Innehållsförteckning för 90 från Simply Crochet

Crochet and the festive season go hand in hand – from hooking up decorations (see our colourful Christmas collection from page 14) to warm winter wearables (like our cover star red jumper on page 28), to downright adorable gifts (just wait until you see our poseable Christmas doll on page 43!). With so much festive craft to do, it can be hard to look ahead to next year. Step forward our Moomin calendar, chock-full sweet scenes made up in crochet. The calendar also features all the patterns, so you can spend 2020 hooking the whole Moominvalley gang!…

AMIGURUMI TREASURES ERINNA LEE (£12.99, Meteoor Books) In her first book, amigurumi expert and long time Simply Crochet contributor Erinna Lee has created a treasure chest of 15 adorable critters. Each creatures comes with its own darling back story, plus patterns for adorable accessories to amp up the ‘awww!’ factor. Additionally, QR codes lead through to video tutorials for support on trickier techniques. CROCHET STASHBUSTERS NICKI TRENCH (£9.99, Cico Books) We ‘ve all reached SABLE (Stash Beyond Life Expectancy), so this new book by Nicki Trench has been sent from the yarn gods. With 25 makes all using one ball or less, you’re sure to have used up your leftovers in no time! The smaller projects like booties and bunting also make great gifts. RICORUMI CRAZY CUTE FAMILY RICORUMI (£4.50,…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Cygnet Chunky (100% acrylic, 100g/156m) Yarn A Red (167) Yarn B White (208) Yarn C Graphite (967) See table for measurements and yarn quantities ■ A 6mm (US J/10) hook ■ A 6.5mm (US K/10½) hook For yarn contact Deramores 01733 777345 www.deramores.com TENSION 11 sts and 6 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over treble crochet with a 6mm hook or size required to achieve tension ABBREVIATIONS Ptr2tog (Post stitch tr2tog) Work the next 2 post sts as a treble decrease st. This occurs in the context of the (FPtr, BPtr) rib, so where instructed to work this stitch you will be decreasing over either a FPtr then a BPtr, or vice versa, keeping the st patt correct. Insert the hook around the next st from…

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

YOU WILL NEED ■ Caron Simply Soft Heathers (100% acrylic, 141.7g/228m) 6 balls of Woodland Heather (9503) ■ Caron Simply Soft (100% acrylic, 170.1g/288m), 1 ball of each: Autumn Red (9730) Pistachio (0003) ■ Caron Simply Soft Party (99% acrylic, 1% metalized polyester, 85g/150m), 1 ball of each: Chocolate Sparkle (0017) Spring Sparkle (0003) Snow Sparkle (0001) ■ A 3mm (US C/2 or D/3) hook ■ A 3.5mm (US E/4) hook ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook ■ A 5mm (US H/8) hook ■ 50cm red velvet ribbon, 1.5cm wide ■ 1 safety eye, 4mm ■ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Readicut 01162 713759 www.readicut.co.uk TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect the yarn quantities required MEASUREMENTS Blanket measures 92X92cm (36¼x36¼in ABBREVIATIONS puff st…

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

HATTIE RISDALE Hattie loves to combine pretty colours and flowers in her crochet designs. After trying every craft going, crochet is the one that stuck. Check out her mandala tree on page 14. CATHERINE VENNER It was love at first sight when Catherine picked up a crochet hook five years ago. Since then, it’s barely left her hand! See her horse and bauble decorations on page 14. ILARIA CALIRI Crochet teacher and amigurumi book author Ilaria loves to draw quirky characters and turn them into amigurumi. Textured stitches are her addiction! See her festive basket on page 14. CASSIE WARD Cassie loves to design garments! Her pieces are inspired by her love of fashion and desire to be different. Crochet is a great therapy for her anxious mind. Find her…

1 DECK THE HALLS If all you want for Christmas is a set of crochet decorations then look no further! These 14 fabulous patterns are sure to brighten up your tree this festive season. From Etsy – search for VliegendeHollander. 2 BAUBLELICIOUS Give your house a boho makeover with these beginner-friendly, granny-tastic baubles. Pick up the pdf pattern from Etsy shop TheLittleBeeNZ. 3 THAT’S A WRAP Add a homemade touch to your gifts this year by using these Christmas present decorations as gift tags. A quick and simple pattern from Etsy – search MellyEllyCrafts. 4 SWEET TREAT If you’re looking for something a little different, festive cupcakes are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Find the pattern on Etsy – search for OnesCreativeMind. 5 CUTEY PUDS These adorable…

There’s something about those super-bright greens, yellows, pinks and oranges that feels a little bit magical to us all, from your highlighter pens at school to those ’80s leg warmers – it’s not just the old-school ravers that have a soft spot for neon colours. I’m particularly attracted to anything that uses fluorescent colours, and yarn is no exception. If you tend to use calm colours over psychedelic pigments, try giving them a chance – you might find a fresh new source of inspiration! COMPLEX COLOURS “The most vivid neon colouration comes from acrylic yarns” I’m no scientist, but with a little research you’ll find that what’s actually going on with these shades is fascinating. Although we often refer to colours that have a bright, glowing appearance as ‘neons’, this…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Rico Essentials DK (100% cotton, 50g/130m), 1 ball of each: Pale Pink (30), Nude (52), White (80), Red (02), Green Grass (66), Red Brown (79) ■ Rico Essentials Crochet (100% cotton, 50g/260m), 1 ball of Gold (025) ■ A small amount of any black and yellow DK yarn ■ A 2.5mm (US B/1 or C/2) hook ■ A 1.5mm (US 8 steel) ■ Stitch markers ■ 2x safety eyes, 10mm ■ Polyester toy stuffing ■ Fabric glue ■ 1m wire, 2.5mm diameter (optional) ■ Pliers (optional) ■ Duct tape (optional) For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION Tension is not critical for this project, but it may affect the yarn quantities requires MEASUREMENTS Doll measures 30cm (11¾in) tall ABBREVIATIONS French knot Using a darning needle…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Debbie Bliss Rialto DK (100% merino wool, 50g/105m) Yarn A Teal (20) Yarn B Ecru (2) Yarn C Chocolate (5) Yarn D Mustard (99) Yarn E Scarlet (12) See table for measurements and yarn quantities ■ A 5mm (US H/8) hook For yarn stockists contact LoveCrafts 01409 404010 www.lovecrafts.com TENSION A single square motif measures approx 18(20)cm/7(8)in square using 5mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct tension ABBREVIATIONS For a full list, see page 90 Bust width a: 51 (56.5)cm, 20 (22¼)in Length b: 83 (91)cm, 32¾ (36)in Sleeve length c: 38 (42)cm, 15 (16 ½)in Granny squares are used to create this fun cardigan, for an exciting take on this classic crochet motif. Fringing adds a charming finish that lets the garment truly flow.…

Christmas and crafting go hand in hand: getting cosy and working on your woollies, mulled wine bubbling and joyful tunes humming in the background is a dream scenario. But it’s time to think beyond the chunky knits – crochet can offer so much more to the festive season. We’ve teamed up with the experts to find out exactly what that is! GORGEOUS GIFTS There’s nothing quite like making a handmade gift for a loved one – personal and touching, it brings joy to both maker and receiver. “Crochet makes a lovely gift for a loved one because of all the hours and love you have put into it,” says crochet designer Fran Morgan (www.franmorgan.co.uk). “It’ll always be more valuable than any shop-bought item. Each gift is a little bit of…

We’ve been double tapping on Instagram and admiring your makes. Tag us @simplycrochetmag and use the hashtag #SCtreblemaker WINNER WINNER @katyzpr, aka Caterina, won the yarn comp from issue 85’s Hook2Hook, and wasted no time making up one of the blankets with her spoils! Awesome! PUPPY LOVE @abasketfullofwool (otherwise known as Lisa) has a new four-legged addition to her household – issue 85’s yappy puppy! We think he’s rather fetching. RABBIT ON @nicky_doubleU has hooked somebunny rather special from issue 55. Look at that great big basket of carrots – after eating that lot she’ll have 20/20 night vision! RING RING We are in awe of@catherine.houston and her autumnal wreath from issue 78’s calendar – what a wonderful way to welcome the season. Ace work Catherine!…

YOU WILL NEED Present ■ Ricorumi (100% cotton, 25g/58m) 1 ball of each: Yellow (006), Pink (011), Candy Pink (012), Fuchsia (014) ■ Rico Creative Lamé (62% polyester, 38% polyamide, 25g/135m), a small amount of Silver (001) ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook Sprout ■ Ricorumi (100% cotton, 25g/58m) 1 ball of each: Purple (020), Orange (027) A small amount of Black (060) ■ Rico Creative Lamé (62% polyester, 38% polyamide, 25g/135m) a small amount of Gold (002) ■ Rico Creative Cotton (100% cotton, DK, 50g/115m), 1 ball of Fir Green ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook ■ 2 safety eye, 5mm For yarn stockists contact Rico www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION 17 sts and 17 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over pattern using a 4mm hook, or size needed to obtain correct…

Really, it is so difficult to choose my one favourite crocheted make, as I always find the one I like most is the one I’m working on at that time! However, one of the ones that never fails to bring a smile to my face is the Petal Patch Blanket that I finished earlier this year (although it did take over a year to make). That’s probably because it’s always wrapped around my daughter Poppy! She loves it. It’s always really lovely when you make something for someone and you get to see them using it, and I think that’s why I particularly love making blankets – there’s nothing better than seeing someone cuddled up in something you’ve put so much care and time into. It’s wonderful when you get…

We are taking you on a magical journey to the world of Moominvalley in Simply Crochet’s 2020 calendar! With the help of talented designer Vanessa Mooncie, we have recreated the best-loved characters from Finnish illustrator Tove Jansson’s classic books. From Moomintroll himself to the glamorous Snorkmaiden, Moominpappa, Moominmamma, Snufkin, Little My and even the mysterious Hattifatteners, we’ve a whole host of fun amigurumi characters for you to hook up your own Moomin world. The designs are worked using Novita’s Muumitalo (Moominhouse) yarn, which has a colour range inspired by Tove Jansson’s enchanting illustrations (see right for more details). Enjoy a wonderful Moomin-inspired year, and don’t forget to join in the fun by sharing pictures of your Moomin makes online with us. Tag your snaps #SCtreblemaker on social media to make…

Snoop doggy-dog Hook up an amigurumi Snoopy with Stitch & Story’s second Peanuts collection. Featuring 100% merino wool, the kit is suitable for beginners and contains everything you need to make Charlie Brown’s best friend, including a basic guide on how to crochet. Pick up your kit from www.stitchandstory.com, but be quick – there’s only limited stock! EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT! The Knitting & Stitching Show in Harrogate is coming up fast! The Nov 28-Dec 1 event is a highlight of any hookster’s calendar and a great way to keep abreast of all things yarn. Tickets are £15.50 each, but use our discount code SIMPCRO19 for £2.50 off standard prebooked tickets (£1 discount on concs). Book tickets at www.theknittingandstitchingshow.com/ harrogate or by calling 0844 209 7325. TRIMITS KITS Trimits’ range of Christmas crochet…

FESTIVE GIFT BASKET Lift the living room this Christmas with this ultra-bright gift basket by Ilaria Caliri ■ Scheepjes Namaste (50% acrylic, 50% wool, 100g/85m), 2 balls of each: Dolphin (606), Crane (601) 1 ball of each: Locust (604), Handstand (620), Garland (612), Eagle (602) ■ A 5mm (US H/8) hook ■ Short length of plastic tube or rope to fit around rolled top (optional) ■ 30cm square of 5mm thick felt (optional) ■ Stitch marker TENSION Tension is not critical for this project but may affect the yarn quantities required MEASUREMENTS 30cm (11¾in) diameter, 25cm (9¾) tall ABBREVIATIONS FPdtr (front post double treble) (Yrh) twice, starting from the front, insert hook from front to back to front around post of st in row below, complete as double treble st…

YOU WILL NEED ■ Cascade Heritage Sock (75% merino, 25% nylon, 100g/400m) 1 skein of each: Yarn A Fuchsia (5616) Yarn B Grey (5660) ■ A 3mm (US C/2 or D/3) hook For yarn contact LoveCrafts 01409 404010 www.lovecrafts.com TENSION 5 shell sts and 12 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over pattern using a 3mm hook or size needed to obtain correct tension MEASUREMENTS Cowl measures 17x130cm (6¾x51¼in) before joining ABBREVIATIONS shell Work 5tr in sp/st indicated For a full list, see page 90 All hail the mighty cowl, and its ability to transform any T-shirt into a polo neck – a very worthy superpower in winter. NOTES The Cowl is worked in rows to measurements stated, then joined together at the end. For best results, block before joining into…

QUICK CHRISTMAS TREE ROW 1 Ch2, dc in second ch from hook, turn. ROW 2 Ch1 (does not count as st throughout), 2dc, turn. [2 sts] ROWS 3 Ch1, dc in each st to last st, 2dc in last st, turn. [3 sts] ROWS 4-6 Repeat Row 3. [6 sts] ROW 7 Ch1, ss in first 2sts, ch1, dc in next st, 2dc in next st, turn. [3 sts] ROWS 8-12 Repeat Row 3. [8 sts] ROW 13 Ch1, ss in first 3 sts, ch1, dc in next st, 2dc in next st, turn. [3 sts] ROWS 14-21 Repeat Row 3. [10sts] FASTEN OFF AND WEAVE IN ENDS HOOOKED ECO BARBANTE MILANO WEIGHT Aran CONTENT 85% recycled cotton, 15% other recycled fibres BOBBIN 50g/51m HOOK 4-6mm RRP £1.99 Just because…

It’s simple to be in with a chance of winning a great hooky prize in a future issue! Show us your Simply Crochet makes on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or via email or post by 11 November 2019. For all terms and conditions, and more information, visit www.simplycrochetmag.co.uk/competitionrules COMPETITION RULES By Promoter: Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited (“Promoter”). By taking part in one of our Competitions, you agree to be bound by these Competition Rules. Late or incomplete entries will be disqualified. No responsibility accepted for lost, delayed, ineligible or fraudulent entries. Proof of posting (if relevant) shall not be deemed proof of delivery. Entries must be submitted by an individual (not via any agency or similar) and, unless otherwise stated, are limited to one per household. The Promoter reserves the…

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

Materials list for entire CAL project ■ Ricorumi (100% cotton, 25g/58m) 2 balls of White (001) 1 ball of each: Pink (011) Candy Pink (012) Raspberry (013) Midnight Blue (035) Pistachio (047) Wine Red (029) Orange (027) Green (049) Fuchsia (014) Sky Blue (031) Purple (020) Yellow (006) Black (060) ■ Rico Creative Lamé (62% polyester, 38% polyamide, 25g/135m) 1 ball of each: Gold (002) Silver (001) ■ Rico Creative Cotton (100% cotton, DK, 50g/115m) 1 ball each of: Red Fir Green ■ A 4mm (US G/6) hook ■ 60x35cm cushion pad ■ 3 safety eyes, 5mm size ■ 1 safety eye, 3mm size…

“I THOUGHT SOMEHOW THAT THE SNOW GREW FROM THE GROUND UP!”– Moominland Midwinter “I HAD NOW FOUND MY FIRST FRIEND, AND SO MY LIFE WAS TRULY BEGUN”– The Exploits of Moominpappa “WE SHALL HAVE WONDERFUL DREAMS, AND WHEN WE WAKE UP IT'LL BE SPRING”– Finn Family Moomintroll "THE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE SPED THROUGH HER SOUL ON MIGHTY WINGS"– Moominsummer Madness “ ONE MAKES A TRIP BY DAY, BUT BY NIGHT ” ONE SETS OUT ON A JOURNEY– Moominpappa at Sea “I'LL HAVE TO CALM DOWN A BIT. OR ELSE I'LL BURST WITH HAPPINESS”– Moominsummer Madness “ALL NICE THINGS ARE GOOD FOR YOU”– The Exploits of Moominpappa “AUGUST IS THE BORDER BETWEEN SUMMER AND AUTUMN; IT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MONTH I KNOW– Moominvalley in November “HE FELT HAPPY ABOUT THE…