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Simply

ISSUE 202

INSPIRATION YARN EXPERTS

NEW SEASON SENSATIONS!

KNIT NOW!

Cosy cardi Easy cover-up THE UK'S BEST KNIT S

Stylish homewares

for you & your family !

Outdoor Simple hts! intarsia delig

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3D cushion!

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Multi-level knitting

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PLUS! More inside...

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It’s almost time to say goodbye to summer & welcome in autumn!

The pages of this issue are filled with summer and autumn temptation, as the projects squish together into this multi-season collection! I find the later summer months often feel a little autumnal here in the UK, so I’m always grateful for a collection of cosy cover-ups alongside my warm-weather favourites. Thankfully, with many of us spending a little more time out and about, we have more opportunity to show off all those wonderful garments we’ve been knitting stealthily at home. And we’re not finished yet! I’m itching to knit the triumphant, bright cardigan by Siân Brown you see on our cover. Isn’t it the cheeriest thing you’ve ever seen? And if I had unlimited time I would knit Monica Russel’s simple yellow T-shirt in all the colours of the rainbow – a different shade for every day! I’m so tempted, I still might! Talking of colour, Jo Allport’s beach hut homewares set is a vibrant delight, and Bergère de France’s veggie tank top for kids is sure to ignite smiles. If you love to create a little 3D excitement too, check out Nicola Valiji’s vintage-style floral cushion – it’s a gorgeous way to end the summer months!

We hope you enjoy this issue and as always, wish you and your families the best of health. See you next month...

The SK team x Kirstie, Sophie, Nicola, Seth, Faye, Katie and Jen

PLUS! Don’t miss our fab feature on stretchy cast-offs on page 60

GET IN TOUCH! S H O P S M A RT SHOP LOCAL! Turn to page 80

We’d love to hear from you.

Email us at simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk Write to us at Stay in Touch, Simply Knitting magazine, Immediate Media Co, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST Find us on Instagram @simplyknittingmag Find us on Facebook Facebook.com/simplyknitting Subscription enquiries email www.buysubscriptions.com/contactus

Simply

Kid’s cute veggie tank top, p48!

In this issue

14 29 C OVE R STAR !

63 Expert guide to stretchy cast-offs

6o

Try a new skill! k

81

41 53

23

37

75 PATTERNS 14 23 29 37 41 48 53 63 75 81

Slip-stitch cardigan Preemie baby set Bobble spray scarf Summer T-shirt 3D floral cushion Kid’s veggie tank top Beach hut homeware set Cosy jacket and snood Neck-knot gilet Chevron socks

GREAT BUYS & TOP PRIZES 7 Wishlist Check out our gorgeous new buys, exciting events, brilliant books and more

46 Fab freebies Knitting treats for everyone!

72 The latest yarn reviews The best of the latest releases

78 Prize puzzles Time to give your brain a workout

GOOD READS & MORE 28 Purls of wisdom Kath Garner looks back on her lockdown knitting and reveals how her latest projects are helping her through

34 Stay in touch Your exciting knitting news, creative makes and crafty stories

44 Easy ways to create circles Dive into our mini guide on how to knit circles and where they are used best

58 Ask the experts We solve all your knitting gripes and technique conundrums

84 How to knit Our practical guide delivers all the stitches and tips to get you started!

88 Next issue Find out what patterns and features you can look forward to next month

90 Stitch of the month Learn a new skill by adding a gorgeous new stitch pattern to your library!

q

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60 Stretchy cast-offs Discover the best way to cast off when working sock tops and necklines

68 Knit together Delve into our top selection of charity stories, local yarn shops and latest reader knits in our community round-up

79 Back issues Missed a copy of your favourite mag?

Complete your set with our directory

Take your fave mag with you with a digital subscription!

Turn to page 30 to subscribe now

5

Some things may have changed at your local yarn shop.

someone who listens

There’ll always be a warm welcome

Always helpful and expert advice

And things you just can’t put a price on

Things may have changed. There’s social distancing, hand sanitisers and face masks. But rest assured your local yarn shop will be working hard to keep you safe and still provide the personal service that you’ve always loved.

You can chat about a project. Pick up some useful advice. Join your shops virtual craft group. Invest in a stash for the future and much, much more.

Visit www.ukhandknitting.com QG \RXU ORFDO VKRS DQG HQMR\ D UHDO JRRG \DUQ

YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP IS STILL HERE FOR YOU. With thanks to: Emma Varnam for the welcoming rabbit from Cute Crocheted Animals. The listening ear shell is from a crochet pattern by Anna Sakhno.

The wise owl is by Marken of The Hat & I and the heart is by Tatyana Grigoryan.

WHAT’S NEW

Wishlist a Shopping 0 Events 0 Inspiration 0 People 0 Views

ARM CANDY Fancy knitting your own bag this month? Even if you only know the basics, this top knit from Wool Couture could be for you. Available as a kit for £31.99 this soft-looking cable shopper bag will look gorgeous draped over your arm. It’s knitted in Cheeky Chunky yarn so will be ready for use in no time! www.woolcouturecompany.com.

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7

WHAT’S NEW

Editor’s choice This issue’s knitting must-buys and news chosen by SK Editor, Kirstie McLeod

The Knitting Network Now Stocking WYS Exciting news for West Yorkshire Spinners fans – you can now find a wonderful range of their fabulous yarns at The Knitting Network! www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk.

New Stylecraft Pearls Yarn Snuggly and tactile, this new yarn from Stylecraft comes with mini bobble ‘pearls’ in six pretty shades, giving your knits a lovely soft texture that’s truly unique.

Find Stylecraft Pearls at www. woolwarehouse.co.uk at £4.59 for 100g.

Gütermann Sew All Nostalgic Tins Featuring Gütermann adverts from 1925, 1927 and 1929, these gorgeous sewing tins make a welcome addition to your knitting kit. The come with sewing thread but you could pack them full of tapestry needles, stitch markers and other knit notions if you choose. £13.99 per tin, email Gütermann@ stockistenquiries.co.uk for more information on where to buy.

Perth Festival of Yarn Shop Check out the Perth Festival of Yarn Shop packed with exciting stalls (see Giddy Yarns below) and held in place of the annual show. Only open 12-13 Sept! www.perthfestivalofyarn.uk Caron Stacked Up Wrap Knitted in Caron Simply Soft, this gorgeous wrap pattern is free to download. Add more stitch pattern skills to your set with the inclusion of simple lace, seed stitch and cabling.

Yarn and free pattern available at www.readicut.co.uk.

Rowan Fade Yarn Packs Filled with six soft shades, carefully curated by top designer, Lisa Richardson, Rowan Kidsilk Haze Fade Packs are perfect combos for creative knitting.

Look out for their Felted Tweed options too. £54, www.knitrowan.co.uk for stockists.

......................... BUY-ME-NOW BOOKS .........................

THE LEARN-TOKNIT BOOK

YOU WILL BE ABLE TO KNIT BY THE END OF THIS BOOK

by Vogue Knitting

by Rosie Fletcher

By Christine Legrow & Shirley A Scott

(Sixth & Spring, £19.99)

(Ilex, £14.99)

(Boulder Books, £24.99)

This comprehensive guide is packed with reference detail, from yarn types and differences to reading a yarn label, from must-have tools and basic stitches to understanding tension, and from expert tips and tricks to perfect finishing. There’s also a useful stitch dictionary, and more than 30 simple patterns, including a chunky garter stitch cardigan, a striped mesh top, a textured poncho, gradient wrap and more.

Though aimed at beginners, this beautiful book packed with stunning photographs is a lovely resource of simple, classic projects – perfect for when you just haven’t got the energy for complicated lace or colourwork! There’s a great illustrated how-to guide, followed by 16 patterns, ranging from a chunky ribbed hat and scarf to a striped tablet case and more. Each pattern gradually builds up your skills.

8 Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting

SALTWATER MITTENS

Traditional Newfoundland mittens were knitted from rough sheep’s wool in natural shades and designed to be tough and practical in often harsh conditions.

Christine and Shirley have collected dozens of vintage designs and translated them into modern patterns.

This book contains more than 20 designs, with a selection of mittens and gloves featuring striped cuffs, patterned palms and chequerboard fingers.

WHAT’S NEW

top 3

a day in the life of…

MILLI ABRAMS London yarn shop, Tribe After putting her accountancy job to one side, Milli opened her very own dream yarn shop Up early or slow to rise? Up early!

First job of the day? Emails! Always lots of emails. I have developed the awful habit of checking them before I even get out of bed, which I really must stop.

Mid-morning pick-me-up? At 11am every day, the hubby brings me a cuppa and three digestive biscuits.

Fave time to sit back and take five? Not really sitting, but I enjoy my little walk to work and back. I plug in some tunes, breathe the fresh air and take in the scenery. I love those walks.

YARNS TO GET YOUR NEEDLES INTO We love Milli’s walk to work view and her Fantastitch Shawl design

We love it when a flurry of extraspecial new yarns hits the shelves – check out these gorgeous additions

but often not until 10pm.

Discover the joy of Tribe at 7 Richmond Hill, TW10 6RE or online at www.tribeyarns. com. You can even follow their daily life at @tribeyarnslife on Instagram and Facebook.

43in

IS THE HEIGHT OF THE TALLEST-EVER SHEEP – HE WAS A SUFFOLK RAM!

Deramores Studio Cotton Yarn DK, £2.39 This wonderfully soft 100% cotton DK weight yarn has a great stitch definition and is ideal for creating lightweight knitting projects.

Discover more at www.deramores.com

Source: www.guinnessworldrecords.com

HAVE YOU SEEN…

…Cocoknits’ unique new needle measuring gauge?

When you’re in need of something small and compact for your on-the-go kit, this latest mini addition could be the answer!

We’re sure this teeny tool is about to become one of your favourites. Less bulky than the more typical flat needle gauges, this option measures just 1.62x1x0.71in. It’s manufactured from PLA, a 100% biodegradable plant-based plastic substitute, and comes in super-cool colours. We think it’s something to get excited about (and add to your shopping list)! £18, find it at www.ayarnstory.co.uk or call 01225 429239

UK Alpaca Superfine Alpaca Hand Dyed DK, £10 for 50g Created in partnership with local hand dyers, UK Alpaca’s new hand-dyed yarn is based on their super-soft British 75% Superfine Alpaca, 25% wool blend DK yarn (50g).

Available from www.ukalpaca.com

Paintbox Wool Worsted, £7 This new, versatile, 100% superwash wool comes in an amazing new 48-shade range that you can use in all manner of knitting projects.

It’s perfect for cables, lace and Fair Isle.

For more details visit www.lovecrafts.com

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WHAT’S NEW

…the Prairie Collection

Fill your basket with some of the UK’s best yarns this October

Packed with frills, peplums, Fair Isle patterns and animal motifs, this gorgeous Prairie Collection from Debbie Bliss comprises of comfy wrap cardigans and Cotton Denim DK.

all the BEST CRAFT events!

by-the-prairie for details.

8-11 October

THE KNITTING & STITCHING SHOW Alexandra Palace, London Head to the beautiful Alexandra Palace for a show packed with yarny stalls, textile displays and crafty workshops. This autumn show is a staple of the knitting calendar and sponsored by brands including Novita, Stylecraft and Rowan. Perfect for stocking up your stash ready for winter.

For more information and to buy tickets visit www.theknittingandstitchingshow.com

10 October

YARNFOLK FESTIVAL OF WOOL Various locations in Whitehead, Co Antrim Take in a huge variety of stalls and workshops around the town centre of Whitehead, in Northern Ireland, with this one-day festival. The venues are all located within a few streets of each other, and near Whitehead train station, and exhibitors are set to include designers, dyers, spinners, felters and weavers.

For more information and to buy tickets visit www.yarnfolkwoolfestni.com

10-11 October

BAKEWELL WOOL GATHERING Bakewell Agricultural Centre, Agricultural Way, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1AH Set in a beautiful market town within the stunning Peak District, the Bakewell Wool Gathering is a colourful event that’s been running since 2013. Exhibitors are still being confirmed, but will include stalls selling ‘wool, needles, spinning wheels and all things woolly’ – sounds like our sort of place!

For more information and to buy tickets visit www.bakewellwool.co.uk

17 October

3 BAGS FULL WOOL MARKET Liskeard Public Hall, Liskeard, Cornwall

what do you wanna knit?

Perhaps a whole blanket with just one ball of Lion Brand’s I Wanna Make A Blankie yarn (£24.99)? An amazing 400m of snuggly chenille yarn is packed into each 800g ball – enough to make a 100x100cm blanket.

Made from 100% polyester, this super chunky yarn knits up in no time. There’s a pattern on the ball band too!

Available from www. woolwarehouse.co.uk

This annual event returns, once again featuring a hall overflowing with woolly goodness! Previous years have seen stalls selling British wools, hand-dyed yarns, spinning fibre, finished items, must-have accessories and much more.

For more information head to www.3bagsfull.org

24 October

SLIP STITCH VARIATIONS WORKSHOP 7 Llantrisant Road, Pontyclun CF72 9DP Head to this friendly yarn shop in South Wales for a workshop which runs from 9.30am to 1.30pm and includes refreshments. This fun class is aimed at confident beginners and explores the wonders of slip stitches, from single colour patterns such as fisherman’s rib to the amazing colourwork of mosaic knitting. Why not add a note in your diary to attend this October?

For more information on this great event head to www.ammoniteyarns.co.uk, cost £35 per person

The events above are still planned to go ahead as SK goes to print.

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IMAGE: SARAH VOMBRACK, UNSPLASH

This month we’re loving…

R O W A N The Art Of Knitting

Cape Bay by Martin Storey | Softyak DK

WHAT’S NEW

Discover rustic luxury with‌

‌King Cole Forest Aran King Cole’s beautiful new tweedy yarn, with its soft matt ďŹ nish, really has to be touched to be appreciated Made from 100% recycled materials and ten beautiful vintage colours, we’re completely in love with King Cole’s Forest Aran (ÂŁ3.49 for 100g)! Perfect for garments, accessories and beautiful homewares this aran yarn has a wonderful feel and is fantastic for all year round wear. www.kingcole.com or 01756 703670 for stockists.

Cast on long, slim cardis in King Cole Forest Aran that will stand the test of time Tweedy looks are ideal for men’s garments too

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happy Homespun hand-knit!

When autumn comes around we naturally start digging out our hibernation attire, and there’s little more snuggly than cables and hoods. Luckily this gorgeous jumper from Rowan has both, among plenty of other ‘cuddle-up’ qualities.

Heartwarmingly called ‘Homespun’, it has been designed by Martin Storey using Rowan Softyak DK yarn, which is a lovely blend of 76% cotton, 15% yak and 9% nylon. But the very best thing is, the pattern download is absolutely free! www.knitrowan.com/en/ free-patterns/homespun

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SUPER SOFT VELVET, CHENILLE YARN 100% POLYESTER | AVAILABLE IN 16 BEAUTIFUL COLOURS NOW AVAILABLE FROM WOOL WAREHOUSE | THE RANGE | READICUT MAKERS SUPERSTORE | OH SEW CRAFTY

a love of lace

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Create a refreshingly modern cardigan with a bright and bold citrus yarn and an all-over lace stitch pattern. By Siân Brown

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0

Simply

loves

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

Q For yarn stockists contact

West Yorkshire Spinners on 01535 664500 www.wyspinners.com

YOU WILL NEED Q West Yorkshire Spinners

OR YOU COULD TRY…

Colourlab DK (100% wool, 100g/225m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table Q A pair of 3.25mm needles Q A pair of 4mm needles Q Stitch holders Q 11 buttons

Q Black Sheep Wools

FRONTS & BACK

01925 764231 or www. blacksheepwools.com Q Fine Fettle Fibres 01670 600001 or www.finefettlefibres.uk

41½ (44½: 48: 51½: 54½: 58: 61½: 64½: 68)cm 16¼ (17½: 18¾: 20¼: 21½: 22¾: 24: 25½: 26¾)in

TENSION 24 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over main pattern using 4mm needles

ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87

SHOP SMAR SHO LOCAP L!

! f f o % 0 1

The Knitting Network are offering 10% off WYS Colourlab DK! Quote code TKNWYS10 when you order by calling 01795 570303 or visiting www.theknittingnetwork. co.uk. Offer ends 24 Sept 2020.

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This gorgeous cardigan is covered from top to bottom in drop-stitch lacework

SLEEVE

47 (47: 47: 47: 47: 47: 47: 47: 47)cm 18¼ (18¼: 18¼: 18¼: 18¼: 18¼: 18¼: 18¼: 18¼)in

WHERE TO BUY

63 (64: 65: 66: 67: 68: 69: 70: 71)cm 24¾ (25: 25½: 26: 26¼: 26¾: 27: 27½: 28)in

DROP-STITCH CARDI

Row 3 K1, (K1, P2, K2, P2, K2) to end.

Rows 4 to 7 Rep Rows 2 and 3 twice more.

Row 8 (drop next st down 7 rows, P1, K2, P2, K2, P1) to 1 st before end, drop next st down 7 rows.

Row 9 (K1, P2, K2, P2, K1) to end.

Row 10 (P1, K2, P2, K2, P1) to end.

Row 11 (K1, P2, K1, M1, K1, P2, K1) to end.

Row 12 (P1, K2, P3, K2, P1) to end.

Row 13 (K1, P2, K3, P2, K1) to end.

Rows 14 to 17 Rep Rows 12 and 13 twice more.

Row 18 (P1, K2, P1, drop next st down 7 rows, P1, K2, P1) to end.

Row 19 (K1, P2, K2, P2, K1) to end.

Row 20 (P1, K2, P2, K2, P1) to end.

These 20 rows form the patt and are repeated.

BACK Cast on 92 (99: 106: 113: 120: 127: 134: 141: 148) sts using 3.25mm needles.

Knit 3 rows.

Change to 4mm needles.

Beg with a K row, work 12 rows in st st.

Next row (Winding yarn 3 times round needle, K next st) to end.

Next row (Dropping extra loops P next st) to end.

Beg with a K row work 12 rows in st st.

DROP-STITCH CARDI Note When working Main Stitch Pattern, only count sts after Rows 8, 9, 10, 19 and 20. When shaping in pattern on a Row 8 or 18, drop any sts that are involved in the shaping and don’t count these as a stitch.

Change to 3.25mm needles.

Knit 3 rows.

Inc row K15 (13: 12: 11: 10: 9: 8: 7: 6), (M1, K9) 7 (8: 9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15) times, M1, K14 (14: 13: 12: 11: 10: 9: 8: 7).

[100 (108: 116: 124: 132: 140: 148: 156: 164) sts] Change to 4mm needles.

Begin pattern:

MAIN STITCH PATTERN Row 1 M1, (K1, P2, K2, P2, K1, M1) to end.

Row 2 (P2, K2, P2, K2, P1) to last st, P1.

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Set up row (RS) K2, PM, work Row 1 of Main Stitch Pattern to last 2 sts, PM, K2.

DROP-STITCH CARDI

FIND YOUR SIZE XS

S

M

L

1X

2X

3X

4X

5X

cm

81

86

91

97

102

107-112

112-117

117-122

127132

in

32

34

36

38

40

42-44

44-46

46-48

50-52

cm

83

89

96

103

109

116

123

129

136

in

32½

35

37¾

40½

43

45½

48¼

50¾

53½

cm

63

64

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

in

25

25¼

25½

26

26½

26¾

27

27½

28

cm

47

47

47

47

47

47

47

47

47

in

18¼

18¼

18¼

18¼

18¼

18¼

18¼

18¼

18¼

8

9

SIZE TO FIT BUST

ACTUAL BUST LENGTH SLEEVE LENGTH YARN

West Yorkshire Spinners Colourlab DK (100g/225m)

Zesty Orange (476)

5

6

6

6

7

7

8

SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions. Simply follow our colour-coded measurements and you’re off.

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Cast off rem 8 (9: 9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 12: 12) sts.

With RS facing, place centre 32 (34: 36: 38: 40: 42: 44: 46: 48) sts on a holder, rejoin yarn to rem sts, patt to end.

Dec 1 st at neck edge on next 6 rows.

[16 (17: 18: 19: 20: 21: 22: 23: 24) sts].

SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 8 (8: 9: 9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 12) sts at beg of next row.

Work 1 row.

Cast off rem 8 (9: 9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 12: 12) sts.

Next row (WS) P2, sl SM, work next row of Main Stitch Pattern to last 2 sts, sl SM, P2.

Next row K2, sl SM, work next row of Main Stitch Pattern to last 2 sts, sl SM, K2.

LEFT FRONT

Rep last 2 rows until Back measures 45 (45: 46: 46: 47: 47: 48: 48: 48)cm from cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.

Change to 4mm needles.

Beg with a K row work 12 rows in st st.

Next row (Winding yarn 3 times round needle, K next st) to end.

Next row (Dropping extra loops P next st) to end.

Beg with a K row work 12 rows in st st.

SHAPE ARMHOLES Cast off 4 (5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10: 11: 12) sts at beg of next 2 rows.

[92 (98: 104: 110: 116: 122: 128: 134: 140) sts].

Dec 1 st at each end of the next 8 (9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15: 16) rows.

[76 (80: 84: 88: 92: 96: 100: 104: 108) sts] Work straight until Back measures 60 (61: 62: 63: 64: 65: 66: 67: 68)cm from cast on edge, ending with a WS row.

Cast on 44 (48: 51: 55: 58: 62: 65: 69: 72) sts using 3.25mm needles.

Knit 3 rows.

Change to 3.25mm needles.

Knit 3 rows.

Inc row K9 (11: 8: 10: 7: 9: 6: 8: 5), (M1, K9) 3 (3: 4: 4: 5: 5: 6: 6: 7) times, M1, K8 (10: 7: 9: 6: 8: 5: 7: 4).

[48 (52: 56: 60: 64: 68: 72: 76: 80) sts]

SHAPE BACK NECK Next row Patt 22 (23: 24: 25: 26: 27: 28: 29: 30), turn and work on these sts for first side of neck shaping.

Dec 1 st at neck edge on next 6 rows.

[16 (17: 18: 19: 20: 21: 22: 23: 24) sts] Work 1 row.

Change to 4mm needles.

SIZES S, L, 2X AND 4X ONLY Work in patt as given for Back.

SIZES XS, M, 1X, 3X AND 5X ONLY SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 8 (8: 9: 9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 12) sts at beg of next row.

Work 1 row.

Row 1 K2, M1, (K1, P2, K2, P2, K1, M1) to last 6 sts, K1, P2, K3.

Row 2 P3, K2, (P3, K2, P2, K2) to last 4 sts, P4.

Row 3 K4, (P2, K2, P2, K3) to last 5 sts, P2, K3.

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DROP-STITCH CARDI Simple but neatly edged front sections enhance the pretty, detailed drop-stitch pattern

SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 8 (8: 9: 9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 12) sts at beg of next row.

Work 1 row.

Cast off rem 8 (9: 9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 12: 12) sts.

RIGHT FRONT Cast on 44 (48: 51: 55: 58: 62: 65: 69: 72) sts using 3.25mm needles.

Knit 3 rows.

Change to 4mm needles.

Beg with a K row work 12 rows in st st.

Next row (Winding yarn 3 times round needle, K next st) to end.

Next row (Dropping extra loops, P next st) to end.

Beg with a K row work 12 rows in st st.

Change to 3.25mm needles.

Knit 3 rows.

Inc row K8 (10: 7: 9: 6: 8: 5: 7: 4), (M1, K9) 3 (3: 4: 4: 5: 5: 6: 6: 7) times, M1, K9 (11: 8: 10: 7: 9: 6: 8: 5).

48 (52: 56: 60: 64: 68: 72: 76: 80) sts.

Change to 4mm needles.

Work in patt.

SIZES S, L, 2X AND 4X ONLY Work in patt as given for Back.

Rows 4 to 7 Rep Rows 2 and 3 twice more.

Row 8 P3, K2, P1, drop next st down 7 rows (P1, K2, P2, K2, P1, drop next st down 7 rows) to last 2 sts, P2.

Row 9 K3, P2, (K2, P2) to last 3 sts, K3.

Row 10 P3, K2, (P2, K2) to last 3 sts, P3.

Row 11 K3, P2, K1, M1, K1, (P2, K2, P2, K1, M1, K1) to last st, K1.

Row 12 P4, (K2, P2, K2, P3), K2 to last 5 sts, K2, P3.

Row 13 K3, P2, (K3, P2, K2, P2), to last 4 sts, K4.

Rows 14 to 17 Rep Rows 12 and 13 twice more.

Row 18 P2, drop next st down 7 rows, P1, K2, (P2, K2, P1, drop next st down 7 rows, P1, K2) to last 3 sts, P3.

Row 19 K3, P2, (K2, P2) to last 3 sts, K3.

Row 20 P3, K2, (P2, K2) to last 3 sts, P3.

ALL SIZES These 20 rows form the patt and are repeated.

Work straight until Front measures 45 (45: 46: 46: 47: 47: 48: 48: 49)cm from cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE ARMHOLE Next row (RS) Cast off 4 (5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10: 11: 12) sts, patt to end.

[44 (47: 50: 53: 56: 59: 62: 65: 68) sts] Work 1 row.

Dec 1 st at armhole edge of the next 8 (9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15: 16) rows. [36 (38: 40: 42: 44: 46: 48: 50: 52) sts] Work straight until Front measures 50 (51: 52: 53: 54: 55: 56: 57: 58)cm from cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE FRONT NECK Next row (RS) Patt 26 (27: 28: 29: 30: 31: 32: 33: 34), skpo, turn and work on these sts, leaving rem 8 (9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15: 16) sts on a holder.

Next row Patt to end. [27 (28: 29: 30: 31: 32: 33: 34: 35) sts] Dec 1 st at neck edge of the next row and 10 foll RS rows.

[16 (17: 18: 19: 20: 21: 22: 23: 24) sts] Work straight until Front measures the same as Back to shoulder shaping, ending with a WS row.

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SIZES XS, M, 1X, 3X AND 5X ONLY Row 1 K3, P2, K1, M1, (K1, P2, K2, P2, K1, M1) to last 2 sts, K2.

Row 2 P4, (K2, P2, K2, P3) to last 5 sts, K2, P3.

Row 3 K3, (P2, K3, P2, K2) to last 6 sts, P2, K4.

Rows 4 to 7 Rep Rows 2 and 3 twice more.

Row 8 P2, drop next st down 7 rows, P1, K2, (P2, K2, P1, drop next st down 7 rows, P1, K2) to last 3 sts, P3.

Row 9 K3, P2, (K2, P2) to last 3 sts, K3.

Row 10 P3, K2, (P2, K2) to last 3 sts, P3.

Row 11 K2, M1, K1, P2, K2, P2, (K1, M1, K1, P2, K2, P2) to last 8 sts, K1, M1, K1, P2, K3.

Row 12 P3, K2, P3, K2, (P2, K2, P3, K2) to last 8 sts, P2, K2, P4.

Row 13 K4, (P2, K2, P2, K3), to last 5 sts, P2, K3.

Rows 14 to 17 Rep Rows 12 and 13 twice more.

Row 18 P3, K2, P1, drop next st down 7 rows, P1, K2, (P2, K2, P1, drop next st down 7 rows, P1, K2) to last 8 sts, P2, K2, P1, drop next st down 7 rows, P2.

Row 19 K3, P2, (K2, P2) to last 3 sts, K3.

Row 20 P3, K2, (P2, K2) to last 3 sts, P3.

ALL SIZES These 20 rows form the patt and are repeated.

Work straight until Front measures 45 (45: 46: 46: 47: 47: 48: 48: 49)cm from cast on edge, ending with a RS row.

SHAPE ARMHOLE Next row (WS) Cast off 4 (5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10: 11: 12) sts, patt to end.

44 (47: 50: 53: 56: 59: 62: 65: 68) sts] Dec 1 st at end of the next 8 (9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15: 16) rows.

[36 (38: 40: 42: 44: 46: 48: 50: 52) sts] Work straight until Front measures 50 (51: 52: 53: 54: 55: 56: 57: 58)cm from cast on edge, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE FRONT NECK Next row (RS) Patt 8 (9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15: 16) sts, leave these sts on a holder, k2tog, patt to end. [27 (28: 29: 30: 31: 32: 33: 34: 35 sts]

DROP-STITCH CARDI

Next row Patt to end.

Dec 1 st at neck edge of the next row and 10 foll RS rows.

[16 (17: 18: 19: 20: 21: 22: 23: 24) sts] Work straight until Front measures the same as Back to shoulder shaping, ending with a RS row.

SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 8 (8: 9: 9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 12) sts at beg of next row.

Work 1 row.

Cast off rem 8 (9: 9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 12: 12) sts.

SLEEVES Cast on 41 (43: 47: 49: 53: 55: 57: 61: 63) sts using 3.25mm needles.

Knit 3 rows.

Change to 4mm needles.

Beg with a K row work 12 rows in st st.

Next row (Winding yarn 3 times round needle, K next st) to end.

Next row (Dropping extra loops, P next st) to end.

Beg with a K row, work 12 rows in st st.

Change to 3.25mm needles.

Knit 3 rows.

Inc row K3 (4: 6: 7: 9: 10: 11: 13: 14) (M1, K9) 4 times, M1, K2 (3: 5: 6: 8: 9: 10: 12: 13). [46 (48: 52: 54: 58: 60: 62: 66: 68) sts] Change to 4mm needles.

Work in patt.

Note Only count sts after the 8th, 9th, 10th, 18th, 19th or 20th rows.

When shaping, drop any sts that are involved in the shaping and don’t count this as a st.

Row 1 (RS) P1 (2: 1: 1: 1: 1: 1: 1: 1), K1 (1: 1: 1: 0: 1: 1: 0: 1), PM, rep row 1 of Main Stitch Pattern 5 (5: 6: 6: 7: 7: 7: 8: 8) times, work first st of Main Stitch Pattern again, PM, K1 (1: 1: 1: 0: 1: 1: 0: 1), P2 (2: 0: 2: 0: 0: 2: 0: 0), K0 (1: 0: 0: 0: 0: 0: 0: 0).

Row 2 P0 (1: 0: 0: 0: 0: 0: 0: 0), K2 (2: 0: 2: 0: 0: 2: 0: 0), P1 (1: 1: 1: 0: 1: 1: 0: 1), sl SM, work row 2 of Main Stitch Pattern as set to SM, sl SM, P1 (1: 1: 1: 0: 1: 1: 0: 1), K1 (2: 1: 1: 1: 1: 1: 1: 1).

Last 2 rows sets pattern placement for Main Stitch Pattern. Note that the stitches either side of the markers are going to increase and be worked into the pattern, so you may not find the markers are necessary after a few rows.

Inc row Kfb, patt to SM, sl SM, work next row of Main pattern to SM, sl SM, patt to end, kfb. [2 sts inc’d]

Smooth, stocking stitch cuffs add the perfect finishing touch

desired, AT THE SAME TIME repeating Inc row every 6th row, 6 times, then every 8th row 6 times, taking increased stitches into pattern. [72 (74: 78: 80: 84: 86: 88: 92: 94) sts] Work straight until Sleeve measures 46cm from cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE TOP Cast off 4 (5: 6: 7: 8: 9: 10: 11: 12) sts at beg of next 2 rows.

[64 (64: 66: 66: 68: 68: 68: 70: 70) sts] Next row Skpo, patt to last 2 sts, k2tog. [2 sts dec’d] Next row Patt to end.

Rep the last 2 rows 9 (9: 10: 10: 11: 11: 11: 12: 12) more times. [44 sts] Next row Skpo, patt to last 2 sts, k2tog. [2 sts dec’d] Work 3 rows.

Rep the last 4 rows 4 times more. [34 sts] Next row K1, skpo, K to last 3 sts, k2tog, K1. [2 sts dec’d] Next row Patt to end.

Rep the last 2 rows once more. [30 sts] Cast off 3 sts at beg of next 4 rows.

Cast off rem 18 sts.

Cont to work through all rows of Main Pattern, removing markers if

STEP-BY-STEP M1 MAKE 1 INCREASE

1 Insert the point of the right-hand needle under the loop or line of yarn that lies between the two stitches.

2 Next slip the yarn back on to the left-hand needle, ready for knitting.

3 Insert the point of the right-hand needle into the back of the stitch as if to knit.

4 Pull the yarn all the way through and you will now have an extra stitch on your right-hand needle.

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DROP-STITCH CARDI Bright orange is the perfect match for a denim skirt, dress, dungarees or shirt

NECKBAND Join shoulder seams.

With RS facing, 3.25mm needles place 8 (9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15: 16) sts from Right Front holder on a needle, pick up and K25 sts up Right Front neck, 10 sts down Right Back neck, K32 (34: 36: 38: 40: 42: 44: 46: 48) sts from centre back, pick up and K10 sts up Left Back neck, 25 sts down left side of front neck, K8 (9: 10: 11: 12: 13: 14: 15: 16) sts from Left Front holder.

[118 (122: 126: 130: 134: 138: 142: 146: 150) sts] Knit 4 rows.

Cast off.

BUTTON BAND With 3.25 mm needles, and RS facing, pick up and K109 (114: 114: 119: 119: 124: 124: 129: 129) sts along left-front edge Knit 4 rows.

Cast off.

BUTTONHOLE BAND With 3.25mm needles, and RS facing, pick up and K109 (114: 114: 119: 119: 124: 124: 129: 129) sts along right front edge. Knit 1 row.

Buttonhole row K3, (k2tog, yo, K8 (8: 8: 9: 9: 10: 10: 10: 10) sts, k2tog, yo, K8 (9: 9: 9: 9: 9: 9: 10: 10) sts) 5 times, k2tog, yo, K4.

Knit 2 rows.

Cast off.

MAKING UP Set in sleeves. Join side and Sleeve seams. Sew on buttons.

Turn hem and sleeve cuffs to inside, folding them on the loop row, and catch down using whipstitch.

Weave in ends and gently block to measurements, following any yarn care instructions on the ball band.

GET THE LOOK!0

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Dress it up or dress it down – the perfect pick Matalan 3/4 Sleeve Tie Waist Denim Shirt Dress, £20

ew n e Th

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NEW 1,000s of free patterns Step-by-step tutorials Video guides

Explore fresh project ideas for all your favourite crafts with the brand new website for makers everywhere. Discover easy-to-follow patterns and tutorials for crochet, knitting, sewing, quilting, papercraft and stitching, and learn new skills from experts you can trust.

Pure and simple Create a mini layette for your nearest and dearest when you cast on this lacy cardigan and pretty matching hat. By Angela Turner

Just for

baby

C

LU

S I VE

T

E

T

O

O

EX

x

X

CL

U SIV

E

Q For yarn stockists visit

Sirdar at www.sirdar.com

YOU WILL NEED Q Sirdar Snuggly 4ply (55% nylon,

45% acrylic, 50g/226m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table.

1 ball required for all hat sizes Q A pair of 3.25mm needles Q A pair of 3.75mm needles Q Tapestry needle Q 2 small buttons Q 2 stitch holders Q 2 safety pins Q 8 (12: 13: 14: 11: 16) stitch markers for hat

TENSION

OR YOU COULD TRY…

FRONTS & BACK

Q LoveCrafts 01409 404010

or www.lovecrafts.com Q Barsleys 01892 833464 or www.barsleys.co.uk

10 (12: 15: 17: 19: 21)cm 4 (4¾: 6: 6¾: 7½: 8¼)in

WHERE TO BUY IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

19 (21: 24: 27: 29.5: 30)cm 7½ (8¼: 9½: 10½: 11½: 11¾)in

BABY CARDI AND HAT

SLEEVE

17 (20.5: 23.5: 26: 27.5: 29)cm 6¾ (8: 9½: 10¼: 10¾: 11½)in

SHOP SMAR

TOP TIP Tackle any fears you may have about lace knitting by making sure you know what every stitch should look like from both sides of your work, so you can easily see when you go wrong.

27 sts and 34 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles

ABBREVIATIONS

SHO LOCAP L!

T

Turn t page 8o0

DID YOU KNOW... …baby layettes (a selection of young baby clothes) popular in the nineteenth century consisted of a long dress, a number of undershirts, day and night caps, napkins (nappies), petticoats, nightgowns, socks, plus a couple of cloaks? They were usually white cotton, sewn by the mother during prenancy or by a seamstress.

For a full list see page 87

Work the four-row lace pattern through the bottom section of the cardigan

BABY CARDIGAN Note When casting on and casting off sts loosely use a knitting needle one size larger to help give a neat finish and leave a long tail to use for sewing seams. This will help keep your knits neater as well as making the seam more secure.

The Cardigan is worked in one piece to armholes.

Cast on 107 (125: 143: 155: 167: 179) sts using 3.75mm needles.

Knit 2 rows.

BEGIN LACE PATTERN Row 1 (RS) K3, (yrn, P1, p3tog, P1, yo, K1) 17 (20: 23: 25: 27: 29) times, K2.

Row 2 (WS) K3, purl to last 3 sts K3.

Row 3 Knit.

Row 4 K3, purl to last 3 sts, K3.

These 4 rows set pattern.

Work pattern another 8 (9: 10: 11: 12: 12) times, then work Rows 1 and 2 once more.

Change to 3.25mm needles.

Next row (RS dec) K1, yo, k2tog [buttonhole], (K6 (8: 9: 10: 7: 5), k2tog) to last 8 (2: 8: 8: 2: 8) sts, K8 (2: 8: 8: 2: 8).

[95 (113: 131: 143: 149: 155) sts] Next row Knit.

SEPARATE BODY AT ARMHOLES Next row (RS) K23 (27: 31: 34: 35: 36) and put these sts on a stitch holder for Right Front, cast off 3 (3: 5: 5: 5: 5) sts, knit until you have 43 (53: 59: 65: 69: 73) sts on right needle after cast offs, and put rem 26 (30: 36: 39: 40: 41) sts on a separate stitch holder for Left Front.

Turn and continue on last 43 (53: 59: 65: 69: 73) sts for Back.

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BABY CARDI AND HAT FIND YOUR SIZE 4-6lb

Newborn

3m

6m

12m

18m

cm

25.5

34

40.5

43

45.5

48

in

10

13½

16

17

18

19

cm

34

41.5

47.5

52

55

58

in

13½

16¼

18¾

20½

21½

22¾

cm

19

21

24

27

29.5

30

in

7½

8¼

9½

10½

11½

11¾

cm

10

12

15

17

19

21

in

4

4¾

6

6¾

7½

8¼

cm

27

29

31

33

35.5

38

in

10½

11½

12¼

13

14

15

cm

12

13

14

14.5

17

17

in

4¾

5¼

5½

5¾

6¾

6¾

2

3

CARDIGAN SIZE TO FIT CHEST ACTUAL CHEST LENGTH SLEEVE LENGTH HAT SIZE CIRCUM FERENCE DEPTH

CARDIGAN AND HAT YARN Cream (303) or White (251)

Sirdar Snuggly 4ply (50g/226m) 1

2

2

2

SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions. Simply follow our colour-coded measurements and you’re off.

K DV ëLV RQH ZLç SOH DQG K GUHVVHV DQG DW ëH ZHDëHU NICOLA LYNN, ART EDITOR

gwq

Work RS dec row again. [2 sts dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 0 (0: 1: 2: 3: 3) time(s).

[33 (43: 51: 55: 57: 61) sts] Beg with a WS (purl) row, work in st st for 17 (21: 27: 31: 33: 35) rows, ending after a WS row.

Cast off.

RIGHT FRONT With WS facing and 3.25mm needles, rejoin yarn to 23 (27: 31: 34: 35: 36) sts on st holder.

BACK SHAPE ARMHOLES Dec row (WS) P2tog, purl to last 2 sts, p2tog. [2 sts dec’d] Dec row (RS) K2tog, knit to last 2 sts, k2tog. [2 sts dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 1 (1: 0: 0: 0: 0) time.

[35 (45: 55: 61: 65: 69) sts] Purl 1 row.

SHAPE ARMHOLE Dec row (WS) P2tog, purl to last 3 sts, K3. [1 st dec’d] Dec row (RS) Knit to last 2 sts, k2tog. [1 st dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 1 (1: 0: 0: 0: 0) time.

[19 (23: 29: 32: 33: 34) sts]

STEP-BY-STEP K3TOG KNIT THREE STITCHES TOGETHER

1 Push the point of your right-hand needle through the first three stitches on your left-hand needle, going from left to right just as you would for a knit stitch.

2 Wind the yarn around the tip of the right-hand needle as if to knit.

3 Pull the yarn through all three stitches, again just as you would if working a knit stitch, and drop the three stitches off the needle.

4 Knitting three stitches together decreases your stitch count by two, and the decrease stitch leans to the right. This is how a series of k3tog decreases will look.

Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting 25

BABY CARDI AND HAT Choose soft, delicately coloured buttons for baby’s first cardigan

Dec row (WS) Purl to last 2 sts, p2tog. [1 st dec’d] Dec row (RS) K2tog, knit to end. [1 st dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 1 (1: 2: 2: 2: 2) time(s).

[9 (13: 16: 17: 17: 17) sts] Purl 1 row.

Work RS dec row again. [1 sts dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 0 (1: 1: 1: 0: 0) time(s).

[8 (11: 14: 15: 16: 16) sts] Beg with a WS (purl) row, work in st st for 7 (7: 5: 7: 9: 9) rows, ending after a WS row.

Cast off.

LEFT FRONT With RS facing and 3.25mm needles, rejoin yarn to 26 (30: 36: 39: 40: 41) sts on st holder.

SHAPE ARMHOLE Next row (RS) Cast off 3 (3: 5: 5: 5: 5) sts, knit to end.

[23 (27: 31: 34: 35: 36) sts] Dec row (WS) K3, purl to last 2 sts, p2tog. [1 st dec’d] Dec row (RS) K2tog, knit to end. [1 st dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 1 (1: 0: 0: 0: 0) time.

[19 (23: 29: 32: 33: 34) sts] Next row (WS) K3, purl to end.

Work RS dec row again. [1 st dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 0 (0: 1: 2: 3: 3) time(s).

[18 (22: 27: 29: 29: 30) sts]

Next row (WS) Purl to last 3 sts, K3.

Work RS dec row again. [1 st dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 0 (0: 1: 2: 3: 3) time(s).

[18 (22: 27: 29: 29: 30) sts] Beg with a WS (purl) row, work 1 (3: 9: 11: 13: 15) rows straight, keeping 3-st garter stitch border at front edge and rem sts in st st, and ending after a WS row.

Next row K1, yo, k2tog [buttonhole], knit to end.

Next row Purl to last 3 sts, K3.

SHAPE NECK Next row K3 and put these sts on a safety pin, cast off 2 (2: 2: 3: 3: 4) sts and knit to end. [13 (17: 22: 23: 23: 23) sts]

Beg with a WS (purl) row, work 2 (4: 10: 12: 14: 16) rows straight, keeping 3-st garter stitch border at front edge and rem sts in st st, and ending after a RS row.

SHAPE NECK Next row (WS) K3 and put these on a safety pin, cast off 2 (2: 2: 3: 3: 4) sts, purl to end. [13 (17: 22: 23: 23: 23) sts] Dec row (RS) Knit to last 2 sts, k2tog. [1 st dec’d] Dec row (WS) P2tog, purl to end. [1 st dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 1 (1: 2: 2: 2: 2) time(s).

[9 (13: 16: 17: 17: 17) sts] Knit 1 row.

Work WS dec row again. [1 sts dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 0 (1: 1: 1: 0: 0) time(s).

STEP-BY-STEP P2TOG PURL TWO TOGETHER

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.

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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.

BABY CARDI AND HAT

[8 (11: 14: 15: 16: 16) sts]

Carefully spaced decreases always look pretty on top of a simple hat

Beg with a RS (knit) row, work in st st for 8 (10: 12: 12: 10: 10) rows, ending after a WS row.

Cast off.

SLEEVES Cast on 31 (33: 35: 39: 41: 45) sts using 3.25mm needles.

Knit 2 rows.

Next row (RS) K1 (2: 3: 2: 3: 2), (yrn, P1, p3tog, P1, yo, K1) to last 0 (1: 2: 1: 2: 1) sts, K0 (1: 2: 1: 2: 1).

Next row (WS) K1, purl to last st, K1.

Beg with a RS (knit) row, work in st st for 6 rows, ending after a WS row.

Inc row (RS) Kfb, knit to last 2 sts, kfb, K1. [2 sts inc’d] Beg with a WS (purl) row, work in st st for 9 (9: 9: 11: 9: 11) rows, ending after a WS row.

Work RS inc row again. [2 sts inc’d] Rep last 10 (10: 10: 12: 10: 12) rows another 1 (2: 3: 3: 4: 4) time(s).

[37 (41: 45: 49: 53: 57) sts] Beg with a WS (purl) row, work in st st for 5 (1: 1: 1: 5: 1) row(s), ending after a WS row.

SHAPE SLEEVE TOP Cast off 2 (2: 3: 3: 3: 3) sts at beg of next 2 rows.

[33 (37: 39: 43: 47: 51) sts] Dec row (RS) K2tog, knit to last 2 sts, k2tog. [2 sts dec’d]

HAT

SIZES NEWBORN, 3M, 6M, 12M AND 18M ONLY

Cast on 67 (73: 79: 85: 91: 97) sts using 3.75mm needles.

Knit 2 rows.

Beg with a WS (purl) row, work in st st for 3 rows, ending after a WS row.

Rep dec row. [2 sts dec’d] Rep last 4 rows another - (2: 3: 4: 6: 7) times.

[- (29: 29: 31: 31: 33) sts]

ALL SIZES Purl 1 row.

Rep dec row. [2 sts dec’d] Rep last 2 rows another 1 (0: 0: 0: 0: 1) time.

[27 (27: 27: 29: 29: 29) sts] Cast off.

NECK EDGING Join both shoulders.

With RS facing, and 3.25mm needles, rejoin yarn and knit across 3 held sts of Right Front neck, pick up and knit 2 (2: 2: 3: 3: 4) sts across Right Front neck cast offs, pick up and knit 14 (16: 16: 18: 18: 18) sts up Right Front neck, pick up and knit 17 (21: 23: 25: 25: 29) sts across Back neck, pick up and knit 14 (16: 16: 18: 18: 18) sts down Left Front neck, pick up and knit 2 (2: 2: 3: 3: 4) sts across Left Front neck cast offs, knit across 3 held sts of Left Front neck.

[55 (63: 65: 73: 73: 79) sts] Knit 1 row.

Cast off loosely.

BEGIN LACE PATTERN Row 1 K1, (yrn, P1, p3tog, P1, yo, K1) 11 (12: 13: 14: 15: 16) times.

Row 2 Purl to end.

Row 3 Knit.

Row 4 Purl.

These 4 rows set pattern.

Work pattern twice more, inc 5 sts evenly across last row.

[72 (78: 84: 90: 96: 102) sts] Change to 3.25mm needles.

Work 8 rows in K1, P1 rib.

Beg with a WS (purl) row, work 17 (25: 27: 29: 33: 37) rows in st st, ending after a WS row.

SHAPE CROWN Set-up row (RS) (K6 (4: 4: 4: 6: 4), k2tog, PM) 8 (12: 13: 14: 11: 16) times, K6 (4: 4: 4: 6: 4), k2tog. [63 (65: 70: 75: 84: 85) sts] Next row (WS) Purl.

Dec row (RS) (Knit to 2 sts before marker, k2tog) to end.

[9 (13: 14: 15: 12: 17) sts dec’d] Rep last 2 rows until 18 (26: 28: 30: 24: 34) sts rem, ending after a purl row.

MAKING UP Ease Sleeve tops into armholes and sew in place.

Seam Sleeves and side seams.

Sew buttons to button band opposite buttonholes, taking care to ensure they are secure.

Weave in ends.

Next row (RS) (K2tog) 9 (13: 14: 15: 12: 17) times.

[9 (13: 14: 15: 12: 17) sts] Break yarn and thread through rem sts. Join Hat seam, taking care to match pattern, and tie in all loose ends securely. Turn right side out, press lightly and fold ribbed edge upwards.

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PURLS OF WISDOM

changed our lives

I’M LOVING… My rainbow block blanket

Kath Garner walks us through what she’s been knitting during these uncertain times

W

hen the pandemic was rife and lockdown imminent, I very quickly went into panic mode! On the plus side, being immediately furloughed from my job I suddenly had lots of time on my hands, time to improve my knitting skills, but on the negative, how would I cope? Without the support of The Accomplished Knitter, I started to wonder what would happen when I made a mistake.

THE YARN-SHOP DASH Before lockdown I made a last-minute dash to a local yarn shop. Calmly and patiently the owner asked a series of questions on my abilities, confidence levels and family situation before suggesting a simple colourful blanket for a family baby due later in the year. It seemed a sensible idea – straightforward blocks of rainbow colours, no intricate pattern – what could possibly go wrong? I soon found out with a dropped stitch unnoticed for several rows!

As I saw my beautiful knitting unravel, the panic grew. If I pulled rows out, I would be left with vastly depleted knitting, twisted stitches and several more likely dropped.

I called the A & E knitter. My request, ‘Can I leave my knitting on your doorstep for you to sort out?’ was answered with a firm, ‘No!’ She decided it was time I tried myself, undoing each stitch carefully until I could solve the problem. She explained, cajoled, encouraged and put the phone down!

The process was painstakingly slow but I did it, unravelling, picking up stitches and reknitting – a brand new lockdown skill!

hopefully be useful but also a reminder that when their child was born, we were in the grips of a pandemic and the rainbow was a symbol of hope. With lockdown continuing I wanted another simple project that would represent the pandemic. Sorting through my stash of yarn, I found a myriad of colours, perfect for a patchwork blanket.

My plan was to record the numbers of those sadly lost to the virus each day. A colour was chosen to represent a number block: 0-50, 50-100, then blocks of 100 up to 1000. Each day I watch the headlines, select the correct colour and knit a square whilst thinking of those lost. It is an ongoing project I’ll continue until we are virus free.

I started this blanket with the idea that all the hard work would become a symbol of hope, created for a very special baby, who is to be born in a very unusual year.

I’M MAKING… A pandemic patchwork blanket

AN UNLIKELY SOURCE OF HELP

A POIGNANT GIFT

My current blanket has not come without problems and social distancing meant I couldn’t visit the Accomplished Knitter to ask how to stitch them together, but help finally came from a very unlikely source! Passing the village phone box book exchange on my daily exercise, I spotted a ‘Beginner’s Guide to Knitting’. As I flicked through the pages the book mysteriously opened at the heading, ‘Invisible Seams’!

With determination it kind of worked! I do wonder though, how is it that the squares, knitted with the same number of stitches and the same kind of wool turn out to be different sizes! Fingers crossed that when they are all stitched together, it will be a little less obvious. And I will have created a rather basic, oddly coloured, rough and ready mash up of squares depicting 2020 – the year Covid-19 took over the world and changed our lives.

The final result is great. The edges are straight and the tension is even – a massive improvement. For the recipients, it will

Got a story you would like to tell us?

Contact us using the details on page 34.

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Using certain shades of my leftover wool stash, I’m in the middle of making a blanket that will stand as a permanent record of an exceptional time in modern history.

I’M SHARING… My village telephone box book exchange!

Who would have thought this unusual and unexpected source of knitting support would help me with my latest project?!

heathside Combine a collection of pretty pinks and purples, lace and bobbles to create this warm scarf by Siân Brown

BOBBLE SPRAY SCARF MEASUREMENTS IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

39.5cm (15in) wide x 186cm (73in) long

ABBREVIATIONS YOU WILL NEED (DK, 50% wool, 25% viscose, 25% alpaca, 50g/175m) 5 balls of Yarn A Frozen (185) 2 balls of Yarn B Peony (183) 1 ball of Yarn C Pink Bliss (199) Q A pair of 4mm needles

KB1 (knit 1 below) insert needle through centre of st below next st on needle and knit, slipping the stitch above off the needle at the same time MB (make bobble) knit into front, back and front of next st, turn, K3, turn, P3, turn, K3, turn, sk2po.

TENSION

For a full list see page 87

Q Rowan Felted Tweed

22 sts and 30 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles

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TOP TIP The addition of alpaca wool to a yarn blend brings a certain softness, strength and incredible warmth. In fact, in tests, alpaca wool proved to be three times warmer than sheeps’ wool!

WHERE TO BUY Q For yarn stockists contact

Rowan on 01484 668200 www.knitrowan.com

OR YOU COULD TRY… Q Wool Warehouse

www.woolwarehouse.co.uk Q English Yarns

01273 456572 or www.englishyarns.co.uk

Rowan Felted Tweed is a wonderful matte wool blend yarn with a super-soft feel

BOBBLE SPRAY SCARF STITCH PATTERNS BOBBLE TREE PANEL Worked over 23 sts.

Row 1 (RS) Skpo, K6, (yo, K1) twice, sk2po, (K1, yo) twice, K6, k2tog.

Row 2 and every alt row Purl.

Row 3 Skpo, K5, yo, K1, yo, K2, sk2po, K2, yo, K1, yo, K5, k2tog.

Row 5 Skpo, K4, yo, K1, yo, MB, K2, sk2po, K2, MB, yo, K1, yo, K4, k2tog.

Row 7 Skpo, K3, yo, K1, yo, MB, K3, sk2po, K3, MB, yo, K1, yo, K3, k2tog.

Row 9 Skpo, K2, yo, K1, yo, MB, K4, sk2po, K4, MB, yo, K1, yo, K2, k2tog.

Row 11 Skpo, (K1, yo) twice, MB, K5, sk2po, K5, MB, (yo, K1) twice, k2tog.

Row 13 Skpo, yo, K1, yo, MB, K6, sk2po, K6, MB, yo, K1, yo, k2tog.

Row 14 Purl.

These 14 rows form the pattern.

BORDER Cast on 86 sts using Yarn B. Knit 7 rows. **Change to Yarn C. Knit 4 rows.

Next row (RS) K3, *K1 winding yarn round needle 3 times; rep from * to last 3 sts, K3.

Next row (WS) K3, *sl 5 sts purlwise, dropping extra loops, return these 5 sts to left hand needle then work into these 5 sts tog as folls: K1, (P1, K1) twice, rep from * to last 3 sts, K3.

Knit 2 rows.

Change to Yarn B. Knit 6 rows. ** Rep from ** to ** once more, increasing 1 st in the centre of the final row. [87 sts]

MAIN PIECE Change to Yarn A.

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BOBBLE SPRAY SCARF

BOBBLE TREE PANEL 14

13

12

11

KEY K on RS; P on WS Skpo

10

9

8 6 4 2

K2tog

7

Sk2po

5

Yo

3

Make Bobble

1 20

15

10

5

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.

7

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Each lace yarn over is enhanced with a tweedy bobble stitch

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Row 1 (RS) K32, work 23 sts from Row 1 of Bobble Tree Panel, K32.

Row 2 K3, P29, work 23 sts from Row 2 of Bobble Tree Panel, P29, K3.

These 2 rows set the pattern. Cont until main piece measures approx 151cm, ending on a Row 14.

START BORDER PATTERN Change to Yarn B. Knit 6 rows, dec 1 st at centre of first row. [86 sts] Work from ** to ** of Border section twice.

Knit 7 rows.

Cast off.

EDGING (MAKE 2) To fit short edges – worked lengthwise.

Cast on 11 sts using Yarn C. Row 1 (RS) Sl1, K2, yo, p2tog, (yo, skpo) 3 times.

Row 2 Yo (to make a st), *P1, (K1, P1) into next st (yo of previous row); rep from * twice more, P2, yo, p2tog, KB1. [15 sts] Row 3 Sl 1, K2, yo, p2tog, K10.

Row 4 Sl 1, P11, yo, p2tog, KB1.

Row 5 Sl 1, K2, yo, p2tog, K10.

Row 6 Cast off 4 sts purlwise (1 st rem on RH needle), P7, yo, p2tog, KB1. [11 sts] These 6 rows form the pattern. Repeat until edging fits along short edge.

FINISHING Press according to yarn band instructions.

Sew on the lace borders to the short edges.

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YOUR KNITS

Stay in touch!

Annie’s daughter will look great in this slouchy sweater

We love seeing what you’ve all been knitting, SUPER STRIPES love your magazine and how it inspires me doing and saying over the past few weeks… Ievery month. Knitting has been my passion for a long time and I love to see new ideas and projects. I want to share my Monica Russel jumper from issue 194, finished just in time for my daughter’s birthday. I hope she loves it as much as I loved knitting it.

Annie, via email I bet she will Annie – it looks fabulous!

STAR LETTER

CUTE KOALAS

Hi SK team, I was just wondering if I’d get a mag this month when it arrived

Along with many other people I have been knitting pouches for rescued koalas from the Australian fires, and thought you might like to see one of my efforts. I think it looks rather cute on our toy koala! I just hope that these pouches help these creatures.

Joy Marshall, via email He looks adorable Joy! And well done for knitting for such a good cause.

gave me one very large ball of yarn that can be the basis of your current KAL

This fun tea cosy

by Ann Franklin appeared in issue 186

Our star letter writer wins a fantastic gift voucher worth £50 from LoveCrafts! (Please note the customer must spend a minimum of £10, and the voucher is not applicable for use on sale items, downloadable PDFs and gift cards.

Only for use on www.lovecrafts.com)

SPONSORED BY

£5O GIFT CARD

*Prizes subject to change

(SK 198) from stash yarn, including a ripped and much worn cotton jumper of old, and might make it fit my recently repainted deck chair! I will also probably do a hanger cover. I’ve sent a pic of last year’s flower basket tea cosy which comes out to the garden with me. Thank you again for your special efforts.

Joan Proven, South Queensferry You’re very welcome Joan – it’s been such a privilege to be able to continue with our work (from home!) knowing that we’re helping people keep occupied through these difficult times.

And I love your fun floral tea cosy!

This pouch is on its way to help rescued koalas in Australia

...............what’s trending this month...............

We love keeping up with what you’re knitting – this month it’s Kaffe Fassett’s stunning KAL… PERFECT PRESENT Lily is making this colourful scarf for her mother-inlaw, who is a keen knitter herself and loves Kaffe Fassett designs.

Keep it up Lily!

Lily Bee via email

34 Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting

FAST WORK This was made by Gillian using yarn oddments and Rowan Felted Tweed bought from Deramores. She took just two days to finish each part, and hopes to wear the scarf next winter.

Gillian Howard, Isle of Man

CHANGE IT UP! Jo used a slightly darker colour scheme and changed the Fair Isle pattern in places to add variety to her scarf – doesn’t it look amazing!

Jo Waghorn via email

*Prizes subject to change

YOUR KNITS

What do YOU think?

VINTAGE RAINBOW SWEATER During the lockdown I’ve had time to go through old family photos. I found a photo of my mum wearing a hand-knitted sweater during the war. Imagine my delight on finding she’d kept the pattern as well! I thought I’d share the photographs with you.

Pamela Phelen, via email Thank you so much for sharing them Pamela – doesn’t your mum look amazing! We love her

£2O GIFT CARD

“TO BLOCK OR NOT TO BLOCK?” I love giving my knits a good soak. It relaxes the yarn and makes the stitches look so pretty.

Carol Titus Herman, via Facebook

Our letter writer wins a fab gift voucher from retailer Wool Warehouse worth £20!

I almost always block. I knit mostly with Merino wool, and I find that blocking makes a huge difference to my sweaters and shawls.

Marissa Dyke, via Facebook

Pamela’s mum made this lovely jumper de sign

Been knitting over 50 years, never blocked.

Sue Gilbert, via Facebook

PERFECT PANDA

It depends on the project, stitch definition need, and desired outcome. I will wet or steam block depending on the fibre and stitches used.

Jay Campbell, via Facebook

I was just reading my copy of Simply Knitting issue 196 and I saw your segment on the Sirdar panda kit, worked in Sirdar Alpine yarn. I knitted it for my granddaughter’s birthday present – she loved it and it gets cuddles every night.

I opted for glass eyes to give it more character, the wool is deliciously soft and the pattern was easy to do.

Jacqueline Curran, via email I’m glad we could help Jacqueline – we love seeking out the best new patterns and kits to bring to you each issue.

Your panda is adorable, no wonder your granddaughter loved it – I’d be cuddling it every night too! And what a great choice adding in glass eyes for a fab finish.

SUBS STARS Check your issue next month to see if you’re selected as a lucky winner!

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 – the must-have companion for any knitter, making it easy to customise jumper patterns to your size, shape, and style!

E Barthorpe, Newark P Davis, Cambridge

A good soak and then blocking changes the look of your stitches tremendously. You don’t have to aggressively block everything. Some items you just want to gently pat and ease it into exactly the shape you want it to be.

Barb Weakley, via Facebook As I mostly knit toys, I find that a bit of extra stuffing will hide a multitude of sins!

Cait Blick, via Facebook I only do for certain things. I do for shawls. And for blanket blocks when I’m trying to get them the right shape. But not for socks, cardigans or hats.

Kate Bell, via Facebook This sweet toy is a firm favourite with Jacqueline’s granddaughter

SIDE TO SIDE I wanted to share a picture of my version of Turtle Dove! Issue 197 arrived in my US mail box at the perfect time, as I had just hit the halfway point of Barcelona from Easy Lace Knits by Anniken Allis and needed a break.

I was intrigued by Turtle Dove’s side-toside construction, so I dug out the two balls of Hayfield Blossom Chunky in my stash and cast on! It took just under two days to finish the sweater, and one more day to knit the hat (pictured below)! Thank you for providing hours of knitting and reading pleasure!

Nancy Bodie, Northern Minnesota, USA You’re very welcome Nancy – and your cardigan looks beautiful!

Next month…

“WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PROJECTS TO KNIT FOR MEN?” Tell us your opinion of our hot topic question on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram! Contact details can be found at the bottom of the page.

SAY HELLO! 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.

th Wor 9! £21.9

EMAIL US simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk FIND US AND FOLLOW US 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.

Nancy’s sweet baby cardigan took just two days to knit

Facebook.com/simplyknitting @SimplyKnitMag ravelry.com/groups/simply-knitting-magazine @simplyknittingmag www.pinterest.com/simplyknitmag

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OH BABY!

Have we got the perfect layette for you!

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mS loo et in

tb Pain y DK Bab rns Ya ox

9 different sets to download for FREE!

Download this (and more) FREE & exclusive patterns at lovecrafts.com

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picnic perfect picnic perfect There’s nothing like the definition you get with a neat cotton yarn, and this T-shirt by Monica Russel shows off every stitch

Just for

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SUMMER T-SHIRT TENSION 22 sts and 38 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Main Stitch Pattern using 4mm needles

YOU WILL NEED

ABBREVIATIONS

Q Bergère de France Coton

For a full list see page 87

Merinos (DK, 50% cotton, 50% Merino wool, 50g/95m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table Q A pair of 4mm needles Q A pair 3.5mm needles Q Stitch holders Q 4 lockable stitch markers

TOP TIP

FRONT & BACK

WHERE TO BUY Q To order visit Bergère De

55 (57: 59)cm 21¾ (22½: 23¼)in

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

Cotton is a breathable, fabric made from a plant-based fibre and is perfect for wearing in any season. It’s very absorbent so wicks moisture from your body, keeping you cool and comfy.

France www. bergeredefrance.co.uk

SHOP SMAR SHO LOCAP L!

41 (46.5: 51.5)cm 16 (18½: 20½)in

SUMMER T-SHIRT BACK

Cast on 90 (102: 114) sts using 4mm needles.

Beginning with a knit row, work 9 rows in st st, ending with a RS row.

T

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PM at each end to denote beg of armholes.** Cont straight in patt until work meas 19 (20: 21)cm from markers, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE SHOULDERS AND BACK NECK HEM FOLDING LINE

Cast off 14 (17: 19) sts at beg of next 2 rows. [66 (72: 80) sts] Cast off 13 (16: 20) sts at beg of next 2 rows. [40 (40: 40) sts] Leave these sts on a holder.

Next row (WS) Knit.

MAIN STITCH PATTERN Row 1 (RS) Knit.

Row 2 (WS) Knit.

Row 3 *K1, P1; rep from * to end.

Row 4 Knit.

Rows 5 to 8 Rep Rows 3 to 4 twice.

These 8 rows form patt.

Cont in patt until Back meas 36 (37: 38)cm, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE ARMHOLES

FRONT Work as for Back to **. [94 (106: 118) sts] Cont straight in patt a further 14 rows, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE LEFT NECK Next row (RS) Work 41 (47: 53) sts in patt, k2tog, turn, leaving rem 51 (57: 63) sts on a holder. [42 (48: 54) sts] Dec 1 st at neck edge of next 5 rows, then on 8 foll alt rows, then on 2 foll 4th rows. [27 (33: 39) sts]

Cast on 2 sts at beg of next 2 rows. [94 (106: 118) sts]

Use a 3.5mm needle to pick up the neckline, then work 6 knit rows

The textured stitch pattern is worked throughout the front and back section

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SUMMER T-SHIRT FIND YOUR SIZE 8-10

12-14

16-18

cm

81-86

92-96

101-106

in

32-34

36-38

40-42

cm

82

93

103.5

in

32¼

36¾

40¾

cm

55

57

59

in

21¾

22½

23¼

SIZE TO FIT BUST ACTUAL BUST LENGTH YARN Été

Bergère De France Coton Merinos (DK, 50g/95m) 8

9

10

SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions. Simply follow our colour-coded measurements and you’re off.

Cont straight in patt until Front matches Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending with a WS row.

This textured cotton T-shirt is the perfect everyday knit for your summer wardrobe

SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 14 (17: 19) sts at beg of next row. [13 (16: 20) sts] Work 1 row.

Cast off.

SHAPE RIGHT NECK With RS facing, slip centre 8 sts onto a holder, then rejoin yarn to rem sts, ssk, work to end. [42 (48: 54) sts] Dec 1 st at neck edge of next 5 rows, then on 8 foll alt rows, then on 2 foll 4th rows. [27 (33: 39) sts] Cont straight in patt until Front matches Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending with a RS row.

SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 14 (17: 19) sts at beg of next row. [13 (16: 20) sts] Work 1 row.

Cast off.

MAKING UP Weave in ends. Block gently to measurements, following any yarn care instructions on the ball band. Join right shoulder seam using mattress stitch.

NECKBAND With RS facing and using 3.5mm needles, pick up and knit 44 (46: 48) sts down left neck, K8 sts from Front holder, pick up and knit 44 (46: 48) sts up right neck, K40 sts from Back holder.

[136 (140: 144) sts] Knit 6 rows.

Cast off.

Join left shoulder and neckband seam.

ARMHOLE BANDS With RS facing and using 3.5mm needles, pick up and knit 74 (76: 78) sts in between armhole markers.

Knit 6 rows.

Cast off.

FINISHING Fold hem and slip stitch cast-on edge to WS. Join side seams.

Weave in any rem ends. Block gently to measurements, following any yarn care instructions on the ball band.

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SE O PT UT 20 10 20 !

(YHU\ëLQJ \RX QæG Iè \RXU SHUIHFW &KULVWPDV From cooking to crafting, decorating to gift buying, Simply Christmas is packed with ideas and inspiration to make sure you have a very happy

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Only £5.99 (plus p&p) CALL 00330 162 138 and quote ‘SIMPLY XMAS 20 PRINT1’ ONLINE www.buysubscriptions.com/SimplyChristmas20 UK calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if offered by your phone tariff). Outside of free call packages call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute. Lines are open Mon to Fri 9am-5pm. Overseas please call +44 (0)1604 973 746. *Prices including postage are £6.99 for UK residents, £7.99 for Europe and £8.99 for Rest of World. Please allow up to 28 days for delivery.

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petals at teatime Who could resist this pretty, appliqué cushion adorned with three-dimensional flowers and lush leaves? By Nicola Valiji

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3D FLORAL CUSHION MEASUREMENTS IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

To fit 35cm diameter round cushion pad

ABBREVIATIONS YOU WILL NEED Q Deramores Studio DK

(100% acrylic, 100g/250m) 1 ball of each: Yarn A Blue Haze (70036) Yarn B Lavender (70008) Yarn C Light Pink (70034) Yarn D Vanilla (70068) Yarn E Peony (70003) Yarn F Lime (70069) Q A pair of 4mm needles Q Round cushion pad, 35cm diameter Q A small amount of toy stuffing

TENSION 22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles

w&t wrap and turn: with the RS facing, slip the next st purlwise on to the right hand needle, bring the yarn forward between the two needles, slip the st back to the left hand needle and take the yarn to the back between the two needles, turn.

For a full list see page 87

TOP TIP For the perfect finish, when knitting your 3D flowers and leaves take it nice and slowly.

Rushing could affect your tension, leaving you with loose stitches that’ll create baggy holes in your blooms.

WHERE TO BUY Q Deramores

www.deramores.com

TOP TIP When knitting individual elements to appliqué onto your project at a later date, always leave long tails when you cast on and off so you can use them when sewing items in place.

Pin your flowers and leaves in place neatly before you start attaching them

SHOP SMAR SHO LOCAP L!

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3D FLORAL CUSHON Note All pieces are worked flat on straight knitting needles and seamed using mattress stitch. Cast on using the long tail cast-on method, there’s a great tutorial here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=SXA3gBNiSiM.

FRONT AND BACK (BOTH ALIKE) Cast on 32 sts using 4mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) Knit.

Row 2 and all WS rows Purl.

Row 3 K30, w&t.

Row 5 K28, w&t.

Row 7 K26, w&t.

Row 9 K24, w&t.

Row 11 K22, w&t.

Row 13 K20, w&t.

Row 15 K18, w&t.

Row 17 K16, w&t.

Row 19 K14, w&t.

Row 21 K12, w&t.

Row 23 K10, w&t.

Row 25 K8, w&t.

Row 27 K6, w&t.

Row 29 K4, w&t.

Row 31 K2, w&t.

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3D FLORAL CUSHION

Row 32 Purl.

Rep Rows 1 to 32 seven more times (8 sections in total).

Cast off.

Knitting short rows for the cushion’s front and back creates a wonderful spiral effect

LEAVES (MAKE 3) Cast on 3 sts using 4mm needles and Yarn F. Row 1 K1, kfb, K1. [4 sts] Rows 2, 4 and 6 Purl.

Row 3 K1, (kfb) twice, K1. [6 sts] Row 5 K1, kfb, K2, kfb, K1. [8 sts] Row 7 K1, kfb, K4, kfb, K1. [10 sts] Row 8 to 12 Starting on a WS purl row work in st st.

Row 13 K1, ssk, K4, k2tog, K1. [8 sts] Row 14 Purl.

Row 15 K1, ssk, K2, k2tog, K1. [6 sts] Row 16 Purl.

Cast off.

FLOWER PETALS (MAKE 3) One in each of Yarns B, C and E. Cast on 6 sts using 4mm needles.

Row 1 (RS) Cast off 4 sts, sl rem st from RH needle to LH needle.

[2 sts] Row 2 Cast on 4 sts, knit to end. [6 sts] Rep Rows 1 and 2 a further 21 times.

Next row Knit.

Cast off.

FLOWER CENTRE (MAKE 3)

MAKING UP

Cast on 8 sts using 4mm needles and Yarn D. Row 1 (WS) Purl.

Row 2 Kfb, K6, kfb. [10 sts] Row 3 to 5 Starting on a WS purl row work in st st.

Row 6 K2tog, K6, k2tog. [8 sts] Row 7 Purl.

Break yarn leaving a long tail and thread through rem sts.

Pull tight to fasten.

With right sides held together, seam the Back and Front together around the edge, leaving a gap large enough to insert the cushion pad. Turn right-side out and insert pad, close the gap using mattress stitch.

EDGING Cast on 5 sts using 4mm needles and Yarn C. Row 1 (RS) Sl 1, K4.

Row 2 Sl 1, K4.

Row 3 Sl 1, K1, (kfb) 3 times. [8 sts] Row 4 Cast off 3 sts, knit to end. [5 sts] Rep Rows 1 to 4 a further 69 times.

Cast off.

Use the long tail of the Flower Centre to gather the row ends and cast-on edge to form a circle, stuff and draw up tightly. Sew a Flower Petal piece around each Flower Centre. Arrange the flowers on the Front of the cushion and sew into place. Attach a Leaf next to each Flower using photo as a guide, adding a small amount of stuffing. Sew the Edging into place around Front/Back seam.

NEXT MONTH Next issue we’ve enlisted the help of top designer Susan Cowper from Tea Cosy Folk to create a hot air balloon cushion which we’re sure you’ll love! Issue 203 is on sale Thursday 10 September and is available from all good newsagents and supermarkets.

STEP-BY-STEP KFB INCREASE 1 BY KNITTING INTO FRONT & BACK

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.

Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting 43

EXPERT ADVICE

the mini guide to KNITTING CIRCLES Knitting circles is creative and fun, especially when you’re designing your own projects! Take a look at our selection of easy-to-learn options below

PI circles These neat, simple-to-knit circles are created with just a touch of science PI circles are knitted on DPNs and are possibly the most popular of all the circle patterns available for knitters

TRY OUT THE PATTERN Cast on 8 stitches using 4 DPNs. Distribute the stitches onto needles evenly and join in the round.

Round 1 Knit.

Round 2 KFB all stitches (16 stitches) Rounds 3 to 4 Knit. (2 rounds) Round 5 KFB all stitches (32 stitches) Rounds 6 to 9 Knit. (4 rounds) Round 10 KFB all stitches. (64 stitches) Rounds 11 to 18 Knit. (8 rounds) Round 19 KFB all stitches. (128 stitches) Rounds 20 to 35 Knit. (16 rounds) Continue in this way, increasing every stitch when you get to the increase rounds, and doubling the number of plain knit rounds between the increase rounds. Switch to longer circular needles when you need them. Cast-off using a normal cast-off and a larger-sized needle on what would be a plain knit round (not an increase round).

GREAT FOR… …anything you need a smooth, neat surface for, like a pretty cushion, or the sides of a round bag.

icord spirals For bases or appliqué swirls, these iCord circles make a great alternative Thicker and more rigid, these circles hold their shape well and are good for more structured projects

TRY OUT THE PATTERN Cast on 3 stitches using double-pointed needles.

Row 1 Knit, but don’t turn your work.

Row 2 Slide the stitches to the right end of the needle.

Pull yarn across back of stitches and start with the first stitch on your left hand needle. Knit along row. Repeat and cast off when required length reached. Sew into a spiral.

GREAT FOR… …kitchen ideas, such as table placemats, pot holders and table runners. They also make bases for drawstring bags.

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super-neat & smooth

7 HUHÐV QR HQG WR ëH IXQ \RX FDQ DYH S S SOH FLUFOHV DQG àQGLQJ GLIIHUHQW ZD\V WR XVH ëHP KIRSTIE MCLEOD, EDITOR

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Strong & practical

EXPERT ADVICE

flat garter stitch shapes Super-simple to knit, these garter stitch shapes lie nice and flat in all yarns We love these little garter stitch shapes for appliqué! They are quick to knit and look great in a collection of colours.

TRY OUT THE PATTERN Cast on 4 stitches.

Row 1 Kfb, K1, kfb, P1. (6 sts) Row 2 and all even rows to Row 18 Knit to last st, P1.

Row 3 Kfb, K3, kfb, P1. (8 sts) Row 5 Kfb, K5, kfb, P1. (10 sts) Rows 7 to 11 K9, P1.

Row 13 K1, k2tog, K4, k2tog, P1. (8 sts) Row 15 K1, k2tog, K2, k2tog, P1. (6 sts) Row 17 K1, k2tog twice, P1. (4 sts) Thread yarn through remaining stitches and pull up.

appliqué

love e W

w

GREAT FOR… …knitting and then sewing onto jumpers or homewares as decoration. Add them to a pre-knitted garment as polka dots, flower centres, eyes or Christmas baubles.

TOP TIP Knit up a bag full of little garter stitch circles then sew them all together to create a small child’s blanket, cushion cover or throw.

Need a few knitted circle ideas?

From Fair Isle to intarsia, lacework and cables, there’s lots you can make with circles!

Sunflower Cushion

Circular Shawl

Fair Isle Tam

)éRP 7 H .QLWWHU 89

)éRP SO\ .QLWWLQJ 183

Colourwork Beret

)éRP SO\ .QLWWLQJ 180

)éRP SO\ .QLWWLQJ 193 A circle forms the centre of this gorgeous bright sunflower

Pretty Hat

Lace detail is worked in the round into a pretty circle shawl

Tam tops are knitted as decreasing circles in the round

Decreases are evenly spaced to create the beret’s round shape

Eyeball Cushion

Flower Cushion

Textured Coaster

)éRP SO\ .QLWWLQJ 196

)éRP SO\ .QLWWLQJ 190

)éRP SO\ .QLWWLQJ 135

)éRP SO\ .QLWWLQJ 125 Good colourwork patterns incorporate the circle’s decreases

Pi circles, with their smooth finish, make great cushions

Add a strong motif to your circular cushion design

Evenly repeated texture makes a pretty but practical circle

Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting 45

GIVEAWAYS

Just for you!

Win colourful yarns, dyeing kits, gift vouchers, stylish patterns and more with our great giveaways this month…

ts i k twowin! to

1

WIN worth ove r

£ 49 0!

k

DYE YOUR OWN YARN

SAY IT WITH STRIPES

YARN REBORN

Always wanted to try dyeing your own yarn but didn’t know where to start? UK Alpaca has you covered with its DIY dye kit! The kits are suitable for complete beginners and include full instructions, four basic dye colours, four skeins of their luxury alpaca yarn and a tote bag to keep it all in! Have fun experimenting and creating your own unique shades, then enjoy knitting up your very own handdyed yarn. We have two kits to give away, worth £38 each. To see more kits and scrumptious alpaca yarns, visit www.ukalpaca.com.

Knitting with selfstriping yarns is always such fun – watching the colours change with no ends to weave in, and they make even the simplest patterns appear tricky enough to impress your friends! King Cole’s new Stripe DK is 100% acrylic with a palette of neutral and bonny shades so it’s suitable for the whole family.

One reader will win pattern 5596 and eight balls of Grey Stripe, along with pattern 5592 and six balls of Pink Stripe, worth £64. To learn more about this yarn, go to www.kingcole.com.

There’s something very satisfying about a really big ball of yarn, so we love these 200g balls of Noro Ito! Ito means ‘yarn’ and ‘young’ in Japanese – so translates to “yarn reborn”!

Ito is a 100% wool yarn with slubs which give it a wonderful texture, and its beautiful colour changes make working with it a real treat. One ball is enough for a scarf, but we think it would make a swoonworthy jumper too! We have two balls to give away, worth £59.90. To see more yarns and accessories to suit every budget, visit www. blacksheepwools.com.

2

SPENDING SPLURGE!

COOL COTTONS

We all love going on a yarn shopping spree – there are just so many possibilities in all those yarns, patterns, needles and notions. The only trouble is working out where to store it all when you get home!

We’re helping three readers add to their stash (just don’t tell your significant others it was us!) by giving them each a £25 e-gift card to spend on the LoveCrafts website. To see what you’d spend yours on, visit www.lovecrafts.com.

3

6

Deramores has released a brand-new yarn to help spruce up your summer wardrobe – Studio Cotton DK! It’s made of 100% natural cotton fibre and is wonderfully soft with a great stitch definition. It is available in a palette of 20 pastel and vibrant colours.

One lucky reader will win a ball of each colour, worth £47.80 in total. Visit www. deramores.com to see all the shades.

5

4

HELPING HAND SEAMS Beauty was created specifically with crafters in mind – to help mend and moisturise our hands without leaving any residue on our work. This hand-saving cream and oil set absorbs instantly and is non-greasy, so you can be kind to your skin and keep on knitting! SEAMS products are even made in the UK from natural ingredients and are not tested on animals. One lucky reader will win a tube of hand cream and a bottle of hand and nail oil, worth £36.

To find out more, go to www.seamsbeauty.co.uk.

FABULOUS FASHION

ULTIMATE CRAFTING SET

Bergère de France has over 70 years of knitting know-how and is currently run by the son and grandson of the founder, so they know all about how to keep it traditional while adapting to the times. This is clear in their patterns, which are often classic styles with a modern twist. We’re giving five readers five Bergère de France patterns each, worth £10. To see patterns, yarns and accessories, visit www.bergeredefrance.co.uk.

Pony has released a luxurious new interchangeable knitting and crochet set – perfect for the gifting season! Each set contains five pairs of needles and five crochet hooks in sizes 3.5mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm and 6mm. These can be screwed into flexible cables for knitting in the round or Tunisian crochet, with a precision join for an ultrasmooth transition. All the items are packed in a cotton case for stylish and convenient storage. We have one set to give away, worth £85. To discover your nearest stockist, email groves@stockistenquiries.co.uk.

7

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HOw to enter

8

Have you chosen your favourite giveaways?

It’s easy to enter via our website. Simply visit www.gathered.how/ competitions and click on the giveaways you’d like to enter. You will need to sign in or register on the site and answer a multiple choice question.

Find terms and conditions at www.gathered.how/ competition-terms-andconditions.

Issue 202’s giveaways close on 24 Sep 2020.

delicate wash

THANK YOU

C E L E B R AT I N G 3 0 Y E A R S !

because what you create, deserves the best care THE SPA TREATMENT FOR YOUR FINE WASHABLES

EUCALAN.COM To donate to the NHS please go to: nhscharitiestogether.co.uk

NOW IN ITUNES

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GREAT

idea!

veggie-topia!

Encourage your little ones to ďŹ nish up their plate with this super-cute veggie tank top by Bergère de France

KID’S VEGGIE TANK TOP

YOU WILL NEED Q Bergère De France Cotton Fifty

(4ply, 50% cotton, 50% acrylic, 50g/140m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table Q 4 x 9mm red pearly spherical buttons (Bergere code 50361) Q A pair of 2.5mm needles Q A pair of 3mm needles Q Stitch holders

For a full list see page 87

WHERE TO BUY Q To buy contact Bergère de

SHOP SMAR SHO LOCAP L!

T

Turn t page 8o0

France at www. bergeredefrance.co.uk

FRONT & BACK

OR YOU COULD TRY… Q SMD Knitting

0800 622 6225 or www.knittingwool.com Q Hollie’s Haberdashery 01782 610241 or www. hollieshaberdashery.co.uk

TENSION

TOP TIP When working intarsia it’s always a good idea to give your yarns a good tug when switching colours. Also, hold your knitting up to the light so you can spot any unsightly gaps.

26 sts and 37 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3mm needles

KID’S VEGGIE TANK TOP BACK

Cast on 70 (78: 86: 94: 102) sts using 2.5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) *K2, P2, rep from * to last 2 sts, K2.

Row 2 (WS) *P2, K2, rep from * to last 2 sts, P2.

Rep the last 2 rows until work measures 2cm.

Next row Dec 0 (0: 1: 1: 1) st at each end in rib.

[70 (78: 84: 92: 100) sts] Change to 3mm needles and cont in st st until work measures 18 (21: 24: 27: 30)cm, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE ARMHOLES Cast off 3 sts at the beg of next 2 rows, 2 sts at beg of next 2 (4: 4: 6: 6) rows, then 1 st at beg of next 10 (10: 12: 10: 12) rows.

Cont in st st on the rem 50 (54: 58: 64: 70) sts until work measures 28 (32: 36: 40: 44)cm, ending on a WS row.

30 (34: 38: 42: 46)cm 12 (13½: 15: 16½: 18)in

ABBREVIATIONS IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

26 (29: 32: 35: 38)cm 10¼ (11½: 12½: 13¾: 15)in

row.

Cast off the rem 10 (11: 12: 13: 15) sts.

FRONT Cast on 70 (78: 86: 94: 102) sts using 2.5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) *K2, P2, rep from * to last 2 sts, K2.

Row 2 (WS) *P2, K2, rep from * to last 2 sts, P2.

Rep the last 2 rows until work measures 2cm.

Next row Dec 0 (0: 1: 1: 1) st at each end in rib.

[70 (78: 84: 92: 100) sts] Change to 3mm needles.

Cont in st st as folls, using the Intarsia technique when working Chart, remembering to twist yarns at colour changes on the back of the work to prevent holes.

Set up row (RS) K7 (8: 11: 9: 13), work Chart for your size to last 7 (8: 11: 9: 13) sts, K to end.

Next row (WS) P 7 (8: 11: 9: 13), work Chart for your size to last 7 (8: 11: 9: 13) sts, P to end.

SHAPE LEFT NECK Next row (RS) K16 (17: 18: 19: 21), cast off 18 (20: 22: 26: 28) centre sts for neck, knit to end.

Cont on these 16 (17: 18: 19: 21) sts only: Purl 1 row.

Cast off 3 sts at beg of next row, 2 sts at beg of foll RS row and 1 st at beg of next RS row. 10 (11: 12: 13: 15) sts.

Last 2 rows set Chart placement. Cont to work Chart as set until all 54 (62: 62: 75: 75) rows are complete, then cont in Yarn A until

SHAPE SHOULDERS Cont until work measures 30 (34: 38: 42: 46)cm ending on a RS row.

Cast off the rem 10 (11: 12: 13: 15) sts.

SHAPE RIGHT NECK With RS facing, join yarn to rem sts.

Knit 1 row.

Cast off 3 sts at beg of next row, 2 sts at beg of foll WS row and 1 st at beg of next WS row. [10 (11: 12: 13: 15) sts]

SHAPE SHOULDERS

Add small red buttons, secured well at the back, for the vegetables’ eyes

Cont until work measures 30 (34: 38: 42: 46)cm ending on a WS

Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting 49

KID’S VEGGIE TANK TOP FIND YOUR SIZE 2yrs

4yrs

6yrs

8yrs

10yrs

cm

51

56

62

67

71

in

20

22

24½

26½

28

cm

52

58

64

70

76

in

20½

23

25

27½

30

cm

30

34

38

42

46

in

12

13½

15

16½

18

SIZE TO FIT CHEST ACTUAL CHEST LENGTH YARN

Bergère De France Coton Fifty (4ply, 50g/140m)

Yarn A Gingembre (42653)

2

3

3

3

4

Yarn B Grenadier (35264)

1

1

1

1

1

Yarn C Pature (54710)

1

1

1

1

1

Yarn D Raisin (35261)

1

1

1

1

1

SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions. Simply follow our colour-coded measurements and you’re off.

For a super-neat finish the collar is grafted to the neck edge

Front meas same as Back to armhole shaping.

SHAPE ARMHOLES Cast off at each end as for Back, then cont on the rem 50 (54: 58: 64: 70) sts until work measures 23 (27: 31: 34: 38)cm.

SHAPE NECK Next row (RS) K21 (22: 23: 25: 27), cast off 8 (10: 12: 14: 16) centre sts for neck, knit to end.

Cont on these 21 (22: 23: 25: 27) sts only: Purl 1 row.

Cast off 3 sts at beg of next row, 2 sts at beg of foll RS row and 1 st at beg of next RS row. [10 (11: 12: 13: 15) sts] Cast off 3 sts at beg of next row, 2 sts at beg of foll RS row, 1 st at beg of next 5 RS rows then 1 st at the beg of foll 1 (1: 1: 2: 2) 4th rows. [10 (11: 12: 13: 15) sts]

SHOULDERS Cast off as for Back.

COLLAR Cast on 98 (102: 106: 114: 118) sts using 2.5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) *K2, P2, rep from * to last 2 sts, K2.

Row 2 (WS) *P2, K2, rep from * to last 2 sts, P2.

Rep the last 2 rows once and leave sts on holder.

ARMHOLE BORDERS (MAKE 2) Cast on 78 (86: 90: 98: 102) sts using 2.5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 (RS) *K2, P2, rep from * to last 2 sts, K2.

Row 2 (WS) *P2, K2, rep from * to last 2 sts, P2.

Rep the last 2 rows once and leave sts on holder.

MAKING UP Join shoulder seams. Graft Collar to edge of neck, then join the smaller ends. Graft one border to edge of each armhole. Sew side seams of tank top.

Using one strand of Yarn D, sew 2 buttons on carrot (see placement on Chart). Using one strand of Yarn B, sew 2 buttons on turnip (see placement on Chart).

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KID’S VEGGIE TANK TOP

CHART FOR SIZE 8 AND 10 YRS

KEY Yarn A

75 74

73

72

Yarn B

71

70

Yarn C

69

68

67

66

Yarn D

65

64

Button

63

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HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS

55

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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.

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CHART FOR SIZE 4 AND 6 YRS

5

CHART FOR SIZE 2 YRS

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Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting 51

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GIVE SIA INTAR A TRY!

beside the beside the sea sea Perfect blue skies punctuated by bright seaside beach huts are depicted in this gorgeous summer homewares set by Jo Allport

BEACH HUT HOMEWARES TENSION IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

YOU WILL NEED Q King Cole Cottonsoft DK

(100% cotton, 100g/210m) 9 balls of Yarn A Sky (714) and 1 ball of each: Yarn B Lime (1601) Yarn C Orange (3030) Yarn D Lemon (3031) Yarn E Cherry (719) Oddment of Yarn F any contrast colour Q A pair of 3.25mm needles Q A pair of 4mm needles Q A 4mm circular needle, 120cm long Q 45x45cm cushion pad Q 8 buttons, 2cm diameter Q Stitch markers Q Bunting rope, 2m long

Precision is key – equally spaced buttonholes can be the making of your knitted cushion

BUNTING CHART

22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles

46 45 44 43 42

41

40

MEASUREMENTS

39

38

Cushion 45x45cm (17¾x17¾in) Blanket 110x110cm (43½x43½in) Bunting length 2m (78¾in) Bunting flag 11.5x16.5cm (4½x6½in)

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36

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34

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32 31 30

29

28

ABBREVIATIONS

27

26

CC Contrast colour For a full list see page 87

25

24

23

22

21

20

WHERE TO BUY

19 18

SHOP SMAR

Q For yarn stockists

SHO LOCAP L!

contact King Cole on 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com

15 14

13

12

Turn t page 8o0

OR YOU COULD TRY…

T

17

16

11 10

9

8

7

Q The Knitting Network

6

01795 570303 or www. theknittingnetwork.co.uk Q Knitting Village 07738 022813 or www. knittingvillage.co.uk

4

! f f o % 10 The Knitting Network are offering 10% off King Cole Cotton Soft DK! Quote offer code TKNKC10 when you call 01795 570303 or visit www. theknittingnetwork.co.uk.

Offer ends 24 Sept 2020.

5 3 2

1

7

K VHDVLGH LQ SLULWV DQG ëLV IXQ ORRNLQJ VHW SWXUHG ëH FRORXUV UHDç\ ZHç SHUIHFW Iè UHOD[LQJ RXWGRèV SETH SINGH, ART EDITOR

gwq CUSHION Notes Use the intarsia technique when working the Charts (working with separate small balls for sections of colour and twisting yarns to prevent holes). Where there is a change of colour for only one or two stitches, you can strand across the back of these stitches. Use a contrast colour to embroider (or duplicate stitch) the door handle when finishing.

Cast on 98 sts using Yarn A and 3.25mm needles.

BUTTON BAND Rib row *K1, P1; rep from * to end.

Cont in rib until work meas 10cm, ending with a WS row.

MAIN PIECE Change to 4mm needles.

Work in st st until work meas 62cm, ending with a WS row.

SET PATT Adding in yarns as needed, set Charts as follows: Next row (RS) K7 using Yarn A, work Row 1 of Cushion and Blanket Chart using Yarn B as CC, work Row 1 of Cushion and Blanket Chart

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BEACH HUT HOMEWARES CUSHION & BLANKET CHART 32

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KEY K on RS; P on WS in Yarn A K on RS; P on WS in CC Work in CC, later embroider with Yarn F yo

5

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.

K on WS

using Yarn C as CC, work Row 1 of Cushion and Blanket Chart using Yarn D as CC, work Row 1 of Cushion and Blanket Chart using Yarn E as CC, K7 using Yarn A. This row sets position and colours of Cushion and Blanket Chart motifs.

Cont in st st and patt as set a further 31 rows to complete Cushion and Blanket Chart.

Break Yarns B, C, D and E. Using Yarn A, cont in st st until work meas 90cm, ending with a WS row.

BUTTONHOLE FLAP Change to 3.25mm needles.

Rib row *K1, P1; rep from * to end.

Cont in rib for 5cm, ending with a WS row.

Buttonhole row (RS) (K1, P1) 3 times, *k2tog, yo, (K1, P1) 5 times; rep from * to last 8 sts, k2tog, yo, (K1, P1) 3 times.

Cont in rib until work meas 100cm, ending with a RS row.

Cast off in rib patt.

FINISHING Embroider door handles on each beach hut using Yarn F. With RS facing out, fold work so that the buttonhole flap overlaps the button band rib sections and the beach huts are at the centre of the front.

Join side seams. Attach buttons. Weave in ends. Block gently to measurements, following any yarn care instructions on the ball band. Insert cushion pad.

STEP-BY-STEP YO YARN OVER (BETWEEN KNIT STITCHES)

1 Bring the yarn to the front of the needles before you work the next stitch.

2 Insert the right-hand needle into the next stitch, and wrap the yarn around the right-hand needle to knit the stitch.

3 This will bring the yarn between the needles to the front, and you can then pull it through the stitch as normal.

4 Slip the stitch off the needle. You will notice that the yarn over forms an extra loop to the right of the stitch you have just worked.

Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting 55

BEACH HUT HOMEWARES

Use a 120cm circular needle and a 16-row pattern to add a lacy edge to your blanket

BLANKET Cast on 202 sts using Yarn A and 4mm needles.

Starting with a knit row, work in st st until work meas 20cm, ending with a WS row.

SET PATT Adding in yarns as needed, set Charts as follows: Next row (RS) K17 using Yarn A, (work Row 1 of Cushion and Blanket Chart using Yarn B as CC, work Row 1 of Cushion and Blanket Chart using Yarn C as CC, work Row 1 of Cushion and Blanket Chart using Yarn D as CC, work Row 1 of Cushion and Blanket Chart using Yarn E as CC) twice, K17 using Yarn A. This row sets position and colours of Cushion and Blanket Chart motifs.

Cont in st st and patt as set a further 31 rows to complete Cushion and Blanket Chart.

Break Yarns B, C, D and E. Using Yarn A, cont in st st until work meas 100cm, ending with a WS row.

Cast off.

Pretty huts all in a row! Take time with your intarsia stitches, making sure there are no holes between your colour changes

EDGING Starting at one corner and using Yarn A and 4mm circular needle,

STEP-BY-STEP PICK UP AND KNIT

1 Holding the piece of knitting you are going to pick the sts up from in your left hand, and starting at the top-right corner, insert the right-hand needle between the first two stitches of the row.

2 Wind your yarn around the needle and ‘knit’ the first stitch...

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3 ...And pull the new stitch through between the two stitches.

4 Continue to work like this along the row or until you have picked up the necessary amount of stitches.

Try to space your stitches evenly.

BEACH HUT HOMEWARES

120cm long, (pick up and knit 202 sts along edge, PM) 4 times. Join to work in the round with last marker as beg of round. [808 sts]

Pretty bunting in bright colours brightens up simple garden trellis

Knit 1 round.

WORK IN PATT Round 1 *K1, yo, K1, [(k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice] 18 times, K1, yo, K1, slm; rep from * 3 more times. [816 sts] Rounds 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14 Knit.

Round 3 *K1, yo, K2, [(k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice] 18 times, K2, yo, K1, slm; rep from * 3 more times. [824 sts] Round 5 *K1, yo, K3, [(k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice] 18 times, K3, yo, K1, slm; rep from * 3 more times. [832 sts] Round 7 *K1, yo, K4, [(k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice] 18 times, K4, yo, K1, slm; rep from * 3 more times. [840 sts] Round 9 *K1, yo, K5, [(k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice] 18 times, K5, yo, K1, slm; rep from * 3 more times. [848 sts] Round 11 *K1, yo, K6, [(k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice] 18 times, K6, yo, K1, slm; rep from * 3 more times. [856 sts] Round 13 *K1, yo, K7, [(k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice] 18 times, K7, yo, K1, slm; rep from * 3 more times. [864 sts] Round 15 *K1, yo, K8, [(k2tog) twice, (yo, K1) 3 times, yo, (ssk) twice] 18 times, K8, yo, K1, slm; rep from * 3 more times. [872 sts] Round 16 Knit.

Cast off all sts.

Stay comfy and warm your knees when the sun goes down with this cosy outdoor blanket and cushion set

FINISHING Embroider door handles on each beach hut using Yarn F. Weave in ends. Block gently to measurements, following any yarn care instructions on the ball band.

BUNTING

TRIANGLES (MAKE 8) Work 2 triangles using each of Yarns B, C, D and E as CC for Bunting Chart.

Cast on 3 sts using Yarn A and 4mm needles.

WORK CHART Adding in yarns as needed, complete Bunting Chart once. [25 sts] Break Yarns B, C, D and E. Cont using Yarn A only.

TOP EDGE Row 1 (RS) Knit.

Row 2 (WS) K1, purl to last st, K1.

Rep these two rows until top edge is long enough to wrap around bunting rope.

Cast off.

FINISHING Embroider door handles on each beach hut using Yarn F. Weave in ends. Block gently to measurements, following any yarn care instructions on the ball band. Fold back the top edge and sew cast-off edge to WS of triangle, leaving a gap to feed the bunting rope through. Thread bunting rope through each of the eight triangles, spacing them evenly along the length and stitching in place if needed.

NEXT MONTH Don’t miss next issue’s homewares pattern, it’s an amazing Halloween tea cosy by Susan Cowper, knitted in gorgeous bright shades! Issue 203 of Simply Knitting is available at all good supermarkets and newsagents from Thursday 10 September.

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ASK THE EXPERTS

CONTAC

Got a que T US! st experts? T ion for our hen email us at simplyknit tin co.uk or w g@immediate. rite to Knitting, E us at Simply agle H Bristol BS ouse, 1 4ST.

Write to our accomplished Q&A experts and have your tricky knitting queries and questions answered in no time!

KNIT guru

Debbie Bliss Knitwear Designer

Kirstie McLeod Editor

Jen Bartlett Technical Editor

Sophie Jordan Deputy Editor

Famed for her effortlessly stylish knit creations and extensive knowledge of knitting.

Queen of socks and gadget hoarder, Kirstie has many years of knitting knowledge to share.

Stitch expert and technical whizz, Jen likes to tackle the trickiest of knitting problems.

Product expert and Fair Isle fanatic, Sophie loves talking about the latest trends and cool colour combos.

Ignore the correct tension at your peril!

HELPING HANDS Q My hands are really looking worse for wear at the moment – dry and cracked and sore. I’ve even caught my yarn on dry patches of skin. What can I do?

Nicola Stapleton, Solihull It’s not surprising your hands are getting sore Nicola – they are working for hours in a repetitive motion, handling wool which zaps the moisture from them – and then there’s all the extra hand washing! Here are my four top tips to keep your fingers nimble.

1 File nails shorter and gently trim hang nails to avoid splitting the cuticles.

2 Keep your working ball of yarn in a bag by

TOO TENSE I’m really struggling to get the correct tension for my next project.

Even when I get the right stitch tension, my row tension is out! Do you have any tips? Or does it really matter if my tension is slightly off, if it’s not too much?

Kate Fisher, Swansea The main importance of tension is in making sure you knit something that’s the size you expect it to be. So if you’re making a toy or a blanket, then it being slightly bigger or smaller might not matter too much – though small differences in tension over 10cm can add up to a lot over a larger area! Projects like garments though, or anything that has to fit a certain size, really need to match the given tension. Half a stitch out over 10cm could work out as several inches of extra, or not

Q

your work, to limit the amount of times you need to handle it.

3 Remember to take sips of water as you work, or have a warm drink on hand to help keep your skin hydrated and supple.

4 Three or four times a day, massage in some hand cream paying particular attention to the pressure points in the palms of your hands. Spend about 15 seconds on each hand. SEAMS Couturiers is a non-greasy cream originally created for seamstresses, so you can quickly carry on with your knitting again.

Karen J Gerrard, founder, SEAMS Couturiers Hand Cream

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enough, fabric over the width of a jumper, giving it a completely different fit. If you’re struggling though, try swatching with a different needle – bamboo instead of metal, or maybe plastic – as this can make a difference. And don’t stop trying different size needles when you get stitch tension – this may stay the same on the next size but the row tension could change. Kirstie

We’ve all been washing our hands more – but this can lead to dry skin

PHOTO BY MÉLISSA JEANTY ON UNSPLASH

QUESTION OF THE MONTH

ASK THE EXPERTS CRAFTY CABLES I like knitting while out and about, but my current project has several cables in it and carrying a cable needle around with me is a real pain! I’m always worried I’ll drop it. Is there a way to work the cables without it?

Billie Morris, via email Cabling without a cable needle is actually quite simple when you get the hang of it.

It’s best suited for “stickier” yarns like wool, rather than slippery cottons, and works best over smaller, 3 or 4 stitch cables.

It works by slipping and knitting the stitches that make up your cable and then doing the ‘pinch and pull’ manoeuvre: pinching the stitches with finger and thumb while pulling the needle out and then sliding it back in to reposition the stitches in a different order. Making sure your tension is even as you slip and knit will help keep the cables neater, and snugly knitting the first

Q

1

2

stitch after your completed cable will help reduce any gaps in your fabric. Here I’ll show you how to work a C3F, left leaning cable.

1 Work to where you want to place your cable. Hold the yarn to the back of the work and slip the next two stitches purlwise onto the right-hand needle.

2 Keeping the working yarn at the back of the work, knit the next stitch on the lefthand needle.

3 Insert the left needle through the front of the two slipped stitches on the righthand needle.

4 Pinch the base of these three stitches with your left thumb and forefinger and carefully pull the right-hand needle out of all of them.

This leaves the two slipped stitches on the left-hand needle and the one knitted stitch sitting behind.

5 Insert the right-hand needle purlwise into the dropped stitch.

6 Knit the two slipped stitches. Jen

YOU ASKED DEBBIE BLISS… PICK OR THROW? What is the difference between continental and English knitting?

Beth Majors, via email In continental-style knitting, the left hand holds the working yarn instead of the right. Knitters who use this method are sometimes called “pickers” because of the way the right-hand needle catches or ‘picks’ the yarn to pull it through the loop, rather than ‘throwing’ it around as in English-style knitting. Debbie

Q

3

Did you know...?

4

5

6

It’s always a good idea to buy an extra ball of yarn in the same dye lot when planning a big project. Then if it turns out you need more than you thought, you won’t have to worry about the colours not matching.

Garter stitch makes a neat, easy-towork edging

BEST FOR BABY I’ve made a lot of baby items in acrylic over the years, and though I really like it, my daughter-in-law is now expecting my first grandchild and I’d really like to knit something extra special! Could you recommend some more luxurious baby yarns please?

Evelyn Hurley, Newcastle There are lots of great baby yarns out there, so it really depends on how much you want to spend, and how your son feels about clothes that need hand-washing! Rowan do a beautiful Baby Cashsoft Merino yarn that’s a blend of Merino, cashmere and acrylic, and is machine washable at 30°. It’s available in a lovely range of colours, and they’ve just released a cute pattern collection for it, Essential Baby Knits. Alternatively, Sublime Cashmere Merino Silk and Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino are classic easy-care baby yarns, while Debbie Bliss Luna is a pure cashmere that’s handwash only, but perfect for something super special! Sophie

Q

ON THE EDGE Please help! Do you have any advice on how to knit neat edges?

Ellie Saunders, via Facebook It really depends on the yarn and the stitch you are using. A slippery yarn such as cotton or viscose can make a very uneven loose edge. I sometimes slip a stitch at the beginning and end of a row, particularly in garter stitch, but this can make a tighter edge than you want. If the edges are on show, as on a scarf, with some stitch patterns to prevent curling I will add garter or moss stitch at each end. Debbie

Q

Rowan’s Baby Cashsoft Merino is super-soft and easy-care too– the perfect baby yarn!

Debbie Bliss patterns, books and yarns are available from www.lovecrafts.com

Subscribe at www.gathered.how/simplyknitting 59

EXPERT ADVICE

Essential

cast-offs

Try a new skill! Faye Perrium-Reed and our handy step by steps make stretchy cast offs super easy

T

he two cast-off methods I am exploring today are ones that I use often in my own knitting, usually for toe-up socks. They are used fairly regularly by our designers for certain patterns in Simply Knitting, yet aren’t necessarily techniques that everyone remembers how to do! Both techniques appear frequently, so it’s a good opportunity for a quick recap.

Jeny’s Surprisingly Stretchy Bind Off is worked on two needles in a similar way to a regular cast-off, but with added yarnovers before each stitch. The second method, Elizabeth Zimmermann’s Sewn Bind Off, is worked into the stitches using a tapestry needle. Both produce very neat results, the

latter making a great replica of the cast-on edge if you’re looking for this sort of finish.

Here’s a little more information…

About our expert Faye Perriam-Reed is a designer and the technical editor of Simply Knitting and The Knitter. She enjoys exploring construction and finishing techniques to achieve neater results.

Jeny’s Surprisingly Stretchy Bind Off is ideal for the cuffs on toe-up socks

ouyrstep

step b below

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JENY’S SURPRISINGLY STRETCHY BIND OFF Note The photo example and stepby-step here is based on 2x2 rib, beginning with K2. Instructions for 1x1 rib are given at the end of this section.

The basics for this cast-off are thus: before casting off a knit stitch, work a reverse yarnover (yo), knit the next stitch and then pass the yo over.

Before casting off a purl stitch, work a regular yarnover, purl the next stitch then pass the yo over. When there are two stitches on the needle (knitted or purled), pass the first over the second to cast off one stitch. It becomes easier to remember when you get into the rhythm!

Casting off 2x2 rib To cast off the two knit stitches: 1 Make a reverse yarnover by going up behind the right-hand needle, over the top and underneath, 2 knit the next stitch, then 3 pass the yo over the knitted stitch. ** 4 Make a reverse yarnover in the same way as before and 5 knit the next stitch, 6 pass the yo over the knitted stitch (2 sts now on the needle). 7 Pass the first knit stitch over the second.

‘Charis’ in The Knitter 86 used the sewn cast-off to give a stretchy neck opening

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SIMPLY FOLLOW

To cast off the two purl sts: 8 Make a regular yo (front over to back and around to the front), 9 purl the next stitch, 10 pass the yo over the purled stitch to cast off (2 sts now on the needle). 11 Pass the knit stitch over the purled stitch. 12 Make a regular yo, 13 purl the next stitch, 14 pass the yo over the purled stitch to cast off. (2 sts now on the needle).

15 Pass the first purled stitch over the second. Repeat Step 1 - there are

EXPERT ADVICE

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now 2 stitches on the needle. Pass the purl stitch over the knit stitch. Repeat from ** until all sts are cast off.

Casting off 1x1 rib If you are working 1x1 rib, the process is a little simpler: Work a reverse yarnover (up the back, over the front and under), K1, then lift the yo over this stitch. Work a regular yarnover (up the front, over the back and under), P1, then lift the yo over this stitch (2 sts now on the needle). Lift the knit st over the purl stitch.

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The sewn cast-off was used on this top-down garment

**Work a reverse yarnover, K1, lift the yo over this stitch (2 sts now on the needle).

Lift the purl stitch over the knit stitch.

Work a regular yarnover, P1, lift the yo over this stitch, lift the knit stitch over the purl stitch. Rep from ** until all the sts are cast off.

Elizabeth zimmermann’s sewn bind off This cast-off method is worked the same whichever stitch pattern it is worked over, and there are just a couple of simple steps.

Cut the yarn so it’s at least four times the

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length of the piece you wish to finish, and thread the end through a tapestry needle.

16 Insert the tapestry needle purlwise into the first two stitches and pull through.

17 Insert the tapestry needle knitwise into the first stitch on the needle and pull through, knocking this stitch off the needle.

Repeat these two steps until all the stitches have been cast off.

18 The cast-on and cast-off edges look remarkably similar when the cast-off is complete!

Quick KNIT

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coastal cosy Take a walk on that blustery beach wrapped up nice and warm in this great chunky jacket and snood combination. By Stylecraft

JACKET AND SNOOD

p1-b (purl the next st into the loop below) insert needle from back to front through loop below next st and purl

YOU WILL NEED Q Stylecraft New Swift Knit

(super chunky, 80% acrylic, 20% wool, 100g/62m) For jacket yarn quantities and measurements see size table Snood 2 x 100g balls of Lagoon (6057) Q A pair of 10mm needles Q 4 (4: 5: 5: 5) buttons

SLEEVE

For a full list see page 87

MEASUREMENTS Snood 24cm wide x 90cm circumference

WHERE TO BUY

50 (54.5: 59.5: 64: 68)cm 19¾ (21½: 23½: 25¼: 26¾)in

Q For yarn stockists contact

TENSION 9 sts and 14 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over rib patt using 10mm needles

Stylecraft on 01484 848435 www.stylecraftyarns.co.uk

OR YOU COULD TRY… Q Wool Warehouse

0800 505 3300 or www. woolwarehouse.co.uk Q Delta Wool Shop 01772 456535 or www.deltawoolshop.co.uk

FRONTS & BACK

60 (62: 66: 69: 71)cm 23¾ (24½: 26: 27¼: 28)in

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

43 (43: 44: 45: 45)cm 17 (17: 17¼: 17¾: 17¾)in

ABBREVIATIONS

SHOP SMAR SHO LOCAP L!

T

Turn t page 8o0

! f f o % 10

Wool Warehouse are offering 10% off Stylecraft New Swift Knit! Quote offer code SK202SC when you order. To place your order call 0800 505 3300 or visit www.woolwarehouse. co.uk. Offer ends 24 Sept 2020.

JACKET

RIGHT FRONT Cast on 26 (28: 30: 32: 34) sts using 10mm needles.

Row 1 (RS) P1, K1, *P3, K1; rep from * to last 4 (2: 4: 2: 4) sts, P to end.

Row 2 K4 (2: 4: 2: 4), P1-b, *K3, P1-b; rep from * to last st, K1.

These 2 rows form the rib patt.

Work 2 rows more in patt.

Buttonhole row (RS) P1, K1, P1, yo, p2tog, patt to end.

Cont in patt, working a further 3 (3: 4: 4: 4) buttonholes on RS rows spaced 15 (15: 12: 13: 13)cm.

When last buttonhole has been worked, work 3 rows in patt, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE FRONT NECK Cast off 7 sts in patt at beg (neck edge) of next row.

[19 (21: 23: 25: 27) sts] Work 1 row in patt.

Next row (RS) K2tog tbl, patt to end. [18 (20: 22: 24: 26) sts] Next row Patt to last 2 sts, p2tog tbl. [17 (19: 21: 23: 25) sts] Work 2 (3: 3: 5: 5) rows in patt, dec 1 st as set at neck edge on every row. [15 (16: 18: 18: 20) sts] Cont in patt until neck measures 10 (10: 11: 11: 11)cm deep, ending with a RS row.

SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 8 (8: 9: 9: 10) sts in patt at beg (side edge) of next row.

[7 (8: 9: 9: 10) sts] Work 1 row in patt.

Cast off rem sts in patt.

A soft snood adds an additional cosy layer to your jacket

LEFT FRONT Cast on 26 (28: 30: 32: 34) sts using 10mm needles.

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JACKET AND SNOOD FIND YOUR SIZE 8-10

12-14

16-18

20-22

24-26

cm

81-86

91-97

102-107

112-117

122-127

in

32-34

36-38

40-42

44-46

48-50

cm

100

109

119

128

136

in

39½

43

47

50½

53½

cm

60

62

66

69

71

in

23¾

24½

26

27¼

28

cm

43

43

44

45

45

in

17

17

17¼

17¾

17¾

SIZE TO FIT BUST ACTUAL BUST LENGTH SLEEVE LENGTH YARN (JACKET) Lagoon (6057)

Stylecraft New Swift Knit (100g/62m) 7

9

9

10

11

SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions. Simply follow our colour-coded measurements and you’re off.

Row 1 (RS) P4 (2: 4: 2: 4), K1, *P3, K1; rep from * to last st, P1.

Row 2 K1, P1-b, *K3, P1-b; rep from * to last 4 (2: 4: 2: 4) sts, K to end.

These 2 rows form the rib patt.

Cont in patt until Left Front measures same as Right Front to shape neck, ending with a WS row.

Work 1 row in patt.

Wooden buttons deliver a wonderful rustic look to this chunky garment

SHAPE FRONT NECK Cast off 7 sts in patt at beg (neck edge) of next row.

[19 (21: 23: 25: 27) sts] Next row (RS) Patt to last 2 sts, k2tog. [18 (20: 22: 24: 26) sts] Next row P2tog, patt to end. [17 (19: 21: 23: 25) sts] Work 2 (3: 3: 5: 5) rows in patt, dec 1 st as set at neck edge on every row. [15 (16: 18: 18: 20) sts] Cont in patt until neck measures same as Right Front, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 8 (8: 9: 9: 10) sts in patt at beg (side edge) of next row.

[7 (8: 9: 9: 10) sts] Work 1 row in patt.

Cast off rem sts in patt.

BACK Cast on 45 (49: 53: 57: 61) sts using 10mm needles.

Row 1 (RS) P4 (2: 4: 2: 4), K1, *P3, K1; rep from * to last 4 (2: 4: 2: 4) sts, P to end.

Row 2 K4 (2: 4: 2: 4), P1-b, *K3, P1-b; rep from * to last 4 (2: 4: 2: 4) sts, K to end.

These 2 rows form the rib patt.

Cont in patt until Back measures same as Right Front to shape shoulder, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE SHOULDERS AND BACK NECK Next row (RS) Cast off 8 (8: 9: 9: 10) sts, patt 8 (9: 10: 10: 11) sts (including last st used for casting off) and turn, leaving rem 29 (32: 34: 38: 40) sts on a spare needle.

Next row P2tog, patt to end. [7 (8: 9: 9: 10) sts] Cast off rem sts in patt.

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JACKET AND SNOOD

The stitch pattern is created by purling through the back into the stitch below

Create a matching snood by casting on 23 stitches and working 90cm of stitch pattern

[19 (19: 17: 19: 17) sts] Cast off rem sts in patt.

MAKING UP Join shoulder seams, matching rib sts.

NECKBAND With RS of work facing, rejoin yarn to rem 29 (32: 34: 38: 40) sts and work as foll: Next row (RS) Cast off 13 (15: 15: 19: 19) sts for back neck, patt to end. [16 (17: 19: 19: 21) sts] Next row Cast off 8 (8: 9: 9: 10) sts, patt to last 2 sts, p2togtbl.

[7 (8: 9: 9: 10) sts] Work 1 row in patt.

Cast off rem sts in patt.

SLEEVES Cast on 19 (19: 19: 23: 23) sts using 10mm needles.

Row 1 (RS) P1 (1: 3: 1: 3), K1, *P3, K1; rep from * to last 1 (1: 3: 1: 3) sts, P to end.

Row 2 K1 (1: 3: 1: 3), P1-b, *K3, P1-b; rep from * to last 1 (1: 3: 1: 3) sts, K to end.

These 2 rows set the rib patt.

Work 2 rows more in patt.

Cont in patt, inc 1 st at each end of next and every foll 6th row to 35 (33: 31: 43: 35) sts, working inc sts into rib patt.

With RS of work facing, pick up and K7 sts from Right front neck cast off, pick up and K10 (10: 12: 12: 12) sts up side of Right front neck, pick up and K2 sts down side of back neck, pick up and K across 15 (15: 17: 17: 17) sts from back neck cast off, pick up and K2 sts up side of back neck, 10 (10: 12: 12: 12) sts down side of Left front neck then pick up and K7 sts from Left front neck cast off.

[53 (53: 59: 59: 59) sts} Next row (WS) Cast off all stitches purlwise.

FINISHING To indicate armholes, place markers 20 (22: 24: 25: 26)cm down from shoulder seams on Back and Fronts side edges. Place a marker in centre of Sleeve top. Sew Sleeve into armholes between markers, matching centre marker to shoulder seam. Join side and Sleeve seams. Sew on buttons to match buttonholes. Pin out cardigan to the measurements given. Cover with clean, damp tea towels and leave to dry. See ball band for washing and further care instructions.

SNOOD

FOR ALL SIZES

Cast on 23 sts using 10mm needles.

Row 1 (RS) P3, *K1, P3; rep from * to end.

Row 2 K3, *P1-b, K3; rep from * to end.

These 2 rows form the rib patt.

Cont in patt until work measures 90cm, ending with a WS row.

Cast off in patt.

Cont in patt until Sleeve measures 43 (43: 44: 45: 45)cm, ending with a WS row.

MAKING UP

SIZES 12-14, 16-18 AND 24-26 ONLY Cont in patt, inc 1 st at each end of every foll 4th row to - (39: 41: -: 45) sts, working inc sts into rib patt.

SHAPE TOP Cast off 4 (5: 6: 6: 7) sts in patt at beg of next 4 rows.

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Join cast-on edge to cast-off edge. Pin out snood to the measurements given. Cover with clean, damp tea towels and leave to dry. See ball band for washing and further care instructions.

All the yarn, accessories & patterns you need to hook these favourite characters

COMPLETE CROCHET KIT!

ONLY £12.99

With Free UK Delivery!

on sale now

order your KIT today!

CALL 03330 162 138† and quote ‘Peter Rabbit Crochet Kit’ ONLINE www.buysubscriptions.com/craftspecial †UK calls will cost the same as other standard fixed line numbers (starting 01 or 02) and are included as part of any inclusive or free minutes allowances (if offered by your phone tariff). Outside of free call packages call charges from mobile phones will cost between 3p and 55p per minute. Lines are open Mon to Fri 9am-5pm. Overseas please call +44 (0)3330 162 138. *Prices including postage are £12.99 for UK residents, £15.99 for Europe and £16.99 for Rest of World. Please allow up to 28 days for delivery.

YARN COMMUNITY

Knit Together!

Welcome to our community section where we take a closer look at what’s going on knitwise near you!

In association with the Keep Yarn on our Streets campaign

s I write this it’s actually cold and rainy outside – a typical British summer! Hopefully by the time you read it the weather will have perked up and you’ll be enjoying some knitting in the sunshine. If you do have a chance to head out in search of blue skies, then try to take in your local yarn shop – they’ll definitely appreciate it!

This issue we’ve rounded up a selection of stores in Cumbria, as well as chatting to Ewe & Yarn in Yorkshire, and Ginger Twist Studio in Edinburgh. We’ve also chatted to the Nightingale Country Crafts group in Aylesbury, and learned more about the work of the RNLI. If you’re in the mood for some charity knitting of your own, check out our pattern for some colourful bangles.

Please do tell us about any shop, club or charity recommendations you may have, and remember to send in your community stories and charity knit pics.

We can’t wait to hear from you!

A

A knitter’s guide to...

Cumbria Known for the beautiful Lake District, this pretty county also has some lovely local yarn stores…

LOOPY Contact store for ordering information 51 Market St, Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 7LT Overflowing with colourful yarns from brands such as West Yorkshire Spinners, Baa Ram Ewe, Rowan, Sirdar and Wendy, this independent shop in the heart of Ulverston is a treat for any knitter.

For more visit www.loopywool.co.uk

THE WOOL CLIP

creative atmosphere for customers. They stock yarns from King Cole, Stylecraft, Sirdar and more, as well as needles, accessories and kits.

For more visit www.woolsty-crafts.co.uk, email info@woolsty-crafts.co.uk or call 01697 342470

CUMBRIA SEWING & CRAFT CENTRE 45 Crellin Street, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria LA14 1DS Packed with goodies for everyone from cross stitchers to dressmakers to – of course – knitters, the Centre has a great selection of Sirdar yarns.

For more visit www.cumbriasewing.co.uk

Online store Priests Mill, Caldbeck, Cumbria CA7 8DR This co-operative was formed in 2001 and is run by local wool workers. The local yarns and fibres include a gorgeous selection of natural wools plus hand-dyed skeins from Wild Wood Wool.

For more visit www.woolclip.com

WOOLSTY CRAFTS Contact store for telephone ordering 19 High Street, Wigton, Cumbria CA7 9NJ Run by owner Sandra and her mum Margaret, Woolsty Crafts aims to provide a relaxed and

HERDY Online store 13-15 Stramongate, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 4BH Visit one of Herdy’s four stores (the others are in Keswick, Grasmere and Bowness-onWindermere) to check out their adorable range of sheepy treats, from mugs and umbrellas to sweet stitch markers and chunky pure wool yarn.

For more visit www.herdy.co.uk

For more great days out visit www.cumbriatourism.org

Editor

SAY HELLO! SEND PHOTOS OF YOUR CHARITY KNITS TO US AT Knit Together, Simply Knitting magazine, Immediate Media, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST. EMAIL US AT simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk

“It’s 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!” says founder Louisa Sheward.

Find out more by visiting www.keepyarn onourstreets.co.uk or follow the Instagram account @keepyarnonourstreets.

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IMAGE: RUMMAN AMIN, UNSPLASH

WHAT IS THE ‘KEEP YARN ON OUR STREETS’ CAMPAIGN?

YARN COMMUNITY

Join a knitting group

meet the knitting nightingales

0

We our garden centre LYS!

WANT TO YOUR CLUB SEE HERE? Le

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t us know knitting meeabout your tsimplykn ups at @immediateitting .co.uk!

What’s better than browsing your local garden centre and their selection of yarn?

We discover Nightingale Country Crafts, a charity knitting group based in Aylesbury…

N

ightingale Country Crafts (NCC) is the brainchild of former Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity CEO Pat Dodge. More than a decade ago, Pat realised that the charity’s market stall was receiving lots of high quality handmade goods to sell – so much so that there was an opportunity to establish a group of people who would be happy to make items for FNHC to sell at events, or at their shops.

Since its launch in 2008, the NCC group has grown considerably, meaning that items can be sold in the charity’s Wendover and Thame shops as well as at local events throughout the year. Since 2011 the group has also recruited new members who sew and crochet, which has bought a whole new range of items to sell.

Hospice Charity, from baby and toddler clothes and accessories to blankets of all sizes, tea cosies and dolls as well as seasonal items such as Easter chicks and Christmas pudding-shaped chocolate sweet covers! The dressmakers in the group also make sundresses and hats for the summer months.

KNIT AND NATTER

FEEL-GOOD FUNDRAISING

The group meets monthly at the charity’s head office in Aylesbury, with meetings acting as both social occasions and a chance for members to swap admire each other’s handiwork. There are almost 40 members with a range of skill levels, some coming back to knitting after a break while others have knitted and sewn for many years.

Members of the group knit and crochet all sort of items to sell for the Florence Nightingale

“Sometimes we only make £140 or so at an event,” says Jan Adams, who has run the group since 2011. But with local charities that do such important work, every little helps. “The hospice told us that they had a lady who was in terrible pain from lying on her side, but she couldn’t lie any other way. They bought her a gel pad that cost only £20, but it took away her pain, and gave her comfort for the rest of her time. With the ladies doing the knitting and contributing, you’re buying somebody comfort. It all adds up to something useful and that is great.

“Making something for NCC to sell is very satisfying, we have put our hobbies to good use. It keeps us busy, we enjoy what we do and we know it’s going to a cause which we support and love.”

The ladies who knit, sew and crochet for NCC normally pay for all of the materials they need, but on occasion supporters of the charity donate good wool and other materials. These donations are gratefully received.

Want to know more? To find out more about NCC and the fundraising work they do, visit www.fnhospice.org.uk/help-us/knit-and-sew.

Cheerful animal buddies knitted by the group

The NCC stall is always packed with goodies!

Cardwell Garden Centre Located in Inverclyde, Scotland, Cardwell Garden Centre has everything you could wish for. Enjoy browsing accessories for the home and uncover their craft centre, packed with our favourite yarns.

For more visit www.cardwellgardencentre.co.uk/ craft-centre Stock up on craft essentials at this Somerset garden centre. Check out their yarns in a range of plys and shades, plus uncover a selection of books ranging from beginner to advanced. For more visit www.monktonelmgardencentre.co.uk/wool

Sutton Green Garden Centre Within this Guildford garden centre you’ll find Crafty Corner UK, a concession store packed with knitting yarns plus buttons, paints, kits and more.

For more visit www.crafty-corner.co.uk/knitcrochet.html

IMAGE: SIORA PHOTOGRAPHY, UNSPLASH

Monkton Elm Garden & Pet Centre

DID YOU KNOW? The largest display of knitted hearts was in Dubai in 2019, and contained 5,270 hearts!

Source: www.guinnessworldrecords.com

Shop of the month

Ewe & Yarn Every month we explore one of our favourite UK yarn shops!

Who’s in charge? Sharon King.

Where can we find you? Thirsk, North Yorkshire.

When did your doors first open? 9 September 2017.

What is your shop like? Bright, colourful, friendly and welcoming to all, offering

SHOP SMAR SHO LOCAP L! Turn t page 8o0

commercial yarns covering all price ranges and lovely hand-dyed yarns from various dyers.

There are Knit and Natter sessions, a Sock Club, and when the conditions allow, I’ll be back to teaching regular knitting and crochet workshops within the shop.

Popular products? Stylecraft and West Yorkshire Spinners yarns, sock yarns from a variety of suppliers, Knit Pro needles and notions and Emma Ball bags and accessories.

Who shops at your shop? Everyone! I’ve a great local base of avid knitters and crocheters, then there are tourists from the UK and abroad.

Top shopping tip? Come with time to spare, as there’s lots to look at and choose from.

Ewe & Yarn, 18 Millgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 1AA. Visit www.eweandyarn.co.uk.

T

Ewe & Yarn is a colourful and friendly store

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YARN COMMUNITY

Charity knit bangles month Each issue we find out more about one of the good causes you could help out with your knitting…

PHOTO BY CERI OAKES

Leah Hunter RNLI lifeboat volunteer crew member Charity Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Established 1824 What do you do? I’ve been on the crew at Whitby Lifeboat Station for more than six years after joining on my 18th birthday.

We have an all-weather lifeboat and an inshore boat. I’m on the crew for both and I’m currently a trainee helm for the inshore boat. I’m also an Education Volunteer and give tours of the station and safety advice to school children on visits, although they are not happening at the moment due to coronavirus.

Latest fundraising news My gran Cecilia started knitting for the RNLI after I joined. She learned to knit when she was four years old and she’s 72 now. She has made hundreds of little yellow wellie boots that we have sold at stalls and station open day events in the past and she now has a new addition, the ‘RNLI Covid Crew Bear’, which is a personalised crew bear wearing a face mask. Although she doesn’t know how much she has raised for the RNLI it must be hundreds of pounds – she’s certainly spent plenty of money on the wool!

What can we do to help? The RNLI relies entirely on the generosity of its supporters and fundraisers. Last year, donations helped our volunteer crews and lifeguards save the lives of 374 people, while six in every 10 lifeboat launches are only possible due to the extraordinary kindness of supporters leaving a gift to us in their Will. To knit a pair of lifesavers go to https://rnli.org/magazine/ magazine-featured-list/2020/april/knit-apair-of-lifesavers for the free pattern.

Contact details: Phone 0300 300 9990 (UK) or 1800 991802 (Ireland) Website rnli.org/support-us/give-money/ donate

These stylish knitted bangles are a copyright-free pattern, which means you can knit them for any chosen charity event!

Copyright IUæ Iè charity!

YOU WILL NEED Q

Aran yarn from your yarn stash A pair of 5mm needles Q A cable needle Q Various old chunky bangles Q

ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87 Noisy jangling bangles are a thing of the past with this stylish knitted set.

These patterns are a great way to learn some new stitch patterns, and are quick and simple to make, so they’re ideal for fundraising fairs and stalls.

STRIPED BANGLE Cast on 10 sts using 5mm needles and Yarn A. Row 1 Knit.

Row 2 Purl.

Change to Yarn B. Row 3 Knit.

Row 4 Purl.

Rep the 4-row pattern until the knitting measures 27cm.

Cast off.

MAKING UP Wrap an old 1.5cm bangle with the knitting and sew in place neatly. Weave in any loose ends.

SLIP-STITCH BANGLE Cast on 45 sts using 5mm needles.

Row 1 Knit.

Row 2 Purl.

Row 3 Knit.

Row 4 Purl.

Row 5 (K1, sl1); rep to end of row.

Row 6 (K1, wyif, sl1); rep to end of row.

Row 7 K1, (K1, sl1); rep to end of row.

Row 8 (K1, wyif, sl1) to last st, K1; rep to end of row.

Row 9 (K1, sl1); rep to end of row.

Row 10 (K1, wyif, sl1); rep to end of row.

Row 11 Knit.

Row 12 Purl.

Row 13 Knit.

Cast off.

MAKING UP Wrap a 4cm bangle with the knitting and sew in place. Weave in any loose ends.

CABLE BANGLE Cast on 16 sts using 5mm needles.

Row 1 (RS) P5, K6, P5.

Row 2 K5, P6, K5.

Row 3 P5, K6, P5.

Row 4 K5, P6, K5 Row 5 P5, C6B, P5.

Row 6 K5, P6, K5.

Rep the 6-row pattern until it measures 27cm, ending on a Row 6.

Cast off.

MAKING UP Wrap a 4cm bangle with the knitting and sew in place. Weave in any loose ends.

If you’re thinking of knitting projects for charity, or to sell, please refer to our information on page 89.

SAY HELLO! SEND PHOTOS OF YOUR CHARITY KNITS TO US AT Knit Together, Simply Knitting magazine, Immediate Media, Eagle House, Bristol BS1 4ST. These adorable dolls help raise funds for the RNLI

EMAIL US AT simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk

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FIND US AND FOLLOW US Facebook.com/simplyknitting @SimplyKnitMag ravelry.com/groups/simply-knitting-magazine @simplyknittingmag www.pinterest.com/simplyknitmag

YARN COMMUNITY

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lockdown knitting

A school class in stitches

GINGER TWIST STUDIO

When coronavirus school closures forced her to put down her chalk, one teacher picked up her knitting needles instead…

Jessica James-

C

hildren and their teachers have faced a huge disruption to their normal routine over recent months, with schools closed and home learning becoming the norm. It’s been unsettling for all involved, with children missing their friends and activities – but of course their teachers have also been missing them too. And one teacher, Ingeborg Meinster-Van der Duin, in the Netherlands, missed her students so much she knitted little personalised dolls of them all, complete with a knitted teacher!

SCHOOL’S OUT Ingeborg explains: “By closing the schools during the Covid19 lockdown, there was some time to knit. While knitting I thought about all the funny and original children in my class.” While making the dolls, which take about four hours each to knit, Ingeborg also made them different for each child. “ I have chosen colours for the clothes that the children often wear, and I gave them the right hair colour,” she says. “If they often have a braid or ponytail then I made that with the doll. I have also given children who often wear a sweater or

This month we chat to Jessica James-Thompson from Ginger Twist Studio Tell us about Ginger Twist Studio... I opened up my bricks and

Ingeborg – and knitted Ingeborg!

cardigan the same type of clothing.”

Of course, the children were delighted with their dolls, which they picked up when collecting belongings they’d left at school. “They thought it was very funny and had to laugh about it,” says Ingeborg. “They could recognise themselves well.”

CHILD’S PLAY Of course, Ingeborg was already a keen knitter before this began – and other crafts as well. “I like creative activities such as painting, sewing clothes and of course knitting. I often knit, but then they are often rabbits, gnomes, bears, sweaters or cardigans.” Because of these skills, she was able to adapt an existing pattern to match the children she taught, as well as adjusting the proportions for her knitted teacher!

As the weeks have gone by, many of us have found it difficult to be away from the people we care about. We love Ingeborg’s affectionate solution. “During I can think of them.”

The children loved the personalised dolls

What did you knit in lockdown? Let us know at simplyknitting@immediate.co.uk

stocking a variety of commercial yarns and smaller producers. This was great, but I had the desire to stock something super unique, and thus Ginger’s Hand Dyed came to life! I’ve dabbled with hand dyeing in the past, but it wasn’t until I had my shop that I really began to develop my range. I started out with a bit of 4ply, and now I dye everything from delicate laceweight up to super sumptuous chunky.

What can knitters find at your shop? Our stock is comprised of two halves: Ginger’s Hand Dyed, and other lovely yarns (not produced by myself). My range of hand-dyed includes laceweight to chunky yarns that are kettle dyed to semi-solid perfection. I love them all! Ginger Twist Studio believes in supporting other small producers, stocking yarns that are breed specific and have a story.

Folks can purchase in person at my shop in Edinburgh, or through my online shop.

What will be the highlights for 2020?

I completed a renovation on the shop earlier this year and I am still so chuffed. Yarn is stacked up to the high ceiling in beautifully custom made shelves, complete with a ladder (my favourite bit). Ginger Twist Studio is a wee bijou shop and it just looks so pretty now!

This June, Ginger Twist Studio celebrated its seventh birthday! In celebration of this feat I released a new yarn with a special colourway I’ve named ’The Seven-Year Itch.’ There are also loads of exciting upcoming workshops, including a Gathering & Crochet Hook Carving workshop in October!

Where can we find out more?

Ginger Twist Studio is on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, at www.gingertwiststudio.com or visit us at 11 London Road, Edinburgh EH7 5AP.

6 æS RI ëH 0RQë Í ([PRè +èQ Easy to spot with its eye-catching curling horns, this English breed is a hardy hill sheep…

IMAGE: © BRITISH WOOL

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escendants of an ancient breed indigenous to Exmoor in the south-west of England, Exmoor Horns are hardy sheep perfectly adapted to their environment. Both males and females have horns, and with their white faces and fleece they’re easy to spot on the Somerset and Devon moors. The fleece has a medium staple length and a softer handle than usually found in hill sheep, and the wool is often used for cloths and carpet blends.

Discover more about the wonderful world of British sheep at www.britishwool.org.uk.

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YARN REVIEWS

The latest yarns Whether you’re looking for nautical colourways, pretty colour kisses or super softness, we’ve got it all in these new releases 3 1

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LION BRAND

SCHACHENMAYR

JUST COTTON MEDIUM

SUMMER KISS

CATANIA DENIM

This popular, versatile yarn contains 100% cotton making it dreamy to knit with and gentle against your skin. Just Cotton creates a robust but flexible fabric with clearly defined stitches – our knitted swatch delivered a considerable stretch and a light drape. Take note of this yarn’s strong, bold dye saturation (above is Shade 136) and its amazing 29 colour range, offering you a plethora of shades perfect for knitting or crochet. Cast on for aran-weight homewares that are tough and will stand the test of time (and the inside of the washing machine).

Machine wash this yarn at 30°C and dry your fabric flat for the best results.

We love a super-fun yarn that delivers on both excitement and quality, and you get all that and more with this new yarn kid on the block! Hitting the shelves in a summery range of sixteen, sweet-shop shades, each base tone comes with a sprinkling of sweet colourful ‘kisses’ which filter into your fabric prettily. An 80% cotton icord construction yarn, Summer Kiss is perfect for garments, accessories and homewares that you can pop in the washing machine when grubby.

Pleasant and super-quick to knit with, Summer Kiss is a thoroughly enjoyable yarn to create with and wear.

Are you ready for a something cool? Then this 100% cotton yarn could be for you.

Designed for those who love a controlled colour palette, this practical yarn by the experts at Schachenmayr is surprisingly easy to knit with, no matter what you’re making.

Best used for hard wearing garments and pretty crochet creations, it’s also perfect for the summer months. We love the gently undulating shades that fade in and out giving you a washed-out or stone-washed denim look. Add their range of six seaside-esque shades to your yarn drawers this season. Not only is this fun yarn great for garments it’s perfect for toy making too!

RRP £2.99 WEIGHT Aran BALL 50g/74m NEEDLE 4-5mm CONTENT 100% cotton CARE Machine wash at 30°C Available at www.woolwarehouse.co.uk.

RRP £6 WEIGHT Worsted BALL 100g/240m NEEDLE 4.5mm CONTENT 80% cotton, 20% polyester CARE Machine wash, machine dry For more details on this yarn visit www.lionbrand.com

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RRP £3.75 WEIGHT Sport BALL 50g/125m NEEDLE 2.5-3.5mm CONTENT 100% cotton CARE Machine washable Available at www.lovecrafts.com.

YARN REVIEWS

We love

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Silky smoot& h

Nautical colourways KING COLE

STYLECRAFT

CYGNET

STRIPE DK

REGATTA

SILCARESS DK

A wealth of stripy fun is just waiting to be cast onto your needles with this super, DK yarn. Created from 100% acrylic, it comes with impressive stitch definition and incredible softness. When knitted on the recommended 4mm needles it delivers just the right amount of cosiness for those summer cardigans, jumpers and knits you look forward to pulling on during the warmer months. Those who love self-striping yarns will adore its super-simple range with self explanatory names like Blue Stripe (above) and Pink Stripe, to name just two of the six different shades in the range.

This super-coloured delight is pure fun from the moment you cast on. Soft, strong and a joy to knit with, it slips through your fingers and onto your needles very easily. Choose 4mm needles and you’ll get incredibly neat stitches that come with wonderfully good definition. Knit this yarn alongside a kid silk yarn to add a halo or cool colour finish to your fabric or simply delve into the pretty palette of six, nautically inspired shades with names such as Henley (above), Oarsman and Crew. Check out www.stylecraft-yarns. co.uk for a selection of suitable patterns you’ll want to cast on today.

If you’ve never knitted with a Cygnet yarn before this is a great one to start with.

Created from 100% acrylic, it’s a win-win when it comes to softness. Its silky-smooth finish comes with a shimmery sheen and it seems softer than silk and very luxurious – perfect for creating year-round knits that always look good! Enjoy casting on smooth tops that drape over your shoulders beautifully. When worked on 4mm needles this top yarn creates a lovely flexible stitch you’ll really enjoy working with and wearing.

Once the knitting’s done, machine wash your makes carefully and dry flat.

RRP £3.49 WEIGHT DK BALL 100g/290m NEEDLE 4mm CONTENT 100% acrylic CARE Machine wash at 40°C For more details contact King Cole on 01756 703670 or at www.kingcole.com.

RRP £4.50 WEIGHT DK BALL 100g/260m NEEDLE 4mm CONTENT 74% cotton, 28% polyamide, 8% polyester elastane CARE Machine wash at 30°C Available at www.deramores.com.

RRP £2.99 WEIGHT DK BALL 100g/250m NEEDLE 4-4.5mm CONTENT 100% acrylic CARE Machine wash at 40°C For stockists visit Cygnet at www. cygnetyarns.com or call 01274 743374.

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Order online at www.buysubscriptions.com/skPOS2O or call +44 16O4 973 755 and quote SKpOS2O Terms and conditions: *North American savings compared to buying 13 full-priced issues at $13.99 from the US newsstand. Europe and ROW have no set newsstand price and therefore we cannot advertise the specific savings you will make. If you subscribe by 3-monthly continuous credit card payments, you will be charged every 3 months until you cancel. North American subscribers will pay in US $. This offer is for new print subscribers only. You will receive 13 issues in a year. Prices correct at point of print and subject to change. If at any time during the first 60 days you are dissatisfied in any way, please notify us in writing and we will refund you all unmailed issues. Lines are open 8am – 8pm weekdays and 9am – 1pm Saturday for orders only. For enquiries call Monday to Friday between the hours of 8am to 6pm. These times are US Eastern times as the agents are operating in Philadelphia.

Offer ends: 31 January 2021.

evening stroll Classy cover ups can be a saviour on a cool night, especially when they are simple to knit, like this one by Pat Menchini

NECK-KNOT GILET

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

YOU WILL NEED

Q For yarn stockists

SHOP SMAR

contact King Cole on 01756 703670 www.kingcole.com

Q King Cole Subtle Drifter DK

OR YOU COULD TRY…

(69% acrylic, 25% cotton, 6% wool, 100g/300m) For yarn quantities and measurements see size table Q A pair of 3.25mm needles Q A pair of 4mm needles

Q Wool Warehouse

www.woolwarehouse.co.uk Q Wool n Stuff 01924 565740 www.woolnstuff.co.uk

TENSION

SHO LOCAP L!

T

Turn t page 8o0

! f f o % 20 Wool Warehouse are offering 20% off King Cole Subtle Drifter DK! Quote code SK202KC when you order by calling 0800 505 3300 or at www.woolwarehouse. co.uk. Offer ends 24 Sept 2020.

22 sts and 28 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 4mm needles

ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87

FRONTS & BACK

48.25 (53.25: 58.5: 62.75: 68.25: 73.25)cm 19 (21: 23: 24¾: 27: 28¾)in

NECK-KNOT GILET BACK

Cast on 105 (115: 127: 137: 149: 159) sts using 4mm needles.

Rows 1 and 2 Purl.

Row 3 K2, (P1, K1) to last st, K1.

Row 4 K1, (P1, K1) to end.

Row 5 to 7 Knit.

Row 8 As Row 4.

Row 9 As Row 3.

Rows 10 and 11 Purl.

Beginning with a WS (purl) row, continue in st st and work straight until Back measures 54 (55: 56: 57: 58: 60)cm from cast-on edge, measured through centre of work and ending after a WS (purl) row.

SHAPE SHOULDERS Cast off 6 (7: 8: 9: 10: 11) sts loosely at beg of next 8 rows.

[57 (59: 63: 65: 69: 71) sts] Cast off 10 (10: 11: 12: 13: 13) sts at beg of next 2 rows.

Cast off rem 37 (39: 41: 41: 43: 45) sts loosely.

RIGHT FRONT Cast on 67 (73: 79: 83: 89: 95) sts using 4mm needles.

Work Rows 1 to 11 as given on Back.** Change to st st with front border sts in rev st st as follows: Row 1 (WS) P44 (50: 56: 60: 66: 72), K23.

Row 2 P23, knit to end.

These 2 rows set the patt.

Cont straight in patt as set until Front measures 27cm from cast-on edge, ending after a WS row.

SHAPE FRONT SLOPE

To create the neck knot, work a further 19cm at the end of the right front section

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Next row (dec) P23, K3, k2tog tbl, knit to end. [1 st dec’d] Cont working dec row on every foll RS row until 58 (61: 66: 74: 80: 83) sts rem, then on every foll 4th row until 44 (48: 53: 58: 63: 67) sts rem.

Work a few rows straight until Front measures same as Back to start of shoulder shaping, ending at side edge.

54 (55: 56: 57: 58: 60)cm 21¼ (21¾: 22: 22½: 22¾: 23½)in

WHERE TO BUY

NECK-KNOT GILET FIND YOUR SIZE 6-8

10-12

14-16

18-20

22-24

26-28

cm

76-81

86-91

97-102

107-112

117-122

127-132

in

30-32

34-36

38-40

42-44

46-48

50-52

cm

96.5

106.5

117

125.5

136.5

146.5

in

38

42

46

49½

53¾

57½

cm

54

55

56

57

58

60

in

21¼

21¾

22

22½

22¾

23½

cm

55.5

60

65.5

70

75.5

80

in

22

23¾

25¾

27½

29¾

31½

SIZE TO FIT BUST ACTUAL BUST (WITH FRONT BORDERS OVERLAPPED) LENGTH CROSS BACK YOKE WIDTH YARN

King Cole Subtle Drifter DK (100g/300m)

Linden (4386)

3

3

4

4

4

5

SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we’ve colour-coded the sizing instructions. Simply follow our colour-coded measurements and you’re off.

"Often, my top ten knits are classic, simple SHV D LW OLNH ëLV QH

H K R R S YH W Q ëLV JLOHW \ 3DW 0 LQLÓ KIRSTIE MCLEOD, EDITOR

gwq SHAPE SHOULDER Cast off 6 (7: 8: 9: 10: 11) sts loosely at beg of next row and the 3 foll alt rows. [20 (20: 21: 22: 23: 23) sts] Work 1 row straight.

Cast off 10 (10: 11: 12: 13: 13) sts at beg of next row. [10 sts] Work straight on rem 10 sts until strip fits half way across cast-off sts of back neck.

If you wish to make the neck knot, now work a further 19cm.

Cast off.

Change to 4mm needles.

Work Rows 1 to 11 as given on Back.

Cast off evenly knitwise.

Repeat for second Sleeve.

MAKING UP Join side and Sleeve Border seams. Join inner edge of the two ends of back neck strip to cast-off edges of back neck, joining the two short ends at centre back.

If you made the neck knot and wish to tie the two longer ends at centre back neck, stitch the inner edges of the two strips across back neck leaving centre 5 sts of back neck free. Now knot the ends of the two strips at centre back of neck, using the image as a guide.

The rolled-back front borders are created using reverse stocking stitch

LEFT FRONT Work as Right Front to **.

Change to st st with Front border sts in rev st st.

Row 1 (WS) K23, P44 (50: 56: 60: 66: 72).

Row 2 Knit to last 23 sts, P23.

These 2 rows set the patt.

Complete as Right front, working 1 more row straight before shaping shoulder and noting that dec row will read – knit to last 28 sts, k2tog, K3, P23.

SLEEVE BORDERS Join shoulders.

Place a marker 58 (64: 70: 76: 82: 88) rows down from shoulder seams on each side edge.

With RS facing and 3.25mm needles, pick up and knit 101 (111: 121: 131: 141: 151) sts evenly between markers.

Purl 1 row.

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PRIZE PUZZLES

Take a break

FOR MO CHANCESRE WIN GREATO PRIZES, T tu

Pop the kettle on and take a moment to relax with our fun prize puzzles this month!

What’s the word?

WIN PRIZES!

1

We love a good puzzle here at Simply Knitting HQ! We have five mystery bundles to be won as crossword prizes, packed with £10 worth of knitting goodies! For sudoku prize winners, we have five copies of Colour Block Knits by Nicki Trench (£12.99), courtesy of Cico Books www.rylandpeters. com. Once you’ve completed our puzzles, head to www.gathered. how/simplyknitting and follow the links to the giveaways. You will need to sign in or register on the site to enter the giveaways, and answer a multiple choice question.

Then, enter either the prize word or numbers from the shaded squares, in the blank space, along with your name and address. Find terms and conditions at www.gathered.how/ competition-terms-and-conditions.

Competitions close on Thursday 24 September 2020.

Prizes will be sent out within three months of the closing date.

2

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Sudoku time!

11

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5 goodie bags to win!

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5 4 6 3 1

3

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2 6

7 8

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31

ACROSS 1 Gloves that cover four fingers together (7) 5 Cooking utensil (7) 9 Time of year for retail bargains (5) 10 Exactly the same (9) 11 Beast of burden (3) 12 Sailing boat (5) 13 Shopping binge (5) 14 Piglet’s favourite food? (5) 16 Person or thing that brings good luck (6) 18 Small hole for a button (6) 19 Flashlight (5) 22 Tummy (5) 24 Violent disturbance of the atmosphere (5) 26 Tool for piercing holes in leather (3) 27 Emmerdale or EastEnders, eg (4,5) 29 Crush (peppercorns) (5) 30 A very long time ago (4,3) 31 East London native (7)

DOWN 1 Eyelash make up (7) 2 Instrument that makes distant objects appear larger (9) 3 Academic writing (5) 4 Sew (6) 5 Piece of paper (5) 6 Appropriate (3) 7 Mouth sore (5) 8 Minor illness (7) 13 Intelligent (5) 15 Demanding (5) 17 Showy flower associated with love (9) 18 Consulate (7) 20 Vacation (7) 21 Picture made up of pieces of stone or glass (6) 23 Camel-like creature (5) 24 Frozen rain (5) 25 The --- Flute, Mozart opera (5) 28 Strange (3)

7 1 4 2 9 6 5 3 8

Prize word: HOLIDAY

9 1 3 9 5

16

5 copies to win!

3 6 9 8 5 7 1 2 4

2 5 8 3 4 1 7 6 9

5 4 6 7 3 8 9 1 2

9 3 7 1 2 4 6 8 5

8 2 1 5 6 9 3 4 7

6 7 3 9 8 2 4 5 1

1 8 5 4 7 3 2 9 6

4 9 2 6 1 5 8 7 3

ISSUE 200 SOLUTION

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ISSUE 200 SOLUTIONS Across: 1 Tactful, 5 Camping, 9 Trout, 10 Alarm bell, 11 NHS, 12 Nylon, 13 Solve, 14 Class, 16 Grumpy, 18 Tattoo, 19 Bonus, 22 Nasty, 24 Faith, 26 Aga, 27 Isolation, 29 Tutti, 30 Nursery, 31 Colonel.

3

8

Manhattan, 18 Tension, 20 Spaniel, 21 Picnic, 23 Scour, 24 Fairy, 25 Hotel, 28 Ape.

1

8 2 6

7

Down: 1 Titanic, 2 Croissant, 3 Futon, 4 Liable, 5 Chain, 6 Mum, 7 Ideal, 8 Gallery, 13 Shrub, 15 Story, 17

7

6

10

30

6

rn t page 4o6

Great knits for kids!

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32

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Step-by-step guides, charts & abbreviations

E P R E M AT U R S BABY KNIT

LACE-STITCH SWEA TER IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

FIND YOUR SIZE SIZE 3-4yrs

TO FIT

YOU WILL NEED

3-12 years

Q Patons Merino

Extrafine 4 ply (100% merino wool, 50g/170m)

For yarn quantitie s and measurements see size table

k

Q A pair of 3.25mm Q A pair of 2.75mm Q Stitch holders

needles needles

For yarn stockists contact Mez Crafts 01484 950630, www.mezcrafts.co .uk

TENSION

28 sts and 36 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over st st using 3.25mm needles 25 sts and 37 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over patt using 3.25mm needles

ABBREVIATIONS

For a full list see page

146

cm

TO FIT CHEST

in

55-57 21¾-22½

cm

ACTUAL CHEST

in

SLEEVE LENGTH

cm in

73-79 28¾-31¼

78.5

28½

40 15¾ 20 8

31

84

93

33

36½ 56

46

50

54

18

19¾

21¼

24

28

9½

11

Patons Merino Extrafine 4

11-12 yrs

70-73 27½-28¾

73

YARN Yarn A Plum (46)

9-10 yrs

63-66 23¾-26

27½

cm

7-8yrs

59-61 23¼-24

70

in

LENGTH

5-6yrs

5

30 11¾

22 33 13

4 ply (50g/170m)

6

7

8 SIZING COLOUR KEY So you can re-use this pattern, we’ve colour-coded measurem colour-coded the sizing ents and you’re off. instructions. Simply follow

our

SWEATER

BACK

This classic raglan sweater for girls is the ideal choice for playtim es and parties alike.

By Sarah Hatto n

Row 5 K3 (5: 8: 3: 8), k2tog, K1, yo, K6; rep from 0) sts, (k2tog, K1, * to last 4 (6: 0: yo) 1 (1: 0: 1: 0) times, 4: K1 (3: 0: 1: 0).

Row 6 P2 (4: 7: 2: 7), *yo, P1, p2tog, P6; rep from * to 1) sts, (yo, P1, p2tog) last 5 (7: 1: 5: 1 (1: 0: 1: 0) times, P2 (4: 1: 2: 1).

Row 7 Knit.

Row 8 Purl.

Row 9 K8 (1: 4: 8: 4), *yo, K1, skpo, K6; rep from * to 4) sts, (yo, K1, skpo) last 8 (1: 4: 8: 1 (0: 1: 1: 1) times, K5 (1: 1: 5: 1).

Row 10 P4 (6: 9: 4: 9), *p2tog tbl, P1, yo, P6; rep from 8: 3: 8) sts, (p2tog * to last 3 (5: tbl, P1, yo) 0 (1: 1: 0: 1) times, P3 Row 11 K1 (3: 6: (2: 5: 3: 5).

1: 6), *yo, K1, skpo, K6; rep from * to 2) sts, (yo, K1, skpo) last 6 (8: 2: 6: 1 (1: 0: 1: 0) times, K3 (5: 2: 3: 2).

Row 12 P2 (4: 7: 2: 7), *p2tog tbl, P1, yo, P6; rep from 5: 1) sts, (p2tog * to last 5 (7: 1: tbl, P1, yo) 1 (1: 0: 1: 0) times, P2 (4: These 12 rows form 1: 2: 1). patt.

Cont straight in patt until Back measures 25 (30: 33: 36: 37)cm, ending with a WS row.

SHAPE RAGLAN

40 (46: 50: 54: 56)cm 15¾ (18: 19¾: 21¼: 22)in

CLASSIC K NITS

Victoria plum

Cast on 98 (102: 110: 118: 130) sts using 2.75mm needles.

Row 1 (RS) K2, *P2, K2; rep from * to end.

Row 2 (WS) P2, *K2, P2; rep from * to end.

Rows 1 and 2 set 2x2 rib.

Work a further 15 (15: 15: 19: 19) rows in 2x2 rib.

Next row (WS) P7 (9: 4: 8: 5), p2tog, (P7, p2tog) 9 (9: times, P8 (10: 5: 11: 11: 13) 9: 6). [88 (92: 98: 106: 116) sts] Change to 3.25mm needles and commenc Row 1 (RS) Knit. e patt: Row 2 Purl.

Row 3 K5 (7: 1: 5: 1), *k2tog, K1, yo, K6; rep from * to 7) sts, (k2tog, K1, last 2 (4: 7: 2: yo) 0 (1: 1: 0: 1) times, K2 Row 4 P9 (2: 5: (1: 4: 2: 4).

9: 5), *yo, P1, p2tog, P6; rep from * to 3) sts, (yo, P1, p2tog) last 7 (0: 3: 7: 1 (0: 0: 1: 0) times, P4 (0: 3: 4: 3).

ARMHO

LES Cast off 3 (3: 4: 4: 5) sts in patt at beg of next 2 rows.

[82 (86: 90: 98: 106) sts] Next row (RS) K2, skpo, patt to last 4 sts, k2tog, K2.

[80 (84: 88: 96: 104) sts] Next row (WS) P2, patt to last 2 sts, P2.

SIZES 5-6 AND

35 (36½: 39: 42½: 46½)cm 13¾ (14¼: 15½: 16½: 18¼)in

20 (24 : 8 (9½ 28: 30: 33) : 11: 11¾ cm : 13)in

11-12 ONLY

Next row (RS) K2, patt to last 2 sts, K2.

Next row (WS) P2, patt to last 2 sts, P2.

SIZES 7-8 AND

9-10 ONLY

Work 6 rows and dec 1 st at each end of the 3rd row.

[- (-: 86: 94: -) sts]

ALL SIZES Work 42 (44: 44:

48: 56) rows, dec

1 st at each end

of next and

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UNDER £7!

k

sweet chevrons Cast on candy for your feet with these blissful socks by Jo Allport. We know you’ll love the clever chevron stitch pattern and deep soft rib

CHEVRON SOCKS

TAKE ON A CHALLENGE

YOU WILL NEED

16.5 (19: 21)cm, 6½ (7½: 8¼)in Length from cuff to bottom of the heel 19.5 (20.5: 21.5)cm, 7¾ (8: 8½)in Length from heel to toe Adjustable

Q Novita Venla (75% wool,

25% polyamide, 100g/420m) 1 ball of Willowherb (539) Q 1 set of 2.5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) or a 2.5mm circular needle, 80cm long, for Magic Loop Q Stitch markers

TENSION 34 sts and 50 rows to measure 10x10cm (4x4in) over Chevron Pattern using 2.5mm needles

ABBREVIATIONS For a full list see page 87

! f f o % 15

CHART 45 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Lovecrafts are offering 15% off Novita Venla! Quote offer code LOVETOKNIT15 when you order. To place your order call 01409 404010 or visit www. lovecrafts.com. Offer ends 24 Sept 2020.

WHERE TO BUY Q For yarn stockists

SHOP SMAR

contact Novita at www.novitaknits.com

SHO LOCAP L!

OR YOU COULD TRY…

T

Turn t page 8o0

Q LoveCrafts

www.lovecrafts.com

MEASUREMENTS

HOW TO USE OUR CHARTS

Size S (M: L) To fit foot circumference 17.5 (20.5: 23)cm, 7 (8: 9)in Actual foot circumference

Start at the bottom right-hand corner. Read all rounds from right to left. A row of squares represents a row of knitting.

KEY Knit Purl 5

Round 25 Rep Round 21.

Round 26 Rep Round 6.

Round 27 Rep Round 5.

Round 28 Rep Round 4.

Round 29 Rep Round 3.

Round 30 Rep Round 2.

Round 31 Rep Round 1.

Round 32 Rep Round 7.

Rounds 33 to 38 Rep Rounds 26 to 31.

Round 39 Rep Round 7.

Rounds 40 to 45 Rep Rounds 26 to 31.

These 45 rounds form the pattern.

CUFF The bouncy texture of the chevron stitch pattern is soft on the ankle

CHEVRON SOCKS

CHEVRON STITCH PATTERN Round 1 *K4, P1, K3; rep from * to end.

Round 2 *K3, P1, K1, P1, K2; rep from * to end.

Round 3 *K2, (P1, K1) 3 times; rep from * to end.

Round 4 *K1, P1; rep from * to end.

Round 5 *P1, K1, P1, K3, P1, K1; rep from * to end.

Round 6 *K1, P1, K5, P1; rep from * to end.

Round 7 *P1, K7; rep from * to end.

Rounds 8 to 14 Rep Rounds 1 to 7.

Rounds 15 to 20 Rep Rounds 1 to 6.

Round 21 *P1, K3; rep from * to end.

Rounds 22 to 23 Rep Rounds 2 to 3.

Round 24 Rep Round 2.

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Cast on 56 (64: 72) sts using 2.5mm DPNs or a 2.5mm circular needle, 80cm long, if using Magic Loop method, and join to work in the round, taking care not to twist stitches. PM to mark beg of round.

Rounds 1 to 20 *K1, P1: rep from * to end.

LEG Knit 3 rounds.

Repeating stitches 7 (8: 9) times around, work in Chevron Pattern for 45 rounds to complete patt once.

Knit 3 rounds.

HEEL FLAP Worked over next 28 (32: 36) sts, turn at end of each row, leaving rem sts on holder or spare needle.

Row 1 (WS) Sl 1 wyif, P27 (31: 35), turn.

Row 2 (RS) (Sl 1 wyib, K1) 14 (16: 18) times, turn.

Rep these two rows another 12 (14: 16) times, then rep Row 1.

HEEL TURN Row 1 (RS) Sl 1 wyib, K16 (18: 20), ssk, K1, turn.

CHEVRON SOCKS HÍHU SODLQ YDULHJDWHG è SDWWHUQHG OLNH ÍHVH 7 HUH DUH SWLRQV DQG DQG NQLWWHG VRFNV IÌO VR LQFUHGLEO\ FRPI\ *LYH ÍHP D JR SOPHIE JORDAN, DEPUTY EDITOR

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Row 2 (WS) Sl 1 wyif, P7, p2tog, P1, turn.

Row 3 Sl 1 wyib, knit to 1 st before gap, k2tog, K1, turn.

Row 4 Sl 1 wyif, purl to 1 st before gap, p2tog, P1, turn.

Rep the last two rows until you have worked all the Heel sts, ending after a WS row. [18 (20: 22) Heel sts]

GUSSET Resume working in rounds.

Next round Sl1 wyib, K17 (19: 21), pick up and knit 14 (16: 18) sts down left side of Heel flap, K28 (32: 36), PM, pick up and knit 14 (16: 18) sts up right side of Heel flap, K32 (36: 40) and PM to mark new beg of round. [74 (84: 94) sts] Dec round K28 (32: 36), slm, ssk, knit to last 2 sts, k2tog.

Next round Knit.

Rep these two rounds until 56 (64: 72) sts remain.

Reinforced slip-stitched heels give these socks a sturdier finish

FOOT Cont straight in st st until Foot meas 3 (3: 3.5)cm less than desired Foot length.

TOE Dec round (K1, ssk, knit to 3 sts before marker, k2tog, K1) twice.

Next round Knit.

Rep these two rounds until 28 (32: 36) sts remain.

FINISHING Divide sts evenly on 2 needles and graft together using Kitchener stitch (see page 86). Weave in ends. Block gently to measurements, following any yarn care instructions on the ball band.

NEXT MONTH Sock fans will be pleased to know that we have another pair of gorgeous foot warmers coming up in the next issue. This time they are designed by Sarah Hatton in a West Yorkshire Spinners yarn.

Issue 203 is on sale on Thursday 10 September and is available from all good newsagents and supermarkets, and as a subscription at www.buysubscriptions.com or by calling 03330 162147.

You can lengthen or shorten your socks while you are knitting them

STEP-BY-STEP SL1 SLIP ONE STITCH

1 Bring the yarn to the front of your knitting by bringing it in between the needles.

2 Then insert the right-hand needle into the next stitch as if to knit and slip the stitch on to the right-hand needle.

3 Next, take the yarn to the back of the knitting between the needles.

This is also known as a wrapped stitch.

4 On the next row you will notice you have made a row of holes – these can be used for lace work or to thread ties through.

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HOW TO KNIT

If you’re new to knitting or just need a little refresher, our knitting guide is here to make sure you get it right first time, every time cable CAST-ON method Use it for a firm edge, and when adding stitches to your work

1

2

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.

3

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

1 Make a slip knot and place it on a needle, leaving a long tail.

The tail length depends on the number of stitches you wish to cast on. Try a length about 3 times the width of the project.

2 Hold the tail in your left hand with your thumb sticking up.

Make a circle anti-clockwise with your thumb. You should end up with a cross on the front of your thumb.

3 Push the needle tip along the outside of your thumb so it passes through the loop. Wrap the working yarn as if to knit.

4 Draw the yarn through the thumb loop and then between the arms of the cross. Slip your thumb out and pull to tighten the stitch. Repeat from Step 2.

Knit Follow our simple steps to make the most important stitch you’ll learn

1 Hold the needle with the stitches on it in your left hand. Keeping the yarn in your right hand and at the back of your work, insert the point of the right-hand needle up into the front loop of the first stitch, as shown.

2 Now wind the yarn anticlockwise around the point of the right-hand needle using your index finger. It’s important to keep the yarn in your right hand relatively taut to maintain an even tension as you go.

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3 Bring the right-hand needle down through the loop, making sure that you catch the yarn you wound around the needle. This creates the stitch. Don’t pull the free yarn too tightly, let out some slack.

4 Push the point of the right needle further through the stitch you created, then gently pull the right needle up and to your left, taking the original loop with it. You’ve now created one knit stitch.

Repeat Steps 1 to 4 across the row.

HOW TO KNIT Purl To make purl stitches, just reverse the action of plain knit stitches

1 Holding the needle with all the stitches on in your left hand, and ensuring that the yarn is at the front of your work, insert the right-hand needle up through the front loop of your first stitch as shown.

2 Wind the yarn around the tip of the right-hand needle from right to left, in an anti-clockwise motion, constantly keeping a slight tension on the yarn.

3

4

Now slip the right-hand needle back through the stitch, ensuring that you catch the yarn that you’ve already wound around the needle. This creates a stitch on your right-hand needle.

Pushing the point of the righthand needle a little further through the stitch, pull the original loop up and off the lefthand needle. That’s your first purl stitch! Repeat Steps 1 to 4 across the row.

K2TOG Knit two stitches together to give a right-leaning decrease

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 around the tip of the right-hand needle and pull the yarn through the two stitches, knitting them both together.

3

4

Drop the two stitches from the left-hand needle and keep the new stitch on the right-hand needle.

Knitting two stitches together decreases your stitch count by one, and the decrease stitch leans to the right. This is how a series looks.

kfb Increase 1 stitch by knitting into the front and back of an existing stitch

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 and insert the tip of the needle down through the back of the stitch on the left-hand needle.

3

4

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.

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.

Cast off Finish off your knitting with this straightforward cast-off technique

1 Start by knitting the first two stitches of the row as normal, but don’t go any further along as you usually would.

2 Insert the left-hand needle through the first stitch, as shown. Lift this stitch over the other stitch on the right-hand needle and over the needle point.

3

4

Knit another stitch so you have two on the right needle. Lift the first stitch over the second, then repeat Steps 1 to 3.

When you get to the last stitch, cut the yarn about 15cm (6in) away, feed it through the loop and pull through firmly to fasten off.

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HOW TO KNIT

MORE STITCHES TO MASTER You may see these great finishing touches in our patterns! kitchener stitch The best way to graft your sock toes together

1

2

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.

3

4

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 away from you and drop that stitch off the needle.

Thread the tail knitwise through the new first stitch on the needle furthest away from you.

Repeat from * to Step 4 until you’ve worked all your toe stitches.

duplicate stitch/Swiss darning Chain stitch Perfect for hanging loops 3

4 1

2

Swiss darning or duplicate stitch is a great way to add small details to your knitting, covering the stitch with an embroidery stitch the same shape as the stitch beneath it. Work from bottom to top, bringing the needle out at the base of the stitch at 1 . Take the needle behind the top of the ‘V’, in at 2 and out at 3 . Take the needle down at 1 and bring it up at 4 , at the base of the stitch above.

Continue in this way up the line of knitted stitches.

1

2 Pull hook and yarn back through the loop (1st chain). Repeat Steps 1 and 2 until you’ve formed a chain of the required length. Insert the thread end through the last loop and pull tight to secure.

Make a loop on your crochet hook. With the hook in your right hand, hold the knot between thumb and finger of the left hand. Move the hook under and over the yarn.

GET PROFESSIONAL RESULTS!

“Don’t rush ëH VHZLQJ Ó

Use our easy-to-follow hints and tips for the perfect finish MATTRESS STITCH

BACKSTITCH

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.

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 needle up a couple of stitches away at 1 . Take the needle down at 2 and up again at 3 and down at 4 .

Repeat this motion, keeping the stitches regular and ensuring you put the needle through the middle of each knitted stitch to avoid splitting the fabric.

3

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1

2

HOW TO KNIT

M1L

M1R

M1P

MB MC

4ply

Sport

Double knitting

Light worsted

Aran

Fisherman/Worsted

Chunky

Bulky

Super chunky

Extra bulky

Choose the right yarns to knit with

Aran Knit on 4 to 5.5mm needles. Originally created for fishermen’s jumpers. Use when DK isn’t heavy enough, and chunky is too bulky.

Perfect for outdoor or warm clothing.

1, 2 and 3ply Knit on 2 to 3.5mm needles. Use for delicate lace knitting and baby garments. Good for socks and gloves.

Chunky Knit on 5.5 to 7mm needles. Associated with outdoor wear and winter jumpers, great for oversized garments.

4ply Knit on 3 to 4mm needles.

Great for baby clothes, heavier socks and lightweight tops.

Super chunky Knit on 7 to 12mm needles. A great weight for beginners, as it produces quick results. Good for furnishings.

Double knitting (DK) Knit on 3.5 to 4.5mm needles. Usually double the weight of 4ply, this is the most widely used weight. Suitable for most garments and quick to knit up.

Big Knit on 9 to 20mm needles. Perfect for eye-catching scarves and coats, as well as cosy cushions and throws.

25 24 23 9 22 21 8 20 19 18 7 17 16 6 5

14 2mm B/1 13 2.25mm – 12 2.5mm C/2 11 3mm – 10 3.25mm D/3 9 3.5mm E/4 8 4mm G/6 7 4.5mm 7 6 5mm H/8 5 5.5mm I/9 4 6mm J/10 3 6.5mm K/10½ 2 7mm – 0 8mm – 00 9mm – 000 10mm –

13

US

12

METRIC

11

UK

14

Hook sizes

Yarn weight UK/US conversion

Inch cm

1

2

Yarn weights

15

0 1 – 2 – 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10½ – – 11 13 15 17 19 36 50

4

k(1)tbl LH LT meas M1

2mm 2.25mm 2.5mm 2.75mm 3mm 3.25mm 3.5mm 3.75mm 4mm 4.5mm 5mm 5.5mm 6mm 6.5mm 7mm 7.5mm 8mm 9mm 10mm 12mm 15mm 20mm 25mm

10

K/k kfb kwise k2tog

14 13 – 12 11 10 – 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 00 000 – – – –

9

est DK DPNs foll/s g st inc

wyib wyif ybk yfwd yo yrn yon *

US

8

cb CC cf cn co cont dec

WS w&t

together (wrap 3 stitches) with yarn held at back of work, slip next 3 sts to cn and hold at front of work. Wrap yarn 3 times around these 3 sts, being careful not to pull it too tight and ending up with yarn at back of work. Slip the 3 sts to right needle without knitting them wrong side (wrap and turn) slip next st from LH to RH needle, take yarn between needles to other side of work, slip st back to LH needle, take yarn between needles to its starting point, then turn.

On next row, knit or purl the wrapped stitch together with the strand wrapping around it with yarn in back with yarn in front yarn to the back yarn forward yarn over yarn round needle yarn over needle work instructions immediately following *, then repeat as directed

METRIC

3

C6F

tog W3

UK

7

C6B

T2F

slip next stitch to cn and hold at back, K1; P1 from cn slip next stitch to cn and hold at front, P1; K1 from cn

6

C4F

Needle sizes T2B

2 5

C4B

marker purl pattern(s) place bead purl into front and back of stitch place marker purl 2 stitches together (1 stitch decreased) P3tog purl 3 stitches together (2 stitches decreased) prev previous psso pass slipped stitch(es) over p(1)tbl purl (1) into back of the loop pwise (purlwise) by purling the stitch rem remain/remaining rep(s) repeat(s) rev st st reverse stocking stitch RH right hand rib2tog either k2tog or p2tog dep on what next stitch in ribbing should be (keeps ribbing looking neat on buttonholes) rnd(s) round(s) (on a circular needle/ DPNs) RS right side RT right twist skpo slip 1 stitch, knit 1 stitch, pass slipped stitch over (1 stitch decreased) sk2po slip 1 stitch, knit 2 stitches together, pass slipped stitch over (2 stitches decreased) sl slip sl st slip stitch SM stitch marker ssk slip 2 stitches one at a time, knit 2 slipped stitches together (1 stitch decreased) sssk slip 3 stitches one at a time, knit 3 slipped stitches together (two stitches decreased) ssp slip 2 stitches one at a time, purl 2 slipped stitches together through back loops (1 stitch decreased) st(s) stitch(es) st st stocking stitch tbl through the back of the loop

4

C2F

mrk P/p patt(s) PB pfb PM P2tog

3

C2B

alternate approximately beginning (break and tighten) break off the yarn and thread the end through the st(s) left on the needle. Pull the end of the yarn to tighten the st(s) together slip next stitch to cn and hold at back, K1; K1 from cn slip next stitch to cn and hold at front, K1; K1 from cn slip next 2 stitches to cn and hold at back, K2; K2 from cn slip next 2 stitches to cn and hold at front, K2; K2 from cn slip next 3 stitches to cn and hold at back, K3; K3 from cn slip next 3 stitches to cn and hold at front, K3; K3 from cn cable back contrast colour cable forward cable needle cast on continue decrease(ing) (by working two stitches together) established double knitting double-pointed needles following/follows garter stitch (knit every row) increase (usually knit into same stitch twice) knit knit into front and back of stitch knitwise; by knitting the stitch knit the next two stitches together knit (1) into back loop left hand left twist measure(s) make one stitch by knitting into back of loop between two stitches (increase 1 stitch) (left leaning increase) with left needle tip, lift strand between needles from front to back. Knit lifted loop through back of loop (right leaning increase) with left needle tip, lift strand between needles from back to front. Knit lifted loop through front of loop make one purlwise by purling into back of loop between two stitches (increase 1 stitch) make a bobble main colour

1

alt approx beg b&t

10

ABBREVIATIONS AND USEFUL INFO

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Simply

NEXT issue Inside: • VIBRANT INTARSIA flower jumper • CUTE CHERRY cardigan for kids • GARTER STITCH & LACE T-shirt • PARASOL LACE cardi just for you • SARAH HATTON fun pop socks • SUPER CUTE doggie blanket • PRETTY BEADED girl’s headband • DEBBIE BLISS our guest expert • ALL ABOUT YOU top reader knits

Plus!

CONTENTS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

Fab Feature Learn an exciting new skill with our expert guide on beading!

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MEET THE TEAM WHAT’S YOUR KNITTING ACHILLES’ HEEL? Kirstie McLeod Editor “Long-line chunky cardigans on straight needles. I always have to transfer them to a circular one.”

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Spooky stitches

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© Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited (company number 05715415) is registered in England and Wales. The registered office of Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited is at Vineyard House, 44 Brook Green, London W6 7BT. All information contained in this magazine is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. Readers are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this magazine. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine, including licensed editions worldwide and in any physical or digital format throughout the world. Any material you submit is sent at your risk. Although every care is taken, neither Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited nor its employees agents or subcontractors shall be liable for loss or damage.

KNITTING FOR CHARITY All toys made available for sale in the UK must meet a list of essential safety requirements which are set out in the Toy (Safety) Regulations 2011. To prove that these requirements are met, all toys should carry a CE Mark, which is a declaration by the manufacturer that a toy is safe. In order to use the CE mark on creations you plan to sell (whether you’re selling them yourself or sending to a charity to be sold), you must check that your products meet the requirements under the Regulations. If you’re using one of our patterns to make items that will appeal to children under the age of 14, please ensure you take all the necessary steps to comply with the legislation. But don’t panic, just do your research! For more information, see www.gov.uk/ce-marking, or visit www.shop.conformance.co.uk to find out about self-certification packs.

EXPAND YOUR SKILLS

lace & faux cable waves Cast on using UK Alpaca yarns and have lots of fun with this gorgeous combination stitch pattern!

h t n o m

k

Knitted in UK Alpaca Super Fine DK Rose Pink

T

ry out one of the very best combinations a knitter can try, gorgeous faux cables and delicately placed lace, to create a multi-faceted stitch pattern this month. Luckily, the lace addition to this pattern is nice and subtle so is easy to recreate, adding in the odd yo now and then and following the lines of the cable pattern being worked alonside it. Faux cables are always worked best in a yarn that comes with a good, plump stitch definition, so make sure you choose your yarn carefully when creating your own faux cable patterns.

Cast on a multiple of 8 sts plus 1 (try 40 sts).

Row 1 and all WS rows K7, P1.

Row 2 (RS) P1, yo, K2, ssk, K3.

Row 4 P1, K1, yo, K2, ssk, K2.

Row 6 P1, K2, yo, K2, ssk, K1.

Row 8 P1, K3, yo, K2, ssk.

Row 10 P1, K7.

Row 12 P1, K3, k2tog, K2, yo.

Row 14 P1, K2, k2tog, K2, yo, K1.

Row 16 P1, K1, k2tog, K2, yo, K2.

Row 18 P1, k2tog, K2, yo, K3.

Row 20 P1, K7.

SPONSORED BY

WHERE TO BUY Q For yarn stockists contact UK Alpaca on www.ukalpaca.com

or 01884 243579.

N EW

SWEATER & TUNIC PATTERN 5653 Available from all good yarn retailers

kingcole.com

4560 Ulvik

4559 Norddal

4558 Volda

4557 Loen

4556 Fresvik

4555 Etne

4554 Molde

4553 Tysse

4552 Laberg

4551 Raften

01756 703 670 enquiries@kingcole.com

â€

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