Innehållsförteckning för Issue 178 från Simply Knitting

It’s been frantic in the office over the last few months.We’ve been so busy reviewing and refreshing every inch of Simply Knitting in order to bring you the best knitting magazine possible, all with a sparkly new look! And now we’re thrilled and excited to be able to share the wonderful changes with you all. I’ve found the whole process a great time to reflect, asking myself why I love knitting, what I love knitting and what really inspires me (and hopefully you too)! Many answers were expected, but some surprised me, and encouraged me to embark on new knitting journeys. I hope we’ve managed to successfully capture these new ideas within our pages, while making much more of the elements you’ve always loved. We understand that sometimes you want…

DOGS ON JUMPERS by Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne (Pavilion, £14.99) Dogs on Jumpers combines simple shapes with flexible designs to create fun patterns for all. Follow easy instructions to select the jumper shape for you, then pick your favourite four-legged friend and get knitting. There’s also an alphabet chart to add a personal touch! Win one of five copies of this book! Head to page 32 and use code SKMDOGSJUMP178 to enter. AMY HERZOG’S ULTIMATE SWEATER BOOK by Amy Herzog (Abrams, £18.99) Customise your wardrobe with this in-depth guide to knitting jumpers. Start by choosing a basic structure: yoke, raglan, dropped-shoulder or set-in sleeves. Then, make sure you’ve picked the numbers that work for your size and yarn gauge. Tweak the pattern with extra elements like a hood, cowl-neck,…

Bithynica Gather the yarn you need together with this sweet shawl kit (£30). Available in 10 pretty shades of Something To Knit With 4ply, it makes a great first lace shawl. Visit www.acknitwear.co.uk or call 07403 001293. Zabadoo This luxurious triangular shawl is a Libby Johnson pattern (£5.25) in squishy Uncommon Thread Light DK. It comes in a kit for £94 too. Visit www.loopknittingshop.com, or call 020 7288 1160. Carmen Cast on Carmen with DROPS Brushed Alpaca Silk (£3.95 per 25g ball) and you’ll soon be wearing it. Perfect for Christmas and Valentine’s Day too! Visit www.garnstudio.com for the free pattern. Pattern 9450 If you’re looking for something with wow factor, give this slip stitch border shawl a go! It’s knitted in soft Alpaca Tweed DK. Call 01484 848435 or…

YOU WILL NEED Rowan Kid Classic (aran; 70% wool, 22% mohair, 8% polyamide, 50g/140m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 4.5mm needles A pair of 5mm needles A 4.5mm circular needle,40cm long Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com TENSION 22 sts and 23 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patterned st st using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 JUMPER DRESS BACK Cast on 102 (114: 122: 134: 142) sts using 4.5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) K2, *P2, K2; rep from * to end. Row 2 P2, *K2, P2; rep from * to end. These 2 rows form rib. Work in rib for a further 9 rows, ending with WS facing for…

1 Push the point of your right-hand needle through the first two stitches on your left-hand needle, going from right to left as you would for a purl stitch. 2 Bring yarn anti-clockwise around the needle, between the two needles. 3 Pull the yarn through both stitches, as you would when working a purl stitch, and drop both stitches from the left-hand needle. 4 Purling two stitches together decreases your stitch count by one, and the decrease stitch leans to the right. This is how a series looks on the right side of stocking stitch.…

ELEPHANT THIEF! Emily was planning to use her elephant as a pincushion, but her four year old has claimed him instead! It looks like she’s going to have to knit him a pink pal now… Emily Baker Facebook FRIENDS FOREVER This tiny pair are just so cute! Heather was pleased with how her ‘best friends’ kit turned out (and so she should be). Those sweet eyes are a brilliant touch. Heather Smith Facebook QUICK-KNIT TRUNKS I love Susan’s elephants – they’ve got such a charm to them! She finished the kit in no time at all and loved seeing other knitters’ finished pairs, too. Susan Jones Facebook…

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, Immediate Media Co, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN EMAIL US simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk FIND US AND FOLLOW US Facebook.com/simplyknitting @SimplyKnitMag ravelry.com/groups/simply-knitting-magazine @simplyknittingmag pinterest www.pinterest.com/simplyknitmag…

I’M LOVING… Filanda Diamante yarn This is the first time I’ve ever used this yarn and I am so impressed with the quality and finish, it feels sort of velvety. This is also the first time I’ve knitted a pocket – I can’t wait to finish this project! I’M MAKING… The world's largest cardigan I've been knitting this for ages and I'm nearly there. I can’t wait to see my husband wearing it and give him a big woolly cuddle. Bring on the coldest of winters! I’M SHARING… (Or trying to share) flower crowns I have given a few to friends and family. If they sell on Etsy then that’s great, but I’ve had so much fun making them this summer that it doesn’t really matter.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners Aire Valley DK (75% wool, 25% nylon, 100g/230m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Cream (010) Yarn B Grey (043) Yarn C Red (549) Note 1 ball of each colour will make the complete set ❏ Small lengths of contrast yarn ❏ Stitch markers For the Cowl ❏ A 4mm circular needle, 60cm long For the Mittens ❏ A set of 3.25mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) For the Hat and Mittens ❏ A set of 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) For the Hat ❏ A 4mm circular needle, 40cm long For yarn stockists contact West Yorkshire Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Cowl 62cm circumference x 22cm tall (24x8¾in)…

1 Insert the point of the right-hand needle through the loops of the next two stitches as if to knit. 2 Wind the yarn round the tip of the right-hand needle and pull the yarn through the two stitches, knitting them both together. 3 Drop the two stitches from the left-hand needle and keep the new stitch on the right-hand needle. 4 Knitting two stitches together decreases your stitch count by one, and the decrease stitch leans to the right. This is how a series of k2tog decreases will look.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Stylecraft Special Chunky (100% acrylic, 100g/144m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 5.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 6mm needles ❏ 2 stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01484 848435 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION 13 sts and 19 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right side rows from right to left and wrong side rows from left to right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting. KEY CHART JUMPER Note Sleeve seams are shorter in the larger sizes to account for the extra body width, as the body will drop off the…

Somerset With quaint villages, rolling hills and bustling cities, there’s plenty to keep a knitter happy in Somerset… REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY IN WELLS 11 November, 3-4pm Cathedral Green, Wells BA5 2UE All are welcome to attend Wells Cathedral’s annual act of remembrance, this year featuring a performance of John Rutter’s Requiem. Visit www.wellscathedral.org.uk or call 01749 674483 for more information. VISIT ALTERKNIT UNIVERSE Open Thursday to Sunday 39 Main Road, Cleeve BS49 4NS Alterknit is a shop packed with natural, recycled, local and ethical fibres. From a wide range of West Yorkshire Spinners’ yarns to coveted skeins of indie-dyed Stranded Dyeworks yarns. Visit www.alterknituniverse.co.uk LEARN NEEDLE FELTING 26 November, 9.45am-4pm Dillington House, Ilminster TA19 9DT Join fibre artist Carla Taylor for a day of festive needle felting. Create a set of…

1 A local shop is the best place for squishing yarn, really getting to feel how the yarn works in your hand – most local shops have the best squishing range to choose from, too! Lou Smith, Production Assistant 2 Finding unusual yarn brands with artisan finishes really makes my day, and there’s nothing more rewarding than finding a locally spun and dyed yarn in a shop you love that’s just around the corner from your house. Faye Perriam-Read, Technical Editor 3 My local yarn shop, where I used to live, had a couple of café tables stacked with the latest knitting books, and for a small fee they’d make you a cuppa to help with your browsing. Debora Bradley, Editor-in-Chief 4 I’m all about colour and really like to…

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 Turquoise (01065) Yarn E Apple Green (01072) Yarn F Red (01030) Yarn G Beige (01005) ❏ A pair of 3.25mm knitting needles ❏ 150g of toy filling ❏ 2m of black embroidery thread ❏ Blusher or crayon For yarn stockists contact Patons 01484 950630 www.knitpatons.com TENSION 28 sts and 36 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles ABBREVIATIONS P9B purl 9 in Yarn B For a full list see page 95 SNOWMAN BODY Cast on 9 sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn C. Start at the bottom. Row 1 and all foll…

cable CAST-ON method Use it for a firm edge, and when adding stitches to your work Make a slip knot. Insert right-hand needle into the stitch as if to knit. Wrap the yarn around the point and pull through, slipping the stitch on to the left-hand needle. Push the point of the right-hand needle between the first and second stitches. Wrap the yarn anti-clockwise around the point of the right-hand needle. Pull the loop out with the right-hand needle, then slip it over the tip of the left-hand needle. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until you have the number of stitches you require. thumb CAST-ON method A great all rounder, use it to cast on stitches quickly and easily Make a slip knot and place it on a needle, leaving…

Typically found roaming the hills of the Shetlands, this originally Scandinavian flock are thought to have been brought to the UK 1,300 years ago.Their wool is very fine and soft, making it perfect for the unique and exclusive knits the Shetland Isles are famous for, including traditional Fair Isle designs and fine shawls. You can usually recognise this breed by their mostly white faces and white coats, but there are also ten other natural shades, with 30 types of markings. Each colouring or marking type is still known by their dialect names, with the emsket (blueish-grey) fleece and mirkface (brownish spots on the face) being just two examples. Discover more about the wonderful world of British sheep and wool at www.britishwool.org.uk BUY SHETLAND WOOL! Visit www.shetlandwoolbrokers.co.uk…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Stylecraft Special Chunky (100% acrylic, 100g/144m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 5.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 6mm needles ❏ Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01484 848435 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION 13 sts and 19 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 in Simply Knitting magazine 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 from left to right. A row of squares represents a row of knitting. JUMPER Note Sleeve seams are shorter in the larger sizes to account for the extra body width, as the body will drop off…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Sublime Baby Cashmere Merino Silk DK (75% wool, 20% silk, 5% cashmere, 50g/116m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.75mm knitting needles ❏ A pair of 4mm knitting needles ❏ Scrap yarn or stitch holders ❏ 9 buttons, 15mm diameter For yarn stockists contact Sublime 01924 369666 www.sublimeyarns.com TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS K1B knit 1 st in Yarn B For a full list see page 95 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 CHART…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Design Ricorumi DK (100% cotton, 25g/58m) One ball of each: Yarn A White (001) Yarn B Red (028) Yarn C Tangerine (026) Yarn D Orange (027) Yarn E Fir Green (050) ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ Toy stuffing ❏ Pipe cleaner ❏ Assorted sequins For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.de TENSION 24 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS Candy Cane 11cm (4½in) Stocking 12cm (4¾in) Candle 11cm (4½in) Cracker 12cm (4¾in) Wreath 6.5cm (2½in) ABBREVIATIONS B&T (break and turn) break yarn and thread through rem sts. Pull tight to fasten For a full list see page 95 in Simply Knitting magazine CANDY CANE Cast on 6 sts using 3mm needles and…

YOU WILL NEED • Any DK yarn: Yarn A White Yarn B Pink Yarn C Red Yarn D Green • A pair of 3mm needles • 2 black glass eyes, 5mm in diameter • 1 black glass eye 7mm in diameter (for the nose) • 30g toy stuffing TENSION 25 sts and 33 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS 16cm (6¼ in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 HEAD Note Begins at the muzzle.Cast on 3 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn A.Row 1 (RS) (Kfb) to end. [6 sts] Beg with a purl row, work in st st for 2 rows.Row 4 P2, (pfb) twice, P2. [8 sts]Row 5 K2, (kfb) 4 times, P2. [12 sts]Row 6 Purl.Row 7 (Kfb)…

Meet Nic, the lady behind website, podcast, blog and online shop – Yarns From The Plain! Up early or slow to rise? Up early more often than not, unless it’s the day after a show! First job of the day? Feed the cat, then rinse out anything I dyed the day before. Mid-morning pick-me-up? Popmaster on the Ken Bruce show on Radio 2. Fave time to sit back and take five? Just after breakfast, when my husband’s gone upstairs to his office to work and turned the TV back off. I tend to have been up for a bit and done things first, before he wakes, so it’s a natural break. Leisurely lunchtime? Not terribly, but if we’re both working at home that day, my husband and I take a…

The thrill of having a Christmas stocking never gets boring, even when you’re grown up! As knitters we’re able to create an heirloom – a lovingly-created gift that forms part of your children’s Christmas memories. And, whether you opt for traditional Scandi colourwork or a more subdued option, the choice reaches far and wide. Here are some of our favourites... Pompom Decorated Stocking Pattern Free from www.lionbrand.com Who doesn’t love pompoms? We can’t get enough of them, especially at Christmas time. Endless Roses Christmas Stocking £4.69 from www.loveknitting.com Inspired by the knitting from Selbu, Norway, this stocking is knitted in heavy aran weight yarn. Christmas Bear Stocking Pattern £6.62 from annieswoolens on www.etsy.com This great pattern comes with an alphabet chart for personalisation.…

1 These images show what happens to the yarn that you carry over on the wrong side of the work. Work a stitch in the first colour as usual. To change colour, twist the two yarns together before working the next stitch. 2 Work the next stitch in the new colour as normal. When working alternating stitches of two colours, try and keep an even tension and do not pull the yarn too tight. 3 Change back to the original colour, not forgetting to twist the two yarns together before you work the stitch. 4 A completed row shows the yarn ‘floats’ carried across the back of the work. If you always keep the floats of one colour above the other colour, your work will look neater.…

SPECTACULAR FIRST I thought I would share the tea cosy that I made from the amazing pattern you published in issue 174. It instantly caught my eye and I had to make it; especially as I haven’t made anything like it before. It has brightened up my dining table no end. Keep up the great work! Helen Ridley, via email What a beautiful picture, Helen! Your tea cosy is absolutely fabulous. We can’t believe this is your first project like this. You’ll have to make more now… THE GIFT OF KNITTING Here is my friend wearing the shawl that I had just finished knitting for her. I used the shawl pattern from the November 2009 issue of Simply Knitting. Claire Derrick Hewer, via our Facebook group This shawl is bringing…

Circulars, all the time! It’s much harder to lose a needle for a start. I carry my knitting all over and circulars pack smaller, don’t poke holes in my project bags, and I very rarely end up with my knitting sliding off the needle during transport. They also distribute the weight of larger projects better, which helps protect my wrists from pain or damage, as I suffer from EDS. Katherine Rose Lynn, via Facebook Straights, and as short as I can get away with. I cannot abide having excess needle length and circulars are too much of a pain. Isabel Freeman, via Facebook Straights. Although circulars are useful if you have loads of stitches, even if you’re not knitting in the round, for example, blankets. Alison Flynn, via Facebook I…

LAKE LOUISE, CANADA Just a note to show you that on a recent trip to Lake Louise, Canada, I brought my favourite knitting magazine, Simply Knitting, with me! Visiting cooler climates is something I love (I live in Missouri, in the US), where sweaters or ‘jumpers’ can be worn daily! I also love your magazine as it is cheerful, upbeat and full of great patterns and tips. Melissa Pagel, Missouri, US Our letter writer wins an ‘I Just Wanna Save the World and Knit’ knitting tote bag from Kelly Connor Designs, worth £12.95!…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Design Fashion Daiyamondo (chunky, 35% acrylic, 30% polymide, 30% wool, 5% metallic yarn, 50g/100m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 6mm knitting needles ❏ A 5.5mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ Cable needle ❏ Stitch holders For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION 15 sts and 21 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles 20 sts and 21 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over cable pattern using 6mm needles ABBREVIATIONS C8F cable 8 back, slip the next 4 sts onto a cable needle and hold at front of work, K4, then K4 from cable needle. For a full list see page 95 JUMPER BACK Cast on 78 (82: 88: 92: 98: 102:…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners, Re:Treat (chunky roving, 100% Bluefaced Kerry Hill, 100g/140m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Escape (562) Yarn B Harmony (184) ❏ A pair of 6mm needles For yarn stockists contact West Yorkshire Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION 16 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 6mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 Ò<RXU›PLQG›ZLç› answer most questions if you learn to relax and ZDLW›Iè›ëH›DQVZHU›Ó› WILLIAM S BURROUGHS MITTENS (MAKE 2) Cast on 31 sts using 6mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 P1, (K1, P1) to end of row. Row 2 K1, (P1, K1) to end of row. Continue in K1, P1 rib until the mitten measures 4cm, ending on WS. Knit 1 row.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners Bo Peep 4 ply (52% Falkland wool, 48% nylon, 50g/220m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 2.75mm needles ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ Stitch holders ❏ 5 (5: 6: 6: 6: 6) small buttons For yarn stockists contact West Yorkshire Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION 28 sts and 36 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles ABBREVIATIONS MB (make bobble) work (K1, yo, K1, yo, K1) into next st, slip these 5 sts back onto LH needle and K5 CB (complete bobble) work into MB of last row, p3tog, p2tog then pass first of these sts over second For a full list see page 95 BODY Note Worked in…

Having always been a keen knitter, Joyce initially started to focus specifically on historical patterns after selling some military webbing to someone she met on eBay. “I asked him what it was for and he said he was in the Yorks and Lancs WW1 re-enactment society,” she reminisces. “He asked if I could also knit some socks for him – and the hunt for military patterns went on from there!” What started as a new knitting interest soon turned into an absolute passion for Joyce, largely due to the exciting anticipation of what the final outcome would be. “You just never know how historical knitting patterns are going to turn out,” she explains. “Sometimes, there’s no picture, as these didn’t start until the 1890s, and then how it turns out…

MOSELEY KNITTERS Birmingham, England Grab a drink and pop along to Moseley’s local Village Pub for a friendly knit and natter. “It isn’t a class as such, but we are happy to help out if you have questions,” says club leader, Katie Sewell. Want to know more? The club meets on the first Thursday of the month, at the Village Pub in Moseley, Birmingham B13 8JR, 7.30-9.30pm. Visit www.meetup.com/Moseley-Knitters for details. THE BARRY KNITTERS Barry, Wales This wonderful group supports Volunteering Matters with their knitting by donating items to causes that need them – with the added bonus of meeting up with good friends once a week. Want to know more? The club meets Tuesdays, 9.30am-noon, at Barry Library, Kings Square, Barry CF63 4RW. Get in touch via RSVPknitting@volunteeringmatters.org.uk for…

Claire Hoyle, Commercial Director Charity BBC Children in Need. Established The first telethon was broadcast in 1980 and it became a registered charity in 1988. What do you do? We are a charity aimed at making a positive change to the lives of children and young people facing a range of disadvantages such as living in poverty, being disabled or ill, or experiencing distress, neglect or trauma. We are currently providing grants to over 2,700 UK projects, both small and large organisations, which empower children and extend their life choices. Latest fundraising news What’s brilliant about BBC Children in Need is its ability to unite the UK and encourage people from all walks of life to come together to do their thing to raise money to support children. Ahead of…

Support your local yarn shop this October by taking part in this unmissable event… What is Keep Yarn On Our Streets? It is a campaign to bring together yarn shops across the UK. Yarn shops are such a great resource, with workshops, socials and more and we want to shout about it! Our first campaign will run through October 2018 and it is a treasure hunt. All of the shops taking part will have 50 collectable enamel badges for sale and the first three yarnies to collect ten different badges will win a prize! How many shops are taking part? In our first campaign we have 42 shops taking part, with lots more eager to join in for the next one! What can we knitters do to help? Follow and…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Luxe Fur, (aran, 100% nylon, 100g/110m), 1 ball of Yarn A White (1052) ❏ King Cole Big Value Super Chunky, (100% acrylic, 100g/81m), 1 ball of each: Yarn B Wine (20) Yarn C Black (8) ❏ Twilleys Goldfingering (80% viscose, 20% metallised polyester, 25g/100m), 1 ball of Yarn D Gold (2) ❏ A set of 7mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ A set of 2.5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com  and Twilleys 01943 872264 www.tbramsden.co.uk TENSION 12.5 sts and 18 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 10mm needles and Yarns B and C MEASUREMENTS 43cm (17in) from top to toe 32cm (12›in) circumference ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page…

kitchener stitch The best way to graft your sock toes together Arrange your stitches so that the ones for the top of the foot are on one needle, and those for the bottom of the foot are on the other, with both needle tips pointing to the right. Cut a 40cm (15¾in) tail of yarn and thread onto a tapestry needle. Using your needle, thread the tail purlwise through the first stitch on the front needle, and then knitwise through the first stitch on the back needle. Thread the tail knitwise through the first stitch on the front needle and drop off the needle. Thread the tail purlwise through the new first stitch on the needle closest to you.Thread the tail purlwise through the first stitch on the needle furthest…

ESTABLISHED IN UK 8th century CATEGORY Hill breed LOCATION Across UK, mainly Shetland HANDLE Very soft and silky COLOUR 11 shades FLEECE WEIGHT 1-1.5kg DID YOU KNOW? 1 Shetland yarn is sold as ‘2-ply jumperweight’ – it’s the equivalent of a 4ply weight yarn. 2 You can’t herd Shetland sheep with a dog – they haven’t been bred to trust them! 3 A traditional Shetland wedding ring shawl, no matter what the size, is so fine and delicate it can be pulled easily through a wedding ring.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Scheepjes Our Tribe (70% Merino wool, 30% polyamide, 100g/420m) 1 ball of each for the set: Yarn A Olive Wreath Yarn B Pistachio Branch Yarn C Apricot Blush ❏ Stitch markers For the Cowl ❏ A 2.75mm circular needle, 60cm long ❏ A 3mm circular needle, 60cm long ❏ A 3.5mm circular needle, 60cm long For the Hat ❏ A 2.75mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ A 3mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ A set of 3mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) For yarn stockists contact Scheepjes www.scheepjes.com TENSION 33 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Chart pattern using 3mm needles 32 sts and 48 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over rib pattern using 2.75mm needles MEASUREMENTS Cowl Circumference 58cm (23in) Length 30cm…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Scheepjes Softfun (60% cotton, 40% acrylic, 50g/140m) 1 ball of each to make set: Yarn A Green Blue (2625) Yarn B Pale Blue (2613) Yarn C Dusky Pink (2612) Yarn D Cream (2622) For the Hat ❏ A set of 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) For the Mittens ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles For yarn stockists contact Scheepjes www.scheepjes.com TENSION 23 sts and 30 rows/rounds to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Chart pattern using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit 0-3 months Hat To fit head circumference 35.5-40.5cm (14-16in) Actual hat circumference 31cm (12›in) Mittens Actual mitten circumference 12.5cm (5in) ABBREVIATIONS B&T (break and tighten) break yarn and thread through rem sts For a full list see page 95 in…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Patons Fairytale Merino Mix DK (50% wool, 50% polyamide, 50g/120m) 4 balls of: Yarn A Red (01030) 1 ball of each: Yarn B Vanilla (01021) Yarn C Pale Green (01073) Yarn D Chestnut (01011) ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Faux fur pompom, for the hat For yarn stockists contact Patons 01484 950630 www.knitpatons.com TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Chart pattern using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Scarf 130x20cm (51x8in) Hat To fit head circumference 45-50cm (17¾-19¾in) Actual Hat circumference 42cm (17in) ABBREVIATIONS B&T (break and tighten) break yarn and thread through rem sts For a full list see page 95 in Simply Knitting magazine SCARF Cast on 46 sts using 3.5mm needles…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Willow & Lark Ramble (100% Merino wool, 50g/125m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table Note If you are making the Elf only, you will need one ball of each of all of the yarns listed in the size table right ❏ A 3.25mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ A 4mm circular needle, 60cm long ❏ A set of 3.25mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Scrap yarn or stitch holders ❏ Toy stuffing ❏ Two small white buttons ❏ Cream felt ❏ Gold embroidery thread ❏ Red pencil For yarn stockists contact Willow and Lark www.willowandlarkyarns.com TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 in…

Pizpaw Penguin Jumper Pattern What a wonderfully cute penguin jumper! It comes in sizes 6-24 months and is knitted in Sirdar Snuggly DK from www.pizpaw.com for £3.99. Jane Burns’ Pudding Hat Start Christmas off brilliantly with this great knit. Luckily, this top make is one of ours so flick forward to page 46 and cast on today! Winter Hat Pattern The colours in this great Scandi hat tick all our boxes for winter. Pattern 461 is from the Creations 17/18 catalogue at www.bergeredefrance.co.uk. From £10.55. The Penny Cardigan Kit Go gingham in the festive season with this cardi from the experts at www.woolandthegang.com. The kit comes with everything you’ll need and costs from £76. Christmas Elf Pattern Bright and fun, we love the detail in this great elf knit by…

WHAT IS IT? A handy tool that helps you to wind centre-pull balls of yarn for handknitting and crocheting.This gorgeous example by Cotswold Craft Cottage has been handmade in wood and finished with beeswax. Nostepinne is a Scandinavian word that means ‘nest-stick’ and is the original ball winder. HOW DO I USE IT? You wrap the yarn around the wooden shaft, in a particular diagonal repeat pattern until you have used up all your yarn. Push the yarn off the end of the nostepinne and you’re done! WHY DO I NEED IT? It’s a wonderfully traditional and really handy, easy-to-use tool that you can take anywhere with you. Made with real wood and finished with beeswax, it’ll also look great decorating your knitting stash! WHY WE LOVE IT! There’s nothing…

Ò3éRSHUO\ SUDFWLFHG › ›› NQLWWLQJ›VRRëHV› ëH WURXEOHG VSLULW › › ›› DQG›LW›GRHVQÐ W›KXUW›ëH› XQWURXEOHG›VSLULW›HLëHUÓ› ELIZABETH ZIMMERMANN Knit up a colour-pop sensation for your little ones this Christmas with an adorable kangaroo pocket pattern, just £3 from Stylecraft, in sensational scarlet red. Knitted in either best-selling brand, Life DK (£2.99) or brand new yarn, Life Changes DK (£3.99), it really is a winner all round. Add a hood (yes, it’s also in the pattern!) or keep things simple with a crew neck for a smarter look. Visit www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk  for stockists or call 01484 848435…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Novita 7 Veljestä (aran, 75% wool, 25% nylon, 150g/300m) For yarn quantities and measurements see table ❏ A pair of 3.25mm knitting needles ❏ A pair of 4mm knitting needles ❏ Scrap yarn or stitch holders ❏ Cable needle ❏ 7 buttons For yarn stockists contact John Lewis 03456 049 049 www.johnlewis.com TENSION 20 sts and 26 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles 21 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Sleeve cable pattern using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 BACK Cast on 89 (99: 111: 123: 137) sts using 3.25mm needles. Row 1 (RS) K1, *P1, K1; rep from * to end. Row 2 (WS) *P1, K1; rep from * to…

84 YEARS OF KNITTING This is a photo of my mum with some of her recent projects she has knitted. She enjoys knitting for friends and family. She attends a knit and natter group every Thursday, where she lives. Her name is Florence Annie but she likes to be known as Anne and she is 94 years old – born in 1923. She has been knitting since she was ten years old. Thankfully, she passed her knitting skills on to me. Valerie Anne Eckley, Worcester What a wonderful woman your mum is, Valerie Anne! 84 years of knitting – that is absolutely amazing. We would love to see more of her beautiful knits, and yours! Thank you for sharing this photo with us. We all hope you and your mum…

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 Melissa Leapman’s 6000+ Pullover Possibilities book, worth £21.99. It’s the must-have companion for any knitter, making it easy to customise jumper patterns to your personal size, shape, and style. Ms Norris, Northumberland Ms Whitney, Yeadon Ms Bagshaw, Leeds IMMEDIATE MEDIA COMPANY, PUBLISHERS OF SIMPLY KNITTING, SUBS STARS GIVEAWAY TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Prizes were dispatched before the on sale date of this issue. There are no cash alternatives. Three winning entries will be chosen at random from all current subscribers. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into.…

Ok, it’s official. I hate heatwaves. And it’s because I love knitting. I spent the summer desperate for one thing, not a good night’s sleep (no mean feat with a four month old in a heatwave), not a great tan, not even ice cream (although that came a close second), all I wanted was to wear a chunky knit cardigan. CARDI ADDICT I took a cardigan with me everywhere during those hot months. I never actually had to put it on, but I needed to have it with me, just in case. It’s not just the act of knitting that makes me feel safe when times get tough, it’s also wearing knitwear. If I get home from a rough day, first thing I want to do is put on a…

Visit www.theyarnloop.com/simply-knitting and click on the ‘Win & Save’ tab to find this issue’s giveaways. Then, enter the correct code (see below), along with your name and address. If you don’t have your own email address, feel free to use ours, simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk, to submit your giveaway entry form. Find terms and conditions at www.theyarnloop.com/competition-rules. Issue 178’s giveaways close 11.55pm GMT, Thursday 8 November 2018. GIVEAWAY CODES 1 SKMSCHEEPJES178 2 SKMBOOKBUNDLE178 3 SKMWAREHOUSE178 4 SKMCHIAOGOO178 5 SKMSTASHBUSTER178 6 SKMKNITCRAFT178 7 SKMSTYLECRAFT178 8 SKMSUBSCRIBE178 9 SKMPATONS178 10 SKMWILLOUGHBY178 11 SKMLOVEKNITTING178 12 SKMMARTINSTOREY178 13 SKMMEGAMIX178 14 SKMROMNEYMARSH178 15 SKMSCANDI178 16 SKMBERGERE178 17 SKMDOGS178 Incorrect codes will not be counted as entries, take care when entering them. FOR MORE CHANCES TO WIN GREAT PRIZES, turn to page 91…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Merino Blend DK (100% wool, 50g/104m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Chocolate (23) Yarn B White (001) ❏ King Cole Dollymix DK (100% premium acrylic, 25g/73m) 1 ball of each: Yarn C Spring Green (275) Yarn D Flame (87) ❏ A set of 3.25mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ❏ A set of 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) For yarn stockists contact King Cole 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit head circumference 40 (45: 50)cm, 15¾ (17¾: 19½)in Actual head circumference 36 (41: 45.5)cm, 14 (16: 18)in ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 HAT Cast on 80 (90: 100) sts using 3.25mm DPNs and Yarn A,…

Our mindfulness pattern features Re:Treat, the latest addition to the West Yorkshire Spinners’ yarn fold. It’s made from a mixture breed of Bluefaced Leicester and Kerry Hill and is light, soft, durable and a delight to knit with. But what’s extra special about this wonderful new yarn is that for every kilo of Re:Treat yarn sold, West Yorkshire Spinners will donate 50p to Mind, the national mental health charity. For yarn stockists visit www.wyspinners.com  or call 01535 664500.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Design Ricorumi DK (100% cotton, 25g/58m) Yarn A Ivy (043) Yarn B Fir (050) Yarn C Tangerine (026) Yarn D Red (028) Yarn E Orange (027) Yarn F White (001) Yarn G Wine Red (029) Yarn H Black (060) Yarn K Powder (022) Yarn L Nougat (056) Yarn M Beige (055) ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ A 25.5cm (10in) wreath frame, inner diameter 18.5cm (7›in), or a cardboard ring cut out to the same dimensions ❏ 50cm (20in) of elastic cord ❏ 35g of toy stuffing For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION 24 sts and 32 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3mm needles MEASUREMENTS Wreath diameter 26cm (10›in) Figures 13cm (5in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a…

QUESTION OF THE MONTH THE OLD SWITCHEROO Q I’ve got a lovely pattern written for an aran-weight yarn, but I would like to knit it in DK. What size needles do I need to knit my DK with to make my garment the correct size? Esther Chard, via Facebook As a general rule, changing the weight of the yarn used isn’t worth the hassle – there are lots of gorgeous aran-weight yarns at all sorts of prices, so we recommend that you choose your favourite and use that. However, if you are determined to swap a DK yarn for an aran yarn there are several ways you can try, although none of them give you quite the same result as using an aran yarn. We strongly recommend testing your skills…

In association with the Keep Yarn on our Streets campaign Knitting has a special way of bringing us together, so we’ve created a fantastic page including some of the things you can do to celebrate this wonderful craft locally and across the globe. Whether you’ve been knitting for a chosen charity, casting on decorations for the local school fête, looking for a club in your area or hunting out those hidden knitting shops when you’re on your holidays, there’s something here for you. This month, we explore Somerset, meet the fab owners of The Fibre Lounge, and discover what top manufacturers think their best yarn for charity knitting is. Don’t forget to tell us about any shop or club recommendations you may have and send in your community stories and…

Who’s in charge? Me, Louisa Sheward, and the lovely Melanie McLoughlin. Where can we find you? We’re in Kings Langley! See details below. When did your doors first open? This year, in March (2018)! What is your shop like Bright, fun, quirky and modern. Popular products? Recycled yarns, hand-dyed yarns, ethically-sourced yarns, hooks, needles and notions sell well. Any special events? We specialise in crochet and run weekly crochet workshops, three times a week.We also host workshops covering lots of other crafts, from our expert crafter pals. Who shops at your shop? Anyone who has a yarn addiction! Top shopping tip? Make a list, and then buy everything you didn’t need anyway… The Fibre Lounge, 15 High Street, Kings Langley WD4 8AB Visit www.thefibrelounge.com  or telephone 07917862448 for…

The yarn we would recommend the most for knitting for charity would be King Cole Cottonsoft DK. It’s available in various colourways, and, this 100% cotton yarn is endorsed by the Knitted Knockers organisation. It features on their website and is also the ideal natural fibre for babies – perfect for knitting for baby units in hospitals. Caroline Symonds Marketing Manager Rowan Pure Wool Worsted is a chunkier weight yarn, so it grows quickly – making it a great choice for warm blankets. It also washes and wears really well so it’s a fab option for cosy garments and accessories. If you’re knitting for babies or children, we would suggest Baby Cashsoft Merino. It’s got such a soft touch to it and is available in all the most popular baby…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Felted Tweed (DK, 50% wool, 25% viscose, 25% alpaca, 50g/175m) 2 balls of Yarn A Amethyst (192), 1 ball of Yarn B Mineral (181) ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles For yarn stockists contact Rowan 01484 950630 www.knitrowan.com CHART TENSION 25 sts and 27 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit calf circumference 36 (41: 48)cm, 14 (16: 18¾)in Actual circumference 33 (39: 45½)cm, 13 (15¼: 18)in ABBREVIATIONS MB make bobble (K1, yo, K1, yo, K1) all in one stitch, turn and K5, turn again and K5. Pass 1st, 2nd 3rd and 4th sts over the 5th st (to return to 1 st) For a full list see page 95 HOW…

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

I’ve been humming ‘Jingle Bells’ around the office for months now. I know, it’s still a bit early to be hanging out the stockings and pouring the sherry, but it’s hard not to be filled with festive cheer when you’ve been working on a collection of fabulous Yuletide knits like these! Our brilliant designers have brought you a stunning array of gift ideas and wonderful winter knits to keep your needles busy over the holiday season. Have some fun while you get ahead, and knit little treats to decorate your home, as well as brilliant gifts.We love the thought that entire families from dads to babies, could be dressed up wonderfully in gorgeous Simply Knitting makes on Christmas Day – please send us photos! PS Casting on Rebecca Galeney’s plum…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rico Design Essentials Soft Merino Aran (100% Merino wool, 50g/100m) 4 balls of Yarn A Berry (011) 2 balls of Yarn B Beige (081) 1 ball of each Yarn C Dark Green (048), Yarn D Middle Brown, (054) Yarn E Red (008), ❏ A pair of 4.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 5mm needles ❏ 7 buttons, 15mm diameter ❏ Split ring markers ❏ 60cm red ribbon, 4cm wide For yarn stockists contact Rico Design www.rico-design.co.uk TENSION 18 sts and 24 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 45.5x45.5cm (18x18in) ABBREVIATIONS K15A/P15A knit/purl 15 sts in Yarn A For a full list see page 95 HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read right-side rows…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Stylecraft Life DK (75% premium acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m), 2 balls of Yarn A Cream (2305) 1 ball of each: Yarn B Cardinal Red (2306) Yarn C Navy (2313) ❏ A set of 4mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a 4mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ A set of 3.75mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a 3.75mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ Stitch markers For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft 01484 848435 www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Hat Actual Circumference 52cm (20›in) Scarf 13x132cm (5x52in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 95 in Simply Knitting magazine CHART KEY Yarn A Yarn B Yarn C HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS Start at the bottom…

When you’re knitting from a colourwork chart that has wide colour changes, carry the unused yarn across the back of the work, catching it every five or so stitches. For example, with the Scarf Chart in this pattern, when working Row 13 you would knit 5 sts in Yarn C, then 12 sts in Yarn D. When you’re knitting the Yarn D stitches, knit the first five of them and then catch Yarn C in your next stitch, at the back of the work. This will prevent long strands from warping the finished knitting. Don’t forget to twist your yarns when you change colour, to prevent holes!…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners, 100% Bluefaced Leicester Aran (100% wool, 100g/166m) 2 skeins of Ecru (001) ❏ A pair of 5mm needles ❏ A cable needle ❏ A button, 25mm diameter For yarn stockists contact West Yorkshire Spinners 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com TENSION 18 sts and 24 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 5mm needles 30 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over cable patt using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 37x22cm (14›x8›in) ABBREVIATIONS  pfkb purl into the front and knit into the back of the stitch For a full list see page 95 in Simply Knitting magazine HOT WATER BOTTLE COSY FRONT Cast on 60 sts using 5mm needles. Row 1 (RS) P3, K12, P3, (C4B, C4F) 3 times, P3, K12, P3.…