KNITS FOR YOUR PETS - GREAT IDEAS INSIDE! ISSUE 156 Apr 2020
All garments
PLUS SIZE!
THE UK’S BESTSELLING KNIT MAG
New season style
33 BRIGHT & EASY
KNITS!
BALLET BUNNY WITH TWO OUTFITS
MAKE THIS IN SIZES 8-22
CROCHET STASHBUSTER QUICK CHUNKY BAG
SIMPLE HOME UPDATES
TOP 20 SPRING MUST-HAVES!
13 PAGES OF FABULOUS FASHION
NEW YARNS AND PATTERNS FROM ALL THE TOP BRANDS £7.99 | Apr 20 Issue 156
ALL THIS & MORE
INSIDE!
SOCKS ROCK
MELLOW YELLOW
LEARN LINEN STITCH
ESSENTIAL YARNS FOR FOOT FANS
FAB FIBRES IN THE SUNNIEST OF SHADES
MASTER THIS STRIKING EFFECT IN SIMPLE STEPS
EDITOR’S Letter
Welcome!
14 63
39
If your wardrobe consists of 50 shades of grey then we’d like to invite you to step outside your comfort zone! There’s not a neutral in sight in our Bright & Bold Collection on page 14. But before you cast on any of our vibrant garments, check out our guide to crafting with colour on page 40 and discover how to choose shades that complement your skin tone. Using colour in knitting is a great opportunity to explore colourwork, from simple stripes to more intricate Fair Isle like our stunning Stranded Sea baby sweater on page 63. You can also learn how to work linen stitch on page 84. When it comes to specific hues, you can’t get much brighter than yellow: check out our choice of yarns in this sunny shade on page 39. The daffodils are out, which means it must be time for our Spring/Summer must-haves! Turn to page 59 for our Top 20 picks for the season ahead. There’s still plenty of time to nominate your favourites in the British Knitting & Crochet Awards 2020. Everyone who does will receive a free Hexagon Blanket pattern, so visit letsknit.co.uk/ awards today to make sure you get yours.
ABOVE RIGHT: The Bright & Bold Collection, p14 ABOVE LEFT: Get creative with colourwork, p63 CENTRE: Mellow Yellow. p39 LEFT: our Top 20 must-haves for spring and summer, p59
59
BELOW: free hexagon blanket pattern, p57
57
Happy Knitting
28
Sarah
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All items from patterns published by Let’s Knit are for personal use only and cannot be sold. Multiple copies of any part of this publication may not be made, and no part of this publication whether in its original form or a reproduction thereof may be sold. All patterns featured within Let’s Knit are reproduced in good faith that they do not infringe any copyright. DISCLAIMER: We recommend that readers use the main specified yarn for every project as this will produce the best results. The alternatives given are suggestions only, and as no two yarns
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are exactly the same we advise readers to swatch an alternative yarn carefully before choosing to use it for their project. The publishers are not responsible for any safety issues arising from any items knitted from patterns contained within Let’s Knit magazine. Please note that toys with small parts are not suitable for children under three years of age. If making a toy for a very young child, omit any buttons and embroider the details instead. Babies should be supervised when playing with toys. Prices are all correct at time of print.
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SHOPPING April 2020
In this issue
8
See It, Want It, Love It! Our top picks for April
27 This Month We’re Loving...Socks Endless inspiration for fans of sock knitting
39 Mellow Yellow Embrace tranquillity with these pretty picks
66 Totally Tubular
25
45
Enjoy our fabulous collection of fibres
81 Newsflash Catch up with the latest news in knitting
FOCUS 40 Craft With Colour Find your special shade with our comprehensive guide
57 British Knitting & Crochet Awards
Cover Star
Vote for your favourites and have your say Easter Basket
59 TOP 20 We share our must-haves for the spring and summer months
69 Crafty Creatures We share our favourite pics of your precious pets
76 Keep Calm & Cast On Sit back and relax with our mindfulness special
83 Let’s Knit Yarn Shop Tour This month we focus on celebrating with special guests
86 What’s The Secret? Discover top tips for tricky techniques
PEOPLE 10 Knit It, Write It, Share It! Your incredible makes and letters
12 Out and About Fill your calendar with wonderful events
31
Rainbow Sweater
Let us help you! WE UNDERSTAND THAT NOTHING IS MORE ANNOYING THAN ERRORS IN KNITTING PATTERNS, SO HERE’S OUR PROMISE TO YOU l Exclusive patterns featured in Let’s Knit have been professionally checked and reproduced with the utmost care. Updates can be found at letsknit.co.uk/pattern-updates l Should you encounter any problems we are more than happy to provide support and assistance. Contact us and we will endeavour to respond as soon as possible.
BY PHONE: 01206 508622 (office hours only) BY EMAIL: support@letsknit.co.uk BY POST: at the address at the top of page 94 (please mark your envelope ‘Support’) (Please note we cannot offer assistance with patterns not published in Let’s Knit)
72 Charity Corner Multi-coloured bag
Contact us HAVE ANOTHER QUERY? HERE’S HOW TO GET IN TOUCH l Subscription enquiries/ customer services: 0800 904 7000, aceville@dctmedia.co.uk l Advertising enquiries: 01206 505114, samantha.dean@aceville.co.uk l Online registration/website enquiries: webmaster@letsknit.co.uk
04 letsknit.co.uk
Knitters using their needles to make a difference
98 My Life In Patterns We hear from knitter and fundraiser Patricia Wilson
IN EVERY ISSUE 3 7 28 43 50 51 70 52 93
Welcome Just For You This Month Subscriptions Read & Relax Teabreak Coming Next Month Giveaways Reader Offer Knitter’s Know-How
53
63
WIN! WIN! WIN! OVER
£1,000
OF GREAT PRIZES ON PAGE 70 Stranded Sea Sweater
PATTERNS Corina the Ballet Bunny
48
34
54
Easter Extras
37
Mitred Square Rainbow Cushion
Contrast Lace Top
Colourful Bunting
Striped Oversized Sweater
16 Contrast Lace Top 19 Striped Oversized Sweater 21 Lace Trim Cardigan 23 Round Neck Sweater 25 Rainbow Sweater 31 Multi-coloured Bag 34 Mitred Square Rainbow Cushion 37 Colourful Bunting 45 Easter Basket 48 Easter Extras 53 Corina the Ballet Bunny 63 Stranded Sea Sweater 67 Beautiful Baby Blanket 74 Crocheted Cafetière Cosy 77 Striped Shawl 84 Linen Stitch Bag Tutorial
Round Neck Sweater
Lace Trim Cardigan
1 SE 3-P CT AG IO E N
THE BRIGHT AND BOLD COLLECTION Starts on page 14 05 letsknit.co.uk
JUST FOR YOU THIS MONTH
BUMPER EASTER KIT with special fluffy yarn
No. 1 for gifts
Our Bernard Bunny is here to welcome in the spring season and we’ve given you the fabulous fleecy yarn to make him in this issue’s kit. Designed by Steffi Hochfellner, he’s full of character and is the perfect size for great big hugs. There are also more project ideas for this month’s yarn pack on page 46, plus even more great seasonal patterns to download for free at letsknit.co.uk/eastermakes. Don’t miss your bonus pattern collection, courtesy of Thomas B. Ramsden featuring nine designs for women and babies!
Knit Bernard bunny
THIS MONTH’S
LOVE YOUR YARN KIT? GET MORE! BONUS PATTERN BOOK! Nine fabulous designs from Thomas B. Ramsden
150g bumper kit including 70g of special fluffy yarn for only £7.99*! Simply visit magazinestoyou.com or call 0800 904 7000 *T&Cs: postage charges apply. Limited stock available.
FREE* YARN PACK, WORTH £6.99!
*UK customers only, just pay postage
Boost your stash with these fabulous mini balls of yarn! They’re perfect for toy making, blanket squares, colourwork and charity projects and you get all eight bright and cheerful shades. Whether you’re a knitting or crochet fan, turn to page 82 to find out how to claim your yarns for free*!
EXCLUSIVE
Treats you’ll love ONLY IN LET’S KNIT
3Ultra soft fleecy yarn 3Classic bunny pattern 3Bonus Easter downloads 316-page pattern book extra 3FREE* yarn pack
Find over 1,600 fabulous knitting patterns at letsknit.co.uk
Coming next issue! KNIT YOUR OWN UNICORN! Use the four bright yarns in your pack to knit Steffi Hochfellner’s magical make. There are vibrant shades and easy-to-follow instructions! Look out for more fantastical projects to download at letsknit.co.uk
DON’T MISS 07 letsknit.co.uk
MAY ISSUE OF LET’S KNIT ON SALE THURSDAY 9TH APRIL
SEE IT, WANT IT,
Love it! LIBBY LOUGHNAN PRESENTS OUR TOP BUYS FOR APRIL!
BOWLED OVER Take your crafting to the next level with this gorgeous yarn bowl from V’s Craft Room. Featuring super-cute sheep and a brilliant blue sky set to lift the spirits, it has been hand painted, glazed and fired here in the UK. Although we would be tempted to keep this yarn bowl to ourselves, we have to admit it would also make an excellent gift for someone in our crafting circle! Prices start at £22 from vscraftroom.etsy.com
Lovely In Lace Celebrate the changing seasons with this delightful lace stitch cardigan from Rowan’s Summerlite 4ply Collection. Designed by household name Martin Storey and perfect for experienced knitters who are searching for a suitable spring project, this garment is ideal for layering. The Rubia pattern costs £4 from knitrowan.com
It’s A Sign!
Over The Rainbow
Transform your crafting corner with this personalised sign or treat a lucky loved one to a fun and unique gift. Perfect for hanging on your door or over your favourite knitting nook, this wonderful home accessory is also available in six other designs to celebrate your love of art, sewing, crochet, macrame, weaving and embroidery. £14 from alicepalace.co.uk
If you tend to lose momentum part way through a project, why not cheer up your crafting with stitch markers that make you smile and even give you a little bit of hope? If any markers can have that effect, it will be these rainbow progress keepers from Yarn and Craft. Utterly adorable and available in three different sizes, they cost £1.80 from yarnandcraft.etsy.com
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letsknit.co.uk
WHAT’S
Shop the COLLECTION As its Bambino yarn continues to go from strength to strength, Stylecraft has introduced two new stylish shades and launched a precious collection of patterns. We love this smart cardigan and could see it working for any youngster throughout the year.
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This lilac knit is another excellent option for the little one in your life. Offering optimum levels of style and comfort, it really is a new season must-have!
1
New
Smart and comfy
2
Commu-knitty Project
3 2
Finally, do something different with this quirky dinosaur cardigan. Just imagine how sweet your tot will look in this knit! What’s more, thanks to the fun design, it meets all the requirements to become their new favourite garment. For stockists visit stylecraft-yarns.co.uk
3
Have some fun!
J’adore Julienne!
SOCK IT TO ‘EM Spotty on top and striped underneath the foot, these gorgeous socks are not to be missed! Although they look intricate, intermediate knitters will be able to power through this project using just a simple slipped stitch repeat. The only difficult part will be deciding which two shades of Paintbox’s 4ply yarn you are going to use to bring your footwear to life – there are so many incredible options to choose from! Free from lovecrafts.com
Designed with bright summer knits in mind, this new cotton yarn from Bergere de France would make an excellent addition to your seasonal stash. It comes in six stunning colourways and is 100% mercerised cotton. Julienne is a joy to knit with, a pleasure to wear and incredibly easy to care for. Visit bergeredefrance.co.uk for more information and access to the five free supporting patterns.
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Running for ten months and involving 40 knitters and crafters in Leeds and surrounding areas, Knitted Leeds is a powerful tribute to the history of the city and its relationship with wool. First unveiled at Spring Into Wool in 2019, this impressive project will be on display at Wonderwool Wales over the weekend of April 25th-26th, with more visits planned throughout 2020. Featuring over 40 buildings and landmarks, it is a sight to behold and has certainly inspired the team here at Let’s Knit HQ.
“As well as creating an image that looks stunning when on display, the project brought together knitters and knitting groups that had not previously met.”
Take Credit!
If you have taken the time to knit something that you are proud to call your own, it’s important that you can share this pride with the people around you and the recipients of your gifts. Well, thanks to these printable tags and labels you can! Professionally designed and perfect for customising your project, this instant download costs £2.42 from shalana.etsy.com
Knit It, Write It, SHARE IT WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU – CHECK OUT YOUR AMAZING PROJECTS IN THIS MONTH’S READER GALLERY!
Post / Email / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest
Make of the
Star Letter
We’re thrilled you’re enjoying a new-found love of knitting, Allan. Keep up the good work!
MONTH
“Made for my granddaughter using the pattern in the December issue of my fave mag, Let’s Knit! I hope she likes it!” Karen Hewitt Wow, we’re really impressed! LK reader Karen has won two sets of pom-pom makers from Clover and a ball of Patons Fab DK!
Why I Love Knitting!
Pinspiration!
“I suffer with my mental health and knitting gives me something to focus on.”
© Lion Brand
Hi there, Let’s Knit! I was sitting around after an operation for bowel cancer, watching my wife produce yet another amazing piece of knitting when I thought, ‘I wonder if I could help’. That being said, I hadn’t picked up a knitting needle since my mum showed me plain stitch when I was about ten, so I wasn’t exactly sure how I might be able to help... My wife told me about the Square of the Month in the back of your magazine and suggested that I have a go with one to see how I would get on. I really messed up the first one, but with her expert help got back on track and tried again. I enjoyed it so much that this morning, while the house was quiet, I chose another (the smaller one) and managed to cast on, knit and cast off with only a couple of mistakes. I have to admit I’m pretty proud of myself, and about to find the next ‘project’ to keep my mind, and fingers, busy. Apparently this also helps with a thing called ‘stash busting’. Off now to find the next square to attempt. So thank you Let’s Knit, from a crotchety (pun intended), middle-aged man with a brand new hobby! Yours Allan T.
Trish Crumpton Kitson
Our Star Letter winner, Allan, has won three balls of West Yorkshire Spinners Bo Peep DK.
PRINTED QUOTES WIN A £10 VOUCHER TO SPEND AT BLACK SHEEP WOOLS!
10 letsknit.co.uk
Make the most of your yarny leftovers with our brilliant Stashbusting Ideas Pinterest board. Whether you’re a knitter or a crochet fan, you’ll find inspiring projects to help you use up your oddments of yarn, like this striking slip stitch tote bag for example. Find this and more at pinterest.com/letsknitmag
YOUR Letters
Look What You’ve Made!
You
EVERY MONDAY OUR FACEBOOK FANS SHARE THEIR LATEST KNITS IN OUR READER MAKES COMPETITION. HERE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVES.
OUR FAB YARN KITS! Our Ozzie was the king of the swingers last issue. Here are some of your brilliant photos of your finished makes!
Helen Date
Kim Sands
Jean Davies
Visit facebook.com/letsknitmag every Monday for your chance to enter!
PRIMA BALLERINA “One of my favourite patterns from 2015” Valerie Hind She looks fab, Valerie!
Yve Scott
H STAR MAKER
SUNNY BUNNIES “Had fun doing them” Marilyn Cattermole They’re so sweet, Marilyn
KNITTED STYLE
Tere sa McNamara
“My own design” Mona Sofie Wow, this is so impressive, Mona!
LION KING “Finally finished making Leo the lion. The pattern I used was from Let’s Knit magazine from May last year! @craftcloudtreasures He looks fantastic
Beth Moore
H
HOME COMFORTS I made this hot water bottle cover. The pattern is from Let's Knit Issue 59, all the way back from October 2012! Rebecca Snowdin We remember it well, great job, Rebecca!
GET IN TOUCH
STAR MAKER
ANIMAL ANTICS “I’ve made nine of these so far” Tara O’Reilly Well done, Tara, your jumpers are great!
with your stories and snaps
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EMAIL adrienne.chandler@aceville.co.uk POST Let’s Knit, 1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, CO2 8JY
11 letsknit.co.uk
H
Alison Grace
STAR MAKER
We want to recognise those of you who regularly send in your photos of kit makes, so look out for this little logo. You’re amazing!
n Melita Watso
WHAT’S ON Where
We’re looking forward to the long Easter weekend and are planning our new season projects!
Out &
About WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO!
5 CRAFTY EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS FLOWER SHOW, CARDIFF 1 RHS 17th-19th April rhs.org.uk
INTO 2 SPRING WOOL, LEEDS
Knitting s Group Nr ineMw acclesfield
18th-19th April craft.springintowool.co.uk
LIVING SPRING 3FAIR,COUNTRY LONDON
Corne Head to Crafty and Fridays to work s ay sd ne on Wed mpany project in the co and st te la ur yo on t ni ‘K e Th ! fans et’ of fellow fibre chet and Croch Natter’ and ‘Cro 10am-12pm and m groups run fro ill rson. Visit 80 M cost £4 per pe , H 6N 11 SK , ld fie Street, Maccles or learn more 95 call 01625 4041 macc.co.uk er rn co ty af cr at
23rd-26th April countrylivingfair.com
CRAFT 4 CREATIVE SHOW, LONDON 24th-25th April stitchandhobby.co.uk
5 INTERNATIONAL YARN SHOP DAY 2nd May letsknit.co.uk
Must-visit
Skills CORNER Learn crochet in a day with Rowan consultant Avril Best. You’ll be taught all the basics, along with practical tips on choosing yarns and hooks, plus how to read a pattern. All the yarn is provided, just bring along a 4mm crochet hook. When: Friday 15th May Where: Lady Sew and Sew, Farm Rd, Henley-onThames, RG9 1EJ How much? £60 To book: visit ladysewandsew.co.uk or call 01491 572528
WONDERWOOL WALES, BUILTH WELLS 25th-26th April Held at the Royal Welsh Showground, one of the country’s most popular fibre festivals returns for another weekend of woolly goodness. You’ll find over 225 stalls offering crafting supplies and inspiring handmade items, and there are demonstrations, have-a-go sessions and workshops, too. Look out for the fabulous knitted maps, plus a handcrafted Alice in Wonderland display! For tickets and more details, visit wonderwoolwales.co.uk
KNIT & UNWIND! April is Stress Awareness Month in the UK. Surveys show that knitting can help you relax and focus your mind. Learn more about stress at stress.org.uk
STAYING IN? KEEP YOURSELF BUSY WITH THESE GREAT FINDS!
LK Blog of the Month Spring is a cheerful season, so take a look at our ideas of What To Knit When The State Of The World Is Getting You Down. Find this and more inspiring posts at letsknit.co.uk/blog
Top TV
Vlog Spot
From natural fibres to animalinspired projects, there’s plenty to knit whilst watching Countryfile on a Sunday evening. Find out more at bbc.co.uk/countryfile
Catch up with Caleisha Ryan’s latest knitting and crochet makes in her brilliant Quirky Monday craft vlog look out for her super cute dogs, too! Search on youtube.com
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YOUR 13 PAGE FASHION SPECIAL
The Bright and Bold
Collection COLOURFUL CREATIONS TO WELCOME IN THE SPRING
PAGE
16 Contrast Lace Top
PAGE
19 LAYER UP IN THIS STYLISH DESIGN
Striped Oversized Sweater
B right and beaut iful WOW THE CROWDS IN OUR STATEMENT KNIT
Bring the sunshine into your new season wardrobe with vibrant tones and easy colourwork. Stripes are a super simple way to transform your monochrome knits, whether you choose just a few bands of colour or the rainbow effect. If you prefer a more understated look, then contrasting edgings are the answer, or you could pick one single shade and make a statement. Don’t forget, all of these patterns can be worked in any colour combo you like!
EASY shape
14 letsknit.co.uk
THE STYLE
Edit
LESS IS MORE WITH THIS EVERYDAY FAVE
PAGE
21 Lace Trim Cardigan
PAGE
25 Rainbow Sweater
Keep it simple PRETinTk Y in p
PAGE
23 Round Neck Sweater
EMBELLISH A CLASSIC CARDI WITH A PRETTY LACE EDGING
WE LOVE THE GLORIOUS SUNSHINE YELLOW OF THIS PLUS-SIZE TOP
For sizes 14-32
Great for newbies 15 letsknit.co.uk
E TO
IV
•
Contrast EDGING TOP E
•
I V E TO
IV
LUS
C E X L US
C EX
EXCLUS TO •
ADD A POP OF COLOUR WITH JO ALLPORT’S LACY TEE Welcome in sunny spring days with a light and lovely addition to your wardrobe. This layering garment is knitted in wool which is a good choice for all weathers, and the openwork design means you won’t overheat. There’s very little shaping in the body so you’ll have plenty of time to get to grips with the lace stitches. Use stitch markers to help you keep track of the pattern. MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 8 (10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26) To fit chest (cm): 81 (86, 91, 97, 102, 107, 112, 117, 122, 127) Actual chest (cm): 91 (96, 102, 108, 114, 120, 125, 130, 135, 141) Length to shoulder (cm): 55 (56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63, 63) Underarm sleeve length (cm): 33 (35, 35, 35, 35, 36, 36, 37, 37, 37)
KNIT KIT Yarn: King Cole Luxury Merino DK, shades (A) 2633 Fuchsia, one 50g ball, (B) 2615 Caribbean Sea, 8 (8, 9, 9, 10, 10, 11, 11, 12, 12) 50g balls Needles: 3.25mm, 4mm Stitch markers: four Stitch holders: two Tapestry needle
LACE PATT
* to last two sts, k2 £ Row 7: as Row 3 £ Row 9: k1, * k5, yfwd, skpo, k3, rep from * to last two sts, k2 £ Row 11: k1, * k3, k2tog, yfwd, k1, yfwd, skpo, k2, rep from * to last two sts, k2 £ Row 13: k1, * k2, k2tog, yfwd, k3, yfwd, skpo, k1, rep from * to last two sts, k2 £ Row 15: as Row 11 £ Row 16: p to end Rows 1-16 set patt
NOTE: worked over a multiple of ten sts plus three between markers £ Row 1 (RS): k1, * yfwd, skpo, k8, work from * to last two sts, yfwd, skpo £ Row 2 and all WS rows: p to end £ Row 3: k1, * k1, yfwd, skpo, k5, k2tog, yfwd, rep from * to last two sts, k2 £ Row 5: k1, * k2, yfwd, skpo, k3, k2tog, yfwd, k1, rep from
Start knitting here...
TENSION SQUARE n 20.5 sts x 35 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Lace pattern n 4mm needles
SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS Dec 1: at beg of row, if second st on left needle will be k, work skpo. If second st will be p, work p2tog tbl. At end of row, if second to last st on left needle will be k, work k2tog, if second to last st will be p, work p2tog
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN King Cole Luxury Merino DK is a pure wool yarn that can be machine washed. It knits to a standard tension and comes in classic colourways. It costs £4.99 per 50g (140m) ball from 01924 565740, woolnstuff.co.uk
BACK NOTE: there is a seam allowance of one st on all pieces ** Using 3.25mm needles and yarn A, cast on 95 (101, 107, 113, 119, 125, 131, 135, 141, 147) sts £ Work in garter st for 3cm, working an odd number of rows Change to 4mm needles and yarn B. Using Chart (p18) or written instructions (above) commence Lace patt as folls: £ Row 1 (RS): k1 (4, 2, 0, 3, 1, 4, 1, 4, 2), pm, * work Row 1 of Lace patt across 93 (93, 103, 113, 113, 123, 123, 133, 133, 143) sts, pm, k1 (4, 2, 0, 3, 1, 4, 1, 4, 2) £ Row 2: p1 (4, 2, 0, 3, 1, 4, 1, 4,
2), sm, * work Row 2 of Lace patt across 93 (93, 103, 113, 113, 123, 123, 133, 133, 143) sts, sm, p1 (4, 2, 0, 3, 1, 4, 1, 4, 2) Last two rows set position of Lace patt between markers and edge sts in st st ** £ Cont in patt until work meas 52 (53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 60) cm, ending after a WS row
Shape shoulders £ Keeping patt correct, cast off 4 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6, 6, 7, 7) sts at beg of next 12 (8, 4, 12, 6, 2, 8, 6, 12, 8) rows £ Cast off 0 (5, 5, 0, 6, 6, 7, 7, 0, 8) sts at beg of next 0 (4, 8, 0, 6,
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE?
“Highlight the instructions that are specific to your size to avoid any confusion.”
See what DK yarns are available from your local yarn shop!
LK Deputy Editor, Adrienne Chandler
16 letsknit.co.uk
10, 4, 6, 0, 4) rows. 47 (49, 51, 53, 53, 55, 55, 57, 57, 59) sts Leave rem sts on a holder
FRONT £ Work from ** to ** as for Back £ Cont in patt until work meas 46 (47, 48, 49, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 53) cm, ending after a WS row
Shape left neck Keeping pattern correct, cont as folls: £ Next row (RS): patt 34 (36, 38, 40, 43, 46, 49, 50, 53, 55) sts, turn Leave rem sts on holder £ Dec one st at neck edge on next four rows. 30 (32, 34, 36, 39, 42, 45, 46, 49, 51) sts £ Patt one row without shaping £ Dec one st at neck edge on next row and every foll RS row until 24 (26, 28, 30, 33, 35, 38, 39, 42, 44) sts rem £ Cont in patt without shaping until Front meas same as Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending after a WS row
Shape left shoulder £ Keeping patt correct, cast off 4 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6, 6, 7, 7) sts at beg of next 6 (4, 2, 6, 3, 1, 4, 3, 6, 4) RS rows £ Cast off 0 (5, 5, 0, 6, 6, 7, 7, 0, 8) sts at beg of next 0 (2, 4, 0, 3, 5, 2, 3, 0, 2) RS rows
Shape right neck £ With RS facing, leave next 27 (29, 31, 33, 33, 33, 33, 35, 35, 37) sts on holder, rejoin yarn to rem sts (neck edge), patt to end. 34 (36, 38, 40, 43, 46, 49, 50, 53, 55) sts £ Dec one st at neck edge on next four rows. 30 (32, 34, 36, 39, 42, 45, 46, 49, 51) sts £ Patt one row without shaping £ Dec one st at neck edge on next row and every RS row until
THE STYLE
Edit Lace LIFELINES
Layer up for
SPRING
With any lace pattern, we strongly recommend using a lifeline. After a correct section of work, insert a contrasting length of smooth cotton yarn through all the stitches on your needle, but don’t go through any markers. Then carry on knitting. If you go wrong, just whip out your needle, unravel back to your lifeline and have another go. Just remember to keep moving the lifeline up after each correct section.
24 (26, 28, 30, 33, 35, 38, 39, 42, 44) sts rem £ Cont in patt without shaping until Front meas same as Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending after a RS row
Shape right shoulder £ Keeping patt correct, cast off 4 (4, 4, 5, 5, 5, 6, 6, 7, 7) sts at beg of next 6 (4, 2, 6, 3, 1, 4, 3, 6, 4) WS rows £ Cast off 0 (5, 5, 0, 6, 6, 7, 7, 0, 8) sts at beg of next 0 (2, 4, 0, 3, 5, 2, 3, 0, 2) WS rows
SLEEVES (make two) Using 3.25mm needles and yarn A, cast on 65 (65, 67, 67, 69, 69, 71, 71, 73, 73) sts £ Work in garter st for 2cm, working an odd number of rows Change to 4mm needles and yarn B. Using Chart (p18) or written instructions (p16) commence Lace patt as folls: £ Row 1 (RS): k1 (1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 0, 0), pm, * work Row 1 of Lace patt across 63 (63, 63, 63, 63, 63, 63, 63, 73, 73) sts, pm, k1 (1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 0, 0) £ Row 2: p1 (1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 0, 0), sm, * work Row 2 of Lace patt across 63 (63, 63, 63, 63, 63, 63, 63, 73, 73) sts, sm, p1 (1, 2, 2, 3, 3, 4, 4, 0, 0) Last two rows set position of the Lace patt between markers and edge sts in st st £ Patt six rows £ Next row (inc): patt 1, m1, patt to last st, m1, patt 1 £ Cont in patt inc as set on every foll 16th (12th, 10th, 8th, 8th, 6th, 6th, 6th, 6th, 6th) row until there are 77 (81, 85, 89, 93, 97, 99, 101, 103, 105) sts
17 letsknit.co.uk
£ Cont in patt without shaping until Sleeve meas 33 (35, 35, 35, 35, 36, 36, 37, 37, 37) cm, measured from cast-on edge, ending after a WS row £ Cast off
Fuss free shaping!
NECKBAND Weave in ends and block pieces lightly. Sew left shoulder seam £ Using 3.25mm needles and yarn A, with RS facing, k 47 (49, 51, 53, 53, 55, 55, 57, 57, 59) sts from Back holder, pick up and k 17 (17, 17, 17, 19, 19, 19, 19, 19, 19) sts across left Front neck, k 27 (29, 31, 33, 33, 33, 33, 35, 35, 37) sts from Front holder, pick up and k 17 (17, 17, 17, 19, 19, 19, 19, 19, 19) sts along right Front neck. 108 (112, 116, 120, 124, 126, 126, 130, 130, 134) sts £ Work in garter st for 2cm, ending after a RS row £ Cast off
TO MAKE UP Sew right shoulder and Neckband seams. Placing centre of cast-off edge of Sleeve to shoulder seams, sew Sleeve caps into armholes between markers. Sew Sleeve and side seams. Weave in ends. See ball band for further care instructions LK LACE PATTERN CHART 13
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
16
Trousers, £55, Betty Barclay; Earrings, £75, Yaa Yaa London
15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 13
12
11
10
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
KEY RS: knit WS: purl
yfwd
RS: k2tog
10 st patt rep
RS: skpo
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I V E TO
THE STYLE
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Striped Oversized SWEATER IV
EX
US CL
EXCLUS TO •
EARN YOUR STRIPES WITH JACINTA BOWIE’S PRETTY PROJECT If you are a fan of colour, you are sure to love this vibrant knit. Easy to throw on with a trendy pair of jeans, it could be just the thing to carry you through the changing seasons. We love designer Jacinta’s modern take on a traditional stripy jumper – instead of moving between shades on a straight line of stitches, she has dreamt up a jigsaw effect that will engage your Fair Isle skills and win you plenty of compliments. MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 6-10 (10-16, 18-26, 28-30) To fit chest (cm): 76-86 (86-102, 106-126, 135-142) Actual chest (cm): 138 (143, 150, 155) Sleeve length: 30cm Length to back neck: 60cm
KNIT KIT
Pattern in sizes
6-30!
Yarn: Rico Essentials Cotton DK, shades (A) 14 Fuchsia, 2 (2, 2, 2) 50g balls, (B) 87 Pumpkin, 2 (2, 2, 3) 50g balls, (C) 60 Saffron, 2 (3, 3, 4) 50g balls, (D) 33 Turquoise, 2 (2, 2, 3) 50g balls, (E) 85 Dark Jeans, 4 (4, 5, 5) 50g balls Needles: 3.25mm, 3.75mm Tapestry needle Stitch holders
TENSION SQUARE n 23 sts x 30 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 3.75mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN Rico Essentials Cotton DK is a great-value 100% cotton yarn. Available in a range of pastel shades and jewel tones, this yarn offers excellent stitch definition and costs £2.89 per 50g (130m) ball from 0800 505 3300, woolwarehouse.co.uk
10% OFF AT WOOL WAREHOUSE! USE THE CODE LK156
19 19 letsknit.co.uk letsknit.co.uk
Stitch Patterns 1 X 1 RIB £ Row 1 (WS): * k1, p1, rep from * to last st, k1 £ Row 2: * p1, k1, rep from * to last st, p1
BODY STRIPE SEQUENCE
Start knitting here... BACK Using 3.25mm needles and yarn A cast on 159 (165, 173, 179) sts Work in 1 x 1 Rib as folls: £ Work six rows in yarn A £ Work four rows in yarn B £ Work four rows in yarn D Change to 3.75mm needles £ Beg with a k (RS) row, work in st st in Body stripe sequence until work meas 55cm, ending after a WS row
Shape shoulders
Jeans, £80, Betty Barclay; Necklace, £75, Kettlewell Colours
£ Cast off eight sts at beg of next eight rows. 95 (101, 109, 115) sts £ Cast off 8 (8, 9, 9) sts at beg of next six rows. 47 (53, 55, 61) sts Leave rem sts on holder for Back neck
great
ADVICE
“This garment is oversized so you may choose a smaller size than you would normally require if you don’t want it to be so large on you. If so you may need to lengthen the sleeves.”
LK DESIGNER,
Jacinta Bowie
£ Work four rows in yarn E £ Work eight rows in yarn C £ Work eight rows in yarn E £ Work four rows in yarn B £ Work four rows in yarn A £ Work four rows in yarn D Using yarns D and C, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls: NOTE: letter foll instruction indicates yarn shade £ Row 1: * k1 D, k1 C, rep from * to last st, k1 D £ Row 2: * p1 D, p1 C, rep from * to last st, p1 D £ Work four rows in yarn C £ Work four rows in yarn B Using yarns B and D, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls: £ Row 1: * k1 D, k1 B, rep from
FRONT £ Work as given for Back until work meas 7cm less than Back to start of shoulder shaping, ending after a WS row
* to last st, k1 D £ Row 2: * p1 D, p1 B, rep from * to last st, p1 D £ Work ten rows in yarn D £ Work four rows in yarn C Using yarns C and B, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls: £ Row 1: * k1 B, k1 C, rep from * to last st, k1 B £ Row 2: * p1 B, p1 C, rep from * to last st, p1 B £ Work four rows in yarn B £ Work four rows in yarn A £ Work four rows in yarn E Using yarns E and A, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls: £ Row 1: * k1 E, k1 A, rep from * to last st, k1 E £ Row 2: * p1 E, p1 A, rep from * to last st, p1 E £ Work six rows in yarn A Using yarns A and C, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls: £ Row 1: * k1 A, k1 C, rep from * to last st, k1 A £ Row 2: * p1 A, p1 C, rep from * to last st, p1 A £ Work six rows in yarn C £ Work six rows in yarn B £ Work eight rows in yarn A Using yarns A and E, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls:
£ Row 1: * k1 A, k1 E, rep from * to last st, k1 A £ Row 2: * p1 A, p1 E, rep from * to last st, p1 A £ Work four rows in yarn E £ Work four rows in yarn C £ Work four rows in yarn B £ Work four rows in yarn C £ Work ten rows in yarn D Using yarns D and A, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls: £ Row 1: * k1 D, k1 A, rep from * to last st, k1 D £ Row 2: * p1 D, p1 A, rep from * to last st, p1 D £ Work ten rows in yarn A £ Work four rows in yarn B Using yarns C and B, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls: £ Row 1: * k1 B, k1 C, rep from * to last st, k1 B £ Row 2: * p1 B, p1 C, rep from * to last st, p1 B £ Work six rows in yarn C Using yarns C and E, work two rows in Fair Isle as folls: £ Row 1: * k1 E, k1 C, rep from * to last st, k1 E £ Row 2: * p1 E, p1 C, rep from * to last st, p1 E Cont in yarn E only
£ Rep last two rows four times more. 56 (56, 59, 59) sts £ Cont in patt on rem sts until work meas same as Back to start of shoulder shaping, ending after a RS row
£ Work two rows in yarn C £ Work two rows in yarn D £ Cont in yarn E only until work meas 30cm, ending after a WS row £ Cast off kwise
NECKBAND
Shape left neck £ Patt 66 (66, 69, 69), turn Leave rem sts on holder £ Next row: p1, p2tog, patt to end. One st dec £ Next row: patt to last three sts, k2tog, k1. One st dec £ Rep last two rows four times more. 56 (56, 59, 59) sts £ Cont in patt on rem sts until work meas same as Back to start of shoulder shaping, ending after a WS row
Shape left shoulder
Shape right shoulder £ Cast off eight sts at beg of next and three foll alt rows. 24 (24, 27, 27) sts £ Work one row £ Cast off 8 (8, 9, 9) sts at beg of next and two foll alt rows
SLEEVE (make two) Using 3.25mm needles and yarn A, cast on 69 (71, 73, 75) sts Work in 1 x 1 Rib as folls: £ Work two rows in yarn A £ Work two rows in yarn B
£ Cast off eight sts at beg of next and three foll alt rows. 24 (24, 27, 27) sts £ Work one row £ Cast off 8 (8, 9, 9) sts at beg of next and two foll alt rows
“There are lots of stitches for all sizes so you may find it easier to use a circular needle and work back and forth”
Shape right neck Leave next 27 (33, 35, 41) sts on holder and rejoin yarn to rem 66 (66, 69, 69) sts £ Next row: k1, ssk, patt to end. One st dec £ Next row: p to last three sts, p2tog tbl, p1. One st dec
LK Editorial Assistant, Libby Loughnan
20 letsknit.co.uk
Join left shoulder seam £ With RS facing rejoin yarn E to 47 (53, 55, 61) sts left on a holder for Back neck and k across, pick up and k 22 sts along straight edge of neck, nine sts along neck shaping, k across 27 (33, 35, 41) sts left on holder for Front neck, pick up and k nine sts up neck shaping and 23 sts along straight edge of neck. 137 (149, 153, 165) sts Work in 1 x 1 Rib as folls: £ Work two rows in yarn E £ Work two rows in yarn D £ Work two rows in yarn C £ Work two rows in yarn B £ Work two rows in yarn A £ Cast off in rib in yarn A
TO MAKE UP Join remaining shoulder and Neckband seam with mattress stitch. Sew top of Sleeves evenly along each side of shoulder seam stretching out rib of Sleeve slightly. Sew side seams and Sleeve seams with mattress stitch. Weave in all ends. Wet block to measurements given LK
THE STYLE
Edit E TO
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TO
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Lace Trim CARDI
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• EXCLUS
WE’RE ‘FRILLED’ WITH TINA BARRETT’S LATEST KNIT! Add a fancy flourish to elevate this simple cardigan into a spring statement! The garment is knitted from the bottom-up using classic set-in sleeves, which makes it a wardrobe staple, but it is transformed into something special with the separate lace trim that is sewn on afterwards. The frill could even be used to embellish other projects too!
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 8 (10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22) To fit chest (cm): 81 (86, 91, 97, 102, 107, 112, 117) Actual chest (cm): 86 (91, 94, 102, 107, 112, 119, 124) Length from back of neck (cm): 56 (56, 56, 59, 59, 61, 61, 63) Sleeve length: 46 (46, 47, 47, 48, 48, 47, 47)
KNIT KIT Yarn: Paintbox Cotton DK, shade Lipstick Pink, 9 (9, 10, 10, 11, 11, 12, 12) 50g balls Needles: 3.25mm, 4mm Buttons: eight Stitch holder Tapestry needle
SUPE SIMPL R super E, stylish
TENSION SQUARE n 22 sts x 30 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 4mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN Paintbox Cotton DK is a pure cotton yarn with a soft matte finish. There are 50 fabulous shades from neutrals to brights. Projects can be machine washed. It costs £2.50 per 50g (125m) ball from 01409 404010, lovecrafts.com
15% OFF AT LOVECRAFTS USE THE CODE KNITIT15
21 letsknit.co.uk
£ Next row: p to end £ Rep last two rows 4 (4, 4, 3, 4, 4, 2, 2) times more. 23 (25, 25, 27, 27, 28, 31, 32) sts £ Cont in st st without shaping until work meas same as Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending after a p row
BACK
LEFT FRONT
Shoulder shaping
Using 3.25mm needles, cast on 94 (98, 100, 110, 116, 120, 130, 134) sts £ Row 1: [k1, p1] to end This row sets rib £ Cont in rib until work meas 8cm Change to 4mm needles £ Beg with a k row, work in st st until Back meas 34 (34, 33, 36, 35, 37, 36, 38) cm from cast-on edge, ending after a p row
Using 3.25mm needles, cast on 46 (48, 50, 54, 58, 60, 64, 66) sts £ Work in rib as for Back until front meas 8cm Change to 4mm needles £ Beg with a k row, work in st st until front meas 34 (34, 33, 36, 35, 37, 36, 38) cm, ending after a p row **
£ Next row: cast off 8 (9, 9, 9, 9, 10, 11, 11) sts, k to end. 15 (16, 16, 18, 18, 18, 20, 21) sts £ Next row: p to end £ Next row: cast off 8 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10, 11) sts, k to end. 7 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10, 10) sts £ Next row: p to end £ Cast off
Shape armhole
RIGHT FRONT
Start knitting here...
Shape armholes £ Cast off 6 (6, 7, 8, 8, 9, 9, 10) sts at beg of next two rows. 82 (86, 86, 94, 100, 102, 112, 114) sts £ Next row: k2, k2tog, k to last four sts, ssk, k2 £ Next row: p to end £ Rep last two rows 3 (3, 3, 5, 7, 7, 9, 9) times more. 74 (78, 78, 82, 84, 86, 92, 94) sts £ Cont in st st until armhole meas 20 (20, 21, 21, 22, 22, 23, 23) cm, ending after a p row
Shape neck and shoulder £ Cast off 8 (9, 9, 9, 9, 10, 11, 11) sts at beg of next two rows. 58
£ Work as for Left front to **, ending after a k row
£ Next row: cast off 6 (6, 7, 8, 8, 9, 9, 10) sts, k to end. 40 (42, 43, 46, 50, 51, 55, 56) sts £ Next row: p to end £ Next row: k2, k2tog, k to end £ Next row: p to end £ Rep last two rows 3 (3, 3, 5, 7, 7, 9, 9) times more. 36 (38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 45, 46) sts £ Cont in st st until work meas 7 (7, 7, 8, 8, 8, 8.5, 8.5) cm less than Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending after a k row
Shape armhole £ Next row: cast off 6 (6, 7, 8, 8, 9, 9, 10) sts, p to end. 40 (42, 43, 46, 50, 51, 55, 56) sts £ Next row: k to last four sts, ssk, k2 £ Next row: p to end £ Rep last two rows 3 (3, 3, 5, 7, 7, 9, 9) times more. 36 (38, 39, 40, 42, 43, 45, 46) sts £ Cont in st st until work meas 7 (7, 7, 8, 8, 8, 8.5. 8.5) cm less than Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending after a p row
Shape neck £ Next row: cast off 8 (8, 9, 9, 10, 10, 11, 11) sts, p to end. 28 (30, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35) sts £ Next row: k to last four sts, ssk, k2
Shape neck £ Next row: cast off 8 (8, 9, 9, 10, 10, 11, 11) sts, k to end. 28 (30, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35) sts £ Next row: p to last four sts, p2tog, p2 £ Next row: k to end £ Rep last two rows 4 (4, 4, 3, 4, 4, 2, 2) times more. 23 (25, 25, 27, 27, 28, 31, 32) sts £ Cont in st st without shaping until work meas same as Back to beg of shoulder shaping, ending after a k row
Shoulder shaping £ Next row: cast off 8 (9, 9, 9, 9, 10, 11, 11) sts, p to end. 15 (16, 16, 18, 18, 18, 20, 21) sts £ Next row: k to end
Decorate your cardi with a lacy trim
Slip, slip, knit
This decrease isn’t as literal as it sounds. It is worked over two stitches and decreases by one stitch. To do it, slip the next two stitches one at a time onto the right-hand needle as if you were going to knit them. Return them to the left-hand needle and knit these two stitches together through the back loop. The finished effect leans to the left so use it to create a neat, sloped edge in your work.
£ Next row: cast off 8 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10, 11) sts, p to end. 7 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10, 10) sts £ Next row: k to end £ Cast off
SLEEVES Using 3.25mm needles, cast on 40 (40, 42, 42, 44, 44, 46, 46) sts £ Work in rib as for Back until Sleeve meas 8cm, inc one st on last row. 41 (41, 43, 43, 45, 45, 47, 47) sts Change to 4mm needles £ Beg with a k row, work in st st AT THE SAME TIME inc one st at each end of third and every foll fourth row until there are 59 (59, 61, 61, 63, 63, 65, 65) sts, then on every foll sixth row until there are 77 (79, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89, 91) sts £ Cont in st st without shaping until Sleeve meas 46 (46, 47, 47, 48, 48, 47, 47) cm, ending after a p row
Shape top £ Cast off 6 (6, 7, 8, 8, 9, 9, 10) sts at each end of next two rows. 65 (67, 67, 67, 69, 69, 71, 71) sts £ Dec one st each end of next and foll alt rows until 25 sts rem £ Cast off four sts at beg of next two rows. 17 sts £ Cast off five sts at beg of next two rows. Seven sts £ Cast off
“Omit the frill and use this cardigan as a classic base pattern. You can then customise it with colourwork, texture or patch pockets!” LK Deputy Editor, Adrienne Chandler
22 letsknit.co.uk
Jeans, £29.50, Marks & Spencer; Earrings, £85, Yaa Yaa London
(60, 60, 64, 66, 66, 70, 72) sts £ Cast off 8 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10, 11) sts at beg of next two rows. 42 (44, 44, 46, 48, 48, 50, 50) sts £ Cast off 7 (8, 8, 9, 9, 9, 10, 10) sts at beg of next two rows. 28 (28, 28, 28, 30, 30, 30, 30) sts Leave rem sts on holder
THE STYLE
Edit
TO MAKE UP Weave in loose yarn ends and steam block pieces to shape. Join shoulder seams using back stitch or mattress stitch
NECKBAND £ Using 3.25mm needles and with RS facing, pick up and knit 25 (25, 25, 26, 27, 27, 28, 28) sts along Right front neck, k across 28 (28, 28, 28, 30, 30, 30, 30) sts on holder, pick up and k 25 (25, 25, 26, 27, 27, 28, 28) sts along Left front neck edge. 78 (78, 78, 80, 84, 84, 86, 86) sts £ Work in rib as for Back for five rows £ Cast off loosely in rib
BUTTON BAND
Round-Neck SWEATER ENJOY A SPLASH OF COLOUR WITH THIS VIBRANT GARMENT Taken from the popular title Plus Size Knits this jumper is attractive, flattering and covers a range of sizes from a 97cm right up to a 142cm bust. Designed with intermediate knitters in mind, it is the ideal garment to take you from winter into spring. Featuring a comfortable neckline and decorative trim bands, this knit makes for the perfect addition to your curve collection.
£ Using 3.25mm needles and with RS facing, pick up and k 108 (108, 108, 112, 112, 116, 116, 120) sts down front edge £ Work in rib as for Back for five rows £ Cast off loosely in rib
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 14-16 (18-20, 22-24, 26-28, 30-32) To fit chest (cm): 97-102 (107-112, 117-122, 127-132, 137-142) Actual chest (cm): 108 (116, 128, 140, 152) Length (cm): 66 (67, 68, 69, 70) Sleeve length: 45cm
BUTTONHOLE BAND £ Using 3.25mm needles and with RS facing, pick up and k 108 (108, 108, 112, 112, 116, 116, 120) sts up front edge £ Row 1: [k1, p1] to end £ Row 2 (RS): rib 4 (4, 4, 6, 6, 5, 5, 7), [cast off two sts, patt until there are 12 (12, 12, 12, 12, 13, 13, 13) sts on RH needle after last cast-off] seven times, cast off two sts, rib to end £ Row 3: rib 4 (4, 4, 6, 6, 4, 4, 6), [cast on two sts, patt 12 (12, 12, 12, 12, 13, 13, 13)] seven times, cast on two sts, rib 5 £ Work three more rows in rib £ Cast off loosely in rib
KNIT KIT Yarn: Phildar Lambswool, shade Gold, 10 (10, 12, 13, 14) 50g balls Needles: 2.25mm, 3mm Tapestry needle
TENSION SQUARE n 26 sts x 35 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 3mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN Phildar Lambswool is a gorgeous blend of 51% lambswool and 49% acrylic. Incredibly soft and available in a selection of classic shades, this fibre costs £3.37 per 50g (134m) ball from sunyarnstudio.etsy.com
LACE TRIM (make two) Using 3.25mm needles, cast on four sts £ K one row £ Row 1: k2, yfwd, k2. Five sts £ Rows 2, 4 and 6: k to end £ Row 3: k3, yfwd, k2. Six sts £ Row 5: k2, yfwd, k2tog, yfwd, k2. Seven sts £ Row 7: k3, yfwd, k2tog, yfwd, k2. Eight sts £ Row 8: cast off four sts, k to end. Four sts £ Rep Rows 1-8 until trim fits along front edge with a slight stretch £ Cast off Pin flat side of lace trim just behind Buttonband and slip stitch in place. Repeat for second side. Sew on buttons to correspond with buttonholes. Sew Sleeves into armhole. Sew side and Sleeve seams LK
Stylish
SHAPING
“Due to the wide neck and curved bottom, this garment is a brilliant choice for layered looks. Why not pair it with a turtle neck or a blouse?” LK Editorial Assistant, Libby Loughnan
23 letsknit.co.uk
Third size only £ Five sts twice, four sts twice, three sts twice, two sts three times and one st once. 106 sts
Fourth size only £ Six sts once, five sts twice, four sts twice, three sts twice, two sts three times and one st twice. 108 sts
Fifth size only £ Six sts once, five sts twice, four sts twice, three sts three times, two sts four times and one st twice. 114 sts
All sizes
Start knitting here... BACK Using 3mm needles cast on 128 (138, 154, 168, 184) sts. Pm on each side of 32 (42, 58, 72, 88) centre sts. Work in st st and short rows as folls: £ Next row: k to marker, turn £ Next row: p to marker, turn £ Rep last two rows, working an additional four sts after last turn on each side five times, then an additional three sts after last turn on each side four times, then an additional two sts after last turn on each side five times, then an additional one st after last turn on each side six times, to form bottom curve £ Cont in st st without shaping until work meas 32cm £ Cast on 7 (7, 7, 8, 8) sts at beg of next two rows. 142 (152, 168, 184, 200) sts £ Cont in st st without shaping until work meas 42cm
Shape armholes Cast off at beg of next two rows as folls:
First size only £ Five sts once, four sts once, three sts twice, two sts twice and one st three times. 98 sts
Second size only £ Five sts once, four sts twice, three sts twice, two sts three times and one st once. 100 sts
£ Cont in st st without shaping until work meas 64 (65, 66, 67, 68) cm, ending after a WS row £ Next row: cast off 4 (4, 5, 5, 6) sts, k until there are 37 (37, 39, 40, 42) sts on right needle, turn and work on these sts for first side £ Next row (WS): cast off six sts, p to end £ Cont to shape neck by casting off six sts at beg of next WS row and five sts at beg of foll WS row AT THE SAME TIME shape shoulder by casting off at beg of RS rows as folls: 5 (5, 5, 5, 6) sts 4 (4, 2, 1, 3) times and then 0 (0, 6, 6, 7) sts 0 (0, 2, 3, 1) times £ Rejoin yarn to rem sts, cast off next 16 (18, 18, 18, 18) sts, complete to match first side, reversing shapings
FRONT £ Work as for Back until armhole shaping is complete. 98 (100, 106, 108, 114) sts
All sizes £ Cont in st st without shaping until work meas 55 (56, 57, 58, 59) cm, ending after a WS row £ Next row: k41 (41, 44, 45, 48), turn and work on these sts for first side £ Next row (WS): cast off four sts, p to end £ Cont to shape neck by casting off three sts at beg of next WS row, two sts at beg of next WS row and one st at beg of next WS row and then casting off one st at beg of every alt WS row seven times, AT THE SAME TIME when work meas 64 (65, 66, 67, 68) cm shape shoulder by casting off at beg of RS rows as folls: 4 (4, 5, 5, 6) sts 1 (1, 3, 2, 4) times and then 5 (5, 6, 6, 7) sts 4 (4, 2, 3, 1) times £ Rejoin yarn to rem sts, cast off next 16 (18, 18, 18, 18) sts, complete to match first side, reversing shapings
SLEEVE (make two) Using 2.25mm needles, cast on 86 (90, 94, 98, 106) sts £ Work in k2, p2 rib for 3cm Change to 3mm needles £ K one row, inc 0 (0, 2, 2, 0) sts across row. 86 (90, 96, 100, 106) sts Working incs two sts in from each end of row, cont in st st as folls: £ Inc one st at each end of every foll 16th (12th, 12th, 10th, 10th) row 4 (6, 1, 2, 2) times and every foll 14th (10th, 10th, 8th, 8th) row 1 (1, 7, 8, 8) times. 96 (104, 112, 120, 126) sts £ Cont without shaping until Sleeve meas 26cm Shape sleeve cap
Creating the
CURVE The hem of this sweater is created using short rows, meaning you turn before you reach the end of the row and work back. The curve shape is made by working a few more stitches after the last turn on every row. The pattern tells you how many extra stitches to work. For example, one your first two short rows you just work to where the markers are and turn, but on your next ten rows you work to where you previously turned and then work and additional four stitches before turning. Your row gets longer each time and a gentle curve is created.
Cast off at beg of next two rows as folls:
First size only £ Two sts five times, one st 18 times, two sts five times. 20 sts
Second size only £ Three sts twice, two sts three times, one st 18 times, two sts three times, three sts twice. 20 sts
Third size only £ Three sts twice, two sts five times, one st 14 times, two sts five times and three sts twice. 20 sts
Fourth size only £ Three sts twice, two sts seven times, one st ten times, two sts seven times and three sts twice. 20 sts
Fifth size only £ Four sts once, three sts twice, two sts six times, one st 11 times, two sts five times, three sts twice and four sts once. 20 sts
All sizes £ Cast off rem 20 sts
Love this?
BOTTOM TRIM BANDS £ Using 2.25mm needles and with RS facing, starting at top of slit, pick up and k 256 (272, 288, 308, 328) sts along edge of bottom hem to top of slit on opposite side £ Work in k2, p2 rib for 3cm £ Cast off £ Rep for second piece
NECKBAND Join right shoulder seam £ Using 2.25mm needles and RS facing, beg at left shoulder, pick up and k 170 (174, 174, 174, 174, 174) sts around neck edge £ Work in k2, p2 rib for 3cm £ Cast off
TO MAKE UP Join left shoulder and Neckband seam. Sew sleeves into armholes. Join side seams as far as start of curve on ribbed section, stitching edges of trim bands to body. Join Sleeve seams. Weave in ends and see ball band for further care instructions LK
Plus Size Knits by Marie Claire Editions offers 25 patterns for sweaters and accessories. From stylish jumpers to cosy cardigans, there are so many fantastic designs for you to enjoy. This book also includes helpful size charts and diagrams, so you will have everything you need to produce the perfect project. Published by Fox Chapel Publishing, you can pick up a paperback copy for £14.99 from amazon.co.uk
24 24 letsknit.co.uk letsknit.co.uk
THE STYLE
Edit I V E TO
IV
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Rainbow SWEATER
•
E X C L US
•
C EX
BE MORE BOLD WITH JULIA HOWE’S STRIKING KNIT
EXCLU S TO •
If you are fairly new to knitting and would like to experiment with colourwork, this pattern is a fantastic place to start. The majority of this garment is worked in stocking stitch and only requires a small amount of simple shaping. However, there are two stripe patterns for you to try your hand at. Simple yet effective, these stripes will transform your plain white sweater into a trendy statement piece that could be straight off the runway
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES
Easy to
KNIT!
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
Dress size (approx): 8-10 (12-14, 16-18, 20-22) To fit bust (cm): 81-86 (91-97, 102-107, 112-117) Actual bust (cm): 95.5 (106, 117, 128) Length to shoulder on back (cm): 58 (60, 62, 64)
ABOUT THE YARN
KNIT KIT
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE?
Yarn: Scheepjes Softfun, shades (A) 2412 White, 8 (9, 9, 10) 50g balls, (B) 2410 Red, (C) 2518 Yellow, (D) 2614 Turquoise, one 50g ball of each Needles: 3mm, 3.75mm Stitch holders Tapestry needle
Cascade Yarns Sarasota is a cotton and acrylic mix which is easy-care and machine-washable. Available in a range of vibrant shades, it costs £5.99 per 100g (287m) ball from 01409 404010, lovecrafts.com
Scheepjes Softfun is super-soft and extremely gentle on the skin. Suited to a wide range of products, this clever blend of cotton and acrylic costs £2.49 per 50g (140m) ball from lusciouslyloopy.co.uk
TENSION SQUARE n 22 sts x 28 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking Stitch n 3.75mm needles
Stress-free
SHAPING When faced with a long instruction that has several steps it may help to jot down each stage separately in a notebook so you can tick them off as you go. When you see the direction ‘AT THE SAME TIME’ this means you need to combine two instructions, so be sure to read the whole section through first before you start.
25 25 letsknit.co.uk letsknit.co.uk
WIDE STRIPE PATT
NARROW STRIPE PATT
£ Work four rows in yarn B £ Work two rows in yarn A £ Work four rows in yarn C £ Work two rows in yarn A £ Work four rows in yarn D These 16 rows form Wide Stripe Patt
£ Work two rows in yarn B £ Work two rows in yarn A £ Work two rows in yarn C £ Work two rows in yarn A £ Work two rows in yarn D These ten rows form Narrow Stripe Patt
BACK Using 3mm needles and yarn A, cast on 107 (119, 131, 143) sts £ K two rows Change to 3.75mm needles £ Beg with a k (RS) row, work ten rows in st st NOTE: Back should meas approx 4cm at this point Beg with a k row, cont in st st as folls: £ Work Wide Stripe Patt once £ Cont in yarn A only until Back meas 32cm, ending after a p row £ Work Narrow Stripe Patt once £ Cont in yarn A only for two rows, pm at each end of row for Sleeves £ Cont without shaping until Back meas 56 (58, 60, 62) cm ending after a WS row
Shape back neck £ Next row: k 46 (50, 57, 60) sts, turn and leave rem sts on a holder £ Cast off 4 (4, 5, 5) sts at beg of next and two foll alt rows. 34 (38, 42, 45) sts £ Cast off £ With RS facing, rejoin yarn to rem sts, cast off centre 15 (19, 17, 23) sts loosely and complete to match first side, reversing shapings
FRONT £ Work as for Back until Front has 18 (18, 20, 20) rows fewer than on Back to shoulder, ending after a WS row
Shape neck £ Next row: k 47 (52, 59, 62) sts, turn and leave rem sts on holder £ Cast off three sts at beg of next and 2 (2, 3, 3) foll alt rows then dec one st at neck edge on next 4 (5, 5, 5) rows. 34 (38, 42, 45) sts £ Cont without shaping until Front matches Back to shoulder, ending after a p row £ Cast off £ With RS facing, rejoin yarn to rem sts, cast off centre 13 (15, 13, 19) sts loosely and complete to match first side, reversing shapings
great
ADVICE “When working in the stripe pattern, carry yarn A loosely up the side of your work.”
LK DESIGNER, Julia
Howe
SLEEVE (make two) Using 3mm needles and yarn A, cast on 57 (61, 65, 69) sts £ K two rows Change to 3.75mm needles £ Beg with a k row, work 24 rows in st st NOTE: Sleeve should meas approx 9cm at this point £ Work Narrow Stripe Patt once then cont in yarn A only AT THE SAME TIME shape sides by inc one st at each end of third and 3 (6, 12, 16) foll fourth rows, then inc one st at each end of every foll sixth row 16 (15, 12, 10) times. 97 (105, 115, 123) sts £ Cont without shaping until Sleeve meas 46 (48, 50, 52) cm £ Cast off
NECK BORDER Do not press. Join right shoulder seam £ Using 3mm needles and yarn A, with RS facing, beg at top of left shoulder, pick up and k 17 (17, 19, 19) sts down left side of Front neck, 13 (15, 13, 19) sts across Front neck, 17 (17, 19, 19) sts up right side of Front neck to shoulder and 36 (40, 44, 50) sts around Back neck. 83 (89, 95, 107) sts £ Inc row: p3 (5, 4, 5), [pfb, p5 (5, 6, 7)], five times, pfb, p2 (5, 6, 4), [pfb, p3 (3, 3, 4)] 11 times, pfb, p2 (3, 4, 1). 101 (107, 113, 125) sts £ K five rows £ Cast off
TO MAKE UP Join remaining shoulder and neck border. Place centre of cast-off edge of Sleeve to shoulder and sew in position between markers. Join side and Sleeve seams LK
26 letsknit.co.uk
Jeans, £17.99, H&M; Shoes, £45, River Island
Start knitting here...
Country COLLECTION
Super Stripes
Inspired by the birds of Great Britain and knitted in classic British Bluefaced Leicester Wool, the Country Sock Collection from West Yorkshire Spinners offers the perfect mix of tradition and innovation. The stunning end result is easy to achieve, as you will be working with a clever self-striping yarn that is available in a selection of attractive colourways. This particular pair has been knitted in shade Peacock. The relevant pattern and yarn costs £16.95 from wyspinners.com
Hand-dyed in South Yorkshire by Claire Nettleship Yarns, this self-striping, 4ply sock yarn is available in a selection of gorgeous shades. A clever blend of superwash merino and nylon, one 100g (425m) skein costs £19 from 01433 620933, woolfull.com
READY TO READ
This Month
WE’RE LOVING...
Socks!
Treat your feet with this exciting collection of 26 sock designs. Accessible, engaging and seriously inspirational, Colorful Knit Socks by Kerstin Balke (Stackpole Books) costs £15.95 from amazon.co.uk
IT’S RARE TO FIND A KNITTER WHO DOESN’T LOVE SOCKS, SO WE’RE CELEBRATING THIS FANTASTIC FORM OF FOOTWEAR!
SOCIAL MEDIA STARS @kbjdesigns Jo’s Instagram bio reads “love knitting – especially socks”, what more do you need to know! 1
IN IT TO PIN IT! We can’t think of a better way to express your love of knitting socks than with this multi-coloured pin badge! Whether you use it to decorate your project bag or wear it proudly on your favourite sweater, your fellow crafters are sure to shower you with compliments. Approximately 30mm in height and featuring a metal fastener, this handmade accessory costs £6 from mrsgmakes.etsy.com
2 @myrna_dh As if being a midwife and a mum of three wasn’t enough, Myrna also has a talent for knitting socks. 3 @fenwench How could you say no to a feed filled with scrappy socks and an adorable ginger kitty?
27 letsknit.co.uk
Achieve perfection!
BLOCK IT OFF If you are a perfectionist who is always on the lookout for a handy craft tool, you are going to love these Aqua Sock Blockers from KnitPro™. Sturdy yet flexible, they are available in sizes small, medium and large. Achieve the perfect sock shape and even out your stitches in no time at all. For more information visit, knitpro.eu
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ACCESSORY
pattern
Diamond DAYS
VE
IV
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SI
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EXCLU
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STAND OUT WITH THIS VIBRANT SHOPPER FROM SIÂN BROWN If you are an eco-conscious crafter it’s likely that you have already sworn off plastic bags, but keeping your resolve has never been easier thanks to this gorgeous rainbow make. Not only does this project provide an excellent introduction to knitting with multiple yarn shades, it is also a great choice for ambitious crafters who want to understand the basics of following a chart.
great ADVICE “On the chart the RS rows are read right to left and the WS rows are read left to right.”
LK DESIGNER, Siân
31 letsknit.co.uk
Brown
EXCLU TO • S
Start knitting here SIDE PANEL (make two)
OU W H A T YT O NEED .. KNOW.
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
SUPER CHUNKY YARN
7MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 25cm wide x 30cm deep
KNIT KIT Yarn: DMC Natura XL shades (A) 87 Seafoam, two 100g balls, (B) 44 Pink, (C) 82 Mustard, one 100g ball Needles: 7mm straight, 7mm circular Lining fabric Press stud
TENSION SQUARE n 12 sts x 17 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 7mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN DMC Natura XL is a super-chunky 100% cotton yarn. From neutral shades to stunning brights, there are a wide range of colours on offer. This incredibly soft fibre costs £4.49 per 100g (75m) ball from purplelindacrafts.co.uk
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? Cygnet Whopper Cotton is a fabulous blend of cotton and acrylic. Knitters and crochet fans alike will enjoy this super-chunky fibre. It costs £3.79 per 100g (66m) ball from cygnetyarnshop.co.uk
Using 7mm needles and yarn A, cast on 33 sts £ Beg with a k (RS) row, work two rows in st st £ * K three rows £ P one row Work Chart as folls: NOTE: shaded sts do not form part of chart repeat £ Row 1 (RS): k1, work Chart three times, k1 £ Row 2: p1, work Chart three times, p1 These two rows set position of Chart £ Cont until 11 rows of Chart have been worked £ Next row (WS): p * Change to Yarn B £ Work from * to * Change to yarn C £ Work from * to * Change to yarn A £ K two rows, inc two sts evenly across first row. 35 sts
Border £ Row 1 (RS): * k1, k2tog, yfwd, k1, yfwd, skpo, k1, rep from * to end £ Row 2: * p2tog tbl, yrn, p3, yrn, p2tog, rep from * to end £ Row 3: * k1, yfwd, k2tog, k1, skpo, yfwd, k1, rep from * to end £ Row 4: * p2, yrn, p3tog, yrn, p2, rep from * to end £ Rep Rows 1-4 once more £ Cast off
STRAP Using 7mm needles and yarn A, cast on 90 sts £ Work seven rows in st st £ Cast off
TO MAKE UP Pin and sew bottom seam. Pin and sew side seams using mattress stitch. Sew on Strap at top of side seams with side
Lining your BAG Your knitted piece provides a starting point to create a template for your lining fabric. Your basic shape will be the width of the bag plus twice the depth. It is better to have the lining slightly shorter than the bag to stop it being loose at the top, and slightly less wide. You also need to add 1cm around all the edges to allow for seaming. seam centred. Cut a piece of lining fabric the width of Bag plus seam allowances, and twice the depth of Bag plus seam allowances. Fold over one of top edges and sew in place. Put lining inside bag and fold over and pin second top piece to fit just below top of knitted bag. Fold second top edge and sew in place. Pin side seams, try inside bag and adjust to fit. Sew side seams. Pin lining into bag and hand sew in place. Sew on press stud at centre top LK NOTE: unshaded sts are repeated across row.
11
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Stocking stitch Reverse stocking stitch
1
32 letsknit.co.uk
Next issue CABLED DENIN-EFFECT BAG BY JACINTA BOWIE May issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 9TH APRIL
TO
US
SIVE TO • E X C
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4MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 36cm x 36cm
KNIT KIT Yarn: Deramores Studio DK, shades (A) Aqua Green, (B) Citrine, (C) Lime, (D) Burnt Orange, (E) Raspberry, (F) Sky, (G) Heather, (H) Lapis, one 100g ball of each Needles: 4mm Tapestry needle Cushion pad: 35cm
TENSION SQUARE n 22 sts x 28 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking st n 4mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN Deramores Studio DK is a fantastic 100% anti-pilling acrylic. This yarn can be machine washed on a gentle setting and is available in an impressive number of shades. It costs £1.86 per 100g (250m) ball from 0845 519 4573, deramores.com
15% OFF AT DERAMORES. USE THE CODE BUNNY
LOOK! Special discount packs with all the yarn you need are available at deramores.com/ collections/lets-knit A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY ESSENTI ALS
FIND YOURS ON P87
BRIGHTEN UP YOUR HOME WITH NICOLA VALIJI’S VIBRANT MAKE Spring has officially sprung and here at Let’s Knit HQ we couldn’t be happier! So we thought it made sense to celebrate with a bright and cheery make. Formed from four mitred squares, each featuring three stunning shades of yarn, this exciting home accessory is the ideal project for busy crafters who favour knits that can be completed in stages. Just remember to leave plenty of time for sewing up! COLOURWAYS £ Colourway 1: yarn A, yarn B, yarn C £ Colourway 2: yarn D, yarn E, yarn F £ Colourway 3: yarn G, yarn A, yarn H £ Colourway 4: yarn C, yarn D, yarn E
Start knitting here... MITRED SQUARE (make eight, two in each colourway) Using 4mm needles and yarn A (D, G, C) cast on 59 sts £ Row 1 and every alt row: k £ Row 2 (RS): k28, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k28. 57 sts £ Row 4: k27, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k27. 55 sts £ Row 6: k26, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k26. 53 sts £ Row 8: k25, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k25. 51 sts £ Row 10: k24, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k24. 49 sts £ Row 12: k23, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k23. 47 sts £ Row 14: k22, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k22. 45 sts £ Row 15: k Change to yarn B (E, A, D) £ Row 16: k21, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k21. 43 sts £ Row 18: k20, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k20. 41 sts £ Row 20: k19, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k19. 39 sts £ Row 22: k18, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k18. 37 sts £ Row 24: k17, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k17. 35 sts £ Row 26: k16, sl 2, k1, p2sso,
34 letsknit.co.uk
k16. 33 sts £ Row 28: k15, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k15. 31 sts £ Row 30: k14, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k14. 29 sts £ Row 31: k Change to yarn C (F, H, E) £ Row 32: k13, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k13. 27 sts £ Row 34: k12, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k12. 25 sts £ Row 36: k11, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k11. 23 sts £ Row 38: k10, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k10. 21 sts £ Row 40: k9, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k9. 19 sts £ Row 42: k8, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k8. 17 sts £ Row 44: k7, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k7. 15 sts £ Row 46: k6, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k6. 13 sts
Mitred
SQUARES The cast-on edge will form two sides of your square, so you must cast on twice the number of stitches than required for just one side. You will be decreasing in the middle of every alternate row. This will result in your cast-on edge forming a neat point that will eventually transform into the corner of your square. For this pattern you will decrease your stitches by completing a “sl 2, k1, p2sso”. This instruction asks you to slip your next two stitches knitwise, knit one stitch and pass the slipped stitches over it.
LU
CUSHION
• E XC
IVE
T O
DK YARN
E
Colour Pop
OU W H A T YT O D NEE .. KNOW.
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
• EXCLUSIV
HOME
pattern
Diagona l EFFECT
£ Row 48: k5, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k5. 11 sts £ Row 50: k4, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k4. Nine sts £ Row 52: k3, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k3. Seven sts £ Row 54: k2, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k2. Five sts £ Row 56: k1, sl 2, k1, p2sso, k1. Three sts £ Row 57: sl 2, k1, p2sso. One st £ Fasten off
TO MAKE UP Referring to Placement of Squares Chart and using image as a guide, sew four squares together for Front and four squares together for Back on wrong side. Sew front and back together on wrong side leaving a gap to place cushion pad inside. Turn right side out. Place cushion pad inside cover and sew up the hole LK
great
ADVICE “When starting the squares it is difficult to tell which is the RS, so place a marker on the front to help.”
LK DESIGNER, Nicola
Valiji
PLACEMENT OF SQUARES
1
2
4
3
2
1
3
4
BACK
35 letsknit.co.uk
ADVERTORIAL
FREE PATTERNS! At cascadeyarns.com there is a great selection of free downloadable patterns for you to enjoy
SPRING INTO THE
NEW SEASON WITH
REBOUND For eco-conscious crafters ReBound and ReVerb are the perfect yarns for knitting new season projects. Both yarns have been created using Recycled PET from water bottles, with ReBound combined with reclaimed cotton that has been spun to create a fabulous tweed like texture and ReVerb spun with a reclaimed alpaca fibre to provide an elegant rustic texture. Both yarns are available in a selection of fashionable shades and cost £7.18 each per 100g skein.
DID YOU KNOW?
ANTHEM RONDO
Cascade Yarns was founded in the late 1980’s and is still a family run business to this day producing over 80 different yarns!
This generous yarn cake transitions through five self-striping shades which is ideal for colourful blankets and accessories that are sure to be the envy of your fellow knitters. The yarn is available in a range of gorgeous shades and costs £7.18 per 200g ball.
PARADIGM SHIFT LITE With the warmer weather approaching, this lightweight cotton is a must-have for summer garments and accessories. The yarn transitions through colours, gradually creating beautiful effects for shawls. The yarn is available in six shades and costs £17.94 per 200g ball.
LLAMA LACE This new 100% baby llama yarn is sure to be on every knitter’s wish list! This lace weight yarn provides a beautiful drape, subtle sheen and offers over 600 yards per skein. It will create the most stunning shawls, wraps and featherlight garments. The yarn is available in a range of scrumptious shades and costs £15.25 per 100g skein.
CASCADE 220® MERINO
Keep up to date with the latest news and yarn launches from Cascade Yarns on social media! You can follow the company on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Ravelry and Pinterest.
The much adored yarn brand's flagship fibre is now available in a soft 100% merino version. It has the same gauge and twist that knitters love about the original yarn, but is spun with softer Merino Wool. As a result, it offers a softer feel against the skin making it a great choice for garments and accessories. The yarn is available in over 50 shades and costs £10.76 per 100g skein.
All the yarns featured on the page are available to buy at lovecrafts.com 36 letsknit.co.uk
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SPRING Celebration
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We often feel that garter stitch is under-used in many patterns, but it’s a great choice for this simple bunting as the edges don’t curl. The cotton yarn gives definition to the stitches so shows off the texture well. Feel free to get creative with colour as you need just 25g of each shade. Finish off each triangle flag with a fun tassel.
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KNIT YOUR OWN REUSABLE PARTY DEC WITH LUCINDA GANDERTON’S EASY BUNTING
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Make this for UNDER £7! 37 letsknit.co.uk
OU W H A T YT O NEED .. KNOW.
PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS
DK YARN
3.75MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Bunting: 2m long Flags: 12cm wide x 19cm tall
KNIT KIT Yarn: Rico Ricorumi DK, shades (A) 001 White, (B) 006 Yellow, (C) 014 Fuchsia, (D) 015 Berry, (E) 026 Tangerine, (F) 031 Sky Blue, (G) 047 Pistachio, one 25g ball of each Needles: 3.75mm Crochet hook: 5mm Tapestry needle
TENSION SQUARE
FLAG 13
BASIC TRIANGLE
n 22 sts x 28 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 3.75mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN Rico Ricorumi DK is a cotton yarn that comes in mini 25g balls making it an economical choice when you require lots of shades. It costs 99p per 25g (57m) ball from 01925 764231, blacksheepwools.com
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? Use DK yarn from your stash or visit your local yarn shop! A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY ESSENTI ALS
FIND YOURS ON P87
great ADVICE “If you can’t crochet, use tape or ribbon for the bunting string”
LK DESIGNER, Lucinda
Ganderton
£ Rows 37-48: yarn G
£ Rows 1-18: yarn E £ Rows 19-34: work in four-row stripe sequence of yarn B, yarn E £ Rows 35-38: yarn B £ Rows 39-48: yarn E
FLAG 3
BUNTING STRING
Start knitting here...
NOTE: see Flag instructions for colours Using 3.75mm needles, cast on two sts £ Rows 1-2: k to end £ Row 3: (kfb) to end. Four sts £ Rows 4-6: k to end £ Row 7: k1, (kfb) twice, k1. Six sts £ Rows 8-10: k to end £ Row 9: k1, kfb, k2, kfb, k1. Eight sts £ Rows 10-12: k to end £ Rows 13: k1, kfb, k4, kfb, k1. Ten sts £ Rows 14-16: k to end £ Row 17: k1, kfb, k6, kfb, k1. 12 sts £ Rows 18-20: k to end £ Row 21: k1, kfb, k8, kfb, k1. 14 sts £ Cont in garter st inc one st at each end of every fourth row as set until there are 26 sts £ Rows 46-48: k to end Change to yarn A for all flags £ Rows 49-51: k to end £ Row 52: p to end £ Row 53: k2tog, (yfwd, k2tog) to end. 25 sts £ Row 54: p to end £ Cast off, leaving a 20cm tail
FLAGS 1, 5, 7, 10 AND 12 £ Work Rows 1-48 in yarn F (E, C, G, D)
£ Rows 1-28: yarn C £ Rows 29-36: yarn D £ Rows 37-48: yarn C
£ Using 5mm crochet hook and yarn F held double, make a crochet chain meas 2m
FLAG 4
TO MAKE UP
£ Rows 1-40: work in four-row stripe sequence of yarn F, yarn A £ Rows 41-44: yarn F £ Rows 45-48: yarn B
Cut a long length of first yarn used for each Flag and thread it through bottom point eight times, making 10cm loops. Thread cast-off tail through a tapestry needle. Bind it around top of loops several times to make tassel. Pass tail down through centre of tassel. Block Flag and trim tassel to 6cm. Wrap one end of Bunting tape tightly with sticky tape and thread it through eyelets on each Flag. Remove tape and make two tassels from remaining yarn as before at each end of bunting LK
FLAG 6 £ Rows 1-12: yarn B £ Rows 13-18: yarn E £ Rows 19-30: yarn C £ Rows 31-34: yarn D £ Rows 35-42: yarn F £ Rows 43-48: yarn G
FLAG 8 £ Rows 1-12: yarn F £ Rows 13-28: work in four-row stripe sequence of yarn G, yarn F £ Rows 29-32: yarn G £ Rows 33-48: yarn F
FLAG 9 £ Rows 1-14: yarn D £ Rows 15-26: yarn F £ Rows 27-32: yarn G £ Rows 33-36: yarn B £ Rows 37-44: yarn E £ Rows 45-48: yarn C
FLAG 11 FLAG 2 £ Rows 1-20: yarn B £ Rows 21-36: work in four-row stripe sequence of yarn G, yarn B
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£ Rows 1-30: yarn C £ Rows 31-42: work in two-row stripe sequence of yarn E, yarn C £ Rows 43-48: yarn E
Changing
COLOUR On most patterns with narrow stripes, we’d recommend carrying the yarn up the side of the work. However, this will be very noticeable on your bunting flags, so it will be neater to cut and rejoin the yarn each time. Weave in the ends as you go - apart from the initial cast-on tail - so there is less sewing up at the end.
STYLECRAFT SPECIAL FOR BABIES ARAN, shade 1233 Lemon. £2.29 per 100g (184m) ball from 01795 570303, theknitting network.co.uk
PAINTBOX YARNS RECYCLED RIBBON, shade 016 Yellow. £8 per 250g (120m) ball from 01409 404010, lovecrafts.com
SCHEEPJES NAMASTE, 600 Sphinx. £6.29 per 100g (85m) ball from 0800 505 3300, woolwarehouse.co.uk
YELLOW BAG, £22, 0344 984 0261, dorothyperkins.com
STYLECRAFT SPECIAL DK & WONDERSOFT MERRY GO ROUND DK 9395 SWEATERS, for stockists visit stylecraft-yarns.co.uk
Mellow YELLOW
STRIPE TASSEL STRAP DRESS, £39.50, 0208 974 0110, oliverbonas.com
RICO CREATIVE SILKY TOUCH DK, shade 009 Pastel Yellow. £3.59 per 100g (220m) ball from thewoolfactory online.com
EMBRACE TRANQUILLITY WITH THESE PRETTY PICKS WEST YORKSHIRE SPINNERS BLUEFACED LEICESTER ARAN, shade 201 Catkin. £4.40 per 50g (83m) ball from 01829 740903, laughinghens.com
ROWAN KIDSILK HAZE, shade 670 Vanilla. £8.49 per 25g (210m) ball from 01925 764231, blacksheepwools.com JAMES C. BRETT IT'S PURE COTTON, shade IC02. RRP £2.99 per 100g (215m) ball. For stockists visit jamescbrett.co.uk
YELLOW JUMPER, £19.99, 0333 200 6014, bonprix.co.uk
KING COLE COTTONSOFT DK, shade 1600 Buttercup. £3.59 per 100g (210m) ball from 0845 519 4573, deramores.com
GELLY HI SHINE NAIL PAINT, shade Lemon Sorbet, £3.99 from barrym.com
FLEXI SLIDER, £22, 0344 984 0266, wallis.co.uk RARA RAFFIA HOOP EARRINGS, £12, uk.accessorize.com
39 letsknit.co.uk
colour
CRAFT
WITH
BE COLOUR CONFIDENT WITH THESE BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL IDEAS
Many of us tend to err on the side of caution when it comes to clothes, even more so when we make them ourselves. Knitting a garment takes time and no-one wants to choose a shade they might not wear at the end of it. However, with a bit of guidance, you can start to feel a bit more adventurous. Helen Venables, managing director of House of Colour, is here to offer her expert tips, and we’ve found a fantastic selection of yarn and pattern inspiration to kickstart your colour journey.
RAINBOW
REDS
Colour Secrets “The colours that suit us are determined by the depth, hue and tone of our skin pigment,” explains House of Colour MD Helen Venables. “We either suit warm or cool tones, and bright or soft muted tones. Your outfits, make up, accessories and hair colour are best chosen according to which of these four quadrants your skin tones sits in. Enjoy adding an accent colour to your knitwear by adding detail or jewellery to lift and add style kudos.” House of Colour offers in depth analysis to help you identify your colour season. Visit houseofcolour.co.uk
If you can’t decide on just one or two shades, why not use them all? Off-set bold bright hues against neutral backgrounds like grey or white for a stylish look.
“Primary red suits every skin tone because it is neither blue nor yellow, but we all have other reds we can wear depending on whether we suit cool or warm, bright or soft reds. Some of us will be radiant in cherry, others in brick reds, some will look incredible in carmine, whilst others will positively glow in geranium.”
Cygnet Cottony DK, shade 200 Poppy
Stylecraft 9619 Jeanie Aran
Ellen (top) and Earhart (below), from Rowan Mag 67
Porlock, from Rowan Cape Bay West Yorkshire Spinners Illustrious DK, shade 508
James C. Brett Top Value DK, shade 8426
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Debbie Bliss Bridgitte Jumper, lovecrafts.com
Helen’s Perfect Pairings CHECK OUT THESE CLEVER COMBINATIONS TO TRY!
BLUES
Debbie Bliss Lace Knot Top, lovecrafts.com
“Everyone has shades of blue that suit them but some of us have slightly more of a blue tone to our skin and will either suit soft and blended blues such as air force blue or powder blue, or icy, jewel-like blues like royal or electric blue. Warm-toned skin types will still suit certain warm blues such as bright navy, aquamarine or kingfisher.” Rowan Handknit Cotton, shade 346 Atlantic
Stylecraft Classique Cotton DK, shade 3669 Nocturne
Opt for moss green and a saffron or mustard if you have a rich, Autumn palette.
King Cole leaflet 5395 Stylecraft leaflet 9751
Rico Creative Cotton Aran, shade 47 Petrol
NEUTRALS
YELLOWS
“Neutrals are an important part of our wardrobe. Autumn colour palettes suit rich, warm earthy colours, whilst Springs suit warm, clear colour choices like chocolate, dove grey, bright navy, honey and cream. Winters look gorgeous in deep, cool colours such as silver, black and stone and Summers suit cool, subtle neutrals such as mushroom, soft navy and burgundy. Bergere de Neutral has never France, Mag been less neutral!” 14 Berlingo,
“Most of us can wear a yellow. Think about the difference between warm vivid sunflowers, versus cool acid yellow or rich, warm shades of yellow such as saffron, mustard and amber. For some it can be easier to wear a small amount of yellow rather than the whole Emma Stone sundress look but it is such a happy colour!”
Shell Stitch Top by Siân Brown, download the pattern at letsknit.co.uk
design 9 King Cole Bamboo Cotton, shade 522 Grey
The Pantone Colour Institute has announced that the colour of 2020 is the beautiful ‘Classic Blue’ so expect to see it all over the shops! Other key colour trends include pairing aqua with bright navy and a touch of cream if you suit bright warm colours.
Rowan Island Blend Fine, shade 102 Regalia
Rico Design pattern 1003, Top in Fashion Cotton Metallise DK CHECK OUT OUR MELLOW YELLOW YARN AND SHOPPING IDEAS ON PAGE 39!
Cascade Yarns Llamerino, shade 02 Almond
Patons Lace Jacket, knitpatons.com
DROPS pattern 200-31, garnstudio.com
41 letsknit.co.uk
On the other hand if you look gorgeous in bright cool colours then slide on an on-trend bold scarlet red worked alongside a neutral such as charcoal, white or black.
Cool Summers look effortlessly stylish in this season’s lilac and purples with a dash of gorgeous silver jewellery!
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Book
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CHOICE
UPDATE YOUR READING LIST WITH THESE INSPIRING TITLES!
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Our top pick...
Chunky knits
WARM HANDS
by Alyssarhaye Graciano (Page Street Publishing Co., £16.99)
Edited by Jeanette Sloan and Kate Davies (KDD & Co, £22) The saying may be “cold hands, warm heart” but thanks to this exciting new release you can enjoy the best of both worlds! Featuring 15 fresh designs that you are destined to fall in love with, Warm Hands offers both classic knits and interesting new techniques. From delicate wristlets to pretty fingerless gloves, there are so many gorgeous projects for you to enjoy.
Whether you are already of fan of working with bulky yarns or you are yet to uncover their benefits, you need to get your hands on a copy of Chunky Knits. Even as we move into the warmer seasons the British weather ensures a cosy scarf and hat duo will never go to waste, plus this title features plenty of stylish and durable knits that can be displayed in your home all year round. Look no further for quick and accessible projects!
HIGHLIGHTS: The elbow-length cabled gauntlets
LEARN SOMETHING WITH... Knitting Know-How by CICO Books (CICO Books, £9.99) This informative title has everything you need to enhance your skillset and approach your projects with a new-found confidence. It even includes tips for experienced knitters who are tired of settling for anything less than perfection. Don’t miss out on the step-by-step instructions and clear colour artworks. HIGHLIGHTS: The top tips for picking up a dropped stitch
Pom Pom Pom by Henry Le (GMC Publications, £14.99) If your collection of crafty titles is solely focused on knitting, now might be the perfect time to think outside the box. Stand out from the crowd with these super-cute pom-pom designs that are anything but ordinary. Of course, you could make the traditional embellishments for your knits, but you could also have a whole lot of fun crafting emojis, animals, fruit, motifs and so much more. With this book in your life, the only limit is your imagination!
This month’s focus... Knitting Knowledge THE KNITTING ANSWER BOOK Margaret Radcliffe (Storey Publishing, £10.99) As the name suggests, this handy guide offers an answer to every possible question you could have about knitting. A brilliant book to have by your side as you tackle your upcoming WIPs, it is an excellent reference tool for both newbie knitters and experienced crafters. Be it using circular needles or working a magic loop, before long you’ll be able to do it all! Must see: the informative section on knitting in the round
LEARN TO KNIT BLOCK BY BLOCK Che Lam (Search Press, £10.99) Learning a new skill can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when there are so many elements for you to consider. If you prefer to take things one step at a time, you are going to love the clear and ordered instructions in this book. Moving at your own pace, you will progress from basic stitches to more challenging techniques. Must see: the helpful guide to lace work
43 letsknit.co.uk
THE KNOWLEDGEABLE KNITTER Margaret Radcliffe (Storey Publishing, £17.99) Once you have mastered the basics of knitting, it is important that you are always striving for more. After all, there are so many exciting techniques for you to uncover! Become the most knowledgeable knitter in your crafting circle with this comprehensive guide. Understand your work, correct your mistakes and show off your skills! Must see: learn how to customise your knits
Established 2008
International Yarns... Locally Check out these stunning summer projects created in King Cole Opium. Stocking yarns and patterns from Stylecraft, Woolcraft, King Cole, Debbie Bliss, Louisa Harding, Opal, Artesano, Schoeller & Stahl, James C Brett & Designer Yarns. Visit our website where we hope you’ll find just what you’re looking for, or maybe something you didn't know you were!!
www.yarnpile.co.uk
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Beautiful BASKET S I V E TO •
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ENJOY ANOTHER IRRESISTIBLE DESIGN FROM SACHIYO ISHII
45 letsknit.co.uk
Take your Easter egg hunts to the next level with this delightful basket. It features pretty flowers in pastel colours that could also work as brooches or present toppers, plus a deceptively easy basket weave effect that you can produce by simply alternating your knit and purl stitches as instructed. Whether you treat your little one or use this make to enhance your spring décor, the results are sure to be incredible!
TO
• EXCLUSI
OU W H A T YT O NEED .. KNOW.
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
DK YARN
Pink Clematis
(make six) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn B, cast on nine sts £ Row 1 (WS): p £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 18 sts £ Row 3: p £ Row 4: (kfb) to end. 36 sts £ Row 5: p6, turn and work on this set of sts £ Row 6: k6, turn £ Row 7: p6, turn £ Row 8: skpo, k2, k2tog turn. Four sts £ Row 9: (p2tog) twice, turn. Two sts £ Row 10: skpo and fasten off £ Rejoin yarn and rep Rows 5-10 until there are six petals in total
3.5MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Diameter: 16.5cm Height: 18cm
KNIT KIT Yarn: Stylecraft Special DK, shade (A) 1835 Buttermilk, one 100g ball, (B) 1833 Blush, (C) 1432 Wisteria, (D) 1001 White, (E) 1841 Cornish Blue, (F) 1263 Citron, (G) 1422 Aspen, oddments of each, oddment of dark purple 4ply Needles: 3.5mm Cardboard circle: 15cm diameter Felt circle: soft yellow, 15cm diameter Sturdy card: 8cm x 52cm, 3cm x 32cm Masking tape Tapestry needle Crochet hook: 2mm
TENSION SQUARE
TO MAKE UP
Start knitting here...
Basket
n 24 sts x 32 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 3.5mm needles
OUTER BASE
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN Stylecraft Special DK is 100% acrylic, super-soft and machine washable on a gentle setting. This versatile yarn is suited to a wide range of projects and is available in a staggering number of shades. It costs £1.95 per 100g (295m) ball from 01795 570303, theknittingnetwork.co.uk
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? King Cole Big Value DK is a machine washable, high-quality acrylic yarn. Available in a selection of shades, including classic tweeds, this fibre is soft to the touch and costs £2.19 per 100g (290m) ball from 0800 505 3300, woolwarehouse.co.uk
10% OFF AT WOOL WAREHOUSE. USE THE CODE LK156. A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY ESSENTI ALS
FIND YOURS ON P87
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £ Row 1 (WS): p £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 20 sts £ Row 3 and every odd-numbered row: p £ Row 4: (k1, kfb) five times, (kfb, k1) five times. 30 sts £ Row 6: (k2, kfb) five times, (kfb, k2) five times. 40 sts £ Row 8: (k3, kfb) five times, (kfb, k3) five times. 50 sts £ Row 10: (k4, kfb) five times, (kfb, k4) five times. 60 sts £ Row 12: (k5, kfb) five times, (kfb, k5) five times. 70 sts £ Row 14: (k6, kfb) five times, (kfb, k6) five times. 80 sts £ Row 16: (k7, kfb) five times, (kfb, k7) five times. 90 sts £ Row 18: (k8, kfb) five times, (kfb, k8) five times. 100 sts £ Row 20: (k9, kfb) five times, (kfb, k9) five times. 110 sts £ Row 22: (k10, kfb) five times, (kfb, k10) five times. 120 sts £ Row 23: p £ Row 24: p for bottom edge
Outer side wall £ Rows 25-30: (p6, k6) to end £ Rows 31-36: (k6, p6) to end £ Rows 37-48: rep Rows
46 letsknit.co.uk
25-36 £ Row 49: k £ Rows 50-52: beg with a k row, work in st st £ Row 53: k for edge
Inner side wall £ Row 54: (k2tog, k18) three times, (k18, k2tog) three times. 114 sts £ Rows 55-79: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Cast off
HANDLE Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on 18 sts £ Work in st st until piece meas 32cm £ Cast off
TO MAKE UP With cast-on yarn end, work a gathering thread along cast-on edge and draw tightly. Sew seam all up to cast-off edge. With masking tape, attach long side of larger strip of card to edge of cardboard circle. Place cardboard inside Basket, fold in knitted piece to cover inner side and secure bottom edge with stitches, piercing from inner bottom edge to outer edge. Place felt circle into Basket. Seam Handle, encasing smaller card strip. Attach Handle to Basket
Weave in fastened-off yarn ends into petals. Work a gathering thread in centre of flower. Using yarn F, make backstitches in centre, leaving a loop every other stitch
White Daisy (make six)
FLOWER CENTRE Using 3.5mm needles and yarn F, cast on eight sts £ Row 1 (WS): (p2tog) four times. Four sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off Stitch ends together to form a circle
Making a
CROCHET CHAIN To form your crochet chain, you will first need to make a slip knot and slide it onto your hook. With the slip knot facing you, bring your yarn over from the back to the front and hook it. Next, pull the yarn through your slip knot to produce your first finished chain stitch. Repeat this process as instructed in the pattern.
PETALS £ Join yarn D to Flower centre and using 2mm hook, * make 8ch, insert hook into edge of Flower centre, wrap yarn around hook and pull through both loops Rep from * to complete eight petals £ Fasten off
Blue ForgetMe-Not (make four)
FLOWER CENTRE Work as for Daisy
PETALS £ Join yarn E to Flower centre and using 2mm hook, * make 4ch, insert hook into edge of Flower centre, wrap yarn around hook and pull through both loops £ Rep from * to complete seven petals £ Fasten off
Purple Pansy
£ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
(make four)
Stitch together both ends of centre to form a circle. Stitch together three petals at fastened-off ends. Attach Flower Centre. Using dark purple 4-ply, embroider lines to petals
TO MAKE UP
PETALS (make three) Using yarn C and 3.5mm needles, cast on five sts £ Row 1 (WS): p £ Row 2: k1, (kfb, k1) twice. Seven sts £ Rows 3-5: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 6: k1, (k2tog, k1) twice. Five sts £ Row 7: p2tog, p1, p2tog. Three sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off FLOWER CENTRE
Leaf
TO MAKE UP Attach flowers and leaves to Basket LK
(make ten)
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn G, cast on three sts £ Row 1 (WS): k1, p1, k1 £ Row 2: kfb, k1, kfb. Five sts £ Row 3: p2, k1, p2 £ Row 4: kfb, k3, kfb. Seven sts £ Row 5: p3, k1, p3 £ Row 6: k £ Row 7: p3, k1, p3
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn F, cast on six sts
£ Row 8: skpo, k to last two sts, k2tog. Five sts £ Row 9: p2, k1, p2 £ Row 10: skpo, k1, k2tog. Three sts £ Row 11: p1, p2tog. Two sts £ Row 12: skpo. One st £ Fasten off
Next issue EMBOSSED LEAF STITCH CUSHION BY SIÂN BROWN May issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 9TH APRIL
47 letsknit.co.uk
HAPPY Easter
OU W H A T YT O D NEE .. KNOW.
USE YOUR YARN PACK TO KNIT SACHIYO ISHII’S ADORABLE MINI MAKES
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
DK YARN
3.5MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Small Bunny: 11cm tall Mummy Duck: 7cm tall Chick: 5cm tall Eggs: 3cm tall Nest: 7cm diameter
KNIT KIT Yarn: (A) Fleecy Brown; DK, shades (B) White, (C) Pink, (D) Yellow, with this issue of Let’s Knit You’ll also need Yarn: (E) Orange DK; Dark Brown 4ply, oddments of each Needles: 3.5mm Beads: 5mm, four; 4mm, four Sewing needle and thread Safety toy stuffing Stitch holder
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN This yarn was produced exclusively for Let’s Knit magazine. It is made from polyester and yarn A has a lovely fleecy texture. The DK knits to a standard tension. We’d recommend handwashing to preserve your knits. You can buy an extra yarn pack at magazinestoyou.com A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S
Add some character to your seasonal display with these easy toys and decorations! Made using our special fluffy yarn and bright DK shades, they are quick to make and are suitable for beginner knitters who are comfortable with increasing and decreasing. You can find the patterns for the rest of our Springtime Friends characters at letsknit.co.uk/eastermakes. Share your photos of your finished makes using the details on page 11.
Start knitting here... NOTE: When there is no indication of RS or WS, the fabric is reversible
Small Bunny BODY
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £ Row 1 (WS): p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 20 sts £ Rows 3-7: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 8: (k2, k2tog) to end. 15 sts £ Rows 9-13: cont in st st £ Row 14: (k1, k2tog) to end. Ten sts £ Cast off
A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY ESSENTI ALS
FIND YOURS ON P87
great
ADVICE “Leave long ends at the beginning and end for sewing up. Sew seam with right side out, using mattress stitch. Instead of bead eyes, you could also embroider French knots with black yarn.”
LK DESIGNER, Sachiyo
Ishii
HEAD Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £ Row 1 (WS): p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 20 sts £ Rows 3-8: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 9: p4, (p2tog) six times, p4. 14 sts Change to yarn B £ Rows 10-15: cont in st st £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
EARS (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on three sts £ Row 1: kfb, k1, kfb. Five sts £ Rows 2-10: k to end £ Row 11: skpo, k3. Four sts £ Row 12: skpo, k2. Three sts
48 letsknit.co.uk
£ Rows 13-14: k to end £ Cast off
ARMS (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £ Beg with a p (WS) row, work six rows in st st £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
LEGS (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on five sts £ Row 1 (WS): p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. Ten sts £ Row 3: p to end £ Row 4: k3, (k2tog) twice, k3. Eight sts £ Row 5: p to end £ Row 6: k3, k2tog, k3. Seven sts £ Rows 7-9: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
TAIL Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on five sts £ Rows 1-3: beg with a p (WS) row, work in st st £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
TO MAKE UP Using cast-on yarn end of Body, gather cast-on edge and draw tightly. Sew seam up to neck and stuff. Keep neck edge open. With fastened-off yarn end of Head, sew muzzle seam. Gather cast-on edge, sew Head a little further, stuff and close seam. Attach Ears. Attach 5mm beads for eyes. Using yarn C, embroider nose, mouth and whiskers. Seam Arms, Legs and Tail. Stuff and attach them to Body. Attach Head to neck
TOY
pattern Super EASY
Gather cast-on edge of Body. Sew Body to neck and stuff. With fastened-off yarn end, sew Head, stuff and gather cast-on edge. Attach Head to Body. Attach Beak. Attach 5mm bead eyes
Chick BODY
(make two)
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn D, cast on 12 sts £ Row 1 (WS): p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 24 sts £ Rows 3-5: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 6: k2tog, (k6, kfb) twice, k6, k2tog £ Row 7: p to end
IVE
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TO MAKE UP
SIVE TO • E X
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn B, cast on ten sts £ Row 1 and all WS rows: p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 20 sts £ Row 4: (k1, kfb) to end. 30 sts £ Row 6: (k2, kfb) to end. 40 sts £ Rows 7-9: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 10: k2tog, k12, kfb, k10, kfb, k12, k2tog £ Row 11: p to end £ Rows 12-15: rep Rows 10-11 twice £ Row 16: (k8, k2tog) to end. 36 sts £ Row 17 and every WS row: p to end £ Row 18: (k4, k2tog) to end. 30 sts £ Row 20: (k3, k2tog) to end. 24 sts £ Row 22: (k2tog) to end. 12 sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
£ Row 2: skpo, k2tog. Two sts £ Pass first st over second st and fasten off
T
LU
Mummy Duck BODY
E
£ Rows 8-9: rep Rows 6-7 £ Row 10: (k2, k2tog) to end. 18 sts £ Row 11: p to end £ Row 12: (k1, k2tog) to end. 12 sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
£ Row 1 (WS): (p2tog) twice. Two sts £ Row 2: skpo. One st £ Fasten off
HEAD
Eggs in nest
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn D, cast on nine sts £ Row 1 (WS): p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 18 sts £ Rows 3-8: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 9: (p2tog) to end. Nine sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
BEAK Using 3.5mm needles and yarn E, cast on four sts
TO MAKE UP Make up as for Mummy Duck using 4mm beads for eyes
NEST Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £ Row 1 (RS): (kfb) to end. 20 sts £ Row 2: k to end £ Row 3: (k1, kfb) to end. 30 sts £ Row 4: k to end £ Row 5: (k2, kfb) to end. 40 sts £ Row 6: k to end £ Cast off
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn B, cast on 12 sts £ Row 1 (WS): p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 24 sts £ Rows 3-11: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 12: (k2tog) to end. 12 sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
EGGS (make one each in yarns B, C and D) Using 3.5mm needles, cast on nine sts £ Row 1 (WS): p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 18 sts £ Rows 3-5: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 6: (k1, k2tog) to end. 12 sts £ Rows 7-9: cont in st st £ Row 10: (k2tog) to end. Six sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
BEAK
TO MAKE UP
Using 3.5mm needles and yarn D, cast on six sts £ Row 1: p2tog, p2, p2tog. Four sts
With fastened-off yarn end, sew Eggs, stuff then gather cast-on edge. Seam Nest and place Eggs inside LK
HEAD
49 letsknit.co.uk
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POUR YOURSELF A CUPPA AND CATCH UP ON THE LATEST NEWS FROM OUR COLUMNIST CLAIRE THOMAS, AND ENJOY OUR KNITTY-THEMED BRAINTEASERS Are these crafty statements true or false? Manx Loaghtan sheep can have six horns
1 2 3 4 5
Sportweight yarn falls between a DK and an aran weight The letter “i” in I-cord stands for “idiot” Herdwick sheep are found in the Lake District Angora yarn comes from Angora goats
Purls of Wisdom
By Claire Thomas There’s no getting away from it, I’m putting on weight. I was never meant to be svelte, mind you, but at least last year my waist looked slightly more like Tippi Hedren’s than Alfred Hitchcock’s. Sadly this is no longer the case. I now have the silhouette of a Moomin and I get out of breath running up stairs. So I know I need to get active. The trouble is that I am not an active person by nature. While my friends run marathons, the only feat of endurance I’m likely to master is the record for longest period of
DICTIONARY CORNER
What is the name of the technique where you cut into a circular piece of knitting?
LETTER SPIN Can you unravel our craft-related anagrams?
CHOSE HOT CORK
KILT NEST
time sat on the same sofa. And I like inactivity. I like sitting quietly working on stuff. The thought of the gym fills me with dread. And how will I get any knitting done? I can’t be the only one. Surely there are other knitters reading this who don’t like the gym either. Surely the world is crying out for a knitting-based workout. And so, here are my ideas for maximising the exercise opportunities presented by knitting. Don’t thank me. It’s my gift to the world: Why deadlift? With weighted needles you can work your biceps while you knit! Weighted cable needles can add that extra push for those who are really working it. Make your own I-cord skipping ropes and use at the end of each row, for extra cardio while you craft. Bum bags are making a
GETTING ACTIVE
ah Cushio n
DESPOTS DITCH REP
renaissance as a key piece of ‘90s nostalgia. Double up on the trend by using yours to carry your yarn so you can knit as you walk, getting your 10,000 steps a day in while finishing that jumper in time for your dad’s birthday. Swap your comfy sofa seat for a medicine ball to bounce on while you knit. It’ll up your heart rate and work your legs - and all without interrupting your flow. And finally, try out some stretches based on knitting movements to keep your muscles supple! Make big circles with your right arm as though you’re doing mattress stitch. (You’d better do some with your left arm as well to keep your muscles equally stretched.) Stretch your legs out straight as though you’re propping up an Afghan in progress while you’re working on it. Jump up suddenly, as though you’ve just realised you’ve sat on half a Dairy Milk while wearing white jeans. Repeat this
Where on Earth?
FACT CHECK
“Crochet E aster wrea th” Sar
FACT CHECK: 1. True, 2. False, 3. True, 4. True, 5. False DICTIONARY CORNER: Steeking LETTER SPIN: 1. Let’s Knit, 2. Crochet hooks, 3. Dropped stitches WHERE ON EARTH: Norway
50
n This country has its own methods of knitting and purling n Selbu mittens originate from here n It’s the home of knitting design team Arne and Carlos
routine as many times as you can be bothered to. A good post-workout routine is essential so ensure you cool down by doing as little as possible for three-quarters of an hour, ideally while watching Pointless. I’m currently working on a range of high-protein snacks to support muscle growth; unfortunately the high-protein Malteser is yet to hit the market, maybe because Mars Confectionery have asked me to stop contacting them. I live in hope, but meanwhile my children’s leftover fish fingers are a legitimate source of protein, if not of chocolatey goodness, so there’s that. It’s also important to build up to exercising gradually, which I’m doing by only thinking about it to begin with. And eating the leftover fish fingers. After all, it wouldn’t do to overstrain myself this early. They do say, it’s never too late to get physically active. Claire Thomas is a freelance journalist and founder of Stitch ‘n’ Bitch group, Knit Pickers
ANSWERS:
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cable bag 3 Bobble cardigan ok -lo nim de n ow ur yo it Kn 2 l tai de f 1 Colourful cushion with lea ve a go with hand-dyed yarn Ha 5 ms tri y eas th wi om hro bat ur yo for ages 0-7 years 4 Boost 51 letsknit.co.uk
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Ballet BUNNY HOP TO IT AND KNIT SUSIE JOHNS’ SUPER-CUTE CRITTER Corina the rabbit loves to dance. In fact, she is a world famous prima ballerina! Although she would make a fabulous Easter gift, she will also keep your little one company all year round. Just imagine how much fun your youngster would have dressing Corina up in a combination of footless tights, a skirt, a crossover cardi, legwarmers and – of course – a handy headband to hold back those floppy ears.
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SIVE TO • E X
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53 letsknit.co.uk
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Start knitting here...
Bunny HEAD GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
DK YARN
3MM, 3.75MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Height: 35cm
KNIT KIT Yarn: King Cole Merino Blend DK, shades (A) 41 Oatmeal, two 50g balls, (B) 1532 Pale Pink, (C) 927 Lavender, (D) 1 White, one 50g ball of each, oddment of black yarn Needles: 3mm, 3.75mm Crochet hook: 3.75mm Tapestry needle Stitch holders Safety toy stuffing Buttons: black with shanks Elastic: 15mm x 45cm
TENSION SQUARE n 19 sts x 30 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 3.75mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN King Cole Merino Blend DK is a soft yet hard-wearing yarn made from 100% superwash merino wool. Anti-tickle and machine washable, it’s an ideal choice for baby knits as well as soft toys. This fab fibre costs £2.99 per 50g (104m) ball from 01795 570303, theknittingnetwork.co.uk
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? West Yorkshire Spinners Colour Lab DK is 100% British wool. Available in 18 stunning solid shades and five self-striping colourways, this beautiful yarn has an RRP of £6.50 per 100g (225m) ball. For stockists, visit wyspinners.com A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY ESSENTI ALS
FIND YOURS ON P87
Using 3mm needles and yarn A, cast on six sts using two-needle method £ Row 1 (RS): (kfb) to end. 12 sts £ Row 2: p £ Row 3: (kfb) to end. 24 sts £ Row 4: p £ Row 5: (k1, kfb) to end. 36 sts £ Row 6: p £ Row 7: (k2, kfb) to end. 48 sts £ Rows 8-16: beg with a p row, work nine rows in st st £ Row 17: (k6, k2tog) to end. 42 sts £ Rows 18-24: beg with a p row, work seven rows in st st £ Row 25: (k5, k2tog) to end. 36 sts £ Rows 26-28: beg with a p row, work three rows in st st £ Row 29: (skpo) eight times, k4, (k2tog) eight times. 20 sts £ Rows 30-32: beg with a p row, work three rows in st st £ Row 33: (skpo) four times, k4, (k2tog) four times. 12 sts £ Row 34: p £ Row 35: (k2tog) to end. Six sts £ Cut yarn leaving a long tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
BODY Using 3mm needles and yarn A, cast on 15 sts £ Row 1 (RS): k £ Row 2: p £ Row 3: (kfb) to end. 30 sts £ Rows 4-6: beg with a p row, work three rows in st st £ Row 7: (k2, kfb) to end. 40 sts £ Rows 8-10: beg with a p row, work three rows in st st £ Row 11: (k7, kfb) to end. 45 sts £ Rows 12-22: beg with a p row, work 11 rows in st st £ Row 23: (k3, k2tog) to end. 36 sts £ Row 24: p £ Row 25: (k3, kfb) to end. 45 sts £ Rows 26-36: beg with a p row, work 11 rows in st st £ Row 37: (k1, k2tog) to end. 30 sts £ Rows 38-40: beg with a p
54 letsknit.co.uk
row, work three rows in st st £ Row 41: (k1, k2tog) to end. 20 sts £ Row 42: p £ Row 43: (k2tog) to end. Ten sts £ Row 44: (p2tog) to end. Five sts £ Cut yarn leaving a long tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off
ARM (make two) Using 3mm needles and yarn A, cast on five sts leaving a long tail £ Row 1 (RS): (kfb) to end. Ten sts £ Row 2: p £ Row 3: (kfb) to end. 20 sts £ Rows 4-10: beg with a p row, work seven rows in st st £ Row 11: (k2, k2tog) to end. 15 sts £ Rows 12-36: beg with a p row, work 25 rows in st st £ Row 37: (k1, k2tog) to end. Ten sts £ Rows 38-42: beg with a p row, work five rows in st st £ Cast off LEG (make two) Using 3mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts
leaving a long tail £ Row 1 (RS): (kfb) to end. 20 sts £ Rows 2-4: beg with a p row, work three rows in st st £ Row 5: (k1, kfb) to end. 30 sts £ Rows 6-12: beg with a p row, work seven rows in st st £ Row 13: (k2tog) to end. 15 sts £ Rows 14-44: beg with a p row, work 31 rows in st st £ Row 45: (k1, k2tog) to end. Ten sts £ Rows 46-50: beg with a p row, work five rows in st st £ Cast off
Making UP Stitch the seams neatly and firmly and attach the ears by oversewing. For the nose and mouth, thread a blunt needle with a single strand of yarn in the colour required and insert the needle into an inconspicuous point, such as the nape of the neck, and bring it through the work to the point where you wish to add embroidery stitches, so that the end of the yarn is lost inside the stuffing. Use satin stitch for the nose and backstitch or split stitch for the mouth.
Dress up TIME !
seam. Stuff Head, then close as Body. With Head seam on underside, stitch Head to top of Body. On Arms and Legs, use cast-on tail to run a gathering thread through all stitches on cast-on edge and pull tight, then stitch seam on each one, leaving top open. Stuff, leaving about 2cm at the top unstuffed. Flatten top and stitch cast-off edges together. Stitch Legs to base of Body, taking needle through Body and tops of Legs several times. Position Arms and stitch in place like Legs. Stitch a lining to each Ear, with wrong sides together, then stitch Ears to Head. Embroider nose in satin stitch and mouth in backstitch or split stitch. Stitch buttons firmly in place, for eyes. Using yarn D, make a 5cm pom-pom and attach to bottom of Body at back.
Skirt
EAR (make two) Using 3mm needles and yarn A, cast on seven sts £ Rows 1-8: beg with a k row, work eight rows in st st £ Row 9: kfb, k to last st, kfb. Nine sts £ Rows 10-16: beg with a p row, work seven rows in st st £ Rows 17-32: rep Rows 9-16 twice more. 13 sts £ Row 33: skpo, k to last two sts, k2tog. 11 sts £ Row 34: p £ Rows 35-38: rep Rows 33-34
three times more. Five sts £ Cast off
EAR LINING (make two) Using 3mm needles and yarn B, cast on six sts £ Rows 1-8: beg with a k row, work eight rows in st st £ Row 9: kfb, k to last st, kfb. Eight sts £ Rows 10-16: beg with a p row, work seven rows in st st £ Rows 17-32: rep Rows 9-16 twice more. 12 sts £ Row 33: skpo, k to last two sts,
k2tog. Ten sts £ Row 34: p £ Rows 35-38: rep Rows 33-34 three times more. Four sts £ Cast off
TO MAKE UP Using cast-off tail, stitch seam of Body, leaving base open. Stuff, not too firmly, then run a gathering thread through all stitches on cast-on edge and pull to close gap, fasten off. Using cast-off tail, stitch Head
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Using 3mm needles and yarn B, cast on 108 sts £ Rows 1-3: k Change to 3.75mm needles £ Row 4: p £ Row 5: (k7, k2tog) to end. 96 sts £ Rows 6-8: beg with a k row, work three rows in st st £ Row 9: (k6, k2tog) to end. 84 sts £ Rows 10-12: rep Rows 6-8 £ Row 13: (k5, k2tog) to end. 72 sts £ Rows 14-16: rep Rows 6-8 £ Row 17: (k4, k2tog) to end. 60 sts £ Rows 18-20: rep Rows 6-8 £ Row 21: (k3, k2tog) to end. 48 sts £ Rows 22-24: rep Rows 6-8 £ Row 25: (k2, k2tog) to end. 36 sts £ Rows 26-29: beg with a p row, work four rows in st st £ Row 30: k £ Rows 31-33: beg with a k row, work three rows in st st £ Cast off
Crossover top BACK Using 3mm needles and yarn B, cast on 32 sts £ Rows 1-3: k Change to 3.75mm needles £ Rows 4-23: beg with a p row, work 20 rows in st st £ Row 24: p10, k12, p10 £ Row 25: k £ Row 26: p10, k12, p10 £ Cast off
great ADVICE “Your Bunny can be dressed for a rehearsal or a performance. Just mix and match the various garments.”
LK DESIGNER, Susie
RIGHT FRONT Using 3mm needles and yarn B, cast on 21 sts £ Rows 1-3: k Change to 3.75mm needles £ Row 4: p £ Row 5: k1, skpo, k to end. 20 sts £ Row 6: p £ Rows 7-26: rep Rows 5-6 ten times more. Ten sts £ Row 27: p £ Cast off
LEFT FRONT Using 3mm needles and yarn B, cast on 21 sts £ Rows 1-3: k Change to 3.75mm needles £ Row 4: p £ Row 5: k to last three sts, k2tog, k1. 20 sts £ Row 6: p £ Rows 7-26: rep Rows 5-6 ten
times more. Ten sts £ Row 27: p £ Cast off
cast on 22 sts £ Rows 1-3: k Change to 3.75mm needles £ Rows 4-32: beg with a p row, work 29 rows in st st ** Cut yarn and leave sts on holder £ Rep from * to ** but do not cut yarn £ Row 33: kfb, k20, kfb, join sts from holder, kfb, k20, kfb. 48 sts £ Row 34: p £ Row 35: kfb, k22, (kfb) twice, k22, kfb. 52 sts £ Rows 36-50: beg with a p row, work 15 rows in st st £ Row 51: (k2tog, k4) four times, (k2tog) twice, (k4, k2tog) four times. 42 sts £ Row 52: p Change to 3mm needles £ Rows 53-58: beg with a k row, work six rows in st st £ Row 59: k £ Rows 60-63: beg with a k row, work four rows in st st £ Cast off
SLEEVE CAPS (make two) Seam shoulder seams £ Using 3.75mm needles, yarn B and RS facing, pick up and k ten sts before and ten sts after shoulder seam along edge of front and back. 20 sts £ Rows 1-2: k £ Cast off
TIES (make two) Using 3.75mm needles and yarn B, cast on 45 sts using two-needle method £ Cast off
Legwarmer
(make two) Using 3mm needles and yarn C, cast on 20 sts £ Row 1: (k1, p1) to end £ Rows 2-30: as Row 1 £ Cast off in rib
Shoes
Headband
Using 3mm needles and yarn C, cast on ten sts £ Row 1: (k1, p1) to end £ Rows 2-80: as Row 1 £ Cast off in rib
Leggings
* Using 3mm needles and yarn C,
(make two) Using 3.75mm needles and yarn D, cast on six sts leaving a long tail £ Row 1: (kfb) to end. 12 sts £ Row 2: p £ Row 3: (kfb) to end. 24 sts £ Rows 4-6: beg with a p row, work three rows in st st £ Row 7: (k2, kfb) to end. 32 sts £ Rows 8-12: beg with a p row, work five rows in st st £ Row 13: (k2, k2tog) to
56 letsknit.co.uk
Johns
end. 24 sts £ Cast off pwise
SHOELACE (make two) Using 3.75mm hook and yarn D, make 80ch £ Fasten off TO MAKE UP CLOTHES Stitch seam on Skirt. Fold waistband to wrong side and stitch in place along cast-off edge, to form a casing, leaving a small gap. Cut elastic into two equal lengths. Insert one of these pieces, overlap ends and stitch together then sew gap closed. Stitch sleeve cap and side seams of Crossover and stitch a tie to each of lower corners. Stitch leg seams on Leggings, then continue seam up back for four rows, leave a gap for ten rows, then seam remainder of back. Fold waistband to wrong side and stitch in place along cast-off edge, to form a casing. Leave a small gap, insert remaining piece of elastic, stitch ends together then sew gap closed. Stitch Legwarmer seams, to form two tubes. On Headband, make a knot in centre, then stitch two short ends together. For each Shoe, using cast-on tail, run a gathering thread through all stitches on cast-on edge and pull tight, then seam up back. Centre Shoelace at back of Shoe, and sew centre eight chains to back of Shoe LK
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The attention is in the detail and we ensure every crafter enjoys a seamless travel experience as they explore the textile heritage of some of the world’s most exotic destinations, as well as the rich textile traditions around our own UK shores. Every holiday is accompanied by a well-known and enthusiastic expert, and with their friendly guidance lies the opportunity to learn new and different crafting techniques.” Find out more at stitchtopia.co.uk or follow @stitchtopiauk on social media.
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57 letsknit.co.uk
TOP WE SHARE OUR MUST-HAVES FOR THE SPRING AND SUMMER MONTHS
A
s the seasons change we are granted a fresh start, a chance to approach our lives and (of course) our knitting projects with an energised, inspired and upbeat outlook. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the possibilities before us, we decided to keep things simple by creating a countdown of our favourite new releases. So, in no particular order, here are our top twenty picks for the year ahead...
59 letsknit.co.uk
1
Get set for spring with this cheerful yarn from King Cole. Available in six attractive shades and released alongside a collection of eight patterns, Stripe DK is a super-soft yet incredibly practical acrylic yarn. Knit a cute cardi for the little one in your life or treat yourself to a stylish accessory set. RRP of £4.19 per 100g ball. For stockists visit kingcole.com
2
When the warm weather rolls around, pastel shades always come out in force. To embrace the trend and freshen up your collection of knitwear, why not start with this pretty cardigan from Rico Design? Knitted in Fashion Colour Spin, it has been taken from Rico’s Made by Me Lookbook 10. Ideal for layering over a pretty dress or crisp white shirt, this garment is the perfect example of a spring/summer staple. For more information, visit rico-design.com
3
Cotton knits provide a great solution for staying cool as the temperatures rise. This organic, ethical and 100% natural yarn from Bergère de France offers excellent stitch definition, Pur Coton is machine washable on a gentle setting. It is also a pretty and practical choice for your upcoming projects. For more information, visit bergeredefrance.co.uk
4
Thanks to Cygnet Yarns, your love affair with super-chunky yarns can last all year long. Quick to knit and a joy to snuggle with, Scrumpalicious is offered in a pretty selection of shades. As versatile as it is attractive, this yarn is well suited to oversized knitwear, cosy home accessories and so much more! It has an RRP of £6.49 per 200g ball, for more information, visit cygnetyarns.com
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Stand out with Cumulus from Juniper Moon Farm. A soft Israeli mako cotton, this popular fibre is now available in a selection of rainbow colours, with each yarn featuring six shades that work together to produce a self-striping effect. One ball of Cumulus Rainbow has an RRP of £16.99 per 100g ball. For stockists visit knittingfever.com
6
If you were a fan of King Cole’s Beaches, you are going to fall in love with Paradise Beaches – a welcome addition of plain sorbet shades. From Pink Gin to Pina Colada, we can’t get enough of the seasonal colour palette and cheeky yarn names. It is suited to any DK pattern from King Cole and one 100g ball has an RRP of £3.99. For more information visit kingcole.com
We’re always excited to see what Stylecraft has in store for the new season and the brand didn’t disappoint! Regatta is a gorgeous print-effect yarn that has been released in six cheerful colourways. Supported by five pattern leaflets for ladies and four for girls, Regatta has an RRP of £5 per 100g ball. For further information visit stylecraft-yarns. co.uk
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Taken from Rowan’s Cape Collection, Martin Storey’s striking sweater boasts an exploded Fair Isle technique and a distinctive colourwork pattern. Knitted in the luxurious Softyak DK, the Combe pattern costs £4 from knitrowan.com. Alternatively, you could treat yourself to the entire collection for just £12. Offering garments for the entire family, plus gorgeous knits for the home, it is an amazing source of inspiration.
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Conscious crafters have every reason to celebrate thanks to these two new releases from Cascade Yarns®. ReBound is a beautiful blend of recycled PET polyester and recycled cotton. It is soft, durable and available in a selection of classic shades. Also offered in beautiful colourways, ReVerb is a combination of recyled PET polyester and recycled alpaca. Both yarns have an RRP of £7.18 per 100g skein. For more information visit cascadeyarns.com
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Pretty polka dots and a simple Fair Isle motif have combined to produce the perfect jumper for spring. Knitted in Bernat® Softee® Chunky™, this design is an excellent choice for any knitters looking to stay warm whilst embracing a brighter colour palette. The Circle Around Knit Pullover is a free download from readicut.co.uk
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Another excellent eco option, Stylecraft Naturals Bamboo and Cotton isn’t just for the environmentaly conscious crafter, it’s an excellent pick for vegan knitters too. In a further effort to take positive steps, Stylecraft has reduced its recommended washing temperatures from 40ºC to 30ºC. As attractive as it is ethical, this yarn has an RRP of £4.75 per 100g ball. For stockists, visit stylecraft-yarns.co.uk
As the names suggests, Scheepjes’ Mighty is strong, durable and perfect for creating quality knits that will last a lifetime. A blend of 32% jute and 68% cotton, this eco fibre is not only vegan, it’s also been produced using recylced water. It has an RRP of £2.49 per 50g ball. For more information visit scheepjes.com
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12 Designed by Georgia Farrell, this top-down yoke cardigan features super-sweet bobbles and striking garter stitch motifs. Created with intermediate knitters in mind, the finishing of this garment is minimal as the button bands are worked at the same time as the fronts. Taken from Rowan’s Kids Summer Brights range and knitted in Baby Merino Silk DK, the pattern costs £4 from knitrowan.com
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Named Tsubame after the Japanese barn swallow that is the harbringer of spring, this new yarn from Noro couldn’t be more perfect for the upcoming months. A luxurious blend of 50% silk, 25% wool and 25% polyamide, this fibre is sold in 200g (600m) cakes, making it an excellent pick for one-ball projects. Tsubame has an RRP of £39.99 per 200g ball. For stockists, visit knittingfever.com
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With so many crafters knitting for baby, it is no surprise that Rico has released a special collection for your favourite little fashionista. The Rico Baby Lookbook 027 features so many adorable patterns including this precious pullover knitted in Baby Cotton Soft DK. For more information, visit rico-design.com
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Next up, we’re loving this trendy cushion knitted in Caron® Simply Soft®. A practical addition to your living space, this cover is suitable for machine washing and can even be tumble dried on a low heat cycle. Although we love the stylish shades pictured, there are over 50 colours for you to explore. The Crazy Corners Knit Pillow is a free download from woolwarehouse.co.uk
Although we’re busy dreaming of days in the sun, the British weather is unpredictable at the best of times. That’s why it makes sense to fill your new season wardrobe with knits that are perfect for layering. Take this delicate poncho from Rowan. Knitted in the new Island Blend Fine, it is a great place to start for novice knitters of all sizes. The Bioko pattern costs £4 from knitrowan.com
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Transform your look with the Cecilia Jacket from Debbie Bliss. Knitted in a gorgeous sky blue shade of Piper, this garment has been inspired by French formal style. The textured motifs are created with simple knit and purl stitches so even novice knitters can enjoy this exciting new project. £3.50 from lovecrafts.com
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Anyone who enjoys knitting with Cygnet Yarns’ Kiddies Supersoft DK will be thrilled to learn that a chunky weight has been added to this popular range. Choose a traditional blue and pink or do something different with a lovely lilac or yellow shade. What’s more, this 100% acrylic fibre is machine washable so you won’t have to worry about keeping your projects clean. This yarn has an RRP of £2.69 per 100g ball. For more information visit cygnetyarns.com
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A 100% Falkland Islands yarn, this sustainable fibre would make for a wonderfully soft addition to your yarn stash. Choose from eight solid shades as you explore all that this collection has to offer. Released alongside a range of patterns that are both trendy and timeless, Bo Peep Pure from West Yorkshire Spinners has an RRP of £6.50 per 50g skein from wyspinners.com
KID’S
pattern
under the SEA TREAT YOUR TOT TO THIS SUPER-CUTE CARDI FROM JANE BURNS There’s nothing quite like a Fair Isle knit, especially when there’s a theme involved. As the weather warms up and we start dreaming of trips to the seaside, it makes sense to opt for colourful projects that raise the spirits. Knitters who are experienced in working with multiple yarn shades will find this project a walk in the park; however, less practised crafters should also have a go. Simply read our handy advice panel for everything you need to know about Fair Isle!
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OU W H A T YT O NEED .. KNOW.
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
DK YARN
3.75MM, 4MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES To fit age (cm): 0-3mths (3-6mths, 6-12mths, 12-24mths, 2-3y) To fit chest (cm): 36 (41, 46, 51, 56) Actual chest (cm): 41 (45, 50, 56, 61) Length to back neck (cm): 21 (25.5, 29, 31.5, 34.5) Sleeve length (seam) (cm): 15.5 (16.5, 19, 22, 24.5)
KNIT KIT Yarn: King Cole Merino Blend DK, shade (A) 18 Turquoise, 1 (1, 1, 2, 2) 50g balls, (B) 1 White, 2 (3, 3, 4, 4) 50g balls, (C) 3298 Cinnamon, (D) 787 Fuchsia, (E) 55 Gold, one 50g ball of each Needles: 3.75mm, 4mm Tapestry needle Stitch holders Button: 1.5cm diameter
Start knitting here... BACK Using 3.75mm needles and yarn A cast on 47 £ (51, 57, 63, 69) sts £ Row 1: k £ Row 2: p £ Row 3: k £ Row 4: k (makes a ridge) Change to 4mm needles and beg working from Back chart for your chosen size as folls: £ Beg with a k row, work in st st from Back chart until piece meas 10.5 (14.5, 17, 18.5, 20) cm from ridge, ending after a WS row NOTE: once you have completed Back chart cont to work in st st in yarn B unless directed otherwise. First and second sizes will cont into armhole shaping
SHAPE ARMHOLES TENSION SQUARE n 22 sts x 28 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 4mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN King Cole Merino Blend DK offers all the benefits of super-soft merino wool, but also boasts the quality of being anti-tickle. Offered in over 40 attractive shades, this yarn costs £2.69 per 50g (112m) ball from 01795 570303, theknittingnetwork.co.uk
£ Cast off 4 (4, 4, 5, 5) sts at beg of next two rows. 39 (43, 49, 53, 59) sts £ Next row: k1, ssk, k to last three sts, k2tog, k1. 37 (41, 47, 51, 57) sts £ Next row: p £ Rep last two rows until 17 (19, 23, 23, 25) sts rem, ending after a WS row Leave rem 17 (19, 23, 23, 25) sts on holder
LEFT FRONT
A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S
ESSENTI ALS
FIND YOURS ON P87
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Using 3.75mm needles and yarn A, cast on 23 (25, 27, 31, 33) sts £ Rows 1-4: work as for Back Change to 4mm needles and beg working from Front chart for your chosen size as folls: £ Beg with a k row, work in st st from Front chart until piece meas 10.5 (14.5, 17, 18.5, 20) cm from ridge, ending after a RS row NOTE: once you have completed Front chart cont to work in st st in yarn B unless directed otherwise. First and second sizes will cont into armhole shaping
SHAPE RAGLAN ARMHOLE £ Cast off 4 (4, 4, 5, 5) sts, p to end. 19 (21, 23, 26, 28) sts
Shape neck £Next row: k3 (3, 2, 3, 3) sts and leave these sts on holder. K to last three sts, k2tog, k1. 8 (10, 13, 13, 14) sts £ Next row: p £ Dec one st at neck edge on next 2 (2, 4, 4, 2) rows, then dec one st at neck edge on RS rows 1 (2, 2, 2, 4) times, AT THE SAME TIME dec one st at raglan edge as set on every RS row 2 (3, 4, 4, 5) times. Three sts £ Next row: p £ Next row: dec one st at raglan edge as before. Two sts £ Next row: p £ Next row: k2tog. One st £ Cut yarn and fasten off
SLEEVES Using 3.75mm needles and yarn A, cast on 29 (31, 33, 35, 37) sts £ Row 1: k £ Row 2: p £ Row 3: k £ Row 4: k (makes a ridge) Change to 4mm needles and yarn B £ Beg with a k row, work in st st inc one st at each end of fifth then every foll 8th (6th, 8th, 6th, 6th) row until there are 37 (41, 43, 49, 55) sts £ Cont without shaping until piece meas 14 (15, 17.5, 20.5, 23) cm from ridge, ending after a WS row
Front Chart
Key Yarn B RS: knit WS: purl Yarn A Yarn C Yarn D Yarn E
12-24
£ Cast off 4 (4, 4, 5, 5) sts, k to end. 19 (21, 23, 26, 28) sts £ Next row: p £Next row: k1, ssk, k to end £ Next row: p
15% OFF AT LOVECRAFTS. USE THE CODE KNITIT15
RIGHT FRONT
£ Next row: k to last three sts, k2tog, k1 £ Next row: p £ Rep last two rows until 12 (14, 16, 17, 18) sts rem, ending after a WS row
6-12 3-6 0-3
Shape raglan armhole
Willow and Lark Ramble is 100% wool. This DK fibre comes in over 20 shades and costs £4.49 per 50g (125m) ball from 01409 404010, lovecrafts.com
£ Next row: k1, ssk, k to last 3 (3, 2, 3, 3) sts and leave these sts on a holder. Turn and work on rem 8 (10, 13, 13, 14) sts £ Next row: p £ Dec one st at neck edge on next 2 (2, 4, 4, 2) rows, then dec one st at neck edge on RS rows 1 (2, 2, 2, 4) times, AT THE SAME TIME dec one st at raglan edge as set on every RS row 2 (3, 4, 4, 5) times. Three sts £ Next row: p £ Next row: dec one st at raglan edge as before. Two sts £ Next row: p £ Next row: k2tog. One st £ Cut yarn and fasten off
12-24
TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE?
Shape neck
0-3 3-6 6-12
A GREAT PLACE
Using 3.75mm needles and yarn A, cast on 23 (25, 27, 31, 33) sts £ Rows 1-4: work as for Back Change to 4mm needles and beg working from Front chart for your chosen size as folls: £ Beg with a k row, work in st st from Front chart) until piece meas 10.5 (14.5, 17, 18.5, 20) cm from ridge, ending after WS row NOTE: once you have completed Front chart cont to work in st st in yarn B unless directed otherwise. First and second sizes will cont into armhole shaping
£ Rep last two rows until 12 (14, 16, 17, 18) sts rem, ending after a WS row
KID’S
pattern
FAB IN FAIR ISLE Shape raglan top £ Cast off 4 (4, 4, 5, 5) sts at beg of next two rows. 29 (33, 35, 39, 45) sts £ Next row: k1, ssk, k to last three sts, k2tog, k1. 27 (31, 33, 37, 43) sts £ Next row: p £ Rep last two rows until 7 (9, 9, 9, 11) sts rem, ending after a WS row £ Cast off
Neckband Join raglan seams £ Place 3 (3, 2, 3, 3) sts from Right front holder onto 3.75mm needle, with RS facing rejoin yarn B and pick up and k 5 (7, 9, 9, 11)
yarn B and with RS facing, beg just below neckband, pick up and k 40 (44, 50, 56, 60) sts evenly down Left front edge to ridge at cast-on edge Change to yarn A £ Row 1: p £ Row 2: p (makes a ridge) £ Row 3: p £ Row 4: k £ Row 5: p £ Cast off loosely
sts evenly up Right front neck, 5 (7, 7, 7, 9) sts from right Sleeve, k17 (19, 23, 23, 25) sts from Back holder, pick up and k 5 (7, 7, 7, 9) sts from left Sleeve, k5 (7, 9, 9, 11) sts evenly down Left front neck then k3 (3, 2, 3, 3) sts from Left front holder. 43 (53, 59, 61, 71) sts Change to yarn A £ Row 1: p £ Row 2: p (makes a ridge) £ Row 3: p £ Row 4: k £ Row 5: p £ Cast off loosely
RIGHT FRONT BUTTONBAND £ Using 3.75mm needles, yarn B and with RS facing, beg at ridge at cast-on edge pick up and k 40 (44, 50, 56,
LEFT FRONT BUTTONBAND £ Using 3.75mm needles, Back Chart
60) sts evenly at Right front edge to start of Neckband Change to yarn A £ Row 1: p £ Row 2: p (makes a ridge) £ Row 3: p £ Row 4: k to last five sts, k2tog, yfwd, k3 £ Row 5: p £ Cast off loosely
TO MAKE UP Sew up side and sleeve seams. Sew on button. Block to measurements. LK
Working with
FAIR ISLE
12-24
6-12
0-3
3-6
3-6
0-3
6-12
12-24
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This colourwork technique involves working with two colours at the same time, stranding them across the back of the work. In order to make your motifs stand out, always keep your yarn B strand above the other strand, and avoid twisting them together. If a colour is being stranded across more than five stitches you should weave it in halfway through to avoid creating a loop that could catch.
Subtle SH
Enjoy our fabulous collection of fibres!
EEN
1 TUBULAR 3 Totally
COOL IN COTTON As we plan for the warmer weather, it makes sense to move towards lightweight yarns that sit softly against the skin. Offering a subtle sheen and a durable chainette construction, this 100% cotton yarn is available in a selection of shades and would make a fabulous addition to your spring/summer stash.
IN THE PINK
SCHEEPJES BLOOM COTTON YARN, shade 412 Light Fern, 50g, £2.79, deramores.com
Upcycled using fabric offcuts from Turkish T-shirt factories, Jersey Be Good is an excellent choice for eco knitters and crochet fans. The ideal yarn for chunky accessories and trendy bags, this fibre comes in an impressive range of fashion-forward shades. From Pastel Peach to Lipstick Red, there really is something for everyone.
JERSEY BE GOOD, shade Hot Pink, 500g, £10, woolandthegang.com
CREATIVE THINKING
QUICK
to knit
4 TONAL
effect
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An affordable blend of cotton and acrylic, this ribbon yarn knits to produce an impressive striped spray-print effect. Lightweight and machine washable on a gentle setting, it is an excellent choice for garments and accessories that will be worn during the warmer weather. Here at Let's Knit HQ, we can't get enough of the pretty colourways and we're sure you'll love them too.
RICO CREATIVE COTTON COLOUR COATED, shade 001 Pink-Blue, 50g, £2.99, myyarnery.co.uk
2
HEY MOON
COOL colours
RARING TO RECYLE
A beautiful blend of cotton and viscose, this attractive yarn is just the thing for your upcoming garment and accessory projects. Not only is it breathable, it also offers exquisite stitch definition so you can expect plenty of compliments from your crafting companions. Sold in handy 50g balls, Moonbeam is a musthave for knitters everywhere!
STYLECRAFT MOONBEAM DK, shade 3961 Luminary Lime, 50g, £2.09, littlewoolshop.com
18
shades
5
With 18 stunning shades for you to enjoy, this super-chunky yarn will leave you spoilt for choice. Soft yet hardwearing, it is a clever blend of unused and unwanted materials from European mills. There is no extra processing and no re-dyeing, so this fabulous fibre should meet all of your eco requirements. PAINTBOX YARNS RECYCLED T-SHIRT, shade 014 Bright Pink Shades, 800g, £8 from lovecrafts.com
ECO OPTION
Conscious crafting is on the rise so why not celebrate with this environmentally friendly blend of fibres? Making use of recycled fabrics from European textile manufacturers, Zpagetti isn't just ethical it's also incredibly attractive and a joy to knit with. Choose from subtle neutrals and vibrant brights as you explore this range. HOOOKED ZPAGETTI, from the Super Pink collection, approx 700g, $10.99 from hoookedyarn.com
Next issue
BEST FOR BABY If you have a little one on the way and want to treat them to something truly special, why not invest in The Rowan Mako Cotton Baby Keepsake Box? A gorgeous set featuring eight balls of the super-soft Mako Cotton Baby, plus the instructions to knit or crochet a snuggle blanket, it is an excellent option for expectant parents, grandparents and family friends.
T-shirt YARN
Natural baby yarns
THE ROWAN MAKO COTTON BABY KEEPSAKE BOX, for stockists visit knitrowan.com
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Amazing GIFT
Get more top yarns at your local yarn shop! Find your nearest store on p87
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Slip stitches are the secret to transforming what are effectively simple stripes into this colourwork masterpiece. Known as mosaic knitting, this technique reintroduces past colours into your row, giving you pretty patterns without the fuss. The springtime shades are charmingly cheery and the yarn is super soft yet practical too, making this knit a hit with mums and tots alike.
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OU W H A T YT O NEED .. KNOW.
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
DK YARN
Easyr colouCT EFFE
4MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 68cm x 73cm
KNIT KIT Yarn: Sirdar Snuggly DK, shades (A) 344 Oatmeal, two 50g balls, (B) 419 Choo Choo Train, (C) 487 Cloud, (D) 260 Summer Lime, (E) 482 Bubbles Blue, one 50g ball of each Needles: 4mm circular Tapestry needle
TENSION SQUARE
Start knitting here... BLANKET
n 22 sts x 30 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 4mm needles n 23 sts x 38 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Slip stitch pattern n 4mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN Sirdar Snuggly DK blends 55% nylon and 45% acrylic for the perfect baby-friendly yarn. Projects can be machine washed and tumble dried. It costs £3.10 per 50g (165m) ball from 01772 456535, deltawoolshop.co.uk
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? See what DK yarns are available at your local yarn shop! A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY ESSENTI ALS
FIND YOURS ON P87
Using 4mm circular needle and yarn A, cast on 153 sts Do NOT join in the rnd £ Set-up row: * k1, p1, rep from * to last st, k1 This row sets moss st £ Work nine rows more in moss st Working first and last ten sts on every row in moss st using yarn A, cont as folls for Centre Panel NOTE: letter in square brackets indicates shade for row £ Row 1: [A] k to end £ Row 2: [A] p to end £ Row 3: [B] k1, sl 1, * k1, sl 3, rep from * to last three sts, k1, sl 1, k1 £ Row 4: [B] k1, * p3, wyif sl 1, rep from * to last four sts, p3, k1 £ Row 5: [A] k2, * sl 1, k3, rep from * to last three sts, sl 1, k2 £ Row 6: [A] p to end £ Row 7: [C] k1, * sl 3, k1, rep from * to end £ Row 8: [C] k1, p1, * wyif sl 1, p3, rep from * to last three sts, sl 1, p1, k1 £ Row 9: [A] k4, * sl 1, k3, rep from * to last st, k1
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£ Row 10: [A] p to end £ Row 11: [D] k1, sl 1, * k1, sl 3, rep from * to last three sts, k1, sl 1, k1 £ Row 12: [D] k1, * p3, wyif sl 1, rep from * to last four sts, p3, k1 £ Row 13: [A] k2, * sl 1, k3, rep from * to last three sts, sl 1, k2 £ Row 14: [A] p to end £ Row 15: [E] k1, * sl 3, k1, rep from * to end £ Row 16: [E] k1, p1, * wyif sl 1, p3, rep from * to last three sts, sl 1, p1, k1 £ Row 17: [A] k4, * sl 1, k3, rep from * to last st, k1 £ Row 18: [A] p to end £ Rep Rows 3-18 14 times more Cont in yarn A only
£ Work ten rows in moss st £ Cast off
TO MAKE UP Sew in ends and block carefully LK
Border PATROL The moss stitch border is worked at the same time as the main blanket so you will need to use separate balls of yarn A for each edge. Give the yarn a twist with the centre panel colour to avoid holes forming.
Next issue STUNNING HAND-DYED SHAWL BY JULIE FERGUSON May issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 9TH APRIL
Crafty Creatures OUR READER’S PETS ENJOY FIBRE ARTS ALMOST AS MUCH AS WE DO!
Here at Let’s Knit HQ we love receiving pictures of your pampered pets. It is so lovely to see the projects you have completed for them and we can’t help but giggle when your furry friends decide to check up on your progress. Here are just a few of our favourite snaps...
en blanket stol had her lap y. pp Julie Vernon pu g pu by her son’s
Susan Hatton’s cute and cosy make is deserving of a very waggy tail.
Albus D umble Christie Paw clearly th in ’s knitt ing is m ks Helen agical.
d o knitte a Baccin Christin eet coat for her w a super-s Mazapan. dog
Leigh Mitchell can’t put down a crocheted blanket without her trusty companion giving it a test run.
uble is seeing do Sarah Mason incredible knit. r thanks to he Nita Lloyd’s pretty jumper is just the thing for chilly chihuahuas.
Sam the cat thinks Megan Lea’s crocheted cushion is absolutely purrfect.
Dougal t he dog is dressed always b at t est Helen M he park thanks ason’s tr endy kn to it.
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Dawn Brown’ s litt strike a pose le lady loves to in her stylis h stripy sweate r.
TOP TITLES
Three to win
Five lucky crochet fans will each be treated to a pair of inspirational crafting titles. Crochet Know-How by CICO Books is packed full of techniques and tips for crafters of all skill levels and Crochet Stashbusters by Nicki Trench offers 25 great ways to use up your yarn leftovers. Combined these books will enhance your approach to fibre arts, so why not enter today? rylandpeters.com £ CICO Books
Nine to win!
TAKE NOTE
Get Crafting!
From jotting down stitches to mapping out knitwear designs, there are so many fantastic ways to make use of this high quality, hardcover notebook. The two lines of text on the front of this incredible prize can be personalised to make an extra special gift or addition to your own collection of knitty accessories. Here at Let’s Knit HQ we can’t think of a better way to celebrate your love of crafts. madebyellis.com £ made by ellis
DELUXE GETAWAY! From the far reaches of Scotland to the south-west coast of England, you will be spoilt for choice with this two-night hotel break voucher. Whether you prefer a city adventure, the peace and quiet of a countryside retreat or anything in between, you are sure to fall in love with the incredible options available. You and a lucky loved one could be enjoying two nights of deluxe accommodation at a premium hotel, plus a delicious breakfast to start your day with a smile. All you need to do is enter! buyagift.co.uk £ Buyagift
Fantastic Prize!
GIVEAWAYS LOOK AT THESE AMAZING PRIZES WORTH OVER £1,000! CRAFTING BUNDLE Five readers of Let’s Knit will be getting their hands on this exciting collection of accessories. Update your supply with a set of Takumi circular, double-pointed and single-pointed needles, plus a circular stitch holder, jumbo point protectors and a handy stitch register. Just think of how many fantastic projects you could complete with these amazing tools to hand. Courtesy of Clover, your crafting will never be the same! clover@stockistenquiries.co.uk £ Clover
Five winners
Ticket Giveaways WORTH OVER £300! 10 PAIRS OF TICKETS to The Creative Craft Show, 26th-28th June 2020, The NEC Birmingham, ichfevents.co.uk Enter at letsknit.co.uk until 19/04/20 5 PAIRS OF TICKETS to Wool@J13, 16th-17th May 2020, Penkridge Staffordshire, wool-j13.uk Enter at letsknit.co.uk until 19/04/20
Four Winners!
Family Ticket! INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE How would you like to win a family ticket for four people to visit Blenheim Palace, Park and Formal Gardens and the fascinating exhibitions which bring history to life? Home to the Dukes of Marlborough since 1704, Blenheim Palace was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and is the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Explore gilded State Rooms, priceless collections, stunning portraits, tapestries and an exquisite collection of furniture all set against a magnificent backdrop of ornate ceilings and striking stonework. blenheimpalace.com £ Blenheim Palace *For full terms and conditions visit letsknit.co.uk
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MAKE IT PERSONAL If you are always on the lookout for new ways to express your love of knitting, Alice Palace Studio has the perfect prize for you! You could be treated to a personalised sign ideal for decorating your craft room or knitting nook. Not only this, you could receive a gorgeous personalised bag. Where better to store all of your important WIPs and knitting tools? Both of these accessories would also make fantastic gifts for the crafter in your life so don’t miss out on your chance to enter! alicepalace.co.uk £ Alice Palace Studio
Over to you TALES OF YOUR TERRIFIC CHARITY EFFORTS! “Here’s my Mommy Doll. She’ll be going to my local children’s cancer hospital.” Ann Goormachtigh This is brilliant, Ann
“Motley Crew. Gifted to an Alzheimer Care Home.” Kim Sands These are fantastic, Kim!
“For NICU incubator” Glynis Martin That’s a lovely idea, Glynis
Hats For The HOMELESS At the end of 2019, UK Hand Knitting ran a campaign asking knitters and crocheters across the country to make hats for homeless people in the UK. Over 1,000 hats were sent in and distributed to The Salvation Army in Leeds, The Big Issue in the North (covering Manchester, Leeds and Sheffield), and Crisis in and around London. The campaign is set to run again in 2020, so if you would like to get a head start, you should visit ukhandknitting.com to find a selection of free knitting patterns. You should also stay tuned for more information about where to send your finished hats.
Charity
CORNER OUR MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF HOW YOU CAN USE YOUR NEEDLES FOR A GOOD CAUSE
Taking Flight “Mini Koalas to sell at my daughter’s cake sale at school to raise money for Australia” Fiona Goodenough It’s a great cause, well done!
“I made this lovely rabbit to raffle at my W.I. for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance charity. This is the fourth year I have made teddy-type toys for this purpose and the ladies like to win them for their grandchildren or great grandchildren!” Lynda Giles Great work, Lynda Let us know your favourite charitable causes to knit for! Share your stories and photos on social media or email them to adrienne.chandler@aceville.co.uk
THINK BIG An iconic event in the world of crafts, The Innocent Big Knit regularly raises money and awareness for Age UK. If you would like to get involved, but are concerned about what happens to the tiny woolly hats that sit on top of the smoothie bottles, you will be pleased to know Innocent has announced that any unwanted knits can be returned free of charge. Alternatively, customers who would like to keep the hats could turn them into decorations, chocolate covers or simply add them to the family toy box. For regular updates why not join the Innocent Smoothies Big Knit Facebook group?
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The Army Flying Museum near Andover is inviting groups and individuals to help knit a troop of Army Air Corps soldiers for its upcoming community display in the Apache Café. The closing date for these mini figures is April 24th 2020. You have the option of following a delightful knitting pattern from the 1940s or creating a design of your own. If you would like to move forward with the free vintage pattern, you can download it from armyflying. com/education/outreach. For more information about this exciting project and to find out where to send your finished knits, email outreach@ armyflying.com
April 22nd is Earth Day and this year’s 50th anniversary event focuses on climate action. Part of that involves battling plastic pollution and you can help by switching to a reusable cotton bag, like this one here. Featuring a quick-knit drop stitch pattern, it’s big enough for your shopping or your everyday essentials. To find out how you can get involved in your community, visit earthday.org
CA M KN PA IT IGN
Make this versatile
COTTON BAG GET DRASTIC ON PLASTIC WITH THIS EASY-KNIT ACCESSORY FROM LILY SUGAR ‘N CREAM
MEASUREMENTS AND SIZES
ECO make
45.5cm x 45.5cm
KNIT KIT Yarn: Lily® Sugar’n Cream®, shades (A) 82 Jute, three 71g balls, (B) 09 Bright Navy, one 71g ball Needles: 5mm Fabric: 51cm x 101.5cm Grommets: four Tapestry needle
TENSION SQUARE n 17 sts x 30 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Garter stitch n 5mm needles
ABOUT THE YARN Lily® Sugar’n Cream® is a pure cotton aran-weight yarn that comes in solid or pattern effects. It costs £2.99 per 71g (109m) ball from readicut.co.uk
Start knitting here...
BACK AND FRONT (alike) NOTE: Beg at top of Bag Using 5mm needles and yarn A, cast on 75 sts £ Beg with a WS row, work five rows in garter st (k every row) Commence Drop St Patt as folls: £ Rows 1-6: k to end £ Row 7: * k1 wrapping yarn around needle three times, rep from * to end £ Row 8: * k1 dropping extra loops, rep from * to end These eight rows set patt £ Cont in patt until work meas 48cm, ending after a Row 7 £ Next row (dec): * k5tog dropping extra loops of each st, rep from * to end. 15 sts £ Cast off
TO MAKE UP
2m long. Working with all strands held together, hold one end and with someone else holding other end. Twist strands to the right until they begin to curl. Fold the two ends together and knot so they will not unravel. Thread twisted cord through grommets. Tie in a knot to
Sew sides and bottom of Front and Back together. Fold top of Bag to RS as shown in picture. Following manufacturer’s instructions, apply grommets through both thicknesses as shown. To make a twisted cord, cut 12 strands of yarn B, each
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secure at grommets
LINING (optional) With RS facing together, fold fabric in half. Machine stitch or hand sew side seams. Fold top edge 2.5cm to WS of lining and hand stitch to top row of next garter section below grommets LK
Crochet a colourful
CAFETIÈRE COSY BUST YOUR STASH WITH NICKI TRENCH’S PRETTY HOMEWARE
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Cosy: 30cm x 17.5cm To fit: a medium-size 4-6 cup cafetière, 30cm circumference
CROCHET KIT Yarn: King Cole Merino Blend DK, shades (A) 3090 Carnation, (B) 3088 Bayleaf, (C) 855 Mustard, (D) 1531 Pale Blue, (E) 907 Raspberry, (F) 853 Sage, (G) 3294 Plum, one 50g ball of each Hook: 4mm Button: wooden, large, one; small, two Tapestry needle
TENSION SQUARE n 4 bobbles x 10 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over pattern n 4mm hook
SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS 5trCL: yoh, insert hook in st, yoh, pull yarn through (three loops on hook). Yoh, pull yarn through first two loops (two loops on hook). Yoh, insert hook in same st, yoh, pull yarn through (four loops on hook), yoh, pull yarn through first two loops (three loops on hook). Yoh, insert hook in same st, yoh, pull yarn through (five loops on hook), yoh, pull yarn through first two loops (four loops on hook). Yoh, insert hook in same st, yoh, pull yarn through (six loops on hook), yoh, pull yarn through first two loops (five loops on hook). Yoh, insert hook in same st, yoh, pull yarn through (seven loops on hook), yoh, pull yarn through first two loops (six loops left on hook). Yoh, pull yarn through all six loops on hook, make 1ch
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN King Cole Merino Blend DK is a hugely versatile pure wool yarn. Projects can be machine washed and there are 43 colours to choose from. It costs £3.40 per 50g (104m) ball from 01562 747458, ohsewcrafty.co.uk
Keep your coffee hot in the pot with a vibrant cosy. It’s worked in pure wool which is a great natural insulator and looks wonderfully cheerful with its stripy spring shades. Only one ball of each colour is required so it’s an ideal project for using up your yarn leftovers. Practice the cluster before you begin so you can make sure your bobbles are nice and even. COSY
TO MAKE UP
NOTE: worked from top to bottom in foll two-row stripe sequence: yarn A, yarn B, yarn C, yarn D, yarn E, yarn F, yarn G. Patt is over four sts plus three Using 4mm hook and yarn A, make 44ch £ Row 1 (RS): starting in second ch from hook, 1dc in each ch to end, turn. 43 sts Commence bobble patt: £ Row 2 (WS): 1ch, * 3dc, 5trCL in next st, rep from * to last three sts, 3dc, turn. Ten bobbles £ Row 3: 1ch, * 3dc, 1dc in top of next 5trCL, rep from * to last three sts, 3dc, turn £ Row 4: 1ch, 1dc, 5trCL in next st, * 3dc, 5trCL in next st, rep from * to last st, 1dc, turn. 11 bobbles £ Row 5: 1ch, 1dc, * 1dc in top of next 5trCL, 3dc, rep from * to last 5trCL, 1dc in top of last 5trCL, 1dc, turn £ Rep Rows 2-5 until 16 bobble rows have been worked, ending after a Row 5 £ Fasten off
corner st, (1dc in each of next five rows up side edge, dc2tog over next two rows) four times, 1dc in each row to corner, (1dc, 1ch, 1dc) in corner st, 1dc in each st on underside of foundation ch to next corner, (1dc, 1ch, 1dc) in corner st, join with a sl st to first dc, turn £ Row 2: 1ch, work 1dc in each st and 3dc in each corner ch sp to end, join with a sl st to first dc £ Fasten off
TAB Using 4mm hook and yarn A, make 13ch £ Row 1: starting in eighth ch from hook, 1dc in each ch to end, turn. Six sts £ Row 2: 1ch, 6dc, 1dc in each of next three ch, 2dc in next ch, 1dc in each of next three ch, working on opposite side of ch, 1dc in each of next six ch, turn £ Row 3: 1ch, 9dc, 2dc in each of next two dc, 8dc, sl st in last dc £ Fasten off
With RS together join top of side seams for 2.5cm, leaving remaining seam open. With RS together, sew Tab to bottom of side edge, 1cm from corner. Turn right way out. Sew large button on bottom of Cosy to correspond with buttonhole on Tab. Sew small buttons on edging positioning first button between second and third bobble from bottom and second button between second and third bobble from top
SMALL BUTTON LOOPS (make two) Using 4mm hook and with RS facing, join yarn A in dc of edging on same side as Tab to align with side of small button £ 1ch, 1dc in same st, 3ch, miss one st, 1dc in next st £ Fasten off Weave in ends LK
EDGING Using 4mm hook and with RS facing, join yarn A in top left-hand corner of Row 1 of Cosy £ Row 1: 1ch, (1dc in each of next five rows down first side edge, dc2tog over next two rows) four times, 1dc in each row to corner, (1dc, 1ch, 1dc) in corner st, * 1dc in top of 5trCL, 3dc, rep from * to next corner, (1dc, 1ch, 1dc) in
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“When working a double crochet into the top of the 5-treble cluster, make the double crochet stitch into the chain at the top of the cluster.” Designer, Nicki Trench
TOP YARN FOR CROCHET
Love this?
Try one of these classic DKs for your next project
Discover 25 great ideas for using your leftover yarn with Crochet Stashbusters by Nicki Trench (£9.99, CICO Books). Order your copy from your local bookshop or visit rylandpeters.com
Croch e with t
CYGNET PURE WOOL NATURALLY SOFT SUPERWASH DK Wool. £2.49 per 50g (104m) ball from cygnetyarnshop.co.uk
JENNY WATSON PURE MERINO DK Wool. RRP £4.10 per 50g (124m) ball. For stockists, visit jamescbrett.co.uk
© Photography: CICO Books
STYLECRAFT SPECIAL DK Acrylic. £1.89 per 100g (295m) ball from 01925 764231, blacksheepwools.com
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MARRINER DOUBLE KNIT Acrylic. £1.10 per 100g (300m) ball from marrineryarns.com
KEEP
CALM AND
Cast On!
SIMPLE WAYS TO BRING MINDFULNESS INTO YOUR WORLD – AND YOUR KNITTING! The new Super Simple Collection from MillaMia epitomises weekend comfort and ease, with garments you’ll want to slip on and slouch in. Whilst unfussy in shape and fit, these pieces employ a range of techniques - perfect for a spell of mindful knitting. There are six designs, including textured and colour-block jumpers, a reversible jacket and this cable-focused design called Stina, which is knitted in MillaMia Naturally Soft Super Chunky. The pattern costs £3.90. To find out more about the collection, call 01409 404010 or visit lovecrafts.com
Mindful knitting with JAMES MCINTOSH knitmcintosh.com
“Being creative isn’t about skill. It’s about trying. Throw yourself into it and enjoy it as you go. The process is the bit that is good for our heads, not the outcome.”
FROGS, yes frogs! Spring has arrived. Are you knitting bunnies? I’m thinking of frogs. But I’m eating chocolate bunnies, you know the sort, the ones in the golden wrapper with the little red ribbon around their neck. It puts me in mind of this time last year, when I attended a huge global knitting show in Cologne. It’s full of inspiration and colour, but as if that wasn’t enough, I noticed that said chocolate bunny museum was just across the river! I just had to visit. They let you try the chocolate as you walk from a temperate greenhouse with real cocoa trees to the production line. Bear in mind I was carrying multiple bags of yarn at this point (one can never have too many), but fortunately I then discovered the cafe. So, with my bags covering a
FEARNE COTTON
Me-time MOMENT...
“ I was so consumed in the smooth velvet chocolate that I went off pattern”
SERENE STATIONERY Give your crafting table a mindful makeover
3 1 2
Dr Thomas Ernst FRCP says...
Knitting For Inner Peace notebook by Kelly Connor Designs, £5.50 from etsy.com 1
2
Positive Vibes Only pencils by LucyMadeMe, £1.50 from etsy.com
3
Folk floral memo block, £7 from paperchase.com
lot of floor space next to my table, I sat down to chocolate torte washed down with hot chocolate. I started to knit a few rows, as one does, whilst mindfully eating the torte, and I was so consumed in the smooth velvet chocolate that I went off pattern, and not just on one row! That’s when the frogs appeared. Not physically, but mentally. Ripping out in knitting can be referred to as ‘frogging’ - I believe it’s because if one says ‘rip it, rip it, rip it’ multiple times it sounds like a frog croaking. So, I learnt from my mistakes, failing to concentrate on an intricate stitch pattern while mindfully enjoying chocolate torte! Whether Easter for you is a religious festival or a new moon, both celebrate new beginnings. Enjoy the chocolate mindfully while you knit, and knit mindfully while you enjoy the chocolate. But beware of frogs!
“Mindfulness is about accepting the present, not judging or analysing it, while feeling the sensations in your body. This can be practised in many ways, such as when eating, or when knitting. I call this ‘knititation.” Dr Thomas Ernst FRCP is a senior consultant physician at a leading London teaching hospital specialising in mindfulness
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ACCESSORY
pattern
All-Seasons SHAWL
• EXCLUSIV
E
US
• E XC
BE PREPARED WHATEVER THE WEATHER WITH KELLY MENZIES’ STRIKING KNIT
T O
IVE
TO
LU
SIVE TO • E X C
L
Soft knit and purl textures and different eyelet effects make this shawl a technical triumph. It’s certainly a project that you can get your teeth into and you’ll feel so proud when you’re finished. We love the addition of grey and teal stripes but you could choose more subtle tones or a one-colour look if you prefer. The charts make it easy to see the stitch layout of each pattern section but if you’d like the full written pattern, you can request it by emailing support@letsknit.co.uk
Make t FOR £ his 15! 77 letsknit.co.uk
OU W H A T YT O NEED .. KNOW.
SHAWL
A BIT MORE ADVANCED
4PLY YARN
Chart
Start knitting here...
3.5MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Length: 135cm Height: 60cm
KNIT KIT Yarn: West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4ply, shades (A) 129 Dusty Miller, (B) 365 Blueberry Bonbon, one 100g ball of each Needles: 3.5mm (100cm) circular Stitch marker Tapestry needle
TENSION SQUARE n 30 sts x 36 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over pattern n 3.5mm needles
Using 3.5mm circular needle and yarn A, cast on five sts Pm before centre st on RS, take care to make new sts before slipping marker £ Rows 1-21: beg with a WS row, work Chart 1, reversing instructions after centre st on each row. 43 sts £ Row 22 (RS): k1, kfb, k to marker, m1, sm, k1, m1, k to last two sts, kfb, k1. 47 sts £ Row 23: k to one st before marker, p1, sm, k to end Change to yarn B £ Rows 24-25: rep Rows 22-23. 51 sts Change to yarn A £ Row 26: as Row 22. 55 sts £ Row 27: k2, p to last two sts, k2
NOTES
£ Rows 28-43: work Chart 2. 87 sts £ Rows 44-45: rep Rows 22-23. 91 sts Change to yarn B £ Rows 46-55: work Chart 3. 111 sts NOTE: WS rows are not included in Chart 3, work all WS rows as folls: £ All WS rows to Row 55: k2, p to one st before marker, p1, sm, p to last two sts, k2 Change to yarn A £ Row 56: k1, kfb, k to marker, m1, sm, k1, m1, k to last two sts, kfb, k1. 115 sts £ Row 57: k to one st before marker, p1, sm, k to end £ Row 58: as Row 56. 119 sts £ Row 59: k2, p to last two sts, k2
£ Rows 60-75: work Chart 4. 151 sts £ Rows 76-77: rep Rows 56-57. 155 sts Change to yarn B
KEY
CHART 1 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4ply is a soft, practical mix of 75% wool – including Bluefaced Leicester fibres – and 25% nylon. The yarn comes in solid or self-patterning shades and it has an RRP of £7.50 per 100g (400m) ball. For stockists, visit wyspinners.com
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? Cygnet Wool Rich 4ply is another superwash wool yarn that would work well for this pattern. Shades 635 Turquoise and 2617 Light Grey Mix are good substitutes. It costs £3.30 per 50g (205m) ball from 07895838905, wool4less.co.uk
These charts are a little different to your regular diagrams as they actually only show half of your row. Read all rows from right to left regardless of whether they are right side or wrong side rows. When you get to the centre stitch (marked C on the chart), work this in stocking stitch then work back along the same chart row in reverse. This will ensure the pattern is symmetrical on your finished shawl.
CHART 2
43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28
A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY ESSENTI ALS
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CHART 3
NOTE: work Chart 2 for Rows 148-163
NOTE: wrong side rows not shown 54 52 50 48 46
78 letsknit.co.uk
“Circular needles are ideal for projects that require a large number of stitches. Just hold a tip in each hand and work backwards and forwards in rows” LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler
CHART 4 75 74 73 72 71 70 69 68 67 66 65 64 63 62 61 60
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£ Rows 78-95: work Chart 5. 191 sts NOTE: WS rows are not included in this chart. Work all WS rows as folls: £ All WS rows to Row 95: k2, p to last two sts, k2 Change to yarn A £ Rows 96-99: rep Rows 56-59. 199 sts £ Rows 100-115: work Chart 6. 231 sts £ Rows 116-117: rep Rows 56-57. 235 sts Change to yarn B £ Rows 118-143: work Chart 7. 287 sts NOTE: WS rows are not included in this chart. Work all WS rows as folls: £ All WS rows to Row 143: k2, p to last two sts, k2 Change to yarn A £ Rows 144-147: rep Rows 56-59. 295 sts £ Rows 148-163: work Chart 2 once more. 327 sts £ Rows 164-165: rep Rows 56-57. 331 sts Change to yarn B £ Rows 166-199: work Chart 8. 399 sts NOTE: WS rows are not included in this chart. Work all WS rows as folls: £ All WS rows to Row 199: k2, p to last two sts, k2 Change to yarn A £ Rows 200-203: rep Rows 56-59. 403 sts £ Rows 204-219: work Chart 9. 439 sts £ Rows 220-221: rep Rows 56-57. 443 sts Change to yarn B £ Row 222: k1, kfb, k to marker, m1, sm, k1, m1, k to last two sts, kfb, k1. 447 sts £ Rows 223: k2, p to last two sts, k2 £ Rows 224-231: work Chart 10 NOTE: WS rows are not included in this chart. Work all WS rows as folls: £ All WS rows up to Row 231: k2, p to last two sts, k2 NOTE: on next row disregard centre st £ Row 232: k2, * yfwd, k5, yfwd, k1, rep from * to last st, k1. 595 sts £ Row 233: k to end £ Cast off using a stretchy cast-off as folls: k1, * k1, sl two sts back to LH needle, k2tog tbl, rep from * to end
TO MAKE UP Weave in the loose ends. Block to measurements LK
CHARTS 5-10 OVERLEAF
CHART 5
NOTE: wrong side rows not shown 94 92 90 88 86 84 82 80 78
CHART 6 115 114 113 112 111 110 109 108 107 106 105 104 103 102 101 100
CHART 7
NOTE: wrong side rows not shown 142 140 138 136 134 132 130 128 126 124 122 120 118
NOTE: wrong side rows not shown 198 196 194 192 190 188 186 184 182 180 178 176 174 172 170 168 166
KEY
CHART 9 219 218 217 216 215 214 213 212 211 210 209 208 207 206 205 204
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CHART 10
CHART 8
ADVERTORIAL
Stitch‘n’ B**** in Time Save money on all your knitty goodies this Yarn Shop Day! To mark the event, this New Romney retailer will be offering 20% off everything in-store. You’ll be able to get gorgeous yarns from luxury fibres to everyday favourites, plus hand-dyed offerings from independent designer makers. Find out more at knit1drop1.co.uk
REALLY MARIA This colourful shop in East Dulwich, London, has just won Best Independent Retailer in the Craft Business Awards 2020. The store is a wonderful place to restock on top brands including James C. Brett, Stylecraft and King Cole, and while you’re there, don’t forget to explore the brilliant range of haberdashery, kits and fabric. reallymaria.com
RICO DESIGN Create a new outfit for your little one with this fabulous pattern, featured in the Rico Baby Lookbook 027. Rico is one of the sponsors of this year’s Yarn Shop Day. You can find your nearest Rico stockist at rico-designs.com
KEEP IN THE LOOP WITH THE LATEST TREATS AND TRENDS
WOOL@J-13
Fibre festival Wool@J13 is inviting crafters to Stitch a Brick to promote mental health. The bricks can be knitted, crocheted, felted or woven and should be decorated with a word reflecting an obstacle or difficulty on one side and a positive word on the reverse showing something that is helping to tackle the issue. The bricks will be built into a wall for the event on the 16th-17th May. There will also be a ‘Take 5’ safe space, supported by Staffordshire charity CARE, which works with mental health. Learn more and download the patterns at wool-j13.uk/whats-on
WHICHCRAFT WOOLS
Wool n Stuff
Look out for a special flower power yarn bomb to mark this year’s Yarn Shop Day! Visitors to this Cheam Village store will also receive a 10% discount off certain yarn ranges, as well as have the chance to get their hands on glorious goodie bags. Visit 7 Station Way, Cheam Village, Surrey, SM3 8SD, go online at whichcraftwools.co.uk or phone 0208 643321.
Get ready for a huge yarny party at Wool n Stuff in Wakefield this Yarn Shop Day! Look out for exciting goodie bags, special offers, and a prize draw, as well as exclusive yarns and kits, tasty treats and the annual game of Yarn Bingo. Pop along from 9am to knit, natter and enjoy the day! Visit 46 Kirkgate, Wakefield, WF1 1TQ, call 01924 565740 or go online at woolnstuff.co.uk
BLACKER YARNS Celebrate British fibres with Blacker Yarns 5ply Guernsey. The collection is full of warm, lively colours representing the land, sea and seashore. Don’t miss the limited edition Cornish Garden range, too, made from a beautiful blend of wools and dyed into vibrant, heathered shades. Find out more at blackeryarns.co.uk
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A
E I IT BIL M LI ILA VA
FREE SPRING YARN BUNDLE *
WHEN YOU SUBSCRIBE TO
MAGAZINE! Step into spring with this bright yarn bundle from Deramores! Create pastel projects galore and spruce up your stash with 1200g of DK yarn.
Love making toys? Turn to p28 for an alternative gift!
1200g of DK Yarn!
Make me!
H 2 EASY WAYS TO SU B SC R I B E H
1
letsknit.co.uk/L040H
2
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ADVERTORIAL
THE LET’S KNIT YARN SHOP TOUR
Time To Celebrate We’re continuing with our brilliant feature series highlighting some of the UK’s best bricks and mortar knitting suppliers. All of these retailers are taking part in this year’s Yarn Shop Day on Saturday 2nd May and will be welcoming some very special guests. Head in store to find out more!
TERRIFIC TRUNK SHOW
MEET THE MAKERS
The Yarn Cake, Glasgow
Rainbow Valley, Chatteris This Yarn Shop Day you can discover gorgeous yarns and patterns and chat to expert designers at Rainbow Valley. Meet Cassie from The Missing Yarn (right) who creates bright and bold designs, plus Vicky from Vera and Bess (below) and owner Helen Free, a.k.a Enfys, will be showcasing their fabulous projects too. Buy a designer pattern with the yarn to make it and you’ll save 20% on your order. If you wish the team a “Happy Yarn Shop Day” when making a purchase on the day, you’ll get 10% off. Visit: 25B, High Street, Chatteris, Cambridgeshire, PE16 6BG Contact: 01354 669922, enfys.me.uk
Join Sunshine Stewart of My Mama Knits for a brilliant Trunk Show at The Yarn Cake. These showcases have become a Yarn Shop Day tradition in store and this year is definitely worth a visit. Sunshine Stewart offers unique and quirky hand dyed yarns and her colourways are inspired by nature, popular culture and her children. There will also be goodie bags, discounts and a raffle on the day! Visit: 148 Queen Margaret Drive Glasgow G20 8NY Contact: 0141 946 5305, theyarncake.co.uk
PERFECT POP UP Ida’s House, Caterham on the Hill To mark Yarn shop Day, Ida’s House will be hosting a one-day pop-up featuring three indie dyers! In-house dyer Ted from Tedsknits will be showcasing his fabulous jewel colours inspired by his garden, while Tara from Irish Artisan Yarns dyes luxury yarn in the shades of the Irish landscape. Don’t miss Lola from Third Vault Yarns who is influenced by all things sci-fi and fantasy. The first ten people to spend £50 will also receive a special goodie bag! Visit: 27 High Street, Caterham on the Hill, Surrey, CR3 5UE Contact: 01883 345220, idashouse.co.uk
SPECIAL GUESTS Pins and Needles, Devizes Meet top designers and fibre artists in store on Yarn Shop Day! You’ll get to see the new designs by The Secret Crocheter and shop-owner Vixter Woolista (above left), plus talented spinner Sue Savage will there with her gorgeous yarns. The day will be a Bagstravaganza with special guest Sarah Hillman, a.k.a. Florrie & Jean, who makes fabulous project bags and needle rolls. There’s also a Scrapheap Challenge with prizes for the favourite bags created entirely from scraps and leftovers. Pop along on Yarn Shop Day to join in the fun! Visit: Units 9-10 The Wharf Centre, Couch Lane, Devizes, SN10 1EB Contact: 01380 727212, facebook.com/ pinsandneedlesdevizes/
FIND MORE OF OUR OFFICIAL YARN SHOP DAY PARTNER STORES ON PAGE 87!
LEARN WITH US
6MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 23cm wide at narrowest point x 23cm deep
MASTER LINEN STITCH WITH JO ALLPORT’S HOW-TO GUIDE
KNIT KIT
LUS
I V E TO •
IV
E TO
•
C EX
E X C L US
EXCLU S TO •
Yarn: Rico Essentials Mega Wool Chunky, shades (A) 014 Grey, (B) 006 Mustard, (C) 008 Lilac, one 100g ball of each Needles: 6mm Zip: 20cm Tapestry needle
E
CHUNKY YARN
IV
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
In the BAG
From its spicy shades to its gorgeous shape, we love everything about this stylish clutch bag. The top band is worked in linen stitch which creates a tight-knit woven effect. LK designer Jo Allport demonstrates this fabulous technique in her step-by-step photo tutorial. The zip adds a professionallooking finish and you could even line this bag with fabric for extra strength.
TENSION SQUARE n 14 sts x 36 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Linen stitch n 6mm needles
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN Rico Essentials Mega Wool Chunky is a wool and acrylic mix that knits up quickly on 6mm needles. Projects can be machine washed at 40°C. It costs £6 per 100g (125m) ball from 07525233996, beadandwoolshop.co.uk A LOCAL YARN SHOP I S A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNI TTY ESSENTI ALS
FIND YOURS ON P87
Chunky
QUICK KNIT
84 letsknit.co.uk
LEARN WITH US
EXPERT ADVICE
Follow Jo Allport’idse step-by-step gu
Linen Stitch creates a dense fabric that’s great for edgings as it doesn’t curl. A more pliable fabric can be created easily by going up one needle size. All the slipped stitches are slipped with the yarn on the right side of the work. There are only two pattern rows but you change colour every row.
1
2
Start knitting here... BAG PANEL (make two) Using 6mm needles and yarn A, cast on 37 sts firmly Work in Three-colour Linen Stitch Pattern as folls: NOTE: letter in square brackets indicates shade for row £ Row 1 (RS): [B] k1, * wyif sl 1, k1, rep from * to end £ Row 2: [C] p2, * wyib sl 1, p1, rep from * to last st, p1 £ Row 3: [A] as Row 1 £ Row 4: [B] as Row 2 £ Row 5: [C] as Row 1 £ Row 6: [A] as Row 2 These six rows set patt £ Cont in patt until work meas 8cm, ending after a WS row Cont in yarn B only
£ Next row (RS): k1, (kfb) to last st, k1. 72 sts £ Beg with a p row, work in st st until piece meas 15cm from end of Linen stitch, ending after a WS row £ Next row (RS): (k2tog) to end. 36 sts £ Next row: p to end £ Cast off
JOIN YARN B
SLIP A STITCH
Cast on an odd number of stitches in yarn A. Join in yarn B and knit the first stitch. Now bring the yarn to the front of the work.
Slip the next stitch from the left needle to the right needle purlwise. Take the yarn back to the wrong side of your work. Continue to knit one stitch and slip one stitch across the row.
3
4
TO MAKE UP Sew Bag panel side seams together. Sew bottom cast-off seams together. Insert zip into top and sew in place. Weave in ends. See ball band for further care instructions LK
“Try this effect on cushions, placemats or blanket squares!” LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler
JOIN YARN C On Row 2 (WS), join in yarn C, leaving yarn B at the side of your work. Purl two stitches, then take the yarn to the back of your work ready to slip the next stitch.
5
PICK UP YARN A On Row 3, pick up yarn A again and leave yarn C at the side of your work. Repeat Row 1. As this is a right side row, the yarn should be at the front when slipping your stitches.
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SLIP AND PURL Slip the stitch purlwise then return the yarn to the front ready to purl the next stitch. Continue in this way across the row, ending with two purl stitches.
6
JUST REPEAT Continue to work the two-row slip stitch pattern changing colour on every row and carrying the yarns not in use up the side of the work.
What’s The Secret? DISCOVER TOP TIPS FOR TRICKY TECHNIQUES
Changing colours to knit super stripes Introduce a new element to your monochrome knits with simple stripes! There are two main ways of working stripes and which method to choose depends on the width and frequency of each colour change.
colour in Get creative with atement Jacinta Bowie’s st ttern pa sweater. Find the on page 19!
On wide bands of colour it is best to cut the yarn each time you want to introduce a new shade. Simply start knitting with the new colour at the start of the next row.
Some knitters prefer to knot the two colours together when you first join them, then undo this knot later on when it comes to sewing in your ends.
If the colour change happens frequently then you can often carry the yarn up the side of the work without cutting it. This only works if your stripes are worked over an even number of rows and it’s best if the edge will be hidden in a seam.
For more advanced colourwork, you might be required to change colour in the middle of a row. If you are working blocks of colour, remember to give the yarns a little twist to make a neater join and avoid holes in your work.
If you have lots of colour changes. Weave in the ends as you go along to save doing it all at the end.
A The Yarn Doctors JULIET AND BRONAGH FROM THE UKHKA OFFER THEIR EXPERT ADVICE
Q
What can I do to make my finished knits look neater?
We often get asked this by knitters and we know that finishing a garment well can really change how you feel about a project. After all the time you have spent, carefully knitting each piece it is worth taking the time to finish it in the best way possible, so you can proudly wear it. First of all, we recommend blocking each piece. If you aren’t familiar with this term it means using steam or washing each piece and pinning it to the correct dimensions, either on a blocking mat, ironing board or towel. Some people use children’s foam play mats to
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block – a very cost-effective solution. Blocking allows the stitches to relax and helps the edges to lie flat, making sewing up so much easier. If you are going to use a steam iron, don’t be tempted to put the iron on the fabric, simply hold it just above for the steam to do its work. We have found the best technique for sewing pieces together is mattress stitch, also known as ladder stitch. While over sewing can create puckering in your seam, mattress stitch gives an even result which is almost invisible, because of the way you zig-zag between the two pieces. With practise you can
easily match up patterns or even stripes. There is an easy-to-follow video on our website to help you: bit.ly/382mfw5. Just two simple techniques and your knits will look fantastic!
THANKS TO JULIET AND BRONAGH FROM THE UKHKA
CALLING ALL KNITTING AND CROCHET ENTHUSIASTS!
Saturday 2nd May 2020! CELEBRATING THE INDUSTRY’S FINEST YARN SHOPS Visit your local participating shop to celebrate with fellow crafters on the day Sponsored by:
Yarn Shop Day 2020 – Shop Guide Which shop will you be visiting on Saturday 2nd May? Sponsored by:
BEDFORDSHIRE
BERKSHIRE
BUCKINGHAMSHIRE
Stitchery Do 31-35 Denmark street Wokingham RG40 2AY
LOVE YOUR Yarn Shop
Wools, Yarns & Inspiration Exclusive Knit & Crochet Patterns
The Nimble Thimble 01280 822236 We are a fabric and yarn shop stocking lots of beautiful fabrics and a wide range of yarns, acrylics, cottons, pure wool in 4ply, DK, Aran, chunky and super chunky.
Wool, Fabric & Haberdashery
1d Well Street, Buckingham, Bucks MK18 1EY
Sirdar, Rico, King Cole, WYS, Stylecraft & James C Brett.
Open Tues-Sat 9.30am-5.00pm (Mon Closed)
www.thespottedsheep.co.uk
www.Stitcherydo.co.uk
www.nimble-thimble.co.uk
25B, High Street, Chatteris, Cambs PE16 6BG 01354 669922
Join us on Yarn Shop Day to meet crochet designers Vicky Gorry from Vera and Bess and Cassie Ward owner of the The Missing Yarn!
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
We’re proud to be a Rowan flagship store and stockist of Stylecraft, West Yorkshire Spinners, Sirdar and Manos del Uruguay yarns. We also run social groups and workshops.
7 High Street Passage, Ely CB7 4NB T: 01353 664000 Email: ely@sewmuchtodo.co.uk
www.sewmuchtodo.co.uk
Crafty Stitches Tel: 01606 431 87
Stocking yarns from Sirdar, Stylecraft, King Cole, Rico plus many more! 48 Witton Street, Northwich Cheshire, CW9 5AG Email: contact@craftystitchesonline.co.uk
www.craftystitchesonline.co.uk
DERBYSHIRE
Celebrate With Us! On Yarn Shop Day we will be offering a 10% discount when you spend £10 or more
Stockists of: StyleCraft, King Cole, James C Brett
Come in and see us at
Black Sheep Craft Barn Warehouse Studios Glaziers Lane Culcheth Warrington WA3 4AQ
01925 764231 www.blacksheepwools.com
CHESHIRE
CHESHIRE
Wool and Patterns and an extensive range of accessories. Help and advice too. Sirdar, Stylecraft, Rico, KintPro, Pony, Groves, Millward and more... Weekly Yarn and Yatter sessions. Help us with our Charity Knitting Projects.
• YARN • HABERDASHERY • FABRIC
Haberdashery, Trimmings and an Amazing Fabric range including licensed fabrics and brands. Visit us in Bramhall Village Square, Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 1AW 0161 478 2253 crookilleycrafts@gmail.com Etsy.com/shop/uk/CrookilleyCrafts
0161 430 2566
CrookilleyCraftsEmporium
CC_Emporium
DERBYSHIRE
Woolshopdirect We stock an extensive range of high quality yarn by Stylecraft, Rico, James C Brett, King Cole, Adriafil, Woolcraft and Jarol, plus patterns and accessories. Bargain prices, expert, friendly advice and parking available at the door.
36 Marple Road, Charlesworth, Glossop, Derbyshire SK13 5DA Tel: 07586 343438 facebook.com/woolshopdirect
Pond World Retail Park, Lynn Road, Wisbech, PE14 7DA
Tel: 01945 581082 CHESHIRE
CHESHIRE
www.enfys.me.uk/rainbow-valley-shop.htm
CHESHIRE
Linda’s Wool N Yarn
‘Knit and Knatter’ Thursday afternoons 1pm-4pm.
1-4 Peacock Mews, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 1JH Any queries please call us on 01525 376456
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
CAMBRIDGESHIRE
We have the biggest stock of wool in the area and have a great selection of haberdashery too. We also have a daily drop in session every morning and if you need help with your knitting or crochet then there is always someone that will be able to help, or if you want to join in then that's fine too.
Our Yarn Shop Days are 2nd & 3rd May Crafts all weekend Open 10am‐5pm Crafty Corner, 80 Mill St, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 6NH 01625 404195
www.craftycornermacc.co.uk
CORNWALL
Stocking: King Cole, Sirdar, Stylecraft, Robin, Wendy, James C Brett Rico & Makower. 19 The Precinct, Romiley, Stockport, Cheshire, SK6 4EA. @Knitters @Knitters
Built from the ground-up by Rachael Hunt, Sew and Fabric has positioned itself as the leading haberdashery shop in Cornwall. Stylecraft yarn and patterns; Hemline Haberdashery Products; Beresford Ribbons; Simplicity, New Look and Burda sewing patterns. 1 Biddicks Court, Saint Austell, PL25 5EW
@Knitters
DEVON
Tel: 01726 75385 | sewandfabric.co.uk
DORSET
Purple Valley Wool Shop Specialising in yarns from Opal, Sirdar, King Cole, Rico Design, James C Brett, West Yorkshire Spinners, Woolcraft, Hayfield, Regia, Lilypond Yarns. Large range of craft books from Search Press. Embroidery, Cross-Stitch and Felting supply. Everything a knitters and crocheters heart desires.
50 Hyde Road, Paignton, Devon TQ4 5BY Tel: 01803 411300 · Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm Purplevalleyhatdesign
www.purplevalleyyarn.etsy.com www.purplevalleystitch.etsy.com www.purplevalleycraftbooks.com
Knit Wits stocks a wide range of yarns from the everyday to the very special, together with accessories, patterns, craft books, buttons and much more! 15 East Street, Blandford Forum DT11 7DU
01258 488542
Yarn Shop Day 2020 – Shop Guide Check out these amazing shops taking part in this year’s event! Sponsored by:
EAST SUSSEX
ESSEX
ESSEX
ESSEX
Southend Fine Wool and Yarn Shop Colchester • Ipswich • Chelmsford • Salisbury • Dovercourt
Special offers and discounts on Yarn Shop Day! STOCKING: WENDY, ROBIN, JAMES C. BRETT, AND PATONS YARNS! 01273 424529 | www.thedroppedstitch.co.uk
ESSEX
Franklins Colchester info@franklinsgroup.com
www.franklinsgroup.com
ESSEX
For Yarn Shop Day we’ll be offering; ● Free tea, coffee and cakes ● Raffles ● Goodie bags ● Knit & Natter, Crochet & Chatter. We are stockists of; King Cole, Rico, WYS, J.C.Brett, Cygnet, Wendy, Robin, Bergere de France, Knit Pro, Pony, Silver Reed knitting machine and more... Open: Monday-Saturday 9am-4pm 197 Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff On Sea, Essex SS0 7EL TEL: 07941 002458
GLASGOW
GREATER MANCHESTER
253 Hamstel Road, Southend on Sea, Essex SS2 4LB
5 Red Lion Yard, Colchester, Essex CO1 1DX Tel: 01206 370590
www.thecrochetlounge.org
www.nannasyarnbarn.co.uk
Tel: 01702 303030
nannasyarnbarn
nannasyarnbarn1
We’re supporting Essex Air Ambulance with a donation for tea and cake.
crochetclublounge
GLASGOW
GLASGOW
The Orry Mill is an independent wool shop passionate about colour, texture, quality & contemporary design. We stock Rowan, WYS, Regia, & more... Best Small Shop Competition 2019 Finalist
www.theorrymill.co.uk 117 TOWNHEAD, KIRKINTILLOCH, G66 1NX Tel: 0141 777 6633 enquiries@isew2.co.uk
T: 01355 301 244 18a Glasgow Road, Glasgow G76 0HU
HERTFORDSHIRE
HAMPSHIRE
Celebrating 10 years in business!
1a, Albert Road, Southsea, Hampshire PO5 2SE
Stockists of James C. Brett, King Cole, Stylecraft, Rico & WYS. We also stock hand-dyed yarn. 148 Queen Margaret Drive, Glasgow G20 8NY
0141 946 5305 www.theyarncake.co.uk
HERTFORDSHIRE
42 High Street, Standish, Wigan WN6 0HF 07761 783766
ISLE OF WIGHT
www.seeded.com JERSEY
KENT
Wool on Wheels We stock a fantastic range of knitting wool and crochet cottons. Whatever your level of skill there is always a knowledgeable member of staff who can help you. Drop in classes from 10 o’clock
Tel: 01442 245 383 142 Cotterells, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP1 1JQ www.needlecraftstore.co.uk
‘An old fashioned wool shop with a modern twist’ Stockists of James C Brett, King Cole and Stylecraft, Knitting needles, crochet hooks etc. DMC embroidery silks Haberdashery inc elastic, zips, buttons Knitting Bags and gifts from Vanessa Bee Designs Come in for our weekly “Stitch 'n' Bitch” sessions! Please contact us about our weekly Crochet groups 11 Sandown Road Lake, Isle of Wight, PO36 9JL 01983 716890 www.facebook.com/knitknacksiow
Yarn, Patterns, buttons and an extensive range of knitting and crochet accessories. Friendly service and advice. Stockists of West Yorkshire Spinners, Wendy, Robin, Sirdar, DMC, KnitPro and many more. Come and see us for all your knitting needs. La Rue, Six Roads, St Lawrence, Jersey JE3 1GL 01534 863742 woolonwheelsjersey
AvicraftWool
15 Chatterton Road, Bromley, Kent. BR2 9QW 020 8290 1238 www.avicraftwool.com email: avicraftwool@gmail.com Craft Club is 1st & 3rd Wednesday each month from 7pm Open: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm
LOVE YOUR Yarn Shop
113 /115Victoria Road, Portslade, East Sussex, BN41 1XD
Keep an eye out for what is to come for Yarn Shop day including special events, goodie bags and many more promotions. Keep up to date by visiting our facebook page. One of the largest knitting shops in East Anglia!
Yarn Shop Day 2020 – Shop Guide Which shop will you be visiting on Saturday 2nd May? Sponsored by:
KENT
LANCASHIRE
LINCOLNSHIRE
LINCOLNSHIRE
Horncastle Hobby House
On Yarn Shop Day there will be up to 20% off everything in store at Stitch ‘n’ B****!
LOVE YOUR Yarn Shop
(T&C's apply)
Yarns from Katia, Jarol, King Cole and Wendy. Patterns, needles, crochet, felting, macrame, DMC threads and all things crafty.
Tel: 07958 427 853 16 High Street, New Romney TN28 8BY
LONDON
Stockists of: Stylecraft, King Cole, Rico, WYS, Sirdar
Phone: 01507 522659 www.horncastlehobbyhouse.co.uk
01427 614251 www.thewoolloft.co.uk
25 North Street, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 5DX
60 Bridge Street, Gainsborough DN21 1LS
NORFOLK
NORFOLK
NORFOLK
NORTH YORKSHIRE
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE
NORTHERN IRELAND
Breaking the Boundaries of Colour For your yarn, fabric, haberdashery and Really Maria’s patterns and kits. 15 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich, London SE22 8EW
www.reallymaria.com T: 0203 581 0909
NORTH YORKSHIRE
Stockists of: Stylecraft, James C. Brett, King Cole, DMC, Sirdar and more!
Stockists of: Rowan WY S King Cole Opal Adriafil Herdy Vanessa B and more! Celebrate Y arn Shop Day with us! Even BIGGER tha n last year!
NORTHERN IRELAND
Accessories, Patterns, Haberdashery & Mini Project Kits Group or One to One Knitting & Crocheting Classes 1A High Street, Finedon, Welingborough, Northamptonshire, NN9 5JN Tel: 01933 680119 email: joolswools@outlook.com www.joolswools.co.uk
NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
NORTHUMBERLAND
A warm and inviting shop for all lovers of wool to indulge their passion
Join us for some Yarn Shop Day fun and games with goody bags, competitions, bargains plus free crochet demonstrations in the Wool Cave 16 Church Street, Portadown, BT62 3LN Open: Mon - Sat 10:00 - 16:00
07927 764416 valerie@lovewool.co.uk www.lovewool.co.uk
OXFORDSHIRE/BUCKS
Mullan’s Fashions ●
Wool and Hand Knit Garments Ladies Fashions ● Baby Gifts
●
47 The Promenade Portstewart BT55 7AE Tel: 028 7083 2960 MullansFashions
Stocking: King Cole, Knit Pro, Scheepjes, Sirdar, Stylecraft, Rico and more. Come and join the celebrations on Saturday May 2nd. There will be goody bags, a raffle and cake. 28-30 High Street, Mansfield Woodhouse, Nottinghamshire NG19 8AN Tel: 01623 622175
Rowan Flagship Store Erika Knight – Stylecraft – Sirdar Patchwork and Quilting Fabrics In store and on-line Marlow Shop Moy House, Institute Road, Marlow SL7 1BN 01628 890532 Mon-Sat 9.30-5.30
Henley Warehouse Farm Road, Henley on Thames RG9 1EJ 01491 572528 Mon-Fri 10-4 Open Sat 2nd May 10-4
Yarn Shop Day 2020 – Shop Guide Check out these amazing shops taking part in this year’s event! Sponsored by:
SCOTLAND Ginger Twist Studio is a wee bijou yarn shop in Edinburgh stacked to the rafters with Ginger’s Hand Dyed, delicious yarns, pattern books & supplies. See Jess scamper up her gorgeous new ladder to fetch whatever you fancy. Come check out the shop revamp!
SCOTLAND
Mary Bobbins
SCOTLAND
SCOTLAND
NAIRN WOOL SHOP
Our newly established business includes haberdashery and wool within our growing list of products and services offered. We strive to deliver exceptional customer service ensuring we exceed our customers expectations.
Workshops held thoughout the year Pure Wool • Local spun wool Yarns • Haberdashery Accessories • Felting supplies • Fabrics
Stockists of: Sirdar, Hayfield, Rowan, WYS, Rico, Regia, Adriafil, Schoppel & more!
ALSO LOCALLY CRAFTED ORIGINAL GIFTS Open 10am - 5.30pm Monday - Saturday
25 Commerce Street, Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, AB43 9AQ
Nairn Wool Shop, 6/6a Falconers Lane, Off the High Street, Nairn IV12 4DS 01667 452423 www.nairnwoolshop.com nairnwoolshop
T: 01346 510 784 info@marybobbinsshop.co.uk
www.marybobbinsshop.co.uk
SOMERSET
SUFFOLK
Tel: 01506 842013 TheThreadCounter
SUFFOLK Stockists of
Bath’s Premier Knitting Emporium; we are stockists of big name brands such as Rico, Rowan, Fyberspates, Adriafil and King Cole as well as small, indie and local makers such as Hedgeknits and Dyebath Yarns. 19 Old Orchard Street, Bath BA1 1JU Tel: 01225 469144
www.woolbath.co.uk
SURREY
SURREY
King Cole, Stylecraft, Sirdar, James Brett, Grundl, Wendy and Robin yarns, needles, embroidery cottons, threads, cross stitch kits and much more.
Tel: 01473 780033 www.sandpknitting.co.uk S and P Knitting, Woolverstone Marina, Ipswich, Suffolk IP9 1AU
SUSSEX
www.abakhan.co.uk
TYNE AND WEAR
Email: ekemp58@outlook.com
Tel: 0191 567-3455 203 Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 7TU
01883 345 220 www.idashouse.co.uk
Enjoy discounts, free demos and more at all stores! Mostyn · Liverpool Birkenhead · Hanley · Chester Manchester · Preston · Bolton Altrincham · Shrewsbury
www.sewmuchtodo.co.uk
www.kempswoolshop.com
27 High Street, Caterham on the Hill, Surrey CR3 5UE
Join us & celebrate Yarn Shop Day
23 Hatter Street, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1NE T: 01284 755459 Email: bury@sewmuchtodo.co.uk
Simply low prices Good range of current and clearance yarns
We stock Isager, Cambrian Wool, West Yorkshire Spinners, Sirdar and Stylcraft yarns. Plus Lykke and Knitpro needles and accessories. Books include pompom and Laine Magazine.
VARIOUS
We’re proud to be a Rowan flagship store and stockist of Stylecraft, West Yorkshire Spinners, Sirdar and Manos del Uruguay yarns. We also run social groups and workshops.
WALES A unique wool shop in North Wales specialising in hand-dyed yarns from independent dyers, as well as fibre and felting and spinning supplies. A variety of classes and social groups are available throughout the week. 22 Madoc Street, Llandudno LL30 2TL T: 01492 878510 E: ewefeltything@gmail.com
ewefeltything.co.uk
WALES
Just Into Crafts has it all and, is always happy to help and assist you with your crafting ventures! 7 Cowell Street, Llanelli SA15 1UU
Tel: 01554 757704 www.justintocrafts.com
WEST MIDLANDS
Your local yarn shop based in Sutton Coldfield. Large stockist of Rowan, WYS, Wool & the Gang and Sirdar, as well as a range of hand dyed yarns including Rosies Moments, Fine Fish, Fruitful Fusion and new featured dyers every few months plus a range of quality accessories.
No 5, Mitchells Exclusive Shopping, Weeford Road, Sutton Coldfield B74 6NA Tel: 01217 920774
LOVE YOUR Yarn Shop
www.gingertwiststudio.com 11 London Road, Edinburgh EH7 5AP
SCOTLAND
Yarn Shop Day 2020 – Shop Guide Which shop will you be visiting on Saturday 2nd May? Sponsored by:
WEST MIDLANDS
WEST MIDLANDS Fyberspates Malabrigo West Yorkshire Spinners Hiya Hiya Knit Pro And much more…
Remember When Monthly Wool Market Stockists of Debbie Bliss, Lion Brand, Louisa Harding, Bergere De France, Rowan, Wendy, Sirdar, Adriafil, King Cole, Rico, Stylecraft & James C Brett.
LOVE YOUR Yarn Shop
Remember When Monthly Wool Market, Coleshill Town Hall, High Street, Coleshill B46 3BG
Tel: 01827 874488 www.rememberwhenshop.co.uk
WEST YORKSHIRE
Modern Stitch Craft Supply Shop and Workshop Venue Stitch Solihull, Notcutts Garden Centre Stratford Road, Shirley, Solihull, B90 4EN
0121 314 6888 sales@stitchsolihull.com www.stitchsolihull.com
WEST YORKSHIRE
WEST MIDLANDS
WEST SUSSEX
Withit Witch Yarns & Patterns from Sirdar, Stylecraft, Cygnet and WYS Crochet and Knitting Lessons Available enquiries@withitwitch.co.uk Visit us online at www.withitwitch.co.uk Halesowen Knitting Centre 75 High Street Halesowen B63 3BQ
Tel: 0121 5500201
WILTSHIRE
Creative Craft Centre
We stock wools, yarns and cottons plus all associated needs for knitting and crochet. Also a growing selection of fabric, needlecraft and other creative pursuits. 130 South Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH16 4LT 01444 455611 shop@sussex-crafts.co.uk www.sussex-crafts.co.uk
WILTSHIRE Cricklade Crafts
Union Street, Dewsbury, WF13 1AJ 01924 469500
Join us on Yarn Shop Day to see exciting new yarns, gifts and accessories.
9 Station Road, Osset, W Yorkshire, WF5 8AB
07736 772114 Selling high quality yarns at competitive prices. Cotton fabrics, haberdashery, including DMC threads, Gütermann sewing threads and much more. Regular workshops throughout the year.
Stockist of Sirdar, James C Brett, King Cole, Rico, Wendy, Bernat, Caron. Everything a crafter could ever need.
WORCESTERSHIRE
YORKSHIRE
Lots of great offers too! 89a High Street, Cricklade SN6 6DF
Tel: 01793 750604
www.crickladecrafts.co.uk
YORKSHIRE
YORKSHIRE
EWE & YARN F O R A L L Y O U R W O O L LY N E E D S
Wherever possible, we stock natural and eco-friendly products sourced right here in Britain. With our specially selected supply of yarn there is something for every taste and every budget.
Stockists of: Stylecraft, Rico, Sirdar and Adriafil; a wide range of haberdashery, crafts, buttons and so much more! Open Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9-5pm and Sat 9-1pm. Closed Wed and Sun. Open 9-5pm for Yarn Shop Day on 2nd May.
A bright, friendly atmosphere found in the heart of North Yorkshire. Stocking Stylecraft, WYS, Lion Brand, Grundl, Opal, Malbrigo, Hand Dyed Yarn and Knit Pro. Thrice weekly knit and natter sessions. Knitting and Crochet Workshops delivered to small groups.
56 Lowesmoor, Worcester WR1 2SE
Tel: 01924 494 157
www.wotahoot.co.uk
Found on 18 Millgate, Thirsk, Yorkshire YO7 1AA Tel: 01845 527978
119-121 Nab Lane, Mirfield, WF14 9QJ
www.eweandyarn.co.uk
Stockists of King Cole, Rico and Stylecraft. Huge range of patterns, books & accessories.
Knit n Natter every Saturday 10-12pm Beginners welcome Can't make it to the shop then you can order online or over the phone. 46 Kirkgate Wakefield WF1 1TQ Tel: 01924 565740
www.woolnstuff.co.uk
Love Your Yarn Shop! Pop into your local participating shop to find out how they will be celebrating on Saturday 2nd May Sponsored by:
P R AC T I CA L G U I D E S
Knitter’s
Essential info from
KNOW-HOW PRACTICAL GUIDES l ABBREVIATIONS l STEP-BY-STEP TECHNIQUES l PATTERNS FOR YOUR LEFTOVERS l
Square of THE MONTH PEPLUM STITCH Cast on a multiple of 12 sts plus one £ Row 1 (RS): p1, * p3, k5, p4, rep from * to end £ Row 2 and every WS row: p NOTE: on Rows 3, 5 and 7, end last rep with p2tog £ Row 5: p2tog, * p1, k2, yfwd, k3, yfwd, k2, p1, p3tog, rep from * to end £ Row 7: p2tog, * k2, yfwd, k5, yfwd, k2, p3tog £ Row 8: p We cast on 25 sts. Our square is knitted in aran weight yarn on 4.5mm needles and measures 14cm x 14cm
How to cast on (two needle method)
1
Create a slipknot on your left hand needle, pulling it taut (but not too tight). Carefully insert the right needle into the knot from front to back, passing under the left hand needle. Wrap the ball end of yarn anticlockwise around the point of the right needle.
2
Pull the loop that forms back through the original stitch (knot) and insert the tip of the left hand needle into the new stitch from underneath to transfer it from the right hand to the left hand needle. There should now be two stitches on the left needle.
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3
Repeat Steps 1 and 2, knitting into the top stitch on the left needle and returning the new stitches from the right to the left needle until you have the required number of stitches.
P R AC T I CA L G U I D E S
Purl stitch
1
1
EDITOR Sarah Neal, sarah.neal@aceville.co.uk
EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Libby Loughnan, libby.loughnan@aceville.co.uk GROUP EDITOR Lynn Martin
Once cast on, insert the tip of the right needle upwards and from front to back into the top stitch on the left needle. The right hand needle should sit behind the left hand one. Wrap the ball end of yarn anticlockwise around the tip of the right hand needle.
2
With the ball end of the yarn at the front (toward you) insert the tip of the right hand needle into the front loop of the first stitch from right to left and with the right hand needle in front of the left hand needle. Wrap the yarn anticlockwise around the needle.
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Helen Tudor SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES 0800 904 7000 aceville@dctmedia.co.uk LET'S KNIT PATTERN SUPPORT 01206 508622, support@letsknit.co.uk GROUP ADVERTISING MANAGER Rebecca Reynolds 01206 505861, rebecca.reynolds@aceville.co.uk ADVERTISING MANAGER Samantha Dean 01206 505114, samantha.dean@aceville.co.uk
2
Using the right hand needle, pull a loop of the wrapped yarn through the original stitch to create a new one on the right hand needle. Slide the original stitch off the left hand needle. Repeat from Step 1. You are now knitting!
2
Draw the needle backwards and upwards, forming a new stitch on the right hand needle. Now let the loop from the left needle slide off the end. Repeat Steps 1 and 2.
ART EDITOR Richard Allen GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Philip Dunham, Gemma Eales and Bry Bird AD PRODUCTION Adrian Pratt
How to take measurements
PHOTOGRAPHY CliQQ Photography, cliqq.co.uk
Our handy diagram shows you where to take some key measurements. If possible, get someone else to help you. Hold the tape measure level and comfortably snug, but avoid pulling tight.
IMAGES Shutterstock, shutterstock.com HAIR AND MAKE UP Dottie Monaghan FASHION STYLIST Boo Hill PROMOTIONS OFFICER Abigail Gibson abigail.gibson@aceville.co.uk CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER Anne Marie Hartley 01206 505902, annemarie.hartley@aceville.co.uk
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BUST – measure around the fullest part of the bust HIGH BUST – measure directly under the arms and above the bust. This is useful for particularly fitted designs WAIST – tie a length of narrow elastic around the waist and let it settle naturally at your waistline, then measure over the elastic HIP – measure around the fullest part of the hips BACK OF NECK TO HIP – this is a common garment length, but designs can be longer or shorter depending on your preference
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SUBSCRIPTIONS EXECUTIVE Laura Tebby laura.tebby@aceville.co.uk
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MARKETING MANAGER Andrea Turner PUBLISHER Matthew Tudor DISTRIBUTED BY Frontline Ltd., Peterborough. Tel: 01733 555161
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GIVEAWAYS TERMS & CONDITIONS This competition is open to all UK residents aged 18 or over, excluding employees or agents of the associated companies and their families. The prize detailed in each competition cannot be exchanged for goods, or towards the purchase of goods at any retail outlet. It cannot be exchanged for cash, or replaced if lost or damaged. Illegible entries and those that do not abide by these T&Cs will be disqualified. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred. The decision of the judge is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Winners will be notified by 05/06/20, a list of winners will be available on request in writing from Andrea Turner, 21/23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY
Tension Most projects, especially garments, include a tension square like this one: 22 sts x 28 rows 10cm x 10cm Stocking stitch 4mm needles
n Before starting a project you should knit a sample square to check your tension is correct. Using the same yarn and needles as in your pattern, cast on the number of stitches given in the tension square plus five more, and work in the specified stitch for the same number of rows plus five more. In the example on the left, you would cast on 27 stitches and work 33 rows in stocking stitch. Block the square as you would your finished project.
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Old UK
LET’S KNIT 1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY
DEPUTY EDITOR Adrienne Chandler, adrienne.chandler@aceville.co.uk
Needle sizing UK (mm)
Knit stitch
14
2.25
13
2.75
12
3
11
3.25
10
3.5
-
3.75 4
9 8
4.5 5
7 6
5.5
5
6
4
6.5
3
7
2
7.5 8
1 0
9
00
10
000
12 15 16
-
19
-
20
-
25
-
Watch the
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n Use pins and a ruler to mark out a 10cm square area in the centre. Carefully count the number of stitches and rows over 10cm (for stocking stitch this is easy as each stitch is a clearly defined v-shape). n If your stitch and row counts match the tension square then the size of your finished item should be correct. Too many stitches and rows mean your knitting is too tight, so try a larger needle. If it’s too loose, with fewer stitches and rows, try going down a needle size.
P R AC T I CA L G U I D E S
Last-minute Make KNIT THIS PRETTY POSY FROM NICOLA VALIJI MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 7.5cm
KNIT KIT Yarn: DK, shades (A) Pink, (B) Turquoise, (C) Purple, (D) Orange, (E) Blue, (F) Yellow, (G) Green, small amounts of each Needles: 3mm Tapestry needle
Start knitting here... FLOWER (make three) NOTE: alternative colourways given in brackets £ Row 1: (kfb) to end. 12 sts £ Row 2: p to end £ Rows 3-4: rep Rows 1-2. 24 sts £ Row 5: k to end £ Row 6: p to end Change to yarn D (E, F) £ Row 7: (k2tog) to end. 12 sts £ Row 8: (p2tog) to end. Six sts £ Cast off LEAF (make two) Using 3mm needles and yarn G cast on four sts £ Row 1: (kfb, k1) twice. Six sts £ Row 2: p to end £ Row 3: kfb, k to last two sts, kfb, k1. Eight sts £ Row 4: p to end £ Row 5: skpo, k to last two sts, k2tog. Six sts £ Row 6: p2tog, p2, p2tog.
Four sts £ Row 7: skpo, k2tog. Two sts £ Row 8: p2tog. One st £ Fasten off
TO MAKE UP For Flower, gather up stitches from cast-off centre to cast-on edge. Gather
around cast-on stitches. Fasten off. Pull yarn from back of Flower up through centre, sew and pull tightly to make petals. Sew each Flower together and sew Leaves to back. Weave in all ends. LK
“You could use this pretty posy as an embellishment on one of your knits. Or you could turn it into a brooch" LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler
Yarn Weights and Substitution YARN TYPE
STANDARD TENSION
STANDARD NEEDLE SIZE
Lace 4ply Sport DK Aran Chunky Super Chunky
30-33 sts-36-50 rows 28 sts-36 rows 26 sts-32 rows 22 sts-28 rows 18 sts-24 rows 14 sts-19 rows 9 sts-12 rows
2mm-3mm 3.25mm 3.5mm 4mm 5mm 6.5mm 10mm
Swapping in a different yarn? Here are some points to remember. n Choose one with a similar tension to the specified yarn. Match the tension given on the ball band of the yarns, as the pattern may use a different stitch. n Consider the fibre content and how this might affect the finished project. For example, cotton yarn
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will knit up very differently to wool.
n Don’t forget to check the care instructions of your new yarn. Not all yarns are machine washable. n Look at the meterage of the new yarn, rather than the weight of the ball. Not all 50g balls have the same meterage and you don’t want to run short when nearing the end of your project.
P R AC T I CA L G U I D E S
Pattern UPDATES TOP FINISHING tips You can find updates at letsknit.co.uk. If you have any pattern queries please call 01206 508622 (office hours only) or email support@letsknit.co.uk and we will get back to you as soon as we can. Our pattern leaflets have a new home! As of the January issue of Let's Knit, our covermount patterns and yarn kit are now living happily together in the same box. Enjoy!
OUR EXPERT GUIDE TO PERFECT FINISHED ITEMS
l Weave in ends on the wrong side of the work, along seams if possible. Instead of tying any knots it’s preferable to secure the yarn by splitting a stitch and pulling the yarn through it l Steam, press or wet block all individual pieces (see right) and leave them to dry thoroughly before sewing up.
l Using the correct technique for sewing together your pieces will result in a much more professional finish. See below for our step-by-step guide. l Take care to follow the correct washing instructions for your fibre – you should find these on the ball band
BLOCKING This is the process of stretching and shaping your finished items to create the correct dimensions and even out your stitches. There are a few different ways to achieve this: Wet blocking: dampen the pieces, gently squeeze out excess water, pin to correct measurements, leave to dry. Steaming: lay a damp cloth over your work and gently iron over the top. Do not iron directly on to your knitting. Continue until the cloth is dry. Alternatively, gently hover over your work with the iron and apply steam until the knitting relaxes. Pin to the desired measurements and allow to set.
Back stitch
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Pin the pieces to be joined, with the right sides together. Thread the loose end of yarn onto a tapestry needle. Start by stitching the two outer edges together, then bring the needle through the two pieces 1cm from back to front ahead of the previous stitch.
2
Push the needle back through at the position where the yarn emerged from the previous stitch. Return it to the front of the work, approx 1cm ahead of the stitch just made. Repeat this until the whole join is complete, working in a straight line.
Joining cast-off edges
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Lay the two pieces to be joined right side up and with the cast off edges touching. Thread a tapestry needle with the loose yarn and push this through the centre of the first stitch, and then in and out through the centres of two stitches on the opposite side.
2
Beginning a seam
Mattress stitch
1
1
Take the needle over to the first side and insert where it previously exited, bringing it out through the centre of the next stitch. Repeat this process alternating sides and stitching single stitches until the pieces are joined.
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With the two pieces to be joined lying next to each With the pieces placed next to each other with right other, hook the horizontal bar of the first stitch with side upwards, thread the yarn tail through the fabric the tapestry needle. Move to the other piece and hook after the first stitch, moving the needle from front to the first horizontal bar of the stitch on that side. back. Then, take the needle behind the first stitch on Repeat this moving from one piece to the next the second piece from the back of the work to the and pulling the yarn to tighten the join. front. The yarn will form a figure 8. Tug gently to secure.
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P R AC T I CA L G U I D E S
Kitchener stitch
Abbreviations
This is a brilliant technique for grafting toe stitches together on socks. It is worked as follows:
0 -
SET UP: Before starting you need to prepare the stitches on the needle. Hold the two needles with the remaining stitches parallel. The loose end of yarn should be coming from the back needle and lying to the right of the work.
alt approx beg C4F
C4B
3
1
Thread yarn end onto a tapestry needle and insert it purlwise into the first stitch on the needle closest to you. Pull the yarn through but leave the stitch on the needle.
Having set up as shown in Steps 1 and 2, repeat Steps 3 and 4 until all stitches have been grafted. Insert the tapestry needle knitwise into the first stitch on the front needle and slide the stitch off. Before you pull the yarn through this stitch insert the tapestry needle into the next stitch on the front needle purlwise and pull the yarn through, this time leaving the stitch on the needle.
ch ch sp cm cn cont dc dc2tog
dec dpn(s) dtr foll (s) htr inc k kfb kfbf k2tog kwise k wrap tog with st
4 2
Insert the tapestry needle knitwise into the first stitch on the back needle and pull the yarn through, leaving the stitch on the needle.
Insert the tapestry needle purlwise into the first stitch on the back needle and slide it off. Before pulling the yarn through this stitch, insert the tapestry needle into the next stitch on the back needle knitwise and pull the yarn through, leaving the stitch on the needle.
LH m1
m1p
meas mm N1 (2, 3) p patt pb pfb
RECREATE A CLASSIC NURSERY RHYME WITH SACHIYO ISHII’S BRILLIANT BO PEEP PLAY SET. FIND THE PATTERN ATLETSKNIT. CO.UK
pm p2tog prev psso p2sso pwise rem rep rev st st rm rnd(s) RH
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no stitches, times or rows no stitches, times or rows for that size alternate approximately beginning (cable 4 front) slip two stitches on to cable needle, hold at front of work, k2, k2 from cable needle (cable 4 back) slip two stitches onto cable needle, hold at back of work, k2, k2 from cable needle chain stitch chain space centimetres cable needle continue (ing) double crochet (insert hook into next stitch, yarn over hook, pull through loop) twice, yarn over hook, pull through all three loops on hook decrease (ing) double pointed needle(s) double treble crochet following (follows) half treble crochet increase (ing) knit knit into the front and the back of next stitch knit into the front, back and front of the next stitch knit two stitches together knitwise insert right hand needle up through the wrap and into the stitch, knit the wrap together with stitch left hand make one stitch, by picking up the horizontal loop before next stitch and knitting into the back of it make one stitch, by picking up the horizontal loop before next stitch and purling into the back of it measure (s) millimeters needle 1 (2, 3) purl pattern place bead purl into the front and back of next st place marker purl two stitches together previous pass slipped stitch over and off needle pass two slipped stitches over and off needle purlwise remain (ing) repeat (ing) reverse stocking stitch (p on RS row, k on WS row) remove marker round(s) right hand
RS skpo sk2po
sl 2, k1, p2sso
p wrap tog with st
right side slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over slip next stitch kwise, knit two together, pass slipped stitch over and off needle slip next two stitches knitwise at the same time, knit one, pass both slipped stitches over Slip the wrapped stitch from the left hand to right hand needle, insert left hand needle into wrap, return stitch to left hand needle, purl wrap and stitch together
sl 1 sl st sm sp (s) ssk
slip one stitch slip stitch slip marker space(s) one by one slip the next two stitches knitwise. Put your left needle through the front loops of both slipped stitches and knit them together
st (s)
stitch (es)
st st
stocking stitch (k on RS row, p on WS row) through the back loop (s) treble crochet
tbl tr w&t
(on knit rows) take the yarn between the needles to the front of the work, slip the next stitch from the Left Hand needle to the Right Hand needle purlwise, take the yarn between the needles back to its original position, slip the stitch back to the Left Hand needle and turn (on purl rows) take the yarn between the needles to the back of the work, slip the next stitch from the Left Hand needle to the Right Hand needle purlwise, take the yarn between the needles back to its original position, slip the stitch back to the Left Hand needle and turn WS wrong side wyib with yarn in back wyif with yarn in front yb yarn back yfwd yarn forward (between knit stitches) yo work yfwd/yon/yrn as appropriate yoh yarn over hook yon yarn over needle (between a purl and a knit stitch) yrn yarn round needle (between purl stitches and between a knit and a purl stitch) y2rn wrap yarn twice around needle * repeat instructions following the asterisk as many times as instructed () ÂŁ work instructions inside the brackets as many times as instructed
Time for tea? Pat is known for her political knits Pat’s knits are royally impressive
MY LIFE
Pat and Jill’s amazing vehicle certainly stands out on the road
Pat’s projects are fit for a Prince!
IN PATTERNS ne for following a pattern but never the crowd PATRICIA WILSON provides social commentary with a difference. When she’s not driving around in a crafty car or raising money and awareness for worthy causes, this talented knitter is busy transforming news stories into impressive woolly displays. Inspired, entertained and eager to find out more, we couldn’t wait for Patricia to share her life in patterns...
O
Although I knitted as a teenager, I didn’t pick up my needles again until 2011. In celebration of Prince William’s marriage to Kate Middleton, Fiona Goble released Knit Your Own Royal Wedding. It was the spark for me to resume knitting, as my Irish family are all big royalists. My grandfather worked for the Royal Stud and each year we used to get Christmas puddings from the palace. Once I had finished the book, I decided to display my knits in my front window. I live in Deal, Kent, where the house fronts face straight onto the narrow streets and parking is prohibited so people can get up close. The reaction was amazing and it started me off on an incredible journey
commemorating topical events in wool using my front window as a gallery. I’ve always taken an interest in politics so it was impossible to resist the 2015 election. I knitted all of the major party candidates alongside my local ones. When Natalie Bennett re-tweeted her woolly likeness the world briefly went mad!
“My depictions - I hope are humorous and not too unkind!” Buzzfeed picked up on my work and rather oddly assumed I was a man, then the BBC and ITV sent reporters. I’ve also covered the US presidential elections (Trump in teapot form became T-POTUS) and Brexit has been an absolute blessing for my knitting. My depictions – I hope – are humorous and not too unkind! I love hearing the laughter outside and I’ve been told that I make politics fun. In 2016, my friend Jill Burford suggested we take part in an annual banger car challenge organised by a local charity, Martha Trust. Dubbing ourselves Grans on the Run, we bought a 20 year old Astra for
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£200, posted a plea on Facebook for blankets and unfinished projects, then covered the vehicle in knitting and crochet. We raised an astonishing £6,500 driving to Rome and then another £6,000 by driving to Monte Carlo the following year. Another friend Jenny Knight flew out to Monte Carlo to drive the car back with me. On our return we were spotted by ICHF Events who run the Creative Craft Shows and they invited us to bring the car to their upcoming show. We also took along Jenny’s campervan which was then covered in knitting and crochet during the course of the event. Our display was such a success that ICHF asked us back the following year to share a year-long community project commemorating the twin centenaries of the end of WW1 and women getting the vote. We were joined by Avril Collier and renamed ourselves Grans on the Make. In collaboration with ICHF we have since raised £13,000 for a small park in Lytham St Annes. This year we are focusing on dementia and asking people to contribute to a memory wall at each of our five shows by making hearts and forget-me-nots. If you would like to get involved, please visit the Grans on the Make Facebook page.