Innehållsförteckning för September 2020 från Simply Knitting

As this issue goes to press, the Simply Knitting team are all still working from home and in many cases, staring enviously out into sun-bathed gardens while feverishly putting together all your pages. Although we’ve had a smattering of sunny spring days, full-on summer can’t come soon enough! Happily, our favourite spinners have shared a plethora of wonderful summer yarns and patterns for us to take a look at, many of which you can find on our news pages. Our mission is always to bring you the very best for your needles, so we’re really excited to have patterns from Georgia Farrell, Nicola Valiji, Amanda Berry and Siân Brown in this issue. Turn to our contents page and take your pick from our selection of wonderful, varied designs for everyone.…

JULIET BERNARD The all-rounder! Multi-talented Juliet is a craft PR, journalist, designer, teacher and knitter Up early or slow to rise? Usually, I would be very slow to rise, being a night owl. But we have a 14-week-old puppy at the moment, who was up at 5.30am today – it’s killing me! First job of the day? Check emails and social media to see what needs most attention. At the moment I am working on the Yarn Shop Love campaign so that needs my attention first. Mid-morning pick-me-up? We have a wonderful wood near us so walking the dogs helps me to relax. Right now all the leaves are coming out so there is the most wonderful haze of bright green everywhere you look. Fave time to sit back and…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Finesse (DK, 77% cotton, 23% silk, 50g/120m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Stitch holders TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles 20 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 ZIGZAG T-SHIRT BACK Cast on 88 (93: 98: 103: 108: 113: 118: 123: 128: 133) sts using 3.25mm needles. Rows 1 to 5 Knit. Change to 4mm needles. Cont in patt as foll. Row 1 (RS) P4, *k2tog, yo, P3; rep from * to last 4 sts, k2tog, yo, P2. Row 2 K3, *P1, K4; rep…

1 Insert the floral tip of the blanket right-hand from and needle knit the into Gorgeou as left normal the -hand front › , needle but of hom the don ›. stitch ’ fo t drop › ›it 2 Then take the right-hand needle behind the left-hand one and insert the tip of the needle down through the back of the stitch on the left-hand needle. 3 Wrap the yarn around the tip of the right-hand needle to knit the stitch. Bring the needle through to make the stitch, keeping it on the right-hand needle. 4 Take the stitch off the left-hand needle. You will have increased one stitch by knitting twice into the original stitch, first at the front, then at the back.…

BRIGHT STRIPES Anita chose a range of vibrant colours to create this beautiful knitted bear. We love the bright shades of turquoise used! Anita, via Facebook RAINBOW COLLECTION Sharon worked hard to create this stunning set of rainbow knits to brighten up her home. They are simply perfect for lifting the mood! Sharon, via Facebook HEART TO HEART To show her support at a difficult time, Joy created this stunning rainbow bear and message for the NHS. These are displayed on her windowsill. Joy, via Facebook…

I do both, but I have to say I do more toys than anything else. So much fun and satisfying and my family LOVES being gifted a new stuffie. Barb Weakley, via Facebook I love knitting toys, the look on the faces of the children that are given them is priceless. Sheila Caris, via Facebook Both! With six children and ten grandchildren there is usually someone needing something. Linda Boyden, via Facebook Toys all the way! If you make a mistake, it adds character rather than being a flaw. Cait Blick, via Facebook Garments for me, anything with sewing up small fiddly bits is just not for me. I even knit sleeves in the round now using magic loop so i don’t have to sew them up either! Amy Mitchell,…

Lace patterns can be tricky to keep track of, especially if you’re new to the tecnnique! When working a garment with a long section of lace, place markers at the row ends of every pattern repeat. This way you’ll know exactly which row to start with when you return to your knitting after a break. You could also add markers along the length of the row to indicate the pattern repeat. This might seem a little laborious but will help to keep you on track when working something complicated.…

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 ❏ Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Flesh Tone (0963) Yarn B Walnut (0927) Yarn C White (0961) Yarn D Pink (0992) Yarn E Bright Lemon (0819) Oddment of Yarn F Iced Pink (0958) ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ 2 black glass eyes, 9mm in diameter ❏ 5 tiny mother-of-pearl buttons ❏ 4 buttons to attach arms and legs ❏ Turquoise felt ❏ White felt ❏ Tapestry needle ❏ 30g toy filling ❏ 1m narrow pink ribbon ❏ 50cm yellow ric-rac ❏ Red embroidery thread ❏ Black embroidery thread TENSION 23 sts and 27 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.5mm needles MEASUREMENTS 30cm (12in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 LITTLE GIRL…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ West Yorkshire Spinners Bo Peep Pure DK (100% Falkland Islands wool, 50g/112m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Stitch holders ❏ Locking stitch markers ❏ 2 buttons TENSION 20 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS s2kpo slip 2 stitches together as if to knit 2 together, knit one stitch, pass 2 slipped stitches over For a full list see page 87 BABY CARDIGAN BACK Cast on 55 (61: 67: 73: 79) sts using 3.25mm needles. Knit 8 rows. Change to 4mm needles. LACE PATTERN Row 1 (RS) *K1, k2tog, yo, K1, yo, k2togtbl; rep from * to last st, K1. Row 2,…

3 BOOKS UP FOR GRABS! 1 GORGEOUS GANSEYS Between 1875 and 1950, Dutch fisherman wore sweaters with characteristic cables known as ganseys, which became an intrinsic part of their identity. Stella Ruhe has written a number of books on these traditional jumpers, and the latest is all about children! All 40 patterns are sized to fit kids from 1–14 years old but are easily adjustable for any age. The book is also jam-packed with fascinating background information and historical photos of the original designs. We have three books to give away, worth £17.99 each. Visit www.searchpress.com for more information. 2 WONDERFUL WORSTED Worsted-weight yarn can be tricky to find in the UK, but Paintbox Yarns have launched a fantastic 100% wool, worsted-weight yarn. With more than 40 colours to choose…

When Japanese design student Rie Sakamoto was contemplating the final year of her course at the Department of Integrated Design at Tama Art University, Tokyo, and the exhibition she would have to create, she hit upon an intriguing new material to create her finished pieces from – knitted rubber bands! Seeing the inner beauty in these everyday objects, and observing the “texture, high elasticity, transparent feeling, and beautiful amber colour” of the bands, she worked painstakingly to create a stunning collection of clothing for her coursework. Sakamoto was preparing for her final year when she came upon the idea of using elastic bands as her material. “Many people have a negative image of rubber bands,” she explains. “I worked on the production with the belief that the rubber band has…

Sharon Noble, Grants and Supporters Co-ordinator Charity Naval Children’s Charity Established 1825 What do you do? We help around 2,000 children all around the UK and Commonwealth each year from families where a parent serves or has served in the Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Reserves and Royal Fleet Auxiliary. We give grants to provide for the child’s needs, which range from our Emergency Essentials Grants for food, clothing and other household items for families who are struggling financially to larger grants for disabled or ill children. We also provide free books that we have commissioned to thousands of children who are struggling with being separated from a parent who is away for long periods of time. What can we do to help? We have three books that are accompanied by…

This month we chat to Andrew Kite from The Yarn Whisperer… Tell us about The Yarn Whisperer... I’m an indie-dyer and part time primary school teacher. I started a virtual knitting and crochet group as a way to connect people who were starting to go into self-isolation (myself included) just before the Covid-19 pandemic began to take hold here in the UK. More than ever, we need to stay connected and as real-life groups like this are closing, I knew I could do something practical to help directly. What can people find at your site? Knitters (and indeed ANY types of ‘stitcher’– we are inclusive and don’t discriminate!) will find a selection of yarn lovers from all over the world, chatting and stitching along. Our meetings are 40 minutes long,…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ King Cole Pricewise DK (100% acrylic; 100g/282m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Cornflower (056) Yarn B Jade (022) Yarn C Shamrock (039) Yarn D Chestnut (3383) Yarn E Orange (144) Yarn F Gold (055) Yarn G Taupe (037) ❏ A pair of 5.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Small amount of toy filling ❏ Stitch holder ❏ Tapestry needle TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles with a single strand 14 sts and 23 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 5.5mm needles with yarn held double 17.5 sts and 25 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over River patt using 5.5mm needles with yarn held double MEASUREMENTS To fit a 2-pint…

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…

There’s nothing like a practical T-shirt or cardigan to keep the chill at bay from winter through to autumn, and we all know there are British summers when a cover-up is definitely a requirement! So we’ve put together this mini collection of straightforward knits, one with fresh stripes and two with delicate texture to give you a simple, modern option for your summer knitwear.With a mix of Patons and Rowan cotton, linen and wool yarns, in DK and aran, there’s sure to be a detail or yarn choice to take your fancy. A huge fan of stripes, I’ve already cast on the lime green and grey T-shirt, but had a little bit of trouble choosing between all three! Why not add one to your must-knit list? Happy knitting!…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Patons Wool Aran (100% wool, 50g/85m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ A pair of 4.5mm needles ❏ Stitch holders TENSION 19 sts and 25 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 4.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine DRAPED CARDIGAN BACK Cast on 101 (111: 123: 133: 147) sts using 4mm needles. Row 1 (RS) K1, *P1, K1, rep from * to end. Row 2 (WS) *P1, K1, rep from * to last st, P1. Row 3 *P1, K1, rep from * to last st, P1. Row 4 K1, *P1, K1, rep from * to end. These 4 rows set double moss stitch. Work 9 rows more in…

John Arbon Online Mill Tour Experience the wonder of the spinning mill with this fascinating video of the wonderful John Arbon Mill by Tiny Fibre Studio! It’s packed with interesting insight and facts about gorgeous yarn. Watch it at www. youtube.com/watch?v=bd5czCwJ_bY plus this delightful short film about the mill, www.youtube.com/watch?v=tFa7C4cVKQo. Fox and Badger Cushion Patterns from Donna Wilson This bright pair of cushions are available as pattern downloads and can be bought individually for £4 or together for £7. Knitted in ever-popular DK yarn, they come with a wealth of intarsia for you to try. Visit www.donnawilson.com/ product/knit-your-own-fox-badgercushion-downloadable-patterns. Lily Sugar’n Cream Fridgies We recently discovered these sweet rose knits and realised they had been designed as fridge magnets too! They’re perfect for prettifying your kitchen, or adapting into other summery…

Navy trimmed lime green cardigan, £3 The plain-and-purl texture used here adds to the everyday brightness of these bold knits. Cream and rainbow jumper and hat, £3 With a whiff of the 70s, this hat and cardi combo comes with oodles of uplifting colours. Navy and rainbow cardigan and hat, £3 Classic cardigans in bright, bold colours make all the difference to dreary mornings. For stockists visit www. stylecraftyarns.co.uk/stockists.php…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Baby Merino Silk (DK weight, 66% wool, 34% silk, 50g/135m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ 3 x buttons (BN1979 from www.bedecked.co.uk) TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS MB (make bobble) knit into front, back, front and back of next st, turn, P4, turn, K4, pass second, third and fourth st over first st For a full list see page 87 BOBBLE CARDIGAN Note This pattern is worked downwards in one piece to armholes, beg at neck edge YOKE Cast on 87 (91: 95: 99) sts using 4mm needles. Work in garter st for 2 rows, ending with RS facing for next row. Row 3…

LET IT GO… My husband treated me to your magazine (issue 189) which had a Stylecraft Simply Classics pattern booklet included. I loved this little jacket and knitted it in the same colour (Platinum) but substituted the knitted flower with a Frozen appliqué for my granddaughter. I’m sure she will love it! Val Critten, Hertfordshire I’m sure she will Val – it’s beautiful! NATTY NEEDLES When I received the bamboo pins with issue 196, I realised how much they looked like tiny knitting needles! I measured them and found they were 3mm in diameter, so I cast on some 4ply yarn and amended the Innocent smoothie DK pattern to make some tiny hats to raise money for AGE UK. The little needles fit into a bag or pocket for knitting…

VINTAGE STRIPED JUMPER This my latest project, knitted in lockdown, with plenty of time (and stash) on my hands. It’s a vintage pattern, first knitted in 1986 when I was in my thirties. I am now almost 70, but I think this style has stood the test of time. How lovely it has been, in these strange times, to receive my subscription of Simply Knitting, as always. Susan Ashton, Stockport That looks fab Susan! Our letter writer wins a fab gift voucher from retailer Wool Warehouse worth £20!…

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, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST. EMAIL US simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk FIND US AND FOLLOW US Facebook.com/simplyknitting @SimplyKnitMag ravelry.com/groups/simply-knitting-magazine @simplyknittingmag www.pinterest.com/simplyknitmag…

1 Insert the point of the right-hand needle into the next stitch as if to knit, but instead slip the stitch on to the right-hand needle. 2 For the next stitch, insert the right-hand needle into the next two stitches on the left-hand needle and knit them together. 3 Insert the point of the left-hand needle into the slipped stitch on the right-hand needle and lift it over the k2tog. 4 Continue knitting as directed in the pattern. This decrease forms a slant that slopes towards the left.…

Have you ever, as a knitter, wished that you could stay home and knit all day? Some people might say that you need to be careful what you wish for, but over the last few months you could certainly say that particular wish has been granted! Faced with an unknown number of weeks stretching out ahead of us, it’s been an ideal time to catch up on the knitting to-do list – and it’s no wonder that yarn shops reeled from an unprecedented number of sales in those first few days! NEW TECHNIQUES As I’ve happily surfed my way through people’s projects and stashes, I’ve seen Christmas gifts started and finished, I’ve seen people tackle complex designs that they thought they would never have time for, I’ve seen umpteen stash-busting…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ UK Alpaca Superfine DK ( 100% alpaca, 50g/112m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.5mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Cable needle (cn) ❏ 2 stitch holders TENSION 23 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles 23 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Lace and Cable Pattern using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS C4F slip 2 sts onto cn and hold at front of work, K2; K2 from cn s2kpo slip 2 stitches together as if to knit 2 together, knit one stitch, pass 2 slipped stitches over For a full list see page 87 LACE AND CABLE TOP Note Make sure that each decrease within the pattern is…

KNIT GURU Debbie Bliss Knitwear Designer Famed for her effortlessly stylish knit creations and extensive knowledge of knitting. Kirstie McLeod Editor Queen of socks and gadget hoarder, Kirstie has many years of knitting knowledge to share. Jen Bartlett Technical Editor Stitch expert and technical whizz, Jen likes to tackle the trickiest of knitting problems. Sophie Jordan Deputy Editor Product expert and Fair Isle fanatic, Sophie loves talking about the latest trends and cool colour combos. QUESTION OF THE MONTH STRETCHY CAST-ON QI started knitting a bottom-up jumper in the round, but have realised my cast-on is far too tight and won’t be at all comfortable around my waist. What’s the best way to get it nice and stretchy next time? Jane Hadfield, via email There are several ways to make…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Deramores Studio Baby Soft DK (100% acrylic, 100g/330m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Kiwi (70115) Yarn B Sunshine (70103) Yarn C Sunset (70110) Yarn D Lollipop (70129) Yarn E Waves (70120) Yarn F Mint (70118) Yarn G Snow (70101) ❏ A set of 3mm double-pointed needles (DPNs), or a circular needle, 80cm long, if using magic loop technique. ❏ A pair of 3mm needles ❏ 2 x bags of toy filling, 250g each ❏ 2 x domed black buttons, 15mm in diameter ❏ Stitch marker ❏ Black embroidery thread TENSION 28 sts and 36 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over stocking stitch using 3mm needles. MEASUREMENTS 100cm (39 › in) in length ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 Not suitable for children under…

With the British summer now well and truly here, we hope you're getting the chance to enjoy some sunshine. This issue we've found a great selection of Shropshire yarn shops for you, as well as the friendly local yarn shop of Wool and Crafts, in Burbage. We've also chatted to the Woolly Wellbeing knitting group in St Helens, who provide a supportive environment to anyone feeling socially isolated, and found out more about the Naval Children's Charity and its call for knitted toys. And if that's got you in the mood for charity knitting, you can make our pretty drop stitch market bag, perfect for fundraising, or help out a local pantomime with some fun knitted hearts. Please do tell us about any shop, club or charity recommendations you may…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Cygnet Seriously Chunky (100% acrylic, 100g/48m) 2 balls of Yarn A Cream (288) 3 balls of Yarn B Barley (4884), Yarn C Burnt Orange (4888) and Yarn D Meadow Green (3877) ❏ A pair of 10mm needles ❏ A cushion pad, 48x48cm square TENSION 9 sts and 16 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 10mm needles MEASUREMENTS Finished cover will fit a 48x48cm cushion pad ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 The bright shades of this cheery cushion cover are sure to bring a smile to your face as you're knitting – and are sure to be a hit on any fundraising stall! It's a quick knit in a great value chunky yarn on 10mm needles, and the super-simple garter stitch…

This popular dairy sheep is kept in specialist flocks throughout the UK, and is easy to spot with its large frame, long bald tail and narrow head, without horns.The Friesland's fleece has a medium-fine staple making it ideal for handknitting yarn and cloth, and its white shade mean it will take dyes well. As you might guess from the name, this sheep breed was originally imported from Holland, but has been nibbling in British fields since 1953. Discover more about the wonderful world of British sheep at www.britishwool.org.uk.…

1 Working with the yarn at the back of your knitting, insert the point of the right-hand needle into the next stitch as if to knit, but instead slip the first stitch onto the right-hand needle. 2 Now slip the next stitch from the left-hand needle onto the right-hand needle in the same way as for step 1. 3 Push the point of the left-hand needle through the front of both the slipped stitches. 4 Bring the yarn around just as you would for a knit stitch and knit these two stitches together. You will now have a single stitch on the right-hand needle, and your two slipped ones will create a left-leaning decrease.…

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

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Patons Cotton DK (100% cotton, 100g/210m) Our sample was knitted in a different yarn which is now discontinued, but we think you’ll love Patons Cotton DK. For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ Stitch markers ❏ Tapestry needle TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles 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. COTTON TOP BACK Cast on 108 (120: 132: 144: 160)…

Blues skies, bare feet on the lawn, warm nights – we adore summer! We go all-in for vaporous knits in light and delicate colours and soft pastels as delicious as sugary sorbet. We wear white from top to toe – because sun-kissed skin looks great with white. Harvest yellow, beige and off-white are the perfect combination for trendy linen garments. This magazine is a voyage of discovery: Make the models that complement your wardrobe best. Enjoy the ride! For all pattern queries email Burda Knitting at help@burdanordic.com…

01 Sweater • • From page 40 Sizes: 38-40 (42-44) Finished measurements: Bust circumference: 108 (120) cm Length: 71 (71) cm Inner sleeve length: 60 (60) cm Materials: Rico Fashion Cotton Light & Long Tweed dk. Content: 47% cotton, 43% acrylic, 7% polyamide, 3% viscose. 50 g = 185 m. 10 (11) balls – col 001 ecru Needles: Circular needle size 4 mm (80 cm) Stitch holder Stitch markers Tension: 22 sts and 44 rows to 10 cm, over pattern using 4 mm needles, or the size required to give the correct tension. Note: Where only one figure is given this applies to all sizes. Where the figure 0 appears, no sts, times or rows are worked for this size. After casting off one stitch will remain on the right hand…

Back stitch With right sides together, work a back stitch along the edges of the pieces. Grafting When a piece is finished and the stitches are not bound off, but left on hold on the needles. Thread a wool sewing needle and with the right sides facing you, sew the stitches together inserting the needle in the centre and alternating one stitch from one piece with one from the other and always inserting the needle through the previous stitch again so that the pieces are firmly joined. Release the stitches from the needle once they have been sewn as shown in the diagram. These seams are flat and invisible from the right side. Side seams  This type of seam is also invisible and is worked with the right sides facing.…

BABY KNITS by Susie Johns (TUVA Publishing, £12.99) There’s nothing quite like dressing little ones in clothes stitched with love and made just for them, and we love how quick baby projects are to knit too! This sweet book contains 18 adorable designs ranging from cardigans and blankets to booties, bloomers and teddy bears, all sized for ages 3-12 months. Our favourite is the classic ribboned vest in pure Merino wool, a must-have for any baby wardrobe. MODE AT ROWAN: SUMMER KNIT 4 PROJECTS by Quail Studio (Rowan, £2) This mini collection of four summery designs, worked in Rowan’s Cotton Cashmere and Summerlite DK yarns, makes the perfect warm weather knitting, just the thing for casting on during a hot weekend. It’s a great price too, working out at just…

YOU WILL NEED For the entire blanket: ❏ King Cole Merino Blend DK (100% wool, 50g/104m) 16 balls of Yarn A Aran (046) 1 ball of Yarn B Lavender (927) 1 ball of Yarn C Pale Blue (1531) 1 ball of Yarn D Pale Pink (1532) 1 ball of Yarn E Carnation (3090) 1 ball of Yarn F Mustard (855) 2 balls of Yarn G Sage (853) ❏ A pair of 4mm needles TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles MEASUREMENTS Blanket 115.5x93cm (45½x36½in); individual square 14.5x15cm (5¾x6in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 KNIT-ALONG BLANKET (PART 4) Note A long-tail cast on is recommended throughout. There’s a good tutorial here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=k5YfbpeRAJ8. Squares are worked separately and joined after…

HATS OFF! My daughter is expecting her first baby in June so my knitting needles are clicking away like crazy at the moment (what better excuse do I need?!). I’m really pleased with the way this hat’s turned out. I used Paintbox Yarns Baby DK yarn, it was so lovely to work with and is really soft to the touch. I’ve been knitting since I was about 10 years old and have usually got at least one project on the go, and I love shopping for new yarn and patterns. I find knitting so rewarding and relaxing. Also, as president of Gin & Jam WI in Tiverton, I hope to be able to get more ladies ‘hooked’ on knitting during our Sew ‘n’ Social evenings when we all bring along…

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 a three-ball yarn bundle of Stylecraft’s gorgeous Jeanie yarn, worth over £14! Perfect for topping up your stash! E Blears, Mold S Bradley, Taunton M Fletcher, Blyth 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.…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ DROPS Cotton Merino (DK, 50% wool, 50% cotton, 50g/110m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A 4.5mm circular needle, 40cm long ❏ A 4.5mm circular needle, 80cm long ❏ A set of 4.5mm DPNs ❏ A 4mm circular needle, 80cm long ❏ A set of 4mm DPNs TENSION 20 sts and 26 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 LACE CARDIGAN Note This cardigan is worked in two pieces, sideways. You cast on at the front edge and work straight until you reach the armhole. Stitches for the armhole are cast off and then cast back on again to create an opening. You then work straight in pattern until you reach…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Scheepjes Catona (100% cotton, 25g/62m), 1 ball of each: Yarn A Yellow Gold (208) Yarn B Lemon Chiffon (100) Yarn C Willow (395) ❏ A pair of 3.25mm needles ❏ 2 x snap hair clips, or 2 x ponytail hair bands TENSION 30 sts and 40 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS 5cm (2in) circumference The leaves are 5cm (13/4 in) long ABBREVIATIONS b&t break and tighten – break off the yarn and thread the end through the sts left on the needle. Pull the end of the yarn to tighten the sts together For a full list see page 87 FLORAL HAIR ACCESSORY SUNFLOWER (MAKE 2) Cast on 16 sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn B. Row 1 *…

I’M LOVING… My morning brew! Since having to get used to a new routine, I’ve been trying to make sure that I always have time to sit down with my brew – it’s a great opportunity to plan the day’s knitting! I’M MAKING… Helical socks Using the free tutorial at www.acknitwear. co.uk. It’s a great way to use up scraps. It’s very easy too, so I definitely recommend trying it out on your next pair of socks! I’M SHARING… A free cowl pattern Over on the blog at www.winwickmum. co.uk/patterns-and-printables.html – this is the Thoughtful Cowl, ideal for using up a single ball or skein of yarn from your stash.…

1 Work up to where the cable pattern starts, then take the yarn to the back of the knitting. 2 Slip the first 2 stitches knitwise on to a cable needle. Hold these stitches at the front of the knitting. 3 Knit the next 2 stitches from the left-hand needle. Slide the stitches on the cable needle to the right-hand end of it and knit them on to the right-hand needle. 4 Bring the yarn to the front of your knitting, and pull the yarn tight to avoid ladders along the side of the cable. Work the next stitch and continue in the pattern.…

BEST OF THE WORSTED QI have noticed that worsted yarn is mentioned in a lot of US patterns. Can I use a British yarn instead? Sandra Morgan, via Facebook A worsted weight doesn’t have an exact equivalent in the UK, unfortunately. The closest equivalent we have here is an aran weight. The best way to substitute is to check the tension for the design you want to make, and find a yarn with a ball band tension to match. Debbie GETTING TO GRIPS QI‘m a novice knitter and have started knitting flat on circular needles but am struggling! Do you have any advice? Anita, via email I love working on circular needles when I am travelling to prevent injury to anyone sitting next to me but also to stop the…

1 Insert the tip of the right-hand needle into the front of the stitch and knit as normal, but don’t drop it from the left-hand needle. 2 Then take the right-hand needle behind the left-hand one and insert the tip of the needle down through the back of the stitch on the left-hand needle. 3 Wrap the yarn around the tip of the right-hand needle to knit the stitch. Bring the needle through to make the stitch, keeping it on the right-hand needle. 4 Take the stitch off the left-hand needle. You will have increased one stitch by knitting twice into the original stitch, first at the front, then at the back.…

Squishing ALL the yarn Online buying has been a wonderful way to get through the time at home, but we've missed the feel of soft, squishy yarns in our hands, and the ability to hold different colours up to the light as we choose them. We can't wait to breathe in the sheepy smell of a wall of pure wool, either! Asking for help! One of the best things about yarn shops are their on-hand experts – owners and staff who are passionate knitters and always ready to talk us through dropped stitches, misunderstood patterns and the best way to seam that side-to-side sweater. Catching up with friends Whether it's a quick chat inspired by someone's new cardigan or a full knit-and-natter session in the evening, yarn shops are great…

Fancy a Beauty-ful knitting project to keep you going through the long evenings inside? Then the Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond, has just the project for you. But watch out – it's behind you! A KNITTING TRADITION Every year, the Georgian Theatre puts out an appeal to the local community for knitted items to be incorporated into its annual pantomime. Last year, thousands of knitted lightbulbs were made to be thrown at Abanazer in the production of Aladdin, while previous years have seen knitted apples, doughnuts, leaves and more. Once the pantomine is over, the Theatre finds good homes for all the items, with last year's lightbulbs going to a local RSPB nature reserve for a yarn bombing display, as well as to nursery schools for use in craft and numeracy…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Debbie Bliss Cashmerino Aran (55% merino wool, 33% acrylic, 12% cashmere, 50g/90m), 3 balls of Yarn A Ecru (101) and 1 ball each of Yarn B Duck Egg (082) and Yarn C Citrus (075) ❏ A pair of 4.5mm needles ❏ 5 buttons, 20mm diameter ❏ Square cushion inner, 40cm MEASUREMENTS 40x40cm (153/4x153/4 in) TENSION 18 sts and 24 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 CHART KEY K on RS; P on WS in Yarn A K on RS; P on WS in Yarn B 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…

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…

ISSUE 200 AUGUST Striped variegated T-shirt Kid’s flamingo jumper Cupcake jumper Kid’s striped cardi Hair accessories Red the Dog toy 3D floral blanket KAL Men’s two-tone jumper Rococo cable cushion Summery lace shawl PLUS! Expand your Knitting Skills booklet ISSUE 199 JULY Geometric tee Kid’s fluffy dog sweater Fish tea cosy Intarsia cushion Mosaic cardi Floral KAL blanket (pt2) Men’s striped jumper Baby jacket Ribbed cowl London bus cushion Two-colour socks PLUS! Stylish bonus poncho pattern ISSUE 198 JUNE Zigzag box T-shirt Pretty lace jumper Fire engine jumper Floral KAL blanket (pt1) Recycled yarn bag Stylish men’s cardigan Bright kid’s jacket Colourful maypole tea cosy Striped socks PLUS! Burda knitting magazine and cute baby pattern booklet ISSUE 197 MAY Block and stripe cardigan Kid’s sheep jumper Pompom throw Bright Easter…

YOU WILL NEED ❏ Rowan Creative Linen (DK weight, 50% cotton, 50% linen, 100g/200m) Our sample was knitted in a different yarn which is now discontinued but we think you’ll love Rowan Creative Linen. For yarn quantities and measurements see size table ❏ A pair of 4mm needles ❏ A pair of 4.5mm needles ❏ Stitch markers TENSION 18 sts and 25 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 in Simply Knitting magazine STRIPY T-SHIRT BACK Cast on 87 (96: 108: 120: 132) sts using 4mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) K2, *P2, K1; rep from * to last st, K1. Row 2 (WS) K1, *P1, K2; rep from * to last 2 sts, P1, K1.…