Innehållsförteckning för December 2025 från Simply Knitting

We’ve loved putting this Christmas edition together, packed with projects to bring handmade magic to your holidays. From our holly and berries cover jumper to our exclusive Tatty Teddy kids’ jumper, there’s something for everyone including a penguin gift set and delightful home projects such as our a Rudolph Reindeer PJ case and elf sack. Accessories and toys add extra fun, including a snowman airpod case cover and our penguins on parade trio. We’ve also reviewed sparkly festive yarn to help make your stitches shine. It’s been a joy working with our talented designers to bring you this mix of inspirational seasonal cheer. We hope this issue fills your home with warmth, colour and knitting joy. Merry Christmas! The SK Team x Kirstie, Nicola, Sophie Camilla, Jennifer and Cory…

Elegant pure wool Fancy a fresh burst of creativity? West Yorkshire Spinners present a collection inspired by legendary designer William Morris. At its heart is their new yarn, Morris DK – spun from three British fleeces and dyed in a palette that nods to the iconic tones of the Victorian era. Showcasing the yarn is ‘Impressions’ – a stunning pattern collection by Debbie Bliss and Chloë Elizabeth Birch, featuring four striking colourwork designs. There’s also a new range of kits, from cosy hats, cowls and mittens to a blanket and cushion – all brimming with colourwork magic! Morris DK £6.50 for 50g, book £15, kits from £40.50. For stockists visit www.wyspinners.com…

This season Hobbii has a huge range of Christmas yarn options to get your creative inspiration overflowing. From the stripy sensations of Candy Cake Christmas and Christmas Friends Cotton, to the variegated joy of Sultan Christmas and Tea Time Christmas, there’s something for everyone in this timeless selection. Sock knitters are also covered with Christmas Sock Wool and Christmas Jolly Sock Wool, a brilliant range of shades that will knit up into the best Christmas Eve socks ever! For more visit www.hobbii.co.uk…

GET the LOOK Page 19 IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED King Cole Merino Blend DK (100% wool, 50g/104m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 3.25mm needles A pair of 3.75mm needles A pair of 4mm needles A 3.75mm and 4mm circular needle, 80-100cm (for larger sizes) Stitch holders Embroidery needle TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact King Cole on 01756 703670 or www.kingcole.com OR YOU COULD TRY… Wool Warehouse 0800 505 3300 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk Athenbys 01948 820 052 www.athenbys.com “This beautiful knit by Siân Brown offers a sophisticated twist on the traditional Christmas jumper, combining chic cream with stylised…

Place your knitted pieces RS up side by side. Thread your needle, anchor 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 needle down between the first two stitches of the right piece’s edge (on equivalent row). Moving upwards, bring the needle back up on right piece, scooping up the bar that lies at the back of the stitch. Return to the opposite piece and repeat.…

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED West Yorkshire Spinners Re:Treat Twist Chunky (100% Bluefaced Kerry Hill wool, 100g/140m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 4.5mm needles A pair of 5mm needles A pair of 5.5mm needles A pair of 6.5mm needles A cable needle (cn) Stitch holder 8 buttons, 28mm diameter (from Duttons for Buttons) TENSION 14.5 sts and 20 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st and rev st st using 6.5mm needles Cable panel meas 12cm wide ABBREVIATIONS M1K(P) Pick up and knit (purl) into the back of horizontal strand lying before next st C3B Slip next 2 sts on cn and hold at back of work, K1, now K2 from cn C3F Slip next st on cn and hold at front…

YOU WILL NEED Green DK yarn A pair of 3.5mm needles Mini Christmas lights or beads Star buttons Wooden button Mini buttons White pompom Gold ribbon Green and white sewing thread Tapestry needle Black marker pen Glue MEASUREMENTS Fairy Light Tree approx 13cm tall Button Tree approx 13cm tall Elf approx 7cm tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 FAIRY LIGHT TREE Cast on 41 sts using 3.5mm needles. Knit 3 rows. Row 1 K1, sl1, K1, psso, knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, K1. [2 sts dec’d] Row 2 Purl. Rep these 2 rows until you have 3 sts on the needles, ending with a purl row. Next row Sl1, k2tog, psso. Fasten off the yarn. MAKING UP With RS facing sew sides tog. Fold over bottom…

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.…

EASY TO KNIT! YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft Special Aran (100% acrylic, 100g/196m) 2 balls of each Yarn A White (1001) Yarn B Green (1116) 1 ball of each Yarn C Lipstick (1246) Yarn D Gold (1709) A pair of 5mm needles Large pompom maker TENSION 18 sts and 23 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 5mm needles MEASUREMENTS Width 35.5cm (14in) Height 63.5cm (25in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft on 01484 848435 or visit www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk OR YOU COULD TRY… Lovecrafts 01409 404 010 www.lovecrafts.com Calico Laine 0151 336 5982 www.calicolaine.co.uk LOVE YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP Your local yarn shop is full of inspiration and expertise. Visit in person, buy while you’re there, and help keep…

SCAN HERE… FOR TIPS AND TUTORIALS! Scan this QR code with your phone or tablet camera or via a QR code reader app. CABLE CAST-ON METHOD Use it for a firm edge, and when adding stitches to your work 1 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. 2 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. 3 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…

ISSUE 269 NOVEMBER ✽ Colourblock jumper ✽ Seed stitch satchel ✽ Baby dress & cardigan set ✽ Kids’ Santa hat ✽ Men’s checked jumper ✽ Santa’s helper teddy ✽ Snowman jumper ✽ Kids’ festive cardigan ✽ Fox scarf ✽ Lace and stripes jumper ✽ Lavender bags ✽ Star tree topper PLUS Christmas Decorations and Festive Gifts pattern collection books BUY IT NOW! RETURN TO THE APP TO BUY BACK ISSUES ISSUE 268 OCTOBER ✽ Cotton cable jumper ✽ Odd socks ✽ Kids’ puffin jumper ✽ Men’s striped jumper ✽ Baby hat ✽ Folded ovals waistcoat ✽ Sawyer Scarecrow ✽ Mug hug ✽ Kids’ Halloween slippers ✽ Sloth plant holder ✽ V-neck tank top ✽ Lace cowl ✽ PLUS Totally Toy Knits pattern collection ISSUE 267 SEPTEMBER ✽ Top-down T-shirt ✽…

“Basil the bear found a heart… he’s still not sure who he’s going to give it to.” BASIL THE BEAR Finished size 15cm BODY AND HEAD Cast on 12 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (K1, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K1) 3 times. [18 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 (K2, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K2) 3 times. [24 sts] Row 5 Purl. Row 6 (K3, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K3) 3 times. [30 sts] Row 7 Purl. Row 8 (K4, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K4) 3 times. [36 sts] Row 9 Purl. Row 10 (K8, kfb) twice, (kfb, K8) twice. [40 sts] Rows 11 to 35 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 36 (K8, k2tog) 3 times,…

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.…

MILO THE MOUSE Finished size 13cm BODY Cast on 12 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn C. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (K2, kfb) twice, (kfb, K2) twice. [16 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 (K1, kfb) 4 times, (kfb, K1) 4 times. [24 sts] Row 5 Purl. Row 6 (K2, kfb) 4 times, (kfb, K2) 4 times. [32 sts] Rows 7 to 27 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 28 (K2, k2tog) 7 times, K1, k2tog, K1. [24 sts] Rows 29 to 35 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 36 (K2, k2tog) 5 times, K1, k2tog, K1. [18 sts] Break yarn and thread through rem sts. Pull tight to fasten. HEAD Work as given for Mouse Body to…

“Pumpkin beside him, Max waits at the doorstep as Halloween’s only trick-or-treating dog witch.” MAX THE DOG Finished size 16cm BODY Cast on 12 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn J. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (K1, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K1) 3 times. [18 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 (K2, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K2) 3 times. [24 sts] Row 5 Purl. Row 6 (K3, Kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K3) 3 times. [30 sts] Row 7 Purl. Row 8 (K4, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K4) 3 times. [36 sts] Rows 9 to 19 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 20 Join Yarn F, K4F, K28J, join another end of Yarn F, K4F. Row 21 P5F, P26J, P5F. Row 22 K6F, K24J, K6F.…

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.…

Made for makers who love the finer things, this exclusive collection is all about gorgeous materials, rich colours and a little everyday luxury. The Novita Signature Collection brings you stunning elegant yarns. Novita x Laine 4ply and DK are spun in West Yorkshire from the finest wool – light, soft and oh-so-durable. Novita Helene is a dreamy 4ply with a touch of silk and super kid mohair. Novita Aino blends alpaca, Merino and polyamide into a blown yarn that’s practical yet beautifully soft. And Novita Edith is a fluffy mix of mohair and silk that feels weightless with a luxe finish. Explore them all and get inspired for your winter knits! Visit www.wyspinners.com for more information…

Sirdar’s design team has looked to nature and wild landscapes for inspiration in their brand-new Elemental collection. Think modern cables, rippling textures and organic colourwork, all knitted in Loveful DK – a 100% recycled acrylic yarn spun from waste fibres and available in 14 trend-led shades. Highlights include Ocean Currents, a fresh take on the Aran sweater with asymmetric cables, and the dramatic Estuary Sweater Dress with its giant cable details. There’s also Shifting Sands, a V-neck jumper with a clever 3D texture, plus colourwork knits from flowing intarsia to playful stripes and diamonds. Patterns are £3.50 each at www.sirdar.com…

STAR LETTER KEEP ON MOVING Three friends I go to a Popmobility class with, Teresa, Anne and Linda, celebrated their 70th birthdays this year. For a fun birthday present each, I knitted them in their exercise gear! I used the doll and clothes patterns from Fiona Goble’s book, ‘Knit Your Own Dolls’. The doll’s body was straightforward to knit and sew together. The pattern was the same for the tops, leggings and trainers, I just personalised them with their own colours. I found the hair was the trickiest part! It took a while styling the wool to catch their likeness. I think it’s about 45 years since I started knitting, taught by my mum. She knitted lots of jumpers, whereas toys and animals have always been my favourite things to…

TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED Sirdar Hayfield Bonus Chunky (100% acrylic, 100g/137m) Sirdar Snuggly Snowflake Chunky (100% polyester, 50g/124m) Sirdar Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 6mm needles A pair of 5.5mm needles A spare 5.5mm needle for 3 needle cast off 4 stitch holders TENSION 14 sts and 20 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 5.5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Sirdar on 01924 371501 or visit www.sirdar.com OR YOU COULD TRY… Woolbox www.woolbox.co.uk Stitch & Knit 01707 518966 www.stitchandknit.co.uk LOVE YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP Your local yarn shop is full of inspiration and expertise. Visit in person, buy while you’re…

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Stylecraft Special DK (100% acrylic, 100g/295m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Black (1002) Yarn B White (1001) Yarn C Clementine (1853) Yarn D Pomegranate (1083) Yarn E Jade (2177) A pair of 3.25mm needles Toy filling Two black toy safety eyes, 8mm per penguin Locking stitch markers A tiny pompom maker or dinner fork Not suitable for children under three years old due to small parts TENSION 20 sts and 28 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over stocking stitch using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS 15cm (6in) tall ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Stylecraft on 01484 848435 or www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk OR YOU COULD TRY… Ewe Wool Shop www.i-love-ewe.com The Knitting Network 01795 570303, www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk LOVE…

EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED Yarnsmiths Create DK (100% acrylic, 100g/290m) Small amounts of Yarn A White (3040) Yarn B Anthracite (3002) Yarn C Ginger (3124) Yarn D Country Green (3204) Yarn E Claret Red (3090) A pair of 3.25mm needles Toy stuffing Removable glue dots TENSION 28 sts and 40 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS To fit AirPod Pro Case circumference 13cm (5in) Height 7cm (2¾in) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 WHERE TO BUY □ Wool Warehouse on 0800 505 3300 or www.woolwarehouse.co.uk EARBUD CASE COVER BODY Cast on 36 sts using 3.25mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (WS) Ktbl to end. Row 2 (RS) Ktbl to end. Row 3 Purl. Row 4 Knit. Rows 5 to…

ROWAN ALPACA SPARKLE Alpaca Sparkle is a new yarn from Rowan, combining soft, fluffy strands of alpaca, wool and cotton with a delicate strand of coloured sequins. It knits up quickly on 6mm needles, creating a glamorous, sparkly fabric that’s perfect for the festive season. The range comes in six classic Rowan shades. To keep the sequins shining and bright, hand wash this yarn gently and dry flat. RRP £10.50 WEIGHT Chunky NEEDLE 6mm BALL 50g/95m CONTENT 32% polyester, 23% alpaca, 23% virgin wool 22% cotton CARE Hand wash, dry flat www.knitrowan.com STYLECRAFT HEAD OVER HEELS FESTIVE The Head Over Heels range from Stylecraft has been expanded with six Christmas inspired variegated shades. The collection includes traditional tones alongside more modern shades. Each colourway features a glittery silver strand for…

TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED Yarnsmiths Merino DK (100% Merino wool, 50g/110m) For Hat 1 (2: 2) ball/s of Yarn A Anthracite Grey (3002) 1 (1: 1) ball of each Yarn B White (3040) Yarn C Sunshine Yellow (3150) For jumper yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 3.25mm needles A pair of 4mm needles 3 (3: 3: 3: 0: 0) buttons Stitch holders For Hat 1 set of 3.25mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) 1 set of 4mm DPNs Stitch holders or spare needles TENSION 22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over stocking stitch using 4mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 HAT Age 0-6m (6-18m: 2-5yrs) To fit head circumference 35-40 (40-45: 45-50)cm or 14-16 (16-18: 18-20)in Actual head…

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED Milla Mia Naturally Soft Aran (100% Merino wool, 50g/80m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table A pair of 4.5mm needles A pair of 5mm needles 4 stitch markers 2 stitch holders TENSION 18 sts and 24 rows to 10×10cm (4×4in) over st st using 5mm needles ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 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 WHERE TO BUY LoveCrafts 01409 404 010 www.lovecrafts.com No Frills Knitting 07942291289 www.nofrillsknitting.co.uk LOVE YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP Your local yarn shop is full of inspiration and expertise. Visit in…

Kirstie McLeod Editor “It has to be sock yarn, and as much as I could take! I wouldn’t just use it for socks I’d also knit wraps and shawls to use as sunscreens.” Sophie Jordan Deputy Editor “King Cole Cottonsoft DK – its soft, strong (for shelter making of course) and comes in the prettiest pastel shades.” Cory Sydee Technical Editor “Sandnes Garn Tynn Line – it’s a 4-ply cotton, linen, viscose blend. Perfect for making lightweight summery desert island garments.” Jen Bartlett Technical Editor “Variegated sock yarn! Sock projects are super portable, and the colour changes keep me interested.”…

Simply Knitting magazine, Stylecraft and top designer Sachiyo Ishii bring you a charming pattern collection of super-cute creatures from farmyards and woodlands. From a raccoon and his ice cream to a mouse in a rubber ring, each design is packed with knitted personality. Using Stylecraft Highland Heathers DK and Stylecraft Life DK, these fun patterns have a heritage feel and are quick to make and easy to love – happy knitting!…

“Edie the chicken nudges her eggs gently, arranging them into the perfect Easter display.” EDIE THE CHICKEN Finished size 13cm BODY AND HEAD Cast on 12 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn F. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (K1, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K1) 3 times. [18 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 (K2, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K2) 3 times. [24 sts] Row 5 Purl. Row 6 (K3, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K3) 3 times. [30 sts] Row 7 Purl. Row 8 (K4, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K4) 3 times. [36 sts] Row 9 Purl. Row 10 (K5, kfb) 3 times, (kfb, K5) 3 times. [42 sts] Rows 11 to 17 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 18 K2tog, K16, kfb, K4, kfb,…

“Whiskers the cat hugs her wool, secretly dreaming of sneaky attacks on unsuspecting toes.” WHISKERS THE CAT Finished size 13.5cm BODY AND HEAD With Yarn C, work as for Rabbit Body to Row 40. [18 sts] Row 41 (WS) (neck) Purl. HEAD Row 42 (Kfb) 18 times. [36 sts] Rows 43 to 53 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 54 (K4, k2tog) 5 times, K3, k2tog, K1. [30 sts] Row 55 Purl. Row 56 (K3, k2tog) 5 times, K2, k2tog, K1. [24 sts] Row 57 Purl. Row 58 (K2, k2tog) 5 times, K1, k2tog, K1. [18 sts] Row 59 Purl. Row 60 (K1, k2tog) 5 times, k2tog, K1. [12 sts] Break yarn and thread through rem sts. Pull tight to fasten. EARS (MAKE 2) Cast…

“Rory hugs his enormous ice cream, knowing summer is best enjoyed with sticky paws.” RORY THE RACCOON Finished size 13cm BODY With Yarn A, work as given for Rabbit Body. HEAD With Yarn A, work as for Rabbit Head to Row 8. [36 sts] Rows 9 and 10 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Break Yarn A. Row 11 (WS) Join Yarn J, P16J, rejoin Yarn A, P4A, join another yarn end of Yarn J, P16J. Row 12 Keeping colours correct, knit. Break Yarn J. Row 13 Join Yarn D and P16D, P4A, P16D. Row 14 Keeping colours correct, (K1, k2tog) 5 times, K6, (k2tog, K1) 5 times. [26 sts] Row 15 Keeping colours correct, purl. Row 16 Keeping colours correct, K11, (k2tog) twice, K11. [24…

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.…

“Rudolph reindeer shows off his handmade wreath, ready for the first snowflakes of Christmas.” RUDOLPH THE REINDEER Finished size 15cm BODY With Yarn F, work as given for Rabbit Body. HIND LEGS (MAKE 2) Cast on 16 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn D. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (K3, kfb) twice, (kfb, K3) twice. [20 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 (hoof base edge) Purl. Rows 5 to 9 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Break Yarn D and join Yarn F. Row 10 (ankle) K4, (k2tog) 6 times, K4. [14 sts] Rows 11 to 15 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 16 (K2tog) 7 times. [7 sts] Break yarn and thread through rem sts. Pull tight to fasten.…

Yarnsmiths are bringing music to your making with two brilliant new yarns – Headliner and Support Act. Just like on stage, Headliner takes the spotlight with vibrant colours and a soft, snuggly texture that shines in any project. But every star needs backup – that’s where Support Act comes in. Designed to complement Headliner perfectly, it offers coordinating shades and a versatile base that’s great for mixing, matching and letting your main yarn pop. Together they’re the ultimate double act, making it easy to create projects full of harmony. Headliner 250g/1000m £16, Support Act 50g/200m £2.80, www.woolwarehouse.co.uk…

Rowan is helping knitters get ahead this Christmas with a stunning range of festive cushion kits, launched after its popular “Festive Week In July” online workshops. This collection’s highlights include Martin Storey’s Midwinter Cushion, featuring squares of festive motifs on a cream background, a deep red and navy house design in Holly Cushion by Anna Hull, and Lisa Richardson’s snowflake motif on Snowfall (all seen here). Dancing Reindeers in black and white, and Bright Star with geometric stars and squares complete the collection. Each gorgeous festive Rowan cushion kit includes yarn and a free digital pattern. More details available at www.knitrowan.com…

EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED Hayfield Bonus DK (100% acrylic, 100g/280m) 1 ball each of Yarn A Chocolate (947) Yarn B White (961) Yarn C Emerald (916) Yarn D Signal Red (977) A pair of 3.25mm needles Toy filling 6 domed black buttons, 5mm diameter Black embroidery thread, 30cm Cosmetic blusher 4 wire bauble hangers TENSION 23 sts and 29 rows to measure 10×10cm (4×4in) over stocking stitch using 3.25mm needles MEASUREMENTS Approx 4cm (2in) diameter, without accessories ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Sirdar on 01924 371501 or www.sirdar.com OR YOU COULD TRY… The Wool Factory 0333 050 4627 www.thewoolfactory.co.uk Little Wool Shop 01495 239416 www.littlewoolshop.com LOVE YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP Your local yarn shop is full of…

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.…

TURN to page 20 for great reader stories! Charity of the MONTH We spoke to Gabi Field, Deputy Director of Public Fundraising at Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity Charity name Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity) Established 1852 What does the charity do? GOSH Charity raises vital funds to support Great Ormond Street Hospital’s most urgent needs. The charity funds pioneering medical research, cutting-edge equipment, support services for children and their families, and the essential refurbishment and rebuilding of hospital facilities to ensure every child gets the best chance and best childhood possible. Current campaigns? GOSH Charity is in the middle of its biggest-ever fundraising appeal to raise £300m to help build a world-leading new Children’s Cancer Centre at GOSH, which will drive transformation in children’s cancer care and…

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS YOU WILL NEED King Cole Cuddles Chunky (100% polyester, 50g/125m) 2 balls of Yarn A Teddy Brown (300) 1 ball each of Yarn B Toffee (3140) Yarn C Poppy (3367) King Cole Pricewise DK (100% acrylic, 100g/282m) 1 ball of Yarn D Shamrock (39) A pair of 6mm needles A pair of 3.75mm needles Toy filling Two black toy safety eyes, 15mm diameter A beige closed-end zip, 30cm (12in) long Sewing needle and cotton thread for inserting zipper Pins for making up Lockable stitch marker TENSION 10 sts and 20 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over garter stitch using 6mm needles using Cuddles Chunky 22 sts and 40 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over garter stitch using 3.75mm needles using Pricewise DK MEASUREMENTS 57cm (22½in) long, not…

CONTACT US! Got a question for our experts? Then email us at simplyknitting@ourmedia.co.uk or write to us at Simply Knitting, Our Media, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST Kirstie McLeod Editor Sock knitting fan and all-round knit genius, Kirstie enjoys designing and creating lace, cables and more. Sophie Jordan Deputy Editor Product expert and Fair Isle fanatic, Sophie loves talking about the latest trends and cool colour combos. Cory Sydee Technical Editor Tech expert and knitting super-fan, Cory likes to delve into the toughest of knitting conundrums. Jen Bartlett Technical Editor Stitch expert and technical whizz, Jen tackles the trickiest of knitting problems with ease. QUESTION OF THE MONTH MULTI-PURPOSE KNIT Q I’d like to make a Christmas jumper I can wear all year round. Do you have any recommendations? Eleanor…

CATCH UP WITH OUR READER KNITS AND STORIES over on page 20 CHILL OUT WITH A CROSSWORD ACROSS DOWN IT’S SUDOKU TIME! Knitting Riddle I join two pieces but live in-between; invisible when done, sometimes clearly seen. If tension’s wrong I’ll wrinkle and pout — fix me quick and smooth me out. What am I? ISSUE 270 SOLUTIONS Across 1 Amazing, 5 Weaving, 9 Cocoa, 10 Neighbour, 11 Ham, 12 You’re, 13 Waste, 14 Leave, 16 Ladies, 18 Styles, 19 Smash, 22 Holly, 24 Drive, 26 Inn, 27 Orchestra, 29 Stair, 30 Sisters, 31 Delayed. Down 1 Alcohol, 2 Accompany, 3 Italy, 4 Genius, 5 White, 6 Ash, 7 Irons, 8 Gardens, 13 Wraps, 15 Every, 17 Imaginary, 18 Schools, 20 Hundred, 21 Wizard, 23 Locks, 24 Dates, 25 Easel,…

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.…

EASY TO KNIT YOU WILL NEED Yarnsmiths Elvis DK (100% acrylic, 150g/540m) 1 ball of Helix (1A011) A pair of 4.5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 79 MEASUREMENTS 2m (6½ft) long TOP TIP Variegated yarn works beautifully with a long tinsel design. You can get a similar affect by working scraps from your stash and striping them in tonal order. WHERE TO BUY □ For yarn stockists contact Wool Warehouse on 0800 505 3300 www.woolwarehouse.co.uk “Becca has designed yet another great project that teaches a new skill. Loop stitch is so rewarding when you get the hang of it and great for decorating your home with.” SOPHIE JORDAN, DEPUTY EDITOR LOOPED TINSEL Notes The garland is worked as one long i-cord, sliding the work to…

TAKE ON A CHALLENGE YOU WILL NEED Materials listed are for all the toys in the calendar Stylecraft Highland Heathers DK (100% acrylic, 100g/272m) 1 ball of each Yarn A Grist (3750) Yarn B Granite (3742) Yarn C Shale (3749) Yarn D Terrier (7225) Yarn E Bracken (3747) Yarn F Marmalade (7224) Yarn G Heather (3753) Yarn H Stewart Red (3770) Yarn J Brose (7230) Yarn K Wild Salmon (3745) Stylecraft Life DK (75% acrylic, 25% wool, 100g/298m) 1 ball of each Yarn L Daffodil (2394) Yarn M Caramel (2446) Yarn N Fern (2311) Yarn P Cardinal (2306) A pair of 3mm needles A 3mm crochet hook A stitch holder Toy filling 9 pairs of mushroom-shaped amigurumi eye beads, 6mm diameter 4 pairs of mushroom-shaped amigurumi eye beads, 5mm diameter…

DAPHNE THE DUCK Finished size 15cm BODY AND HEAD With Yarn J, work as given for Bear Body to Row 10. [40 sts] Row 11 (WS) Purl. Row 12 K1, k2tog, K14, kfb, K4, kfb, K14, k2tog, K1. Row 13 Purl. Rows 14 and 15 Rep Rows 12 and 13. Row 16 K1, k2tog, knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, K1. [2 sts dec’d] Row 17 Purl. Rows 18 to 19 Rep Rows 16 and 17. [36 sts] Rows 20 to 23 Starting on a RS knit row, work in st st. Rows 24 to 29 Rep Rows 16 and 17 three times. [30 sts] Rows 30 to 35 Starting on a RS knit row, work in st st. Row 36 (K3, k2tog) 3 times, (k2tog, K3) 3 times. [24…

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.…

FELIX THE FOX Finished size 14cm BODY With Yarn M, work as given for Rabbit to Row 8. [36 sts] Rows 9 to 27 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 28 (RS) (K4, k2tog) 5 times, K3, k2tog, K1. [30 sts] Row 29 Purl. Row 30 K14M, join Yarn J, K2J, join another end of Yarn M, K14M. Row 31 P13M, P4J, P13M. Row 32 K12M, K6J, K12M. Row 33 P11M, P8J, P11M. Row 34 K10M, K10J, K10M. Row 36 Keeping colours correct, (K3, k2tog) 3 times, (k2tog, K3) 3 times. [24 sts] Rows 37 to 38 Keeping colours correct and starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 39 P6M, P12J, P6M. Row 40 Keeping colours correct, (K2, k2tog) 3 times,…

“Hattie kicks acorns across the farmyard, secretly dreaming of soccer stardom.” HATTIE THE HEDGEHOG Finished size 11cm BODY AND HEAD Cast on 12 sts using 3mm needles and Yarn J. Row 1 (WS) Purl. Row 2 (K2, kfb) twice, (kfb, K2) twice. [16 sts] Row 3 Purl. Row 4 (K1, kfb) 4 times, (kfb, K1) 4 times. [24 sts] Row 5 Purl. Row 6 (K2, kfb) 4 times, (kfb, K2) 4 times. [32 sts] Rows 7 to 29 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 30 (K2, k2tog) 4 times, (k2tog, K2) 4 times. [24 sts] Rows 31 to 35 Starting on a WS purl row, work in st st. Row 36 (K2, k2tog) 3 times, (k2tog, K2) 3 times. [18 sts] Row 37 Purl. HEAD…