldfingering, 80% viscose/20% polyester, 99m/108yd per 25g ball, one ball in Gold (002) (Yarn E) ■ 4mm (UK 8, US G/6) crochet hook ■ Three polystyrene balls, 7.5cm (3”) diameter, 23.5cm (9¼”) circumference ■ Tapestry needle TENSION Tension is not important for this project, but do check each hemisphere against the polystyrene ball as you work ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) ch chain ch-sp(s) chain space(s) ss slip stitch tr treble crochet htr half treble crochet dtr double treble crochet yrh yarn round hook…

DECORATIONS FELT ANIMALS HOW TO MAKE… FELT ANIMAL DECORATIONS YOU WILL NEED ■ Soft toy filling ■ Toy safety eyes, 8mm (1/8”) ■ Sewing needle ■ Matching sewing thread ■ Embroidery needle ■ Black embroidery thread ■ Thread for hanging ■ Fabric glue ■ Erasable fabric marker ■ Pink colouring pencil FOR THE PENGUIN ■ Black, white, red and orange felt FOR THE BEAR ■ White, black and blue felt FOR THE REINDEER ■ Dark brown, light brown, beige and black felt The only stocking filler cuter than these felt animals would be a tiny fluffy kitten – fact. Soft, squishy, and with the sweetest faces, you can hang them around your home, use them to decorate the Christmas tree, or use the as 3D tags on your wrapped gifts.…

ADVENT + STOCKINGS KITSCH STOCKING HOW TO MAKE… A FELT STOCKING YOU WILL NEED ■ Pink wool felt ■ Blue wool felt ■ Pink mini pom poms, 8mm (3/8”) ■ Embroidery thread (we used DMC Stranded Cotton, one skein in Blanc, three skeins each in 3706, 3846 and 3844, and eight skeins in 3805) ■ Tapestry needle ■ Matching sewing thread ■ Silver sequins ■ Pinking shears ■ Erasable fabric marker ■ Pom pom maker, 3.5cm (13/8”) ■ Card, 15 × 10cm (6 × 4”) If there was a prize for best decorated stocking, this would win hands down. Adorned with sequins, tassels and pom poms, we can totally imagine Barbie hanging a mini version on her bedpost, so we're sure any sparkle-loving little (or big) girl will go crazy…

ADVENT + STOCKINGS OWL STOCKING HOW TO MAKE… A FABRIC STOCKING WITH OWL MASCOT YOU WILL NEED FOR THE STOCKING ■ Red and white striped cotton fabric, 0.5m (½yrd) ■ Fleece fabric, 0.5m (½yrd) ■ Cotton tape, 6cm (23/8”) ■ Red embroidery thread ■ Ribbon, 16cm (63/8”), 1cm (3/8”) wide ■ Piping, 40cm (15¾”), 3mm (1/8”) thick FOR THE OWL ■ Mint felt ■ White felt ■ Red felt ■ Small piece white fur/fleece fabric ■ Small piece of patterned fabric ■ Dark grey, blue and yellow embroidery threads ■ Matching sewing threads ■ Toy stuffing 07 Top stitch the hole closed and then push the lining back inside the stocking. What were your Christmas traditions growing up? Charades in front of the fire, some sherry for Santa (AKA granddad)…

DINING + HOSTING BOTANICAL TABLE HOW TO MAKE… A BOTANICAL-INSPIRED TABLESCAPE YOU WILL NEED FOR THE TABLECLOTH ■ Three avocados ■ Linen tablecloth ■ Large saucepan FOR THE NAPKINS ■ P otato ■ Mustard yellow fabric paint ■ Napkins FOR THE PLATES ■ Posca paint pen in blue and gold ■ Plain plates FOR THE BAUBLES ■ Fillable baubles (ours were from www.hobbycraft.co.uk) ■ Foliage sprigs ■ Gold glitter Special doesn't always have to mean fancy. This year, instead of dusting off the best china, we're embracing botanical vibes and a warm, gentle colour palette for a relaxed take on Christmas feasting. Think sprigs of greenery, natural dyeing and hand-drawn leafy details. Forget fast-paced festivities – slow down and simplify the season, taking time out for a lazy avocado brunch…

HOW TO MAKE… HANDMADE CRACKER FILLERS YOU WILL NEED WINE CHARMS ■ Four medium-sized wooden beads ■ Four small wooden beads ■ Acrylic paint ■ Embroidery thread ■ Ruler ■ Baking tray GINGERBREAD HOUSE ERASERS ■ White oil-based marker pen ■ Eraser clay in brown, blue and pink KEYRINGS ■ White faux leather ■ Acrylic paints ■ Masking tape ■ Four D-shaped keyring findings ■ Strong craft glue INGREDIENTS Treats (makes 25) ■ 200g (7oz) ground almonds ■ 200g (7oz) caster sugar ■ 1 egg ■ Almond essence ■ 300g (10½oz) white chocolate ■ Macadamia nuts ■ Edible gold and pink glitter ■ Freeze dried strawberry pieces ■ Parchment paper ■ Baker's twine Take Christmas dinner up a notch this year and wow family and guests with homemade crackers at…

GIFTS + WRAPPING PAPERCUT DOME HOW TO MAKE… A WOODLAND PAPERCUT DISPLAY DOME YOU WILL NEED ■ Six sheets of A4 white paper, 120gsm ■ One sheet of blush pink card ■ One sheet of A4 metallic card ■ Double-sided tape ■ Cutting mat ■ Scalpel and blades ■ Pencil ■ Glass dome, approx. 30cm (117/8”) high. We used a Large Bevin Beech Based Glass Dome from www.rowanandwren.co.uk Glass domed bell jars are our top pick for showing off precious treasures and collectables, and we can't think of a better piece to draw attention to than this festive woodland papercut. Whether set up on a sideboard, or taking centre stage on your dining table (move over, turkey!), it's guaranteed to be a talking point on Christmas Day. If you've never…

YOUR KNITS BUTTON IT UP I thought you'd like to see the cardi I knitted from issue 237. I used a raspberry colour with swirly pink and white buttons but didn't realise I required seven! Never mind, a trip back to my supplier for one more… Carolyn Pearce Oh no! At least it was a good excuse to buy some more than yarn while you were there. SK SUPERFAN I've attached a couple of photos of items I've made recently from Simply Knitting. The first is modelled by my granddaughter who loves her striped Rowan jumper. The second is one (Verona) that I concheted from the Rowan supplement booklet I received with my magazines subscription. Sue Rouncefield We're so happy you like our patterns!…

A ROYAL WINDOW I am a volunteer with Alzheimer's Scotland and we were discussing what we could do with our window to celebrate the King's Coronation. We have a knitting group and I started to research knitting patterns. I found the King Tea Cosy from a tea cosy group which I knitted. I also found a golden carriage and a wreath. All these things were incorporated in a joint display of tea at the palace. £25 GIFT CARD Val Reid Your display looks fantastic Our letter writer wins a fab gift voucher from retailer Black Sheep Wools worth £25!…

I really wanted to share the blanket I made using a 10 stitch count and the best wool I've ever found from The Range – Divine Giant Soft Touch. I used three different colours, Dove, Daisy and Peachy. I think I used four balls of wool for this project. In the picture it is covering a king-size bed! But the best part is how soft it is! Naomi Dickens Oh, we wish we were snuggled up under your supersoft blanket, it looks so cosy.…

FAIRY LIGHT NECKLACE QUICK AND easy! EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED □ Cygnet DK (100% acrylic, 100g/298m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Daffodil (0145) Yarn B Red (1206) Yarn C Bright Lime (6869) Yarn D Lupin (0235) Yarn E Black (0217) □ Yarnsmiths Create Chunky, Black (5000), or cord, 70cm □ A pair of 3.25mm needles □ Toy filling, approx 50g TENSION 24 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS Each lightbulb 6cm (2½in) long, not including the fitting Full necklace 70cm (27½in) long ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Cygnet on 01274 743374 or www.cygnetyarns.com OR YOU COULD TRY… □ Wool and Crafts 01455 238768 or www.woolandcrafts.co.uk □ Sister…

GREAT stocking filler! TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED ■ King Cole Pricewise DK (100% acrylic, 100g/282m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Sand (1695) Yarn B Natural (046) Yarn C Cornflower (056) Yarn D Blush (149) Yarn E White (001) Yarn F Cranberry (308) Yarn G Forest (3380) ■ A pair of 3mm needles ■ 2 black safety toy eyes, 8mm diameter ■ Toy filling ■ Dark brown embroidery thread ■ Yarn bobbin ■ Doll needle (optional) TENSION 30 sts and 33 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over stocking stitch using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS 32cm (12½in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 WHERE TO BUY ■ For yarn stockists contact King Cole on 01756 703670 or www.kingcole.com OR YOU COULD TRY… ■ Wool Warehouse 0800 505…

Small business shout out! Tell us about your company… I started dyeing yarn in July 2022, after I stumbled across the world of handdyed yarn on Etsy, but couldn't afford to buy it all for myself! In a previous life I was an Interior Designer and yarn dyeing has become my new and much-needed creative outlet. Currently a full-time mum, I fit dyeing around family life, working out of my kitchen utility, where I used to preserve veg but now pickle yarn instead, hence Pickle & Twist was born! What can knitters find in your shop? I release small, one-off batches; skeins that are a unique and exclusive addition to your yarn stash. I am also happy for customers to contact me with custom requests that I will try to…

EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED □ 20m DK yarn □ Black thread □ Two buttons □ Pink thread □ Green felt □ Ric rac □ Striped ribbon □ Small bell □ A pair of 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Approx 17cm tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 We love ELF DECORATION HEAD (MAKE 2) Cast on 60 sts using 3.5mm needles. Row 1 and every alternate row Purl. Row 2 *K4, k2tog; rep from * to end. [50 sts] Row 4 *K3, k2tog; rep from * to end. [40 sts] Row 6 *K2, k2tog; rep from * to end. [30 sts] Row 8 *K1, k2tog; rep from * to end. [20 sts] Row 10 K2tog to end. [10 sts] MAKING UP Break yarn and thread through the rem…

PART two CAST ON OUR KAL Collect all three parts to create this Christmas esse Fun for the festivities! IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Yarnsmiths Create Chunky (100% acrylic, 100g/150m) 2 balls of each Yarn A Christmas Green (5210) Yarn B Grass Green (5200) 1 ball of Yarn C Mustard Yellow (5140) □ Yarnsmiths Create DK (100% acrylic, 100g/290m) 1 ball of each Yarn D Bright Orange (3130) Yarn E Opal Green (3220) Yarn F Primrose Yellow (3160) Yarn G Light Turquoise (3250) Yarn H Bright Red (3110) Yarn J Peachy Pink (3420) Yarn K Parchment (3060) Yarn L White (3040) Yarn M Royal Blue (3300) Yarn N Chocolate Brown (3080) Yarn O Black (3000) Yarn P Brown Bear (3070) □ A pair of 3mm needles □ A…

ASK THE EXPERTS YOU ASKED KEEPING IT SIMPLE Q Do you have any colourwork tips for a knitting newbie? Sandra Connelley Knitting stripes is the easiest way to add colour to a project and is a great place to start if you are a beginner. You can knit wide or skinny stripes, or a combination. And if you are working stripes in stocking stitch, think about using the reverse as the right side as this gives an interesting colourwork pattern at the change over rows with no tricky techniques required. Swiss darning is another way to add embellishments or motifs to your finished knits without having to handle bobbins or tricky techniques. And if you are not happy with your embroidery, you can always pull it out and try again.…

Full of Christmas Cheer IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED ■ King Cole Big Value DK (100% acrylic, 100g/290m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Porcelain (4094) Yarn B Yellow (4027) Yarn C White (4020) ■ King Cole Galaxy DK (65% acrylic, 31% wool, 4% soft Payette 1 ball of Yarn D Antique Gold (3479) ■ A pair of 2.75mm needles ■ A pair of 3.5mm needles ■ Toy stuffing ■ Two safety eyes, 5mm diameter ■ Locking stitch marker or waste yarn TENSION 25 sts and 28 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 2.75mm needles MEASUREMENTS 28cm (11in) tall ABBREVIATIONS B&T Break yarn, leaving a long end for sewing up. Thread it through remaining stitches, slip stitches off knitting needle and tighten For a full list…

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. “Don't rush the sewing!” 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…

If like us Christmas is your favourite time of year, then you'll love flicking through the pages of this gorgeous decoration book to add to your festive knit list. Characterful cast ons come in the form of Amanda Berry's cute penguin tree decoration, complete with hat and scarf, and a gorgeous Nativity wreath. And colourwork fans will adore Rosee Woodland's Scandi-inspired stocking – knit a few and string them up like bunting. Merry Christmas knitters! GET IN TOUCH! Write to us at Simply Knitting magazine, Our Media, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST or email us at simplyknitting@ourmedia.co.uk. Find us on Instagram @simplyknittingmag or on Facebook.com/SimplyKnitting.…

NATIVITY WREATH IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED □ Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Chocolate (947) Yarn B White (961) Yarn C Fern Green (603) Yarn D Denim (994) Yarn E Oatmeal (964) Yarn F Silver Mist (678) Yarn G Sunflower (978) Yarn H Sapphire Blue (611) Yarn J Black (965) Yarn L Golden (595) □ Anchor Artiste Metallic (80% viscose, 20% polyester, 25g/100m) 1 ball of Yarn M shade Gold (300) □ A pair of 2.75mm needles □ A pair of 3.5mm needles □ A 2.75mm crochet hook □ Toy filling, 200g bag □ A 25cm diameter flat back polystyrene wreath □ Four domed black buttons, 4mm □ One metre of black embroidery thread/ floss □ Cosmetic blusher TENSION 25 sts…

FELT WREATH HOW TO MAKE… A PARTRIDGE AND PEAR WREATH YOU WILL NEED ■ Polystyrene wreath base, 17cm (6¾”) ■ White felt, approx. four 23 × 23cm (9 × 9”) squares ■ Green felt, approx. 15 × 15cm (6 × 6”) ■ Pale green felt, approx. 6 × 9cm (2½ × 3½”) ■ Pale brown felt, approx. 13 × 19cm (5 × 7½”) ■ Small piece of brown felt ■ Matching sewing threads ■ Silver, gold, black, light brown and dark brown embroidery threads ■ White nylon thread (or other thin, strong thread) ■ Silver sequins (6mm wide) ■ Mini silver sequins (3mm wide) ■ Mini gold sequins (4mm wide) ■ 1m (1yrd) white ribbon, 5-10mm wide ■ Polyester stuffing ■ Glue gun and glue ■ Sewing needle and pins…

HOW TO MAKE… CROCHET CHRISTMAS TREES YOU WILL NEED ■ Anchor Pearl Cotton 5 thread, 100% cotton, 5g/21m per skein, one skein in 310 (Yarn D) ■ For the pink tree: one skein each in 23 (Yarn A), 27 (Yarn B), 77 (Yarn C) ■ For the coral tree: one skein each in 926 (Yarn A), 301 (Yarn B), 303 (Yarn C) ■ For the yellow tree: one skein each in 2 (Yarn A), 8 (Yarn B), 11 (Yarn C) ■ 1.25mm (US steel 10) crochet hook ■ Soft toy filling ■ Embellishments (we used star buttons, micro-mini buttons and seed beads) ■ Stitch markers ■ Tapestry needle TENSION Tension isn't too important, but make sure your stitches are fairly tight to prevent any stuffing showing through ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s)…

DOVE HOOP HOW TO MAKE… EMBROIDERED DOVE HOOP ART YOU WILL NEED ■ 25 × 27cm (97/8 × 105/8”) navy cotton fabric ■ Embroidery thread (we used DMC stranded cotton in 734 (yellow), 3816 (green), 666 (red), 352 (peach), 07 (light brown), 898 (dark brown), 3847 (dark green), 992 (jade green), 498 (dark red), 310 (black) and blanc (white)) ■ Gold metallic embroidery thread (we used DMC Mouline Light Effects in E677) ■ Fine-tipped white fabric marker ■ 18cm (7⅛”) embroidery hoop ■ Size 5 embroidery needle ■ Size 7 embroidery needle ■ Embroidery scissors ■ Hot glue gun ■ Pegs Long evenings curled up indoors and those in betweeny days during Christmas and New Year – that's time to savour with satisfying stitches. This lavishly detailed embroidery hoop is…

DECORATIONS UNICORN + GOOSE HOW TO MAKE… FELT UNICORN AND GOOSE DECORATIONS YOU WILL NEED ■ Wool felt in white, red, mint, plum, peach and navy ■ Embroidery floss in white, red, mint, plum, navy and black ■ Yarn or cotton cord ■ SuperGlue or fabric glue ■ Polyester stuffing Here's an unlikely alliance of characters come to spread the Christmas cheer – a traditionalist goose, and a unicorn for those who fancy a bit of extra magic. We used an unexpected combination of fresh pastels and deep plummy tones to bring these creatures to life, but of course you can switch the palette up how you wish, and add whatever stitches or accessories you fancy. The flower template is a little large, making it easier to cut – we…

HOW TO MAKE… FELT KAWAII-INSPIRED DECORATIONS YOU WILL NEED ■ Black embroidery thread ■ Soft toy stuffing ■ Baker's twine ■ Black fine-tipped pen FOR THE STAR COOKIE ■ Felt in brown, pink, white and yellow ■ Embroidery thread in blue, pink and yellow FOR THE MITTEN ■ Felt in blue, brown, pink, turquoise and yellow ■ Embroidery thread in blue, pink and white FOR THE HOT CHOCOLATE ■ Felt in brown, dark brown, pink, light pink, white and yellow ■ Embroidery thread in brown, pink, white and yellow Sometimes we just can't resist the opportunity to go superkitsch with our crafting, especially when it comes to Christmas. With their twinkling smiles and candy-coloured hues, these squishy tree decorations are so cute, they'll even have Santa breaking from his busy…

BAUBLE ADVENT HOW TO MAKE… A BAUBLE ADVENT CALENDAR YOU WILL NEED ■ 24 clear fillable plastic baubles in various sizes (ours were from www.hobbycraft.co.uk) ■ Multi-surface satin acrylic paint in blue, mint, dark pink and light pink (we used Americana DecoArt -in Colbalt, Soft Jade, Pink Tropics and Pink Cadillac) ■ Paint brush ■ Soft paint brush ■ Washi tape ■ Two double-sided adhesive sheets ■ Grosgrain ribbon in blue, mint, dark pink and light pink, approx 1cm (3/8 “) wide ■ Shredded tissue paper ■ Craft gold leaf ■ Soft paintbrush Do the luxe calendar thing the handmade way with these hidden treasure baubles. Decorated using four different paint effects and fancy gold leaf numbers, you can hang them up individually or thread them together, intertwined with springs…

ADVENT + STOCKINGS SCANDI ADVENT HOW TO MAKE… A FABRIC ADVENT CALENDAR YOU WILL NEED ■ 1m (393/8”) cotton canvas fabric in cream ■ 50cm (19¾”) patterned fabric, (we used Sevenberry Lightweight Canvas in Poco Black) ■ Felt in blue, green, orange, pink and yellow ■ Matching sewing thread ■ Transfer paper ■ Tailor's chalk ■ Fabric glue ■ Webbing, 1m (39⅜”), 1cm (⅜”) wide ■ Dowel, 60cm (23⅝”), 1cm (⅜”) wide This year, ditch the shopbought advent calendar and replace it with this easy-sew version instead. Combining Scandi-look clean lines and monochrome prints with a pop of colour, not only will it look good hung in your home, but filling its pockets each year creates a lovely tradition, too. Choose the treats as a family, or surprise little ‘uns…

DINING + HOSTING NATURAL TABLE HOW TO MAKE… A NATURE-INSPIRED TABLESCAPE YOU WILL NEED FOR THE CRACKERS ■ White paper ■ Black ink pad ■ Toilet roll tubes ■ Cracker snaps ■ Ribbon ■ Pencil with a rubber ■ Double-sided tape ■ Scallop-edged scissors ■ Craft knife ■ Metal ruler ■ Small cracker gifts FOR THE PLACEMATS ■ Leaves ■ Blush pink linen ■ Two ink rollers ■ Black fabric paint ■ Paint brush ■ Scrap paper FOR THE CANDLES ■ 250g soy wax flakes per candle ■ Dried rosemary ■ Rosemary essential oil ■ Black porcelain paint ■ Candle wicks ■ Glass jars ■ Glass bowl ■ Glass jug ■ Sauc epan ■ Paint brush Forget stately, majestic settings – when it comes to our Christmas dinner table, we're…

GIFTS + WRAPPING BABY VESTS HOW TO MAKE… WINTER APPLIQUÉ BABY VESTS YOU WILL NEED ■ Long or short sleeved baby vest ■ Fabric scraps, approx 20cm (8”) ■ 30cm (12”) square iron-on fusible web or interfacing ■ Three buttons (for the snowman) ■ Matching sewing threads ■ Tailor's chalk or pencil ■ Sewing machine ■ Good quality shears/ dressmaking scissors ■ P ins Thanks to a certain singing snowman (we're looking at you, Frozen's Olaf), tiny tots have shown to be particularly enamoured with this playful snowman design! The templates (see page 146) are designed to fit ages 1-2 years, but can be easily enlarged for older children, or reduced to fit the tiniest of newborns. We prefer organic cotton vests, and here's the safety bit: Always remember to…

GIFTS + WRAPPING POLAR BEAR HOW TO MAKE… A KNITTED POLAR BEAR YOU WILL NEED ■ Cygnet Seriously Chunky yarn, 100% acrylic, 100g/48m per ball, 10 balls in Cream (288) (Yarn A, one ball in Black (217) (Yarn B) ■ 9mm (UK 00, US 13) knitting needles, 33cm (13”) long (alternatively, circular needles used as straight needles) ■ Two 2.5cm (1”) toy safety eyes ■ Soft toy stuffing ■ Yarn needle ■ Scrap yarn markers in two different colours (Yarn C and Yarn D) ■ Pom pom maker TENSION 8 sts and 11 rows to 10cm (4”) on 9mm needles. This is not the standard tension for this yarn, but the tension needed for the project. Knit a tension square before starting and adjust your needle size if needed, as…

HOW TO MAKE… FESTIVE AMIGURUMI ORNAMENTS YOU WILL NEED ■ Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK, 100% cotton, 125m/137yd per 50g, one ball each in Coffee Bean (411) (Yarn A), Champagne White (403) (Yarn B), Racing Green (428) (Yarn C), Pillar Red (415) (Yarn D), Lime Green (429) (Yarn E), Dusty Rose (442) (Yarn F), Soft Fudge (410) (Yarn G) and Paper White (401) (Yarn H) ■ 3.25mm (UK 10, US D/3) crochet hook ■ Three pairs of 9mm black safety eyes ■ Two pairs of 6mm black safety eyes ■ Black embroidery thread ■ Embroidery needle ■ Soft toy filling ■ Stitch marker ■ Yarn needle TENSION Tension isn't important for this project, just make sure to keep stitches tight to prevent stuffing from showing through ABBREVIATIONS (UK) st(s) stitch(es) ch…