Let's Knit August 2014

ISSUE 82 AUG 2014

THE UK’S BESTSELLING KNIT MAG

WOOLLY WORMHEADORIGINAL PATTERN

SHOPPING ROUND-UP:NON-WOOL YARNS

VOTE & WIN2014 KNIT AWARDS

READTHIS!

NO FUSS TUTORIALS:Circular Knitting Made Easy

10 REASONS TO

TRY A STYLISH

BY VAL PIERCEKNIT ALBERT FROG

23

SIZES 8-26

Sheer

luxury in

KNIT STRIPES

SWEATEREASY TWEEN

LEARN TO

*GORGEOUS SHAWL*STRIPED SWEATER*FESTIVAL SOCKS

ExclusivePatterns

JUST FOR YOU!

ISSUE 82 AUG 2014 £4.99

LOVE CROCHETPLUS BEGINNERS’PATTERNINSIDE!

Projects in your favourite yarns!DEBBIE BLISS ANGEL

FYBERSPATES VIVACIOUSRICO MERINO

KING COLE MOODS DUET

FOR AGES 7-12

SLIP STITCH

LK Cover 82_Layout 1 20/06/2014 12:22 Page 1

Sock YarnSpecialists

To find a stockist for any of the aboveplease visit:

www.viridianyarn.com

Knitting Boards& Sock Looms

LETS KNIT AUG 14 master_ADS 20/06/2014 16:32 Page 2

03

Download hundreds of free knitting and crochet patterns today! www.letsknit.co.uk

Hello and welcome to the Augustissue of Let's Knit. This month seesthe 100th anniversary of theoutbreak of WW1, and in honour ofthis Jane Burns has designed acommemorative teacosy that you can knit tonight with your freekit. To find out how knitters can help raise money for the Royal

British Legion, turn to page 9 for details on Knitting For Victory's great campaign.

Thanks to everyone who put forward their favouritesfor inclusion in our 2014 awards – we had morenominations than ever this year! Voting is now open andyou'll find the shortlist on page 34. You can either use thepostal form provided or log on to www.letsknit.co.uk/britishknittingawards to enter online. And you could be awinner too! Over £500 of knitting goodies from companiesfeatured will be winging its way to one lucky voter.

We have a terrific mix of projects this issue, from lovelyhomewares to garments you'll want to wear again and again.I particularly love the stylish Parallel Lines t-shirt fromAnniken Allis (p41) and Jan Henley's elegant shawl (p86),and I've already made three of Jane Burns' fab headbands(p80)! We would love you to share your makes with us onFacebook, Twitter or by emailing [email protected]

Happy knitting!

E D I T O R ’ S L E T T E R

Meet the team...welcome to

[email protected]

Need to get in touch?Pattern queries:call 01206 508622 or [email protected]

Advertising enquiries:call Julie Freestone on 01206 505913 oremail [email protected]

Subscription queries: call 0844 844 0947 or [email protected]

DEPUTY EDITORAdrienne [email protected]

This month...I’ve been puttingtogether some verypersuasive reasons for

having a go at crochet – it’s a fabulouscraft, you’ll love it! See what I have tosay on page 61. I also demonstratecircular knitting on page 75.

My favourite project: Party Time, (p53)

EDITORIALASSISTANTAmy [email protected]

This month...I’ve been chatting totwo online knittingdesigners with very

distinctive styles for a feature on theweird wide web! But let’s not thinkabout how long I’ve spent on Ravelry...

My favourite project... Daisy Chain (p67)

EDITORIALASSISTANTKatie [email protected]

This month...I’ve been dreaming of the heavenly scent of lavender

by picking my favourite purple yarns(p74) and enjoying your lovely lettersas usual (p50)!

My favourite project...Happy Camper (p27)

Visit www.letsknit.co.uk/britishknittingawards tonominate your favouriteshops and brands

JOIN @LETSKNITMAG ON

Chunky-toppedneedles(p22)

Loves

We put my 10 year old daughter Katiethrough her paces this month! She canbe found modelling a jumper on page

57 and a headband on page 80.

Crochet is great for thesummer months and we'vegot 10 fab reasons to try it

on page 61

We're delighted to have anexclusive pattern fromrenowned hat designerWoolly Wormhead (p46)

All items from patterns published by Let’s Knit are for personal use only and cannot be sold. Multiple copiesof any part of this publication may not be made, and no part of this publication whether in its original form ora reproduction thereof may be sold. All patterns featured within Let’s Knit are reproduced in good faith thatthey do not infringe any copyright.

DISCLAIMER: We recommend that readers use the main specified yarn for every project as this will produce the bestresults. The alternatives given are suggestions only, and as no two yarns are exactly the same we advise readers toswatch an alternative yarn carefully before choosing to use it for their project. The publishers are not responsible for anysafety issues arising from any items knitted from patterns contained within Let’s Knit magazine. Prices are all correct attime of print.

Welcomepage 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 15:47 Page 2

PATTERNS7 Bonus poppy pattern

Knit poppies for the RoyalBritish Legion with your free kit

13 Morning DewThis simple stocking stitchjumper features a prettycontrasting ribbon

16 Helping HandDoing laundry is notoriouslydull, but you’ll perk right up withthis funky peg bag!

18 AlbertRetell classic fairytales with a charming frog prince by Val Pierce!

23 Felt FantasticTransform your knits and try abrand new technique with thisfab bobble bag

27 Happy Camper Nicola Valiji’s caravan cushion will quickly spruce up your home

31 Long Island Cover up in the late summerwith Pat Menchini’s stylishruched gilet

41 Parallel LinesPractise easy colourwork withthis modern stripy T-shirt

46 WoodlandCatch the hat knitting bug with our exclusive pattern byWoolly Wormhead!

53 Party Time Ready for a fiesta? Bring yourparty to life with three quickknits by Susie Johns

57 Fox TrotGrowing fashionistas willinstantly fall in love with thisoversized fox jumper

67 Daisy ChainLearn intarsia crochet with Helen Ardley’s easy flower motif shoulder bag

71 High SocietyChoose between lacy knee-highor ankle-length socks

77 Silver LiningCharmaine Fletcher’s sparklyscarf and wristwarmers will getyou all set for autumn

W H A T ’ S I N S I D E

04

www.letsknit.co.uk

AUGUST 2014

CONTENTS

41

80

7153

18 46

77

16

83

23

Simple stripy T-shirt

Great firstgarment

Fab festivalfashion

Contents 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:18 Page 1

05

Back issues from Jan 2011 onwards are available on the Let’s Knit app! www.letsknit.co.uk

W H A T ’ S I N S I D E

80 Mother’s LoveMake a matching headband setfor you and your princess

83 Under CoverKeep warm with an easyponcho by Bergere de France

86 Blackcurrant SwirlTry this stunning lace shawl by Jan Henley

SHOPPING22 Prints Charming

Stay on trend with this fabselection of summer prints and products

38 Go AlternativeLooking for your new favourite fibre? Discover eight amazing choices!

74 Colour TherapyThis month we’re indulging inheavenly lavender colours

89 What’s in StoreGet the hot gossip from our favourite shops around the UK

FOCUS8 Let’s Knit Loves

Catch up with the latest news and gossip from theknitting universe

34 British Knitting AwardsGet voting for your favouritebrands in this year’s awards!

61 Hooked on CrochetAdrienne Chandler rediscoversthe joys of a simple hook and yarn

PEOPLE44 The Weird Wide Web

Amy Adams chats to some of the internet’s more unusual knitting designers

50 Stop and ShareCatch up with the LK community

98 Last WordJenny Watson talks baby knitting and a career in knitwear design

IN EVERY ISSUE...3 Welcome10 August is the Month49 Coming Next Month 52 Tea Break56 Bookshelf82 Giveaways90 Subscriptions92 Turn the Tables93 Useful Information94 Step By Step

At Let’s Knit we understandthat nothing is moreannoying than errors inknitting patterns. As part ofour total commitment toensuring that yourexperience of our magazineis as enjoyable as possible,we’re proud to offer THE LET’S KNIT PATTERN PROMISE:• Exclusive patternsfeatured in Let’s Knit havebeen professionallychecked and reproducedwith the utmost care.Updates can be found atwww.letsknit.co.uk • Should you encounter any problems we are morethan happy to providesupport and assistance.Contact us and we willendeavour to respond as soon as possible.By email:[email protected] telephone: 01206508622 (office hours only)By post: at the address onpage 95 (please mark your envelope ‘Support’) (Please note we cannotoffer assistance withpatterns not published in Let’s Knit)

Whocares?...We do!

This month’s

FREEGIFT!

Knit a commemorative poppyteacosy and a pair of brooches

86 13

09

573167

27

Knit for charity

Yourcovermake!

Prettysummer gilet

Contents 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:19 Page 2


T H I S M O N T H ’ S F R E E G I F T | P O P P Y Y A R N K I T

Make&Share

Knit these poppy broochesfrom the FREE yarn left overfrom your teacosy. You couldeven use oddments fromyour stash to make morebrooches and sell them tosupport the Royal BritishLegion Poppy Appeal.

Best for free gifts

POPPY BROOCHESYarn: (A) Poppy Red, (B) Poppy BlackNeedles: 4mmButtons: 2cm, black, one;1.5cm, black, oneBrooch bars: twoTapestry needlesTension: 22 sts x 28 rows,10cm x 10cm, stocking stitch, 4mm needles

PETALS (make three)

Using 4mm needles and yarn A,cast on 13 sts£ Row 1 (WS): sl 1, p to end£ Row 2: sl 1, k to end£ Row 3: sl 1, p2tog, p7, p2tog, p1.11 sts£ Row 4: sl 1, k3, sk2po, k4. Nine sts£ Row 5: sl 1, p to end£ Row 6: sl 1, ssk, k3, k2tog, k1.Seven sts£ Row 7: sl 1, p to end£ Row 8: sl 1, ssk, k1, k2tog, k1.Five sts

£ Row 9: sl 1, p to end£ Cast off

CENTREUsing 4mm needles and yarn B,cast on seven sts£ Rows 1-10: (k1, p1) three times, k1£ Cast off

To make upDarn in ends of petals andarrange in a spiral with each oneslightly overlapping the next,using image as a guide. Sewtogether. For centre, with WSfacing, sew a running stitcharound outside edge of squarecentre piece. Lay button incentre and draw up runningstitch thread to enclose button.Secure with stitches, sew tocentre of poppy. Alternatively,sew black button to centre of poppy with a tapestry needle.Sew brooch bar to back of poppy LK

YourFREEKIT

Lianne TaylorJan Reed

07

www.letsknit.co.uk

Knit a VintageTeacosyFind the pattern for Flanders Fieldsby Jane Burns on your FREE leaflet

We love seeing what ourreaders make with theirfree kits. Share them withus on Facebook andTwitter, or [email protected].

Last month readers triedtheir hands at lace!

SOMETHING EXTRA?

A number of vintageknitwear patterns used inthe commemorative WW1film ‘Tell The Of Us’ havenow been released onRavelry. Find out more atwww.orkneytoomaha.wordpress.com

Free kit (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:15 Page 2

N E W S | A U G U S T

08

www.letsknit.co.uk

OUR ROUND-UP OF WHAT'S HOTIN THE KNITTING UNIVERSE

Seeing redWest Yorkshire Spinners has released abrand new pattern collection to supportits Aire Valley DK range of pure Britishyarns. Designed by Jenny Watson andphotographed at the beautiful Victorianvillage of Saltaire, they are versatile knitsto suit the whole family. 01535 664500,www.wyspinners.com

ROCK-A-BYEBABY

Stylecraft has released fourpretty new shades in Lullaby,

the super soft baby yarnlaunched last year.

The accompanying babypatterns combine pastels

and brights to create afresh and contemporary

look which is ideal for late-summer babies! Lullaby

costs £2.79 per 50g ball. Go towww.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk or

call 01535 609798 for stockists.

LOVES...

Socks away!There are all sorts of ways to name a yarn, and welove the story behind Viridian and Opal’s Schafpaterange – meaning “sheep godfather”. Each of thefour variegated shades are named after one of therare breed German sheep sponsored by Viridian:Thelma, Kim, Hannah and Sunny. The 75% wool,25% polyamide blend is great for sock knitting,especially as the colourful yarn means that thereare no fancy stiches necessary! Find stockists atwww.viridianyarn.com

ALL DOLLED UPKnit yourself and your friends using the brilliantadaptable patterns from Jane Bull’s latest book,

Crafty Dolls (published by DK). Featuring over 30projects to knit and sew, there is a whole section

dedicated to the faces, clothes and accessories neededto make a personalised knitted lookalike! Crafty Dolls

costs £12.99. 0207 010 3000, www.dk.co.uk

LK Loves (news) 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 14:04 Page 3

FASHION FORWARDSheffield’s Emma Wright has been named

Britain’s next top knitwear designer byloveknitting.com! Her garment uses Debbie

Bliss Paloma to create contrasting textures andcolours, with an open back and bow fastening.

She has won fashionwork experience, theopportunity to publish her pattern, and a £1000cash prize. To see the nine other finalists, go to

www.loveknitting.com

CHARITY WE LOVE...

know?Did you

Alpacas are not just useful fortheir silky soft fleece – due to anatural dislike of foxes, they are

also great sheep guards. A knitter’s best friend!

Head startWe love Sirdar’s brilliant hat-

in-a-ball packs! Available infour limited edition shades

with a funky contrastingpompom, one ball is all youneed to create a distinctive

bobble beanie. 01924 371501,www.sirdar.co.uk


Royal British LegionMarking the 100th anniversary of the beginning ofthe First World War, August 2014 will be a monthof reflection for many of those affected by war– whether it is a century in the past, orcurrently taking place overseas. Knitting ForVictory is a campaign by Verena Tucker toget knitters of all abilities making poppies toraise money for the Royal British LegionPoppy Appeal. The knitted poppies will beworn by celebrities and the Red Arrows, andthe campaign has already received yarn donationsfrom Black Sheep Wools, West YorkshireSpinners, Rowan and Artesano. Find more informationabout patterns, kits, and events by searching for“Knitting For Victory” on Facebook. And why not usethe free poppy pattern and yarn provided with this issueof Let’s Knit to get you started?www.britishlegion.org.uk

FEELING FOXYNeed help figuring out your needle sizes?Perhaps you’ve got some stray pins withoutproper labels? Fear no more, this beautifulneedle gauge by Tangerine Designs is here tohelp sort that stash once and for all. One gaugecosts £6.14 from www.tangerine8.etsy.com

POPSICLEPARTY

LK designer Siân Brown hasreleased a brilliant new range of

knitting and sewing kits called Makeat Home. Inspired by growing up in

the 60s and 70s, the colourfuldesigns and seaside feel are right up

our street! Go towww.makeathome.co.uk for more!

PERFECTPORCELAINStore your needles andnotions in this stylishblue knitted storage jar.Available in three softpastel colours, itfeatures a chunky cabledknitting design. You caneven get matching mugs and a biscuit jar! 0208 886 3000,www.puji.com

09


WIN!See p82

LK Loves (news) 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 14:04 Page 4

ISTHEMONTH...August

...OF SUNSHINE, HOLIDAYS AND KNITTING!

Deputy Editor Adriennecreated these garter stitchwritstwarmers. She said:“These were super easy toknit and I just love the cuffdetail. They’re made in agorgeousmerino andyak fibreblend, howexotic? Thehardest partwas goingthrough mybutton tin trying to decidewhich fastener to go for!”

This Month’sMUST VISIT

THIS MONTH

Keen knitters take inspiration from all around them andwe love a good bit of crafty indulgence. Chilterns Craftand Design Show is coming to Henley-on-Thames andbringing with it an array of exquisite arts and crafts madeby some of the best British crafters, so plan a day outand prepare to be inspired. Against the beautifulbackdrop of Stonor Park, over 200 craftspeople willshowcase their work from 22nd to 25th August, making ita fantastic opportunity to buy handmade wares includingornaments, jewellery, glass, ceramics and accessories forthe home and garden. The event will also feature livemusic, workshops, demonstrations, and delicious foodand drink, so it promises to be a wonderful occasion forthe whole family to enjoy. To see the full list of exhibitorsand buy tickets, visit www.thecraftshows.co.uk.

We’re knitting

10

www.letsknit.co.uk

Pretty crocheted

lace is a huge

summer trend! Find

the pattern for this

simple square top

in Sirdar Cotton

Crochet #458.

www.sirdar.co.ukThis Month’s

TOP BUYWe knitters love all things sheepy so it’s no wonderthese squidgy little felt chaps caught our eye. Thisstring of Counting Sheep fairy lights would lookgreat hung in a cosy knitting corner, strung up in achild’s bedroom or used as a decoration for whenyour knitting chums come over. What’s more, thelights are LEDs so they don’t even have to beplugged in. Each handmade string of lights costs£23 from www.wowthankyou.co.uk.


This Month 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:38 Page 3


MARTINEmakes

GUERNSEY GIRL MARTINE IS A BLOGGER, TEACHER, KNITWEAR

DESIGNER AND REMARKABLY AVERAGE UKULELE PLAYER. FIND

HER POPULAR CREATIVE LIFESTYLE BLOG AND PODCAST, IMAKE

AT WWW.IMAKEGSY.COM.

WIP confessionI have a confession to make: I havenine projects on the go at themoment. This sounds like amassive, unrealistic number so,seeking reassurance, I decided tocanvas opinion on social media. Itturns out nine is perfectlyacceptable, perhaps even a littleon the low side. Thank goodness,as there are so many patterns thatI am desperate to cast on…

On the needlesModular knitting patterns seem tobe catching my eye at themoment, particularly anything witha patchwork-style construction.Tin Can Knits’ Vivid blanket hasbeen on my needles for a shortwhile now. It’s a lace patchworkthat can be knitted in any weightyarn. Each square is knitted in the

round, from the centre out. I am planningto use it as athrow, so have opted for one of myfavourite,

durable,workhorse yarns: Jamieson &Smith jumper weight Shetlandwool. As well as a blanket or three,I have several pairs of socks on theneedles as part of the Socks WithSarah Knitalong (“KAL”). Sarah

blogs at knittingsarah.com and her KAL aims to encourageknitters to integrate a little sockknitting into their daily routine. It runs all year and is very informal so knitters can join any time. KALs are a fantastic way to meetother knitters all over the worldand develop new skills.

Magic cakeAs a by-product of my sockknitting, I am cultivating a majorstash of leftover sock yarn. Thereare many ways to use up leftovers,including my own KnittedPatchwork Recipe.However, one of themost innovative ideas Ihave discovered is the“magic cake”, a uniqueball of yarn you cancreate by joiningtogether lots of yarnremnants of similarweight. There are varioustechniques for joining yarn ends together but my favourite is the Russian join. This unique ball of yarn would make awonderful shawl; in fact I amrather drawn to Paula FuessleDesigns’ Magic Cake Ruffle Shawl, which was designedspecifically for this purpose.At last, a calorie free cake!

TTFN Martine XOX

DATES FOR August

1st Let’s Knit September issue on sale!www.letsknit.co.uk9th-10th The Great British Craft Festival,Warwickshire

www.greatbritishcraft.co.uk16th Popup Wool Show, Cheshirewww.popupwoolshow.co.uk

22nd-25th Chilterns Craft and Design Show,Henley-on-Thameswww.thecraftshows.co.uk

22nd-25th Craft In Focus ContemporaryCraft & Design Fair, Chelmsfordwww.craftinfocus.com

WE ASKED our readersWe all have different ways of dealing with ourstash. How do you like to use yours up?

HILARY CLARKEI knit striped cardigans for babies or squaresthat can be made into a charity blanket (oranything that a charity needs).

CAROL EVANSI use several strands together to a thicknessof chunky, then knit or crochet basketweavesquares to form rugs.

BECCIE PALMERI use my super duper pompom maker!

WHAT’S HOT ON THE LK WEBSITE

If you’re heading off on holiday soon, swing bythe LK website before you go and download thefree pattern for these Greek-inspired Fair Isle

travel accessories. The matching set includes aluggage tag and passport holder - you’ll be glad

of this striking pair at baggage reclaim!

Pick fromthe LK BLOGThere’s a huge varietyof ways to knit andcrochet flowers, andEditorial AssistantsKatie and Amy haveput together a collection of ideas for what todo with them. Take a look at our blog post 10ways with knitted flowers for some floralinspiration! www.letsknit.co.uk

11


This Month 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:38 Page 4


L U X U R I O U S R A G L A N S W E A T E R

Knitted in Debbie Bliss Angel, this softand fluffy sweater is beautifully light,like morning dewfall after a cloudlesssummer night.The colourful ribbon trim

adds a great contrast and a bit of shine,giving Morning Dew an easy transition

from daytime to evening.

meet ourDESIGNER

“The stitches are really simple onthis top and the contrastingribbon tie adds a feminine touch.”

SIÂN BROWN

EXCLUSIVE TO

13

www.letsknit.co.uk

MorningDew

This sheer summer sweaterby Siân Brown is a simple

make with a fun feel

Easy-knitsweater upto size 26!

Morning dew_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:42 Page 2

Measurements & SizesDress size (approx):8 (10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26)

To fit chest (cm):81 (86, 92, 97, 102, 107, 112, 117, 122, 127)

Actual chest (cm):90 (95, 101, 106, 112, 117, 122, 128, 133, 139)

Length to shoulder (cm):60 (60, 62, 62, 64, 64, 65, 65, 66, 66)

Sleeve length (cm):45

Let’s ShopDebbie Bliss Angel costs£8.95 per 25g (200m) ballfrom 01829 740903,www.laughinghens.comFor 10% off this yarn use the code LK82 at the checkoutWendy Air costs £4.90 per25g (200m) ball from 0131 558 1747,www.mcadirect.com

Knit KitYarn: Debbie Bliss Angel,shade 37 Sky, 4 (5, 5, 5, 5, 6, 6,6, 7, 7) 25g ballsNeedles: 3.25mm circular,4mm straight, 4mm circularRibbon: narrow, pink, 5m

Tension Square22 sts x 28 rows10cm x 10cm stocking stitch 4mm needles

Start knitting here

£ Row 1: k2, [p3, k2] to end£ Row 2: p2, [k3, p2] to endThese two rows form rib£ Rep last two rows 13 more timesand Row 1 again£ Dec and eyelet row: p2, [k2tog,k1, yrn, p2tog] to end. 38 (42, 46,50, 54, 58, 62, 66, 70, 74) sts£ Beg with a k row, work two rowsin st st£ Inc row: k3, m1, k to last threests, m1, k3£ Work five rows in st st£ Rep last six rows 14 more timesand Inc row again. 70 (74, 78, 82,86, 90, 94, 98, 102, 106) sts£ Cont in patt until Sleeve meas45cm from cast-on edge, endingafter a p row

SHAPE RAGLAN TOPCast off 4 (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)sts at beg of next two rows. 62 (64,66, 68, 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80) sts£ Next row: k2, skpo, k to last foursts, k2tog, k2£ Work three rows in st st

About the YarnDebbie Bliss Angel is a luxuryyarn made up of 76% mohairand 24% silk. It comes in a rangeof wonderfully rich colours andshould be handwashed only.

Need anAlternative?Wendy Air is a laceweight yarn that blends 70% kid mohairand 30% nylon. It can bemachine washed.

FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 92


1Insert the left needle intothe horizontal bar of yarn

lying between the stitch justknitted and the next stitchto be knitted. Hook and liftit with the needle tip in abackwards direction (awayfrom you).

2Push the right needleinto the back part of the

loop that now lies over theleft needle and knit thisstitch. You will now have an additional stitch on theright needle.

Make one (m1)

14

www.letsknit.co.uk

knitwiseLean on meThis is a good project forknitters who haven't madea garment before, as theshaping is quite simple.When working decreaserows, make sure you stickto the pattern closely.Using skpo or k2togaffects the direction thatyour stitches will lean, soto ensure your raglanshaping looks neat, followthe instructions carefully.

neck shaping£Next row: cast off two sts, p toend. Nine sts£ Next row: k2, skpo, k to end£ Next row: p2tog, p to end£ Rep last two rows twice more.Three sts. Leave these sts on aspare needle£ With RS facing, slip centre 23(27, 27, 31, 31, 35, 35, 39, 39, 43) stson to a holder, rejoin yarn to remsts, cast off two sts, k to last foursts, k2tog, k2. Nine sts£ Next row: p to end£ Next row: skpo, k to last four sts,k2tog, k2£ Rep last two rows once more.Five sts£ Next row: p to end£ Next row: sl 1, k2tog, psso, k2.Three sts£ Next row: p to endLeave these sts on a spare needle

SLEEVESUsing 4mm needles, cast on 47 (52,57, 62, 67, 72, 77, 82, 87, 92) sts loosely

BACKUsing 4mm circular needle, caston 134 (142, 150, 158, 166, 174, 182,190, 198, 206) sts loosely£ Row 1: k2, [p2, k2] to end£ Row 2: p2, [k2, p2] to endThese two rows form rib£ Rep last two rows 13 more timesand Row 1 again£ Dec row: p2, [k2tog, p2] to end.101 (107, 113, 119, 125, 131, 137, 143,149, 155) sts£ Beg with a k row, work four rowsin st st£ Dec row (RS): k6, skpo, k to lasteight sts, k2tog, k6£ Work three rows in st st£ Rep last four rows four moretimes and dec row again. 89 (95,101, 107, 113, 119, 125, 131, 137, 143) sts£ Work five rows in st st£ Inc row: k7, m1, k to last sevensts, m1, k7£ Rep last six rows five moretimes. 101 (107, 113, 119, 125, 131,137, 143, 149, 155) sts£ Cont without shaping until Backmeas 35 (35, 36, 36, 37, 37, 37, 37, 37,37) cm from cast-on edge, endingafter a p row

SHAPE RAGLAN ARMHOLES£ Cast off 4 (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12,13) sts at beg of next two rows. 93 (97, 101, 105, 109, 113, 117, 121, 125,129) sts

THIRD, FOURTH, FIFTH, SIXTH,SEVENTH, EIGHTH, NINTHAND TENTH SIZES ONLY£ Next row: k2, skpo, k to last foursts, k2tog, k2£ Next row: p2, p2tog, p to lastfour sts, p2tog tbl, p2£ Rep last two rows - (-, 0, 0,0, 0, 1,1, 1, 1) more times. 93 (97, 97, 101,105, 109, 109, 113, 117, 121) sts

ALL SIZES£ Next row: k2, skpo, k to last foursts, k2tog, k2£ Next row: p to end£ Rep last two rows until 39 (43,43, 47, 47, 51, 51, 55, 55, 59) sts remLeave sts on a spare needle

FRONT£ Work as for Back until 47 (51, 51,55, 55, 59, 59, 63, 63, 67) sts rem,ending after a WS row

SHAPE FRONT NECK£ Next row: k2, skpo, k8, turn andwork on these 11 sts for first side of

10%OFF!



“Our Morning Dewsweater is as lightas a feather but

gloriously soft. It'sa really uniqueluxury item.”

LK Editorial Assistant Katie Wilding

comingnext issue

EASY RIBBED CARDI BYSIÂN BROWN

September issue of Let’s Knit on sale Friday 1st August

15


£ Rep last four rows 6 (5, 5, 4, 5, 4,4, 3, 4, 3) more times. 48 (52, 54,58, 58, 62, 64, 68, 68, 72) sts£ Next row: k2, skpo, k to last foursts, k2tog, k2£ Next row: p to end£ Rep last two rows until 22 sts remLeave these sts on a spare needle

NECKBAND£ Using 3.25mm circular needleand with RS facing, k21 from leftSleeve, k last st tog with first st onFront, k2, pick up and k six stsdown left side of Front neck, kacross 23 (27, 27, 31, 31, 35, 35, 39,39, 43) sts on Front neck holder,pick up and k seven sts up rightside of Front neck, k2, k last st onFront tog with first st on rightSleeve, k20, k last st tog with firstst on Back, k38 (42, 42, 46, 46, 50,50, 54, 54, 58). 122 (130, 130, 138,138, 146, 146, 154, 154, 162) sts£ Next row: k£ Eyelet row: k2, [yfwd, k2tog, k2]to end£ K four rows£ Cast off

To make upJoin raglans and neckband seam.Join side and sleeve seams. Threadribbon through eyelets on neck totie at centre front. Thread ribbonthrough sleeve eyelets to tie atcentre of sleeve LK

Jean

s, £

19.9

9, T

K M

axx


There are lots of things that make being outdoors in summer an idyllic time.Ice cream, paddling pools, and oodles of sun cream all help to conjure fond memories ofchildhood. And for many of us there's also the joy of breezy, freshly dried sheets! Why not adda whimsical touch to an otherwise mundane job with this adorable peg bag? Use a contrastingbow and simple slip stitch pattern to finish it off with an extra crafty twist.

Helping HandPin up your washing with the help of this cute

peg bag by Georganne Cauchi

Measurements & SizesHeight: 37cmWidth: 30cm

Let’s ShopRico Creative Cotton Arancosts £1.79 per 50g (85m) balland Rico Creative Cotton DKcosts £2.39 per 50g (130m)ball from 01925 764231,www.blacksheepwools.com

West Yorkshire SpinnersAire Valley Aran costs£4.75 per 100g (200m)

ball and West YorkshireSpinners Aire Valley DK costs£4.75 per 100g (230m) ball.Contact 01535 664500,www.wyspinners.com for stockists

Knit KitYarn: (A) Rico CreativeCotton Aran, shade 13Fuchsia, four 50g balls, (B) Rico Essentials CottonDK shade 40 Dark Teal, one 50g ball, oddments ofwaste yarnNeedles: 3.25mm, 4mmCrochet hook: 5mmTapestry needleStitch holders: fourFabric: contrasting design,35cm x 40cm, two piecesNeedle and threadWooden hanger: 30cm

About the YarnRico Essentials Cotton DK is a100% mercerised cotton yarnwhile Rico Creative Cotton Aranhas a soft matte finish. Theyboth come in vibrant colourwaysand can be machine washed.

Need anAlternative?

West Yorkshire SpinnersAire Valley Aran and WestYorkshire Spinners AireValley DK use 75% British

wool and 25% nylon.Machine washable at 40°C.

P R E T T Y A N D P R A C T I C A L P E G B A G

16

www.letsknit.co.uk

Start knitting here

BACKUsing 5mm crochet hook andcontrasting yarn, make 70 ch for provisional cast on (see Knitwise)£ Using 4mm needles and yarn A,pick up and k 64 sts£ Row 1 and all odd-numberedrows: p£ Row 2 (RS): k£ Row 4: k1, * p2, wyif sl 3, repfrom * to last three sts, p2, k1 £ Row 6: as Row 4£ Rep Rows 1-6 21 times£ Next row: p£ Next row: k30, cast off four sts, k to endPlace sts on holder

FRONT£ Rows 1-84: work as for Back£ Row 85: p£ Row 86: k13, cast off 38 sts, k to end With RS facing, place 13 sts on RHside on holder

LEFT SIDE£ Row 87 and all odd-numberedrows: p£ Row 88: (p2, wyif sl 3) twice, p2, k1£ Row 90: as Row 88 £ Row 92: k£ Row 94: as Row 88 £ Row 96: as Row 88Place sts on holder

Tension Square20 sts x 37 rows10cm x 10cm slip stitch pattern4mm needles


knitwiseProvisional Cast OnA provisional cast onallows you to leave yourcast-on stitches open sothat you can return tothem later and work in theopposite direction. Using acontrasting coloured yarn,make 70 chain stitches asdirected in the pattern. Fora video on this simplecrochet stitch, head towww.letsknit.co.uk. Onceyou have your chain, pickup the stitches by workinginto the bump on the backof each stitch. When youreturn to the stitches later,insert the needle into theright side of each stitch,and then gently pull thechain to undo it and freeyour stitches completely.

RIGHT SIDEWith WS facing, rejoin yarn to sts£ Row 87 and all odd-numberedrows: p£ Row 88: k1, (p2, wyif sl 3) twice, p2£ Row 90: as Row 88 £ Row 92: k£ Row 94: as Row 88 £ Row 96: as Row 88Place sts on holderWith RS facing, place 13 sts of LHside on needle, turnRejoin yarn to sts at outside edge£ Row 97: p13, cast on 38 sts, p13.64 sts£ Rows 98-102: rep Rows 2-6 ofpatt£ Rows 103- 126: rep Rows 1-6 ofpatt four times £ Row 127: p

Helping hand (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:29 Page 1

P R E T T Y A N D P R A C T I C A L P E G B A G

meet ourDESIGNER

“This peg bag features asimple slip stitch. It is easy andquick to knit, making it an idealsummer project.”GEORGANNE CAUCHI

EXCLUSIVE TO

17


comingnext issueSUSIE JOHNS’ CROCHETED TEA SET

September issue of Let’s Kniton sale Friday 1st August

“There are somany colours in

the Rico EssentialsCotton range, trypicking the twothat really show

off yourpersonality!”

LK Editorial Assistant Amy Adams

£Row 128: k30, cast off four sts,k to endPlace sts on holder

BOWUsing 3.25mm needles and yarn B,cast on 22 sts£ Row 1: * k2, p2, rep from * to lasttwo sts, k2£ Row 2: * p2, k2, rep from * to lasttwo sts, p2£ Rep Rows 1-2 until piece measapprox 14cm£ Cast off in patt Wrap yarn A around middle ofpiece and secure ends

To make upPick up stitches from provisionalcast on and use kitchener stitch toseam cast-on edges (see page 94).Sew sides using mattress stitch.Seam the top part of the peg bagusing Kitchener stitch. Sew pegbag lining pieces with right sidestogether. Cut a hole the same sizeas opening and hem raw edges.Position lining in peg bag andplace hanger through frontopening. Sew lining with knittedpeg bag around the opening.Attach Bow LK

Helping hand (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:29 Page 2

King of the frog world, Albert is an extraordinary amphibian with long legs and a big heart!

He is knitted in a fluorescent shade of Cygnet DK so he really stands out. Witha mouth pouch for storing trinkets, and big, watchful eyes, he will make anincredibly tactile toy for youngsters! Let their imaginations run wild as they

retell classic fairytales in their own bedroom.

AlbertWho needs a handsome prince when you can

have Val Pierce’s charming frog?

Measurements & SizesWidth: 24cmHeight when standing(excluding crown): 16cm

Let’s ShopCygnet DK costs £1.85 per 100g(298m) ball from 0845 5197897, www.knittybitz.comTwilleys Goldfingering costs£2.99 per 25g (100m) ball fromwww.purplelindacrafts.comRed Heart Lisa costs £1.09 per50g (133m) ball and AnchorArtiste Metallic costs £4.65 per25g (100m) ball from 0800 4880708, www.deramores.com

For 10% off all orders at Deramores, turn tothe back cover

Knit KitYarn: (A) Cygnet DK shade6869 Bright Lime, one 100g ball, (B) TwilleysGoldfingering shade 002Gold, one 25g ballNeedles: 3.25mm, 4mmSafety toy stuffingTapestry needleSafety eyes: black bead, twoSmall piece of white feltStitch holder

About the YarnCygnet DK is a machinewashable acrylic yarn in a hugevariety of shades, includingfour flourescent colours, suchas this! Twilleys Goldfingering is ametallic yarn made from 80%viscose and 20% polyester. Thechainette structure keeps itlight and airy.

Need anAlternative?Red Heart Lisa is an acrylic DK yarn which comes in awide range of shades – try shade 00201 Neon Green.Anchor Artiste Metallic comesin several different shades,including shade 300, abeautiful warm gold.

E X C L U S I V E T O Y

18

www.letsknit.co.uk

Start knitting here

BODYUsing 4mm needles and yarn A,cast on six sts£ Row 1: p£ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 12 sts£ Rows 3-5: beg with a p row, workthree rows in st st£ Row 6: * k1, kfb, rep from * toend. 18 sts£ Rows 7-9: beg with a p row, workthree rows in st st£ Row 10: * k2, kfb, rep from * toend. 24 sts£ Rows 11-13: beg with a p row,work three rows in st st£ Row 14: * k3, kfb, rep from * toend. 30 sts£ Rows 15-19: beg with a p row,work five rows in st st£ Row 20: * k4, kfb, rep from * toend. 36 sts£ Rows 21-27: beg with a p row,work seven rows in st st£ Row 28: * k4, k2tog, rep from * to end. 30 sts£ Rows 29-35: beg with a p row,work seven rows in st st£ Row 36: * k3, k2tog, rep from * to end. 24 sts£ Row 37-39: beg with a p row,work three rows in st st £ Row 40: * k2, k2tog, rep from * to end. 18 sts£ Row 41-43: beg with a p row,work three rows in st st£ Row 44: * k1, k2tog, rep from * toend. 12 sts£ Rows 45-47: beg with a p row,work three rows in st st£ Row 48: (k2tog) to end. Six stsCut yarn and pull through sts onneedle, pull tight and fasten offThis is top of Body

ARMS (make two)

Using 4mm needles and yarn A,cast on 12 sts

£ Row 1: p£ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 24 sts£ Rows 3-7: beg with a p row, workfive rows in st st£ Row 8: * k1, k2tog, rep from * toend. 16 sts£ Rows 9-29: beg with a p row,work 21 rows in st st£ Row 30: * k1, kfb, rep from * toend. 24 sts£ Beg with a p row, work 13 rowsin st st£ Cast off

BACK LEGS (make two)

Using 4mm needles and yarn A,cast on ten sts£ Row 1: p£ Row 2: (kfb) to end. 20 sts£ Row 3: p£ Row 4: * k2, kfb, rep from * tolast two sts, k2. 26 sts£ Rows 5-17: beg with a p row,work 13 rows in st st £ Row 18: * k1, k2tog, rep from * tolast two sts, k2. 18 sts£ Rows 19-89: beg with a p row,work 71 rows in st st

£ Row 90: (kfb) to end. 36 sts £ Rows 91-102: beg with a p row,work 12 rows in st st£ Cast off

EYE BASE (make two)

Using 4mm needles and yarn A,cast on 20 sts£ Rows 1-4: beg with a k row, workfour rows in st st£ Row 5: * k3, k2tog, rep from * toend. 16 sts£ Row 6: p£ Row 7: * k2, k2tog, rep from * toend. 12 sts£ Row 8: p£ Row 9: * k1, k2tog, rep from * toend. Eight sts£ Cut yarn and pull through sts onneedle, pull tight and fasten off

BIB AND MOUTHUsing 4mm needles and yarn A,cast on ten sts£ Rows 1-2: k£ Cont to work in garter st inc onest at each end of every alt row untilthere are 18 sts

Tension Square22 sts x 28 rows10cm x 10cm stocking stitch4mm needles


1 Insert the right needleinto the next stitch and

knit, leaving the originalstitch on the left needle.

2Insert the right needleinto the back of the

original stitch on the leftneedle and knit as normal.Slide the knitted stitch offthe left needle and you willnow have an extra stitch onthe right needle.

Increase (kfb)

10%OFF!

Albert (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 11:50 Page 1


meet ourDESIGNER

“Sewing the legs to the body isquite tricky, so take your timeand pin them in place to helpyou. If they don't look right firsttime round, then unpick and tryagain. I had to do this myself afew times!”VAL PIERCE

EXCLUSIVE TO

19


“This toy does have smallparts, so try embroidering

the eyes if giving to ayoung baby.”



£ Beg with a k row, work 18 rowsin st st £ Cont in st st dec one st at each end of every alt row until 12 sts rem£ Cast off

CROWN POINTS (make five)NOTE: hold yarn double forpoints of crown

Using 3.25mm needles and yarn Bheld double, cast on two sts£ Row 1 and all odd-numberedrows: k£ Row 2: kfb, k1. Three sts£ Row 4: kfb, k1, kfb. Five sts£ Row 6: kfb, k3, kfb. Seven sts£ Row 8: kfb, k5, kfb. Nine sts£ Rows 9-14: k Place sts on to holder

BASE OF CROWNNOTE: use single strand ofyarn for base

£ Using 3.25mm needles and yarn B, k across sts for each point £ Next row: p£ Work seven rows in garter st£ Cast off

To make upWeave in ends of Crown carefully.Join short ends of piece. Using atapestry needle and yarn B, catchpoints together at base to makethem stand up. To make Frog, sewBody seam down centre back. Stuffand shape before closing, aimingfor an egg shape and using pictureas a guide. Sew seam on Back legs,adding stuffing as you go, withextra stuffing in top part and feet.Sew seams on Arms and stuff insame way. Fold Back legs into three

different lengths, using picture asa guide and remembering that thetop is the widest part. Pin Back legsin place and sew together. MakeArms, sewing seam and stuffing,as with Back legs. Sew across basewhere increase is made on eachfoot. Sew Arms on to Body. Sew Biband mouth to front of Body,folding over garter stitch part toform mouth. Form Eye bases intocup shapes and stuff, then cutcircles in white felt. Make a smallhole in centre of each circle, pushsafety eyes through, then insertthrough centre of Eye base piecesand fix in position. Sew eyes tofrog's face. Attach Crown to head,folding base under to make Crownstand up LK


20

www.letsknit.co.uk

comingnext issueFREE KIT TO MAKEAMANDA BERRY’SFABULOUS SQUIRREL!


knitwiseGet stuffedStuffing your knitted toyscorrectly can make orbreak the finished look.You don't want to over-stuff and risk lumps, buttoo little and you won'tget that all-importantsquish factor! The bestway to ensure an evenfinish is to work slowly,pulling off small amountsof stuffing at a time andpushing it right into theedges of your toy, so thatno corner is left empty.Keep checking your workagainst the photographsprovided, and don't be afraid of adding ortaking away until it looksjust right.


Telephone: 01274 743374 Email: [email protected]

www.cygnetyarns.com


S H O P P I N G | S T Y L E S P O T L I G H T

The Alchemy of Color Knitting by Gina Wilde will show you how tocreate striking patterns and designs. £17.99, Potter Craft,www.amazon.co.uk

BIG ‘N’ BOLD We love these chunky 8mmneedles topped with a paintswirl bead. Also in 9mm and10mm, from £2.99,www.funkyneedles.co.uk

IN THE BAG This colourful knitting bagfrom Korbond is perfectfor taking your project outand about. RRP £18.99,01476 573227,www.sew.korbond.co.uk

FANCY FOOTWORKThese tribal print balletpumps are just right forsummer. £14.99, 01858 468546,www.deichmann.com

LOUNGING AROUNDThis vibrant patchworkcushion is bursting withcolourful prints and patterns.£15, 0845 872 2400,www.aspace.co.uk

KEEPING COOLVariegated yarns look great as patternaccents, as shown inthis gorgeous summertop from the newNoro Kibou collection.For stockists: 01535 664222,www.designeryarns.uk.com

PrintsCHARMING

Get on trend with eye-catching patterns

Some yarns are specially dyed to create interesting colour patterns.King Cole Bamboo Cotton Prints produces an all-overkaleidoscope of colour, while Lang Mille Colori Socks & Lace Luxeknits up into bold stripes with a glitzy finish. Sirdar Baby Crofterproduces intricate effects that resemble Fair Isle patterns. Lang MilleColori Socks & Lace Luxe costs £10.95 per 100g (400m) ball from01529 240510, www.artyarn.co.uk. King Cole Bamboo CottonPrints costs £4.59 per 100g (230m) ball, Sirdar Baby Crofter costs£3.19 per 50g (165m) from www.purplelindacrafts.co.uk

HELLO KITTYCat lovers will adore this eye-popping doorstop! £15, 0191 645 4004,www.hunkydoryhome.co.uk

3 OF THE BEST Self-patterning yarns

22

www.letsknit.co.uk

Theme Shopping - Prints Charming_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:33 Page 1

M O D E R N H A N D B A G

This fashionable handbag is shrunk in the washing machineafter knitting, in order to produce a sturdy fabric. The grey stripes are teamed with funky coloured bobbles which adda modern twist to the design. Putting your knits in the washingmachine may be a little daunting, but don't worry – just take a deepbreath and take the plunge!

meet ourDESIGNER

“Inspired by the ombre-effectfabrics that I love, I wanted todesign a bag in a monochromepalette, but it wouldn't have beenme without a wild side or two!”

JANE BURNS

EXCLUSIVE TO

23

www.letsknit.co.uk

Felt FantasticTry an exciting way to transform your knits

with Jane Burns' stylish handbag

Modern love_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:39 Page 2

Measurements & SizesFront panel (before felting):37cm x 44cmFront panel (after felting):30cm x 28cm

Let’s ShopRico Creative Filz costs£3.09 per 50g (50m) ballfrom 0800 488 0708,www.deramores.comFor 10% off all orders at Deramores, turn to the back coverDrops Eskimo costs £1.70per 50g (50m) ball from0800 505 3300,www.woolwarehouse.co.ukLeather piped 18” baghandles cost £13.50 from01273 748944, www.u-handbag.com

Knit KitYarn: Rico Creative Filz, (A) shade 91 Grey, four 50gballs, (B) shade 92 Anthracite,three 50g balls, (C) shade 90Black, three 50g balls, (D) shade 17 Purple, one 50gball, (E) shade 36 Petrol, one50g ball, (F) shade 19 Fuchsia,one 50g ballNeedles: 8mm circularTapestry needleHandles: leather piped 18”

Special abbreviationsMB: make bobble - using colourspecified, k st but do not slip off LHneedle, (yfwd, k, yfwd, k) all into originalst, turn, p5, turn, k5, turn, p5. With WSfacing sl each st in turn over first st untilone remains, turn, k st using yarn A

Tension Square12 sts x 16 rows10cm x 10cmstocking stitch8mm needles

Start knitting here

To make upWeave in ends, sew gussets inplace using mattress stitch,making sure moss stitch bands are at top of each gusset. Place in washing machine, use a normal whites cycle at 70°C.Remove from the machine as soon as wash is finished. Lay flat and pin to measurements. Sew on handles LK

About the YarnRico Creative Filz is a 100% woolsuperchunky yarn which is idealfor felting and comes in a rangeof delightful solid shades.

Need anAlternative?Drops Eskimo is a soft and thickyarn made from pure wool,available in a wide variety ofsolid and variegated shades.



comingnext issue

STYLISH KNITTEDHOMEWARES FROM JANE BURNS


24

www.letsknit.co.uk

BODYUsing yarn A and long-tailmethod, cast on 44 sts£ Row 1: * k1, p1, rep from * to end£ Row 2: * p1, k1, rep from * to end£ Rep Rows 1-2Beg with a k row, work in st st instripe sequence as folls:£ Using yarn A, work 14 rows£ Using yarn B, work two rows£ Using yarn A, work four rows£ Using yarn B, work 20 rows£ Using yarn C, work two rows£ Using yarn B, work two rows£ Using yarn C, work four rows£ Using yarn B, work four rows£ Using yarn C, work 15 rows,ending after a RS row£ Next row (fold): using yarn C, k one row

BASE£ Using yarn C and beg with a krow, work 21 rows in st st£ Next row (fold): using yarn C, kone row

BACK£ Beg with a k row, work in st st instripe sequence as folls:£ Using yarn C, work 16 rows£ Using yarn B, work four rows£ Using yarn C, work four rows£ Using yarn B, work two rows£ Using yarn C, work two rows£ Using yarn B, work 20 rows£ Using yarn A, work four rows£ Using yarn B, work two rows£ Using yarn A, work 14 rows

BORDERChange to yarn A only£ Row 1: * k1, p1, rep from * to end£ Row 2: * p1, k1, rep from * to end£ Rep Rows 1-2£ Cast off

GUSSETS (make two)

NOTE: letter foll mbinstruction indicates yarn shade

Using yarn A and long-tailmethod, cast on 15 sts

£ Rows 1-4: * k1, p1, rep from * tolast st, k1£ Rows 5-6: beg with a k row, workin st st£ Row 7: ** k3, mb D, k3, mb E, k3,mb F, k3£ Rows 8-10: beg with a p row,work in st st£ Row 11: k5, mb B, k3, mb B, k5£ Rows 12-14: beg with a p row,work in st st **£ Rep from ** to ** eight times in total£ Cast off

knitwiseFeltingFelting is the process inwhich a yarn's pure woolfibres rub against eachother and fuse togetherduring a washingmachine cycle, leavingyou with a smaller,denser fabric than theone you started with. Forsome of us, this meansdisaster if a favouritesweater is accidentallyruined! However, theprocess is perfect forcreating robust bags orpurses. Firstly, rememberthat only animal fibreswill felt, and of coursethey should not besuperwash! Try puttingthe item into a washingbag before it goes in themachine to protect itfrom damage. You willneed to add a pair ofjeans or drier balls toagitate the fabric duringthe cycle. If you areunsure how powerfulyour washing machinewill be, felt a test swatch,measuring the beforeand after squares to getan accurate size ratio.

10%OFF!

Den

im w

aist

coat

, £14

.99,

New

Lo

ok;

dre

ss, £

42,

To

psh

op



“When knittingstripes, rememberto twist togetheryour yarns at theend of the rows,carrying them upthe side of yourwork as you go.”LK Editorial Assistant Amy Adams

25



The beauty of bamboo

• LIGHTWEIGHT

• WARM ON THEHANDS

• MADE FROM ARENEWABLE SOURCE

• GRIPS THE STITCHESSO LESS LIKELY TOSLIP

• STRONG NATURALMATERIAL

• MINIMUM STRAIN ONACHING HANDS

• INCLUDES SIZES 2-12MM AS WELL ASA FREE CASE!

Try Knitting Today With This Fantastic Set OfBamboo Needles Risk Free!

WE Are So Confident You Will Love These Needles We Give a 90 Day 100% Money Back Guarantee

Do you love knitting? We do, and we want to explainwhy you need these bamboo needles.

You get a full set of 16 pairs of needles from 2mmall the way through to 12mm, these are the onlyneedles you will need and they come in a fabulousroll case.

Bamboo is lightweight and warm. It’s easier to use,

even if you have sore hands or Arthritis.Bamboo needles grip the stitch, so they are less

likely to slip. This makes knitting easier.Bamboo is a renewable source, and our needles

are handmade, meaning no environmental damage.You get this full set of needles for just £11.99 with the

free wrap cotton case.

What our customers are saying:I haven’t been able to knit for years due to arthritis, but bamboo

needles were recommended and I haven’t stopped knitting

since. They are comfortable, quiet and no clicking.

S. KikkLove knitting with my bamboo needles. They are light and do not

make my hands sweat. I would recommend to other knitters.

F. Fisher

To order your needlesTo get your set of bamboo knitting needles for just

£11.99 plus £2.99 P&P

Call 01945 581053Between 8am and 4pm Monday-Friday or order any

time 24 hours a day on our website

www.Curtzy.com/needles

Curtzy


Pack up your bags and hit the road with this fabulous caravan-motif cushion!

The striped background is really easy to knit, and the bunting andcaravan designs are knitted separately and sewn on afterwards.

The caravan uses the intarsia method to work the door andwindow, and we've got both charted and written instructions.

These could also be Swiss darned if you prefer. Buy the yarn forthis cushion from your local yarn shop!

meet ourDESIGNER

“This retro knitting design wasinspired by my childhood holidaysin the 1970s, spent with myparents and sister in our caravan”

NICOLA VALIJI

EXCLUSIVE TO

27

www.letsknit.co.uk

Happy CamperThis colourful pillow from Nicola Valiji

epitomises the British summer

Happy camper_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:35 Page 2

Measurements & Sizes40cm x 40cm

Let’s ShopSirdar Wash 'n' Wear DoubleCrepe DK has an RRP of£2.67 per 50g (135m) ball.Call 01924 231682 or visitwww.sirdar.co.uk/storelocator for stockists

Knit KitYarn: Sirdar Wash 'n' WearDouble Crepe DK, (A) shade374 Cool Pink, (B) shade 318Duck Egg, (C) shade 373 LimeGreen, two 50g balls of each,(D) shade 239 Cream, one 50gball, oddment of dark grey DKNeedles: 3.5mmTapestry needleSewing needle and threadCushion pad: 40cm x 40cm Buttons: 5cm brown, 1.5cmblue, 2cm lilac, pink, green,cream, blueToy stuffing, small amount

Tension Square22 sts x 28 rows 10cm x 10cm stocking stitch3.5mm needles

Start knitting here

WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONSNOTE: letter foll eachinstruction denotes which yarn to use, use intarsiacolourwork method

£ Using yarn D, k one row£ Next row: p20 D, p10 A, p10 D£ Next row: k10 D, k10 A, k20 D£ Rep last two rows seven times more£ Next row: p5 D, p10 B, p5 D, p10 A, p10 D£ Next row: k10 D, k10 A, k5 D, k10 B, k5 D£ Rep last two rows four times moreCut yarn A

About the YarnSirdar Wash 'n' Wear DoubleCrepe DK is a nylon and acrylicblend, which is practical andlong-lasting. It comes in a greatrange of 28 shades.


knitwiseSeeing stripesWhen knitting stripes,you don't have to cut andrejoin the yarn afterevery section. To savetime at the end – andreduce the amount ofyarn used – you can carrythe yarn not being usedup the side of the work.Twist the strandstogether every few rowsto prevent large loopsfrom forming.

£ Next row (buttonhole): rib 8,(yon, k2tog, rib 12, yrn, p2tog, rib12) twice, yon, k2tog, rib 10£ Work four more rows in 2x2 rib£ Cast off in rib

CARAVANUsing 3.5mm needles and yarn D,cast on 40 stsUsing intarsia method, work doorand window using written orcharted instructions as folls:

CHART INSTRUCTIONS£ Work Rows 1-31 of Caravan chartusing intarsia method

CUSHION COVERUsing 3.5mm needles and yarn A,cast on 76 sts £ Row 1: (k2, p2) to end This row sets 2x2 rib£ Rep last row nine more timesBeg with a k row, work in st st infour-row stripe sequence as folls: £ Four rows in yarn B£ Four rows in yarn C£ Four rows in yarn A£ Cont in st st until 62 completestripes have been worked, endingafter a yarn C stripeChange to yarn A£ K one row £ Work five rows in 2x2 rib

Chart for caravan

Knit

Yarn B

Yarn A

RS: knitWS: purl

Key

28

www.letsknit.co.uk


29


£ Next row: p5 D, p10 B, p25 D£ Next row: k25 D, k10 B, k5 D£ Rep last two rows once more

ROOFCut yarn B and cont in yarn D only£ Next row: p2tog, p to last two sts, p2tog£ Next row: k£ Rep last two rows until 28 stsrem, ending after a k row£ Cast off

CURTAINS (make two)

Using 3.5mm needles and yarn C,cast on six sts£ K every row until work meas 6cm £ Cast off

BUNTING FLAGS(make two in yarn A, two in yarn C,two in yarn B and three in yarn D)

Using 3.5mm needles, cast on two sts£ Row 1 and all WS rows: p£ Row 2: (kfb) in each st. Four sts£ Row 4: k1, kfb to last st, k1. Six sts£ Row 6: k1, kfb, k2, kfb, k1. Eight sts£ Beg with p row, work three rowsin st st Cut yarn, leaving flag on needle £ When all flags are on needle,using yarn A and with RS facing, kalong top of all nine flags. 72 sts£ K one row£ Cast off

To make upWeave in ends of all pieces. Fold up Cushion cover sobuttonbands overlap, keepingbuttonhole band on top, then sew up sides. Sew on 2cm buttonsto correspond with fivebuttonholes. Block Curtains, thenattach to top edge of window usingphoto as a guide. Tie two shortlengths of yarn A around middle ofCurtains and fasten in a bow.Attach large button to middle ofbottom edge of Caravan and add1.5cm button to Caravan door.Using oddment of grey DK,embroider straight stitches tooutline door, as shown. Pin andsew Caravan in place on front ofcushion, leaving a small gap inseam. Add stuffing to pad outCaravan then close gap. Sewbunting above Caravan. Make an 8.5cm pompom in all fouryarns and attach one to eachcorner LK

Buy from your local yarnshop! Go to www.sirdar.co.uk/

storelocator for stockists


&ann louisethistle wool shopsare proud to be hosting a

Sirdar and Sublime

ShowcaseOn

Saturday 26th July9am – 4.30pm

At

Thistle53 London Road Cowplain PO8 8UJ

This is a unique opportunity to view andpurchase the new autumn and winter

range of yarns and patterns.

We will have an extensive display of garments on show to inspire you.

There will be 10% off all yarns on the day andthe first 50 customers to spend over £25 onSirdar or Sublime will receive a free scarf kit.

www.knotjustwool.co.uk


S T Y L I S H S U M M E R C O V E R - U P

31

www.letsknit.co.uk

meet ourDESIGNER

“The ruched effect pattern isachieved by not only using twodifferent sizes of needles but alsoby increasing and decreasingstitches to give a gathered effect.”

PAT MENCHINI

EXCLUSIVE TO

With a simple lace pattern andan ingenious ruched body, this

elegant garment is an idealfinish to late summer looks.

The flattering length skims over yourcurves while the lace-up bodice addsa delightful twist. Wear over a simple

sundress or team with a plain topand jeans to really show off the

details in the design.

LongIsland

Layer your outfits with this pretty ruched gilet

by Pat Menchini

Lace gilet p31-33 (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:18 Page 2

Measurements & sizesSize (approx):6-8 (10-12, 14-16, 18-20, 22-24, 26-28)

To fit chest (cm): 76-81 (86-91, 97-102, 107-112,117-122, 127-132)

Actual chest, approx (cm):84 (92, 104, 112, 122, 132)

Length from shoulder (cm): 73 (74, 76, 78, 79, 81)

Let’s ShopKing Cole Moods Duet DKcosts £3.30 per 100g(294m) ball from 01924 565740,www.woolnstuff.co.ukHayfield Bonus DK costs£1.99 per 100g (280m) ballfrom 0845 576 0007,www.loveknitting.comTo get 10% off all orders at Love Knitting,turn to page 25

Knit KitYarn: King Cole Moods DuetDK, shade 832 Chianti, 4 (4, 5,6, 6, 7) 100g ballsNeedles: 3.25mm, 4mm,5.5mmCrochet hook: 3.75mmTapestry needle

Tension Square22 sts x 28 rows10cm x 10cm stocking stitch4mm needles

Start knitting here

£ Row 1 (RS): k1 (6, 5, 3, 1, 7), [yfwd,skpo, k2, k2tog, yfwd, k1] to lastthree sts, p3£ Row 2: p£ Row 3: k2 (7, 6, 4, 2, 8), [yfwd,skpo, k2tog, k3] to last nine sts,yfwd, skpo, k2tog, k2, p3£ Row 4: p£ Row 5: k to last three sts, p3£ Row 6: p£ Cont in Lace patt until workmeas 55cm ending at side edge

SHAPE ARMHOLE ANDFRONT SLOPE£ Row 1: cast off 9 (10, 11, 12, 13, 14)sts, patt to end£ Row 2: p£ Row 3: k2tog, work to last fivests, k2tog, p3£ Row 4: p to last two sts, p2tog£ Rep last two rows 1 (1, 2, 3, 3, 4)times more, then Row 3 oncemore. 29 (33, 35, 36, 40, 42) sts£ Next row: p£ Next row: k2tog, patt to last fivests, k2tog, p3£ Complete to match Right frontworking from **** to end

BACKUsing 4mm needles, cast on 92(102, 114, 124, 134, 146) stsWork in Ruched patt as folls:£ Rows 1-6: pChange to 5.5mm needles£ Row 7: k3, [kfb, k1] 42 (47, 53, 58,63, 69) times, kfb, k to end. 135(150, 168, 183, 198, 216) sts£ Rows 8-13: beg with a p row,work six rows in st st£ Row 14: p4, [p2tog, p1] 42 (47, 53,58, 63, 69) times, p2tog, p to end.92 (102, 114, 124, 134, 146) stsChange to 4mm needlesRows 1-14 from Ruched patt£ Work as Right front from ** to ***Change to 4mm needles and workin Lace patt as folls:£ Row 1: k1 (6, 5, 3, 1, 7), [yfwd,skpo, k2, k2tog, yfwd, k1] to last 0(5, 4, 2, 0, 6) sts, k0 (5, 4, 2, 0, 6)£ Row 2: p£ Row 3: k2 (7, 6, 4, 2, 8), [yfwd,skpo, k2tog, yfwd, k3] to last 6 (11,

About the YarnKing Cole Moods Duet DK is abeautiful acrylic and wool-blend yarn which is subtlyvariegated, combiningcomplementary colours tocreate an enchanting effect.

Need anAlternative?If you want to knit your piece in a solid colourway, Hayfield Bonus DK is a 100% acrylic yarn available in 60 different shades.



RIGHT FRONTUsing 4mm needles, cast on 46 (51,57, 62, 67, 73) stsWork in Ruched patt as folls:£ Rows 1-6: pChange to 5.5mm needles£ Row 7: k3, [kfb, k1] 19 (22, 25, 27,30, 33) times, kfb, k to end. 66 (74,83, 90, 98, 107) sts£ Rows 8-13: beg with p row, workin st st£ Row 14: p4 (3, 3, 4, 3, 3), [p2tog,p1] 19 (22, 25, 27, 30, 33) times,p2tog, p to end. 46 (51, 57, 62, 67,73) stsChange to 4mm needlesRows 1-14 form Ruched patt£ ** Cont in patt until work measapprox 38cm from cast-on edge,ending after Row 6 noting that

final six rows should be worked on3.25mm needles ***Change to 4mm needles Work in Lace patt as folls:£ Row 1 (RS): p3, [k1, yfwd, skpo,k2, k2tog, yfwd] to last 1 (6, 5, 3, 1,7) sts, k to end£ Row 2: p£ Row 3: p3, k2, [yfwd, skpo,k2tog, yfwd, k3] to last 6 (11, 10, 8,6, 12) sts, yfwd, skpo, k2tog, yfwd, k to end£ Row 4: p£ Row 5: p3, k to end£ Row 6: pRows 1-6 form Lace patt£ Cont in Lace patt until workmeas 55cm from cast-on edgeending at side edge

SHAPE ARMHOLE ANDFRONT SLOPE£ Row 1: cast off 9 (10, 11, 12, 13, 14)sts, p to end£ Row 2: p3, k2tog tbl, patt to lasttwo sts, k2tog£ Row 3: p2tog, p to end£ Rep last two rows 1 (1, 2, 3, 3, 4)times more, then Row 2 oncemore. 29 (33, 35, 36, 40, 42) sts£ Next row: p£ Next row: p3, k2tog tbl, patt tolast two sts, k2tog£ **** Rep last two rows until 21(23, 23, 26, 26, 28) sts rem£ Cont to dec inside front edge onevery foll alt (alt, 4th, 4th, 4th, 4th)row until 17 (20, 20, 23, 23, 26) stsrem, then on every foll 4th (4th,4th, 4th, 6th, 6th) row until 13 (15,17, 19, 20, 22) sts rem£ Cont without shaping untilfront meas 18 (19, 21, 23, 24, 26) cmfrom beg of armhole shaping,ending at armhole edge

SHAPE SHOULDER£ Cast off 4 (5, 6, 6, 7, 7) sts at begof next row and foll alt row£ Patt one row£ Cast off rem sts

LEFT FRONT£ Work as Right front to ***Change to 4mm needles and workin Lace patt as folls:

“If on the two larger sizes you find itdifficult to fit the stitches on to the5.5mm needles, use a circular needle

instead, working flat in rows.”LK Editorial Assistant Amy Adams

knitwise

Twist and shoutIt's so easy to make atwisted cord, and theeffect is simple andstylish. Take a few strandsof yarn, remembering thatthe thickness will bedoubled once the cord iscomplete. Cut the lengthsof yarn two-and-a-half tothree times longer thanthe desired length of your finished cord and tie a knot at both ends.Pin one end down andtwist from the other until it is so tight that itbegins to kink. Bring the knotted ends togetherand let the cord twistaround itself, then secure by tying togetherthe knotted ends. Su

ngla

sses

, £6.

99, H

&M

, hat

, £15

, tro

user

s, £

17.5

0, M

&S,

top

, £16

, Nex

t, b

race

lets

, fro

m a

sel

ecti

on a

t D

eben

ham

s

32

www.letsknit.co.uk

10%OFF!



Sizes 6-28!

comingnext issuePAT MENCHINI’S VIBRANTCARDI


10, 8, 6, 12) sts, yfwd, skpo, k2tog,yfwd, k2 (7, 6, 4, 2, 8)£ Rows 4-6: beg with a p row workthree rows in st stRows 1-6 form Lace patt£ Cont in Lace patt until work meas55cm ending after a p row

SHAPE ARMHOLES£ Cast off 9 (10, 11, 12, 13, 14) sts atbeg of next two rows£ Dec one st at each end of everyrow until 64 (72, 78, 82, 90, 96) stsrem, then on every foll alt row until56 (62, 66, 72, 76, 82) sts rem£ Cont to work without shapinguntil Back meas same as fronts to shoulder shaping ending after a p row

SHAPE SHOULDERSNOTE: p centre 36 (38, 38, 40, 42,44) sts on every row

£ Cast off 4 (5, 6, 6, 7, 7) sts at beg ofnext four rows, then 5 (5, 5, 7, 6, 8)sts at beg of next two rows£ Cast off rem 30 (32, 32, 34, 36, 38) sts

ARMHOLE BORDERSJoin shouldersUsing 3.25mm needles and with RS facing, pick up and k up 92 (102, 112, 120, 126, 136) sts evenlyaround armhole£ K four rows£ Cast off

To make upJoin side seams and armholeborders. Using 3.75mm crochethook and with RS facing, rejoin yarnto lower corner of right front edge.Work two rows of double crochet allround front and back neck edges,working about eight double crochetsfor every 14 rows of Ruched patt, andone double crochet in everyalternate row along remainder offront edges. Using three lengths ofyarn, make a twisted cord and lacethrough eyelets inside front borderas desired LK

top

, £16

, Nex

t, b

race

lets

, fro

m a

sel

ecti

on a

t D

eben

ham

s

33



w w w . l e t s k n i t . c o .

34

www.letsknit.co.uk

VOTE IN THE BRITISH KNITTING AWARDSAND YOU COULD RECEIVE OVER £500

OF AMAZING PRODUCTS FROM THEWINNING COMPANIES!

Win£500OF KNITTING

GOODIES!

VOTE ONLINE@

WIN THE BESTSTASHEver!

Cast your votes in the British Knitting Awards and you'llbe helping to reward all those hardworking people whomake your knitting experience special, from the spinnerswho create the yarn to the shops that sell it, and everyoneelse in between! What's more you will be entered into aprize draw and could win over £500 of fabulous productsfrom the winning companies – that's a knitting stash madeup of goodies from the cream of the knitting world, asvoted for by you!

The PrizeThe lucky winner of our prize draw willreceive over £500 worth of knitting goodies,from the nation's most popular brands!Winning companies from this year's awardswill donate yarn, needles, pattern books,accessories and more, to make your stashthe envy of us all.

What to doSimply tick off your favourites in the boxesprovided, or, if your preferred choice isn’tmentioned, add them in the space marked‘other’. You can do this on the form providedhere or online atwww.letsknit.co.uk/britishknittingawards.If using the form opposite, post it to us in anenvelope marked British Knitting Awards toMarketing Dept., 21-23 Phoenix Court,Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY

This year we have two new categories,Best Brand for British Yarn to celebrate thecompanies that promote our glorioushomegrown fibres, and Best Yarn Shop DayExperience following the success of ourLove Your Yarn Shop campaign.

Once all the votes have beencounted the results will beannounced in the November

issue of Let’s Knit, on saleFriday 24th October 2014.

To vote either use the form on the right or log on to www.letsknit.co.uk/britishknittingawards

Awards82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 17:00 Page 1

o . u k / b r i t i s h k n i t t i n g a w a r d s

VOTE HERE OR ONLINE to enter

CONDITIONS OF ENTRY:All entries must be received by 7th September 2014. This prize draw is open to all UK residents aged 18 or over, excludingemployees or agents of the associated companies and their families. Only one entry per person. The prize consists of £500 worthof knitting supplies and will be given away to the first entry drawn at random on 8th September. 2014 Entries must be on theforms provided (no purchase necessary) or online at www.letsknit.co.uk/britishknittingawards. Photocopies are NOT accepted.Illegible entries and those that do not abide by the rules and regulations will be disqualified. No responsibility held for entries lost,delayed or damaged in the post, proof of posting is not proof of delivery. No correspondence will be entered into, only the winnerwill be notified by post. Winner’s name and county will be available by sending a SAE marked Let’s Knit Awards to: L.Tuthill, BritishKnitting Awards Organiser, 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY.

Best overall yarn brand£ Stylecraft£ Rowan£ Debbie Bliss £ SirdarOther______________________________________________

Best value yarn brand£ Sirdar£ Drops£ King Cole£ StylecraftOther _____________________________________________

Best baby yarn brand£ Debbie Bliss £ Deramores£ King Cole £ Sirdar Other _____________________________________________

Best luxury yarn brand£ Fyberspates£ Noro£ Rowan£ Debbie Bliss Other______________________________________________

Best sock yarn brand£ Opal£ Regia£ Rowan £ NoroOther______________________________________________

Best independent yarn brand£ Toft Alpaca£ Deramores£ Titus (Baa Ram Ewe)£ FyberspatesOther______________________________________________

Best Brand for British Yarn£ Erika Knight £ West Yorkshire Spinners£ Jamieson & Smith£ Toft AlpacaOther______________________________________________

Best pattern house£ King Cole £ Debbie Bliss£ Rowan£ SirdarOther______________________________________________

Best knitting designer£ Kaffe Fassett£ Kate Davies £ Kim Hargreaves£ Debbie Bliss£ Martin StoreyOther______________________________________________

Best local independent yarn storeNORTH OF ENGLAND£ Baa Ram Ewe, Leeds£ Black Sheep Wools, Warrington£ Purl City Yarns, Manchester£ Purl & Jane, SkiptonOther______________________________________________

SOUTH OF ENGLAND£ Get Knitted, Bristol £ The Knit Club, Caterham£ Loop, Islington, London£ Spin A Yarn, Bovey Tracey,Devon£ Hoop Haberdashery, Tenterden£ Sconch Textiles, Braintree£ Pack Lane Wool, BasingstokeOther______________________________________________

MIDLANDS£ Toft Studio Shop, Rugby£ City Knits (Christine’s) Wool Shop, Bournville, Birmingham£ Knit Nottingham, Nottingham £ Sitting Knitting, Sutton Coldfield

Other______________________________________________

WALES£ Clare Wools, Aberystwyth£ La Mercerie, Cowbridge£ Knitters & Sewers World, Swansea£ Yarn 'n Yarns, Penarth£ Calon Yarns, CardiffOther______________________________________________

IRELAND£ This Is Knit, Dublin£ The Textile Studio, Belfast£ Selections Wool Shop, Carrickfergus£ Parlour Yarns, Carrickfergus

Other______________________________________________

SCOTLAND£ Ginger Twist Studio, Edinburgh £ Fluph, Dundee£ Wool For Ewe, Aberdeen£ The Yarn Cake, GlasgowOther______________________________________________

Best Yarn Shop Day Experience£ City Knits (Christine’s) Wool Shop, Bournville, Birmingham£ Knit Nottingham, Nottingham £ The Yarn Cake, Glasgow£ Black Sheep Wools, Warrington£ Wool for Ewe, Aberdeen

Other______________________________________________

Best chain store£ Abakhan £ Hobbycraft £ John Lewis £ BoyesOther______________________________________________

Best online store£ Black Sheep Wools£ Deramores £ Loveknitting£ Wool WarehouseOther______________________________________________

Favourite show/event£ Yarndale (Skipton) £ Wonderwool (Wales)£ Woolfest (Cumbria)£ The Knitting & Stitching Show,(London)

Other______________________________________________

Best blog£ Attic 24 £ Kate Davies Designs £ Deramores£ LoveknittingOther______________________________________________

Best website£ Loveknitting£ Black Sheep Wools£ Ravelry£ Deramores Other______________________________________________

Best knitting needle range£ Addi £ Knit Pro £ Milwards£ Pony Other______________________________________________

Best accessories range£ Clover £ Knit Pro£ Pony£ Milwards Other______________________________________________

Best ready-to-use knit kits£ MillaMia £ The Little Knitting Company£ Toft Alpaca£ RowanOther______________________________________________

Best book 2014£ Stranded Knits by AnnKingstone (endorsed by Rowan)£ Coop Knits – Toasty, Volume 1by Rachel Coopey£ Knit Your Own Zoo by SallyMuir & Joanna Osbourne (Collins & Brown)£ Knitting Smitten by JessicaBiscoe (Quadrille Publishing)Other______________________________________________

PLEASE COMPLETE YOUR DETAILS IN BLOCK CAPITALS

Title First Name

Surname

Address

Postcode

Telephone

Email

Signature

Closing date to 07/09/2014

Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd, (publishers of Let’s Knit magazine) in fullaccordance with data protection legislation. Aceville Publications Ltd and sister companies may wish tocontact you with information of other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick here if you DO NOT wish to receive such information by Post £ Phone £ Email £ SMS £

From time to time Aceville Publications Ltd will share details with other reputable companies whoprovide products and services that may be of interest to you. Please tick here if you DO NOT wish toreceive such information by Post £ Phone £ Email £ SMS £

✄

Send this form to:Marketing Dept., British Knitting Awards, 21-23 Phoenix Court,Hawkins Road, Colchester,Essex CO2 8JY.

Awards82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 16:44 Page 2

Did you know you can buy individual issues orsubscribe to Let's Knit magazine on yoursmartphone or tablet? Download the app for free and purchase issues individually or via a choice of subscription options.

CONTENTLet's Knit covers projects for beginners toexperienced knitters alike; each issue has:lAt least 20 exclusive patterns, includinggarments, babies and kids patterns, accessories,homewares and quick makes. lGarment patterns ranging from sizes 8 to 22.l A complete breakdown of the Knit Kit requiredfor each pattern, any special abbreviations and aKnitwise to help you complete it. l Inspiration, yarn reviews, insightful features andgiveaways; clear, illustrated tutorials on differenttechniques; shopping pages and sneak peeks atfamous knitters' yarn stashes too!

Let's Knit has13 issues ayear, whichmeans morepatterns forour readers.Look out forour ChristmasSpecial issueon sale inSeptember2014!

MAGAZINE WEBSITE

Head to our social media sites to hearabout knitting-related news, offers andcompetitions. Find us atwww.facebook.com/letsknitmag orfollow us @letsknitmag on Twitter.Share your makes with us too and lookout for them in the magazine!

FACEBOOK & TWITTER

BUSYMITTS

An online home for crafters with over289,276 members to talk to! Discussprojects, share makes, and buildfriendships with like-minded readersof Aceville Publication's craft titles.www.homecraftforums.com

HOME CRAFTFORUM

THE APP SPECIAL ISSUESWe currently have 12 bookazinesavailable. Titles include: lHow to Knit & CrochetlAdorable ToyslBaby KnitslCreative Home lKnitted Style CollectionThey’re brimming full ofgarments and accessories to make.

BACK ISSUESIf you've missed an issue don'tfret, as you can buy backissues via our app, startingfrom Issue 38, January 2011.

The Let's Knit app is available to download for your

tablet or smartphone from Nook, Kindle Newsstand

and Apple Newsstand.

GREAT WAYS TOEnjoy Let’s Knit7

Back issuesavailable fromJanuary 2011

Find inspiration with our knitting-related boardsand share our wealth of patterns, stash-busting tips and more atwww.pinterest.com/letsknitmag

A place to brush up on your knitting skills withour videos and tutorials, pattern abbreviationsand errata. Read the blog, enter our monthlygiveaways and find over 230 free patterns!

PINTERESTCreate your own personal profileshowcasing your projects and meet like-minded crafters at www.busymitts.com.Over 31,000 projects to inspire you!

36

www.letsknit.co.uk

Media page_LK Regular Template 20/06/2014 14:15 Page 2


S H O P P I N G | N O N - W O O L Y A R N

38

www.letsknit.co.uk

WEARY OF WOOL? THERE ARE SO MANY INCREDIBLE FIBRES

TO CHOOSE FROM!

Alternative

1 SIRDAR HUSHA sparkly lace yarn including 27% mohair,this fluffy yarn has a soft brushedappearance with a gentle variation ofcolour. One 25g ball costs £4.99 from 01379 650640,www.disswoolandcrafts.com

2 CASHMEREDThis unusual 3ply yarn is made in Italy from100% cashmere. Exquisitely soft andavailable in 20 delightful colours, one 25gball costs £12.95 from 01242 256797,www.cashmered.net

3 THE LITTLE KNITTINGCOMPANY COTTON RAMIECotton yarns are well-loved for theirstrength and fabulous stitch definition, butthis skein also blends 30% ramie, one of theworld’s oldest and strongest fibres – used inEgyptian mummy cloths for 2,000 years!One 100g skein of 4ply yarn costs £4.35from 01367 710362,www.thelittleknittingcompany.co.uk

4 MIRASOL MISKIAlthough not as common as alpaca, llamayarns share many of the properties thatmake the former so special. Hollow fibresmake it both light and insulating, and it isdivinely soft to touch. One 50g skein ofaran-weight Miski costs £6.95 from 01829 740903, www.laughinghens.com

Adds

omes

park

leto

mohair knits

Indulg

e in cashmere

Great for

2

3

1

4

Here at Let’s Knit, we’re big fans of

sheepy yarns. But why limit yourself to

just one material when there are so

many exciting options out there? From

mohair to acrylic, each has its own

unique use. We decided to gather

together just a few of our favourites!

GO

Yarn Shopping 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:39 Page 1

S H O P P I N G | N O N - W O O L Y A R N

39


5 CYGNET DKA classic 100% acrylic DK, thisversatile yarn is not only fully

machine washable, but it comes in avast range of colours. Great for kidsor anyone who is sensitive to animalfibres. One 100g ball costs £1.70from www.cosywool.co.uk

6 SHI BUI BABY ALPACAAlpacas have long been a favouritehere at Let’s Knit! Luxuriously softand naturally warm, the fleece doesnot contain lanolin, meaning it canbe worn next to the skin withoutirritation. Find six sumptuousshades of DK yarn for £16.50 per100g skein at 01241 858608,www.alpacaloft.co.uk

7 LOTUS YARNS TIBETANCLOUD FINGERINGMade from 100% yak fibre, this lightlymottled lace yarn comes in beautifulnatural colours. Living in extreme Tibetanweather conditions, yaks produce an ultrawarm fleece with a gorgeous lustre halo. One 50g skein costs £11.50 fromwww.skeinqueenyarns.co.uk

8 KING COLE BAMBOOCOTTONNot only is bamboo-sourced viscose adeliciously soft fibre to work with, but it’salso very environmentally friendly!Blended with 50% cotton, the King Colerange comes in DK, variagated DK, and4ply options. One ball costs £4.96 per100g ball from www.abakhan.co.uk

Great for toys andchildren’s clothes

5

7

8

6

Set

of

two

gre

y-ed

ged

bas

kets

fro

m 0

144

6 79

5594

,w

ww

.hou

se-e

nvy.

co.u

k

Yarn Shopping 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:39 Page 2

Needles &Hooks

Yarns

Accessories& Sewing

Looms

KnitUKKITS

Patterns &Books

01273 424529www.thedroppedstitch.co.uk

Stocking James C. Brett, Katia,King Cole, Peter Pan, Woolcraft,

Wendy Yarns, Jenny Watsonyarns and patterns.

Knitting Patterns, Needles andAccessories, Crochet Yarn,

Patterns and Hooks,Haberdashery, Hand Knitted

Items and DMC threads.

Also stocking new scarf yarns:Woolcraft Tango and Desire,

Katia Ondas, Triana and Triana Lux

113/115 Victoria Road, Portslade, East Sussex, BN41 1XD.

Hand made earrings

ExclusivePatterns


E A S Y S U M M E R T - S H I R T

With its dolman sleeves and wideneckline, Parallel Lines is a simple buteffective look that flatters any shape. The two-tone design has a summer fruits

flavour to it and would pair nicely with thosestaple denim shorts or white linens that

always find their way into your suitcase. Ifyou're looking to hone your colourwork skills,

this is the ideal project, as it has minimalshaping and a simple pattern repeat.

meet ourDESIGNER

“This colourblocked T-shirt is aneasy way to try some simpleintarsia. Stripes and colourblocking is right on trend for thecoming season.”

ANNIKEN ALLIS

EXCLUSIVE TO

41

www.letsknit.co.uk

ParallelLines

This eye-catching sweater byAnniken Allis will jazz upyour summer wardrobe.

Moderndesign

Parallel lines_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:47 Page 2

Measurements & SizesDress size (approx):8 (10-12, 14-16, 18-20)To fit chest (cm):81 (91-96 102-107 112-117)Actual chest (cm):87 (97, 108, 118)Length (cm):55 (57, 58.5, 60.5)

Let’s ShopRico Essentials Merino DKcosts £3.69 per 50g (120m)ball from 0800 505 3300,www.woolwarehouse.co.ukKatia Merino 100% costs£4.29 per 50g (102m) ballfrom 0800 488 0708,www.deramores.comFor 10% off all orders at Deramores, turn to the back cover

Knit KitYarn: Rico Essentials MerinoDK, (A) shade 01, (B) shade 13,3 (3, 4, 4) 50g balls of eachNeedles: 4mm straight, 4mm circular Stitch marker

Special abbreviationsK st and wrap together on a k row:insert RH needle up through the wrapthen into the st. Knit stitch and wraptogether.

P st and wrap together on a p row: fromthe knit side of work, lift the wrap andplace it in front of the purl st. Purl stitchand wrap together.

Tension Square21 sts x 32 rows10cm x 10cm over stripe patt 4mm needles

times. 100 (110, 122, 132) sts£ Next row (RS): using cable caston method, cast on 15 (19, 21, 23)sts at beg of the row, patt to end£ Next row (WS): using cable caston method, cast on 15 (19, 21, 23)sts at the beg of row, patt to end.130 (148, 164, 178) sts£ Work in patt until Front meas 51(52, 52.5, 53.5) cm, ending after aWS row

SHAPE LEFT NECK£ Next row (RS): work 50 (58, 65,71) sts in patt, turn. Place rem stson holder£ Next row: p1, p2tog, patt to end£ Next row: k to last three sts,k2tog, k1£ Rep last two rows a further twotimes. 44 (52, 59, 65) sts£ Cont in patt until Left frontmatches Back to shoulder shaping,ending after a RS row

SHAPE LEFT SHOULDER£ Next row (WS): p20 (22, 24, 26), w&t£ Next row: k to end£ Next row: p10 (11, 12, 13), w&t£ Next row: k to end£ Next row: p to end workingwraps tog with sts. Place all sts on holder

SHAPE RIGHT NECKPlace centre 30 (32, 34, 36) sts onholder for Front neck. 50 (58, 65,71) sts£ Re-attach yarn at neck edge andwork in patt to end of row£ Next row (WS): p to last threests, p2tog tbl, p1£ Next row: k1, ssk, k to end£ Rep last two rows a further twotimes. 44 (52, 59, 65) sts£ Cont in patt until Right front matches Back to shoulder shaping, ending after a WS row

About the YarnRico Essentials Merino DKis a 100% extrafine merinosuperwash yarn in a huge rangeof shades.

Need anAlternative?Katia Merino 100% is a DK yarnavailable in a wide range ofinteresting colours. It is machine washable.



knitwiseThree-needle cast offReturn each set ofstitches to a needle andhold them parallel withWS together. Cast off inthe normal way butinstead of knitting onestitch on the LH needleeach time, knit the stitchon the front and back LHneedle together.

£ Next row: p to end workingwraps tog with stsPlace all sts on holder

SHAPE LEFT NECKPlace centre 38 (40, 42, 44) sts onholder for back neck. 46 (54, 61, 67)sts£ Re-attach yarn at neck edge andwork in patt to end of row£ Next row (WS): p to last threests, p2tog tbl, p1£ Next row: k1, ssk, k to end. 44(52, 59, 65) sts£ Next row: p to end

SHAPE LEFT SHOULDER£ Next row (RS): k20 (22, 24, 26), w&t£ Next row: p to end£ Next row: k10 (11, 12, 13), w&t£ Next row: p to end£ Next row: k to end workingwraps tog with stsPlace all sts on holder

FRONTNOTE: letters afterinstructions denote yarn shade

Using 4mm needles, yarn A andlong tail cast on, cast on 46 (51, 57,62) sts, swap colours around andcast on 46 (51, 57, 62) sts in yarn B.92 (102, 114, 124) sts£ Row 1 (WS): k46 (51, 57, 62) B,k46 (51, 57, 62) A£ Row 2: k46 (51, 57, 62) A, k46 (61,57, 62) B£ Rep last two rows once more£ Rep Row 1 once more£ Commence Stripe pattern andwork until Front meas 35 (36.5,36.5, 37.5) cm, ending after a WS row

SLEEVES£ Next row (RS): k2, m1, patt tolast two sts, m1, k2£ Next row: patt to end£ Rep last two rows a further three

STRIPE PATTERNNOTE: letters afterinstructions denote yarn shade

£ Row 1: k46 (51, 57, 62) A, k46 (51,57, 62) B £ Row 2: p46 (51, 57, 62) B, p46 (51,57, 62) A£ Row 3: using yarn A, k to end £ Row 4: p46 (51, 57, 62) A, p46 (51,57, 62) B£ Row 5: using yarn B, k to end £ Row 6: p46 (51, 57, 62) B, p46 (51,57, 62) A

BACKNOTE: letters afterinstructions denote yarn shade

Using 4mm needles, yarn A andthe long tail cast-on, cast on 46 (51,57, 62) sts, swap colours aroundand cast on 46 (51, 57, 62) sts inyarn B. 92 (102, 114, 124) sts£ Row 1 (WS): k46 (51, 57, 62) B,k46 (51, 57, 62) A£ Row 2: k46 (51, 57, 62) A, k46 (61,57, 62) B£ Rep last two rows once more£ Rep Row 1 once more. Five rows worked£ Commence Stripe pattern andwork until Back meas 35 (36.5,36.5, 37.5) cm, ending after a WS row

SLEEVES£ Next row (RS): k2, m1, patt tolast two sts, m1, k2£ Next row: patt to end£ Rep last two rows a further threetimes. 100 (110, 122, 132) sts£ Next row (RS): using cable caston method, cast on 15 (19, 21, 23)sts at beg of row, patt to end£ Next row (WS): using cable caston method, cast on 15 (19, 21, 23)sts at beg of row, patt to end. 130(148, 164, 178) sts£ Work in patt until Back meas 54(56, 57.5, 59.5) cm, ending after aWS row

SHAPE RIGHT NECK£ Next row (RS): work 46 (54, 61,67) sts in patt, turn. Place rem stson holder£ Next row: p1, p2tog, patt to end£ Next row: k to last three sts,k2tog, k1. 44 (52, 59, 65) sts

SHAPE RIGHT SHOULDER£ Next row (WS): p20 (22, 24, 26), w&t£ Next row: k to end£ Next row: p10 (11, 12, 13), w&t£ Next row: k to end

42

www.letsknit.co.uk

Start knitting here

10%OFF!



“Thin horizontalstripes are alwaysflattering but thepanels where the

colours reverse onthis t-shirt make it

even more so.”LK Editorial Assistant Katie Wilding

comingnext issueFISHERMAN’S SWEATER BYANNIKEN ALLIS


43


SHAPE RIGHT SHOULDER£ Next row (RS): k20 (22, 24, 26), w&t£ Next row: p to end£ Next row: k10 (11, 12, 13), w&t£ Next row: p to end£ Next row: k to end workingwraps tog with sts. Place all sts on holder

To make upSteam press or block both pieces.Join shoulders/top of sleeves byworking a three needle cast off on the WS (see Knitwise). Seamunderarm and side seams

NECKBANDNOTE: letters afterinstructions denote yarn shade

£ Using 4mm circular needle andyarn A, starting at left shoulder,pick up and k 14 (16, 18, 20) sts toFront neck, k30 (32, 34, 36) sts onholder at Front neck, pick up and k14 (16, 18, 20) sts to right shoulder,pick up and k5 (5, 5, 5) sts to backneck, k38 (40, 42, 44) sts from backneck, pick up and k 5 (5, 5, 5) sts toleft shoulder. 106 (114, 122, 130) sts.Join to work in the rnd£ Rnd 1: using yarn A, p to end £ Rnd 2: using yarn B, [k2tog,yfwd] to end£ Rnd 3: using yarn A, p to end £ Cast off

ARMBAND£ Using 4mm circular needle andyarn A, starting at the bottom ofthe sleeve, pick up and k 88 (92,96, 100) sts around sleeve. Join inthe rnd£ Rnd 1: p to end £ Rnd 2: k to end £ Rnd 3: p to end £ Cast off LK

Trou

sers

, £19

.99,

TK

Max

x;ne

ckla

ce, £

25, M

arks

& S

pen

cer


F E A T U R E | K N I T T I N G O N T H E N E T

44

www.letsknit.co.uk

WELCOME TO…

the WeirdWide Web

Error by Anna Hrachovec,www.mochimochiland.com

Q&A: Anna Hrachovecwww.mochimochiland.com

From toilets tobroken computers,Anna delights inmaking cute knittedversions of the most unexpectedobjects! We decided

to find out the story behind herunusual style.

What does Mochimochi mean?You may be familiar with mochi, thesticky rice sweet from Japan? Well,Mochimochi is a word that means“mochi-like,” and it's usually used todescribe something soft andsquishy. I love mochi, and I'm veryinspired by Japanese characterdesign, so it seemed like a nice fitfor my designs when I startedmaking them.

When did you first startpublishing patterns?I started designing in 2006, initiallybecause I wanted to knit toys asgifts. I published my first pattern in2007. I think my timing was verygood, because knitters were juststarting to take the internet bystorm and it didn't take much timefor them to notice my work.

Where does the inspiration forthe quirkier knits come from?The original inspiration behind mymore unusual designs probablycomes from years of watchingPee-Wee's Playhouse onSaturday mornings in mychildhood. That show, along withthe character-filled pop culturethat I encountered as anexchange student in Japan,encouraged me to see the worldas a place where every rock orhouse or telephone couldpotentially be a character with itsown distinct personality.

Does being online give peoplemore freedom to “knit outsideof the box”, so to speak?Definitely, the internet has uppedthe game for anyone who wouldalready be knitting unusual stuff—if you want your work noticed, ithas to be something reallydifferent now to stand out.

How important has the internet been in helping you gain popularity?The internet has been essential tomy whole career—without it, Iwould probably be a copyeditorsomewhere with a weird knittinghobby. It's only because knittersfound my work online and wereenthusiastic enough to buy mypatterns that I went on to writefour books.

Which social media site is your favourite?Twitter is my favourite right now,because, at least in my feed, it's allabout sharing ideas both big andsmall. Facebook has done themost for me promotion-wise,Pinterest is the place to be for

creative businesses, and of courseRavelry can almost go withoutsaying—I'm devoted to it, and itdrives a big chunk of the traffic tomy website every day.

How easy is it to start your ownwebsite and begin putting yourwork out there? It's easier than ever to start awebsite, but I don't think it’s soimportant these days—a Facebookpage will do just fine if you don'twant to build a site from scratch. Ifyou have something you'd like to

share with the world, the thing todo is to take some nice photosand just start posting them. It'seasy to get overwhelmed, but theknitters and crocheters on theinternet are a supportive group,and they're just as interested inthe person as they are the workitself. So get out there and tellyour story!

For more of Anna’s designs, goto www.mochimochiland.com, orfind her on Ravelry!

Pho

to: J

ohn

Tet

i

Photo: Brandi Simons

Discover the most beautiful andbizarre corners of the internet!

What has been your favourite pin so far this week? How oftendo you spend tumbling? (And be honest!) When was the lasttime you tweeted, and did you use any hashtags?

If you have answers to all of those questions, bear with us. And ifyou’re feeling a little confused, don’t panic – we’re talking about the joysof the internet, which has been revolutionising the way knitterscommunicate for many years. From Ravelry to Facebook, it’s never beeneasier to share your makes and pick up tips from fellow knitters aroundthe world.

But social media is good for other things too. The ability to instantlycater to an international audience means that patterns andconversations can become ever-more niche – with very unusualoutcomes! Think about it: the chances of meeting someone in yourhometown who likes to knit tributes to Harry Potter are relatively slim.But type the boy wizard’s name into a Ravelry search, and you get achoice of almost 500 different patterns!

Thanks to the world wide web, people have more choice than everbefore, and we want to celebrate all the weird and wonderful things thathave been produced as a result! From knitted loos to tribal masks, readon to discover some of the strangest curiosities of online knitting.

Weird wide web Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 10:19 Page 1

F E A T U R E | K N I T T I N G O N T H E N E T

Q&A: Tracy Burgesswww.brutal-knitting.tumblr.com

We were so intrigued by Tracy’s incredible“brutal knitting” that we got in touch to find out more!

Firstly, what is brutal knitting?A tip of the hat to BlackMetal [the subgenre ofheavy metal music].

How did you first start knitting?I started knitting because I had a flatmate who couldknit, and I was rather incensed they possessed thisskill when I did not. I decided teaching myself to knitwas in order, and that working in the medium ofknitting would provide an interesting juxtapositionto my other interests.

Are your masks carefully designed beforehand,or do you tend to just see what happens?Usually I plot out the schematic of the pieces incorrelation to the base mask, primarily to keep theproportions correct. I always knit every piece overand over again until it's right.

How important has the internet been for you?The internet has been invaluable for providing aneasily accessible audience.

Do you often get commissions for more pieces? The commission proposals tend to be random andsporadic. Something great can come along at anytime, which keeps things interesting!

What kinds of things have you been asked to make?Bespoke blankets, pillows, sweaters, and of coursethe masks, which are usually used for specificevents. I enjoy collaborating with other artists and making knitted versions of their drawings or characters.

Does the internet give people more freedom to knit unusual things?It stops you being constrained by perceivedlimitations, as you can see the endless variety anddifferences in people’s knitting.

How would you advise someone who wanted tostart putting their work out there? There are endless tutorials and books on thesubject, you just have to take the time to look and, like learning any new skill, set aside an allotted timeframe to go through the steps.

You can see more of Tracy’s work at brutal-knitting.tumblr.com

Ravelry is an online resourcedetailing thousands of patterns from around the world. Just look at some of the incredible designs!

How clever is Alien Autopsy by EmilyStoneking? It makes perfect sense to usthat our alien cousins will be made fromyarn... www.aKNITomy.etsy.com

WE ASKED…“What's your favourite thingabout being a knitter online?”

YOU SAID…“Learning tricks and new skills from moreexperienced knitters and the oldergeneration - they have many simple tips.”Vanessa Runagall, Facebook

“I love that, wherever you are in theworld, you can be a part of a fantasticknitting community that inspires andsupports you!” @RachWhitbread, Twitter

“I knit wherever I am, it keeps me focused and my online knitting friends are part of that focus. We can share ideas, help find the right yarns, the right needles, recommend or decryproducts and just be there for eachother.” Linda Nagle, Facebook

“Apart from the help,seeing all the lovelythings others have made, but my "to do"list is getting longer!” @elmoljesfinjac, Twitter

“Feeling part of a beautiful craftingcommunity - engaging in a positive way to make knitting cool!” Shazia Tahir, Facebook

“So many resources and endless inspiration.There is nothing about knitting you can'tlearn online.” @KnittyNadia, Twitter

“Seeing all the great wools dyed, spun andproduced in the UK. #buybritish”@GraceParetree, Twitter

45

www.letsknit.co.uk

SPOTTEDon Ravelry

Steve Plummer andPat Ashforth use

illusion knitting tocreate an incredible

tribute to MarilynMonroe and

Andy Warhol.www.illusionknitting.woolly thoughts.com

We absolutelylove the BobbleBearded Beaniecrochet pattern

by AshleePrisbrey,available

in baby to adult sizes.

www.imtopsyturvy.com

Weird wide web Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 10:24 Page 2

46

www.letsknit.co.uk

SCREEN “Self publishing permits greater

creative freedom”Woolly Wormhead has been knittingsince the age of three, and hasbecome well-known for her fabuloushat designs. We're delighted topresent this exclusive slouchy beaniethat's perfect for festivals.

I get inspiration from lots of differentplaces. It could be architecture, nature, theyarn itself, a stitch combination I've seensomewhere, a technique I haven't playedwith enough or a desire to try a new methodof constructing hats. For me, it's all aboutexperimentation.

When knitting a hat my firstconsideration is whether I can write the

pattern for different sizes. Next, I think aboutthe construction methods used – whatwould be most practical, what would achievethe result I'm after? Then I think about stitchpatterns and surface decoration.

Self publishing permits greater creativefreedom, not only in my design process andphotography, but in many other aspects suchas technique and construction. It also allowsme to work as we travel, and to work aroundmy family and community life.

I like to encourage knitters tounderstand their knitting, how it'sconstructed, and what you can do with it.Using techniques in clever and differentways is a thing of mine, and I love teachingothers how to do the same.

Woolly Wormhead’s

toptipsl When working your decreases, try

to use the tips of your needles only– this will prevent stretching outthe stitches and avoid the problemof saggy stitches.

l When casting on to work in theround, working the first row flatthen joining makes dealing withdpns or circulars much moremanageable and will help avoidtwisting the stitches.

l Stitch markers can be life savers –not just for marking the start/endof the round, but also for markingout repeats in the pattern.

l As much as doing a tension squareseems like extra work, you mightcome to regret it later if you skip it– we're all unique and havedifferent tensions – knowing howwe compare to the patternrequirements can save a lot of timein the long run!

l With hat knitting, a flatter crown isachieved by not decreasing all theway down to four or six stitches –cut your yarn at around ten or 12sts and gather up to close. It willlook much more flattering,especially on a beanie.

THE RIGHT STARTThis pattern uses a method knownas the Alternate cable cast-on,which is brilliant for ribbed edgeslike the brim of this hat. Here's howyou do it:1 Make a slip knot and place it on the needle.2 Insert the RH needle through thefront of the stitch, wrap the yarnaround the needle as if to knit andpull the yarn through the loop. 3 Place this loop on the end of theLH needle. 4 Insert the RH needle between theprevious two stitches from back tofront, wrap the yarn around theneedle as if to purl. Pull through the loop and place this on end of the LH needle.5 Insert the RH needle between theprevious two stitches from front toback, wrap the yarn around theneedle as if to knit and pull throughthe loop. Place this loop on the endof the LH needle. l Rep Steps 4 and 5 until all stitcheshave been cast on

Find a step-by-step guide to this,and other techniques atwww.woollywormhead.com

WOOLLYWORMHEAD:

Woolly Wormhead shares her love for knitted hats

knitwise

1 insert needle into next two stitches as ifto purl

2wrap the yarn around the needle andpull through both loops

Purl two together (p2tog)

Screenshot (P) qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:47 Page 1

47


SizesTo fit head circumference (cm):45.75 (50.75, 54.5, 57.25, 61) cmActual size (cm):41 (44.5, 48, 51.5, 55) cm

Knit KitYarn: Fyberspates Vivacious DK,shade 803 Silver & Bronze, 1 (1,1, 1, 2) 115g skeinsNeedles: 3.75mm, 4mm, bothdouble-pointed, sets of fiveStitch marker Tapestry needleThis hat does not use full skeins.Here are the exact yarnrequirements:102 (133, 166, 200, 240) m

Tension Square21 sts x 30 rows 10cm x 10cm stocking stitch4mm needles

Special Abbreviationsssp: sl next two sts kwise one at a time,return sts to LH needle, p2tog tbl

About the YarnFyberspates Vivacious DK is a purewool yarn with a wonderful tonaleffect and great depth of colour. Itcomes in 11 bright shades and canbe machine washed.

Need analternative yarn?

West Yorkshire SpinnersBluefaced Leicester DK is apure British wool thatcomes in solid (50g) or

patterned (100g) options. Itcan also be machine washed.


S L O U C H Y F E S T I V A L H A T

Woodlandby Woolly Wormhead

SCREEN

Let’s ShopFyberspates Vivacious DK costs£15.58 per 115g (230m) skein from01244 389310,www.stashfineyarns.com

West Yorkshire SpinnersBluefaced Leicester DKcosts £4.25 per 50g (112m)

ball from 07974 954663,www.awoollytail.com


48

www.letsknit.co.uk

SCREEN

Start knitting here

BRIMUsing 3.75mm dpns and Alternatecable cast-on method [seeKnitwise on page 46], cast on 88(96, 104, 112, 120) sts, join in thernd, being careful not to twist sts,pm to indicate start of rnd£Rnd 1: * k1 tbl, p1, rep from * to endThis row sets rib£ Work in rib until Brim meas 2.5(2.5, 3.25, 3.75, 4.5) cm£ Next rnd (inc): * [k1 tbl, p1]twice, k1 tbl, m1p, p3, m1p, repfrom * to end. 110 (120, 130, 140,150) stsChange to 4mm needles

MAIN BODY £ Rnd 1: * p2, k1 tbl, p7, rep from * to end£ Rnd 2: p£ Rnd 3: * p7, k1 tbl, p2, rep from * to end£ Rnd 4: * p5, [k1 tbl, p1] twice, k1tbl, rep from * to end£ Rnd 5: * p7, k1 tbl, p2, rep from * to end£ Rnd 6: p£ Rnd 7: * p2, k1 tbl, p7, rep from * to end£ Rnd 8: [k1 tbl, p1] twice, k1 tbl,

p5, rep from * to endThese eight rnds set patt£ Work in patt until Main bodymeas 10 (12.5, 14.5, 16.5, 18.5),ending after a patt Rnd 2 or Rnd 6

CROWN £ Rnd 1: p£ Rnd 2: * p2tog, ssp, rep from * to last 2 (0, 2, 0, 2) sts, [p2tog] 1 (0, 1, 0, 1) times. 55 (60, 65, 70, 75) sts£ Rnds 3-5: p£ Rnd 6: * p2tog, ssp, rep from * to last 3 (0, 1, 2, 3) sts, [p2tog] 1(0, 0, 1, 1) times, p1 (0, 1, 0, 1). 28(30, 33, 35, 38) sts£ Rnds 7-8: p£ Rnd 9: * p2tog, ssp, rep from * to last 0 (2, 1, 3, 2) sts, [p2tog] 0(1, 0, 1, 1) times, p0 (0, 1, 1, 0). 14(15, 17, 18, 19) sts£ Rnd 10: p£ Cut yarn, thread through remsts, pull tight and fasten off

To make upWeave in all ends. A gentle washand blocking is required to helpthe decrease lines settle in and lay flat LK


L E T ’ S K N I T | S E P T E M B E R

49


NEXT ISSUE...

NEW

coming up in the

seasonstyle

PLUSalternative babybootees pattern

FREE!toy yarn kit

with exclusiveeyelash yarn

Pat Menchini’s vibrantcross-over cardi

Simple shawlette

Retro cushion

PLUS! l Easy striped cardigan l Fisherman’s sweater l Quick-knit tween accessories l Crochet homewaresSeptember issue of Let’s Knit on sale Friday 1st August 2014

Why not take up a trial to Let’s Knit with 3 issues for just £6!* go to www.letsknit.co.uk/LKN14T

Knit Rustythe Squirrel

and hisacorn!

CNM 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 15:48 Page 2

I N E V E R Y I S S U E | R E A D E R ’ S L E T T E R S

WE ASKED YOU ON

FACEBOOK:

Where is your favourite place to knit?80% said the sofa

13% said in bed

5% said at your knitting group or yarn shop

2% said in the garden

“I have been knitting for 60 years and myhusband has been an onlooker. Now, at theage of 72, I decided my husband should learnto knit. He is disabled so manual tasks arevery hard. I taught him five weeks ago andthere have been great results. Here is thebeach bag he knitted, which I lined anddecorated. He also made the pompomsfor the rug and his next task is makingsome cushions from issue 79 of Let'sKnit. So you see, you're never too old tolearn. I love your magazine and can't waitfor the next issue.”Mrs R. NorrisWe love receiving letters like this and it makes our day to hear about knitterspassing on their favourite hobby. It's lovely that you've shared your skill with yourhusband and that he's taken to it so well. It sounds like there's no stopping him now!We hope you both enjoy your Star Letter prize!

“One of my son's friends had already asked meto knit some mice for the children as favours ather wedding next year. I couldn't resist makingher a bridal party set to go with them. I made a

little bridesmaid by reducing the needle sizeand cutting a couple of stitches off the ears

and arms to keep them in proportion!”Fiona Hook

StarLETTER

50

www.letsknit.co.uk

“I knitted this pirate bunnyfor my friend. It's the secondone I've made!”Dawn Brown

“I've just startedknitting again and I love Baa-bara(issue 78) so much, I dug into my stashand knitted eight more!”Norma Bellis

SHARESTOPSTORIES AND MAKES GALORE FROM OUR WONDERFUL READERS

“I made this for my daughter Grace fromissue 64. I got the jumper pattern from abook and decided to make a skirt to getover the tail problem.”Inge Hoy

“I made a prettyflower wreath forthe front door.”Jackie Sawyer

HERE’S WHAT YOU’VE MADE:

&Starmake

Stop & Share 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 10:06 Page 1

I N E V E R Y I S S U E | R E A D E R ’ S L E T T E R S

51

www.letsknit.co.uk

Twitter.com/

letsknitmag

Send tips and letters to

Let's Knit, 1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road,

Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY

Facebook.com/

letsknitmag

Get in touch Send us photos of your makes, tell us about your experiences, share tips or answer questions and polls.

@ katie.wilding

@aceville.co.uk

“I've just completedthis cushion fromthe May issue.”Mandy Horton

Why I love my local yarn shopNutmeg Needlecrafts in Leighton Buzzard is an amazingyarn shop that makes you feel like you've fallen downthe rabbit hole straight into Wonderland! Alice Kierstenson

Let us know why you love your local yarn shop by emailing [email protected]

WE ASKED ON TWITTER...

This month we've got picnic treats on our minds andwe found oodles of inspiration on Pinterest to startknitting them. Follow our Summer Snacks board forlots more where they came from!

Pinterest.com/letsknitmag

HERE’S WHAT YOU SAID:Before Christmas I had a record of 12!@bluebirdanielle

You're kidding, right? 8 or 9 that Iwork on daily, plus a few dozenthat I rotate in. And they alleventually get finished. @Bbl_Astrophyscs

Good question... Have counted 5knits & 3 crochets at the moment -the smaller ones are for doing onthe move & bigger at home.@MyNannaKnits

3: something for me, something formy baby daughter + tour de Francebunting. Projects live round housedepending where baby sleeps!@Emma_zemzem

Hmmm, I have about 15-20 thathave been otn for a looong time. I never finish anything for myself,only others!@alpacaaddict

4 or 5, but when one finishes, I might start another 3 from mysuper long queue list.@saralai

How many WIPs do you usually have one the go at once?(Go on, be honest!)

tumblr.com Gracie Levacketsy.com“I thought you might like to seeKhalessi in the Kelsey dress Idownloaded from your website.As you can see, she loved it. Ididn’t have the right size circularneedle so used dpns instead,which worked perfectly. Whenmy other granddaughter sawBosco, she was disappointed itwas for a Kindle so, assuggested, I adapted it to fit hermini tablet. I can’t wait to see herface next weekend.”@beshabar

“I upcycled a clocktoday so it can alwaysbe knitting time!”Vicky Featherstonehaugh

PINS ANDNEEDLES

This month's Star Makewinner will receive DebbieBliss Rustic Knits and 3balls of Debbie BlissWinter Garden.

WIN!Our Star Letter winnerthis month has wonRowan Knitting andCrochet Magazine #52 and 5 balls of Rowan Lima.

Prizes supplied by

TipOF THE MONTH

Always have a bag handy at your side topop your tail ends of wool in. Soon enough

you'll have a full bag; this makes greatstuffing material for your next project,

Sarah, ManchesterPRINTED TIPS WIN A £10 VOUCHER

TO SPEND AT BLACK SHEEP WOOLS

Stop & Share 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 10:06 Page 2

J U S T F O R F U N

52

www.letsknit.co.uk

SETTLE DOWN WITH A CUPPA TO READ, RELAX AND TEST YOUR KNITTY KNOWLEDGE

TEABreakLET'S KNIT'SQUICK QUIZHow much do you knowabout your favourite hobby?Take our fun quiz to find out!

1. Mohair comes from which animal?

2. In which year was spinnerKing Cole founded?

3. What is an alternativename for Swiss darning?

4. Which Charles Dickenscharacter secretly encodedmessages into her knitting?

5. Which island has given its name to a style ofstranded colourwork?

NAME THAT YARNHere are three clues to our mystery yarn. Is it one that's in your stash?

● It also comes in striped and sparkly variations

● It's great for lightweight sweaters and shrugs

● It's a light and airy mix of 76% mohair and 24% silk

CaptioncompetitionEmail [email protected] with your captionand we'll publish the winningentry in our next issue!

Quick Quiz:1. Goat, 2. 1935, 3. Duplicate stitch, 4. Madame Defarge, 5. Fair Isle

Word Play:1. Bluefaced Leicester, 2. Casting on, 3. Circular needle Name that yarn:Debbie Bliss Angel

How did you do?

By Claire Thomas

WordplayWe've jumbled up threeknitting-related words or

phrases. Can you work outwhat they are?

deceitful cables ere (9, 9)nosing act (7, 2)

curried clan eel (8, 6)

butter handprint on my stomach,courtesy of my two year-old. I looked, inshort, a bit of a mess. As I appraisedmyself thus, I noticed that behind mewas a pile of things to do that I had

As I changed my T-shirt and brightlysuggested fish fingers for tea instead, Ithought about this. The truth is thatsometimes knitting just can't wait. Notbecause I want to do it – although Ialways do – but because time is short.Soon this baby will be here, and therewill be no time to knit until his feet arefar too big for bootees and, indeed, arepossibly in school shoes. I have tomake them now, or not make them atall. Which, as it would be to any knitter,is unthinkable.

I'm not the only knitter who hasworked this out lately. My aunt becamea grandma again last year, to abeautiful little girl who lives a longway away. Once a competent knitter,she picked up the needles again tomake her new granddaughter acardigan. My needles, to be precise.Along with my yarn. And my patternbooks. As her guiding spirit, Idispensed my copious free advice,suggesting that she make a largersize than she was planning to incase she found it took her longerto knit than she expected, to avoidthe horror of presenting her littledarling with a cardigan that clearlywas never going to button up. Sheagreed – but her hatred of pickingup stitches for the buttonband ledto procrastination, and thecardigan languished unfinisheduntil the baby had long since

Seize the Day!

PURLS OF WISDOMoutgrown even the larger size.Heartbreaking, I tell you.

And so, the laundry stays on thesofa, my children scoff fish fingers fortea, and I knit. Because I've learnt thatif I don't knit now, my baby won't havethose Converse bootees. Andbecause my aunt, too, is keen to learnfrom her harsh lesson, I've suppliedher with new yarn, a pattern for asummer hat, and my advice: to seizethe day.

Claire Thomas is a freelancejournalist and founder of Stitch 'n'Bitch group, Knit Pickers

“The truth is thatsometimes knitting justcan’t wait. Not because Iwant to do it – although

I always do – butbecause time is short”

ignored in favour of making two pairs ofConverse-style bootees for the newbaby. A teetering pile of laundry hadn'tbeen put away; my tax return satneglected on the desk; the cookery bookwas open at a recipe I should havestarted at least an hour before. And thebootees still weren't finished.

Check outthe answersbelow to see

how many yougot right!

Last issue, we asked what baby Emma was thinking and here's

our favourite caption: "Crochet? You did NOT just call this crochet...” Congratulations to Anji Masse.

My husband emerged into thesitting room recently to find meknitting. Nothing odd about this. Infact, it would have been stranger ifhe had walked in and found me notknitting, especially as the new babyapproaches and I start to lookmore and more globular, and moveless and less. Nevertheless heseemed to be boggling at me, asthough surprised.

“Am I doing something odd?” I asked with some asperity.

“Not at all,” he returned. “I wasjust wondering whether you knewyou had a big piece of yarn in your hair?”

Well, that took the wind out ofmy sails a bit. The truth was that Ihadn't looked in the mirror sincethat morning. And when I did, Inoticed that I had a streak ofmascara over my cheek and asmall, but perfectly formed, peanut

Teabreak 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 16:39 Page 1

Q U I C K K N I T S

53

www.letsknit.co.uk

Create a festival atmosphere with these fun party decorations. Make a cactus as a table centerpiece, coasters to jazz up wine glasses, and

a string of spiral bunting to adorn the room – or to suspend between tree branches if the party is outdoors. You will also find patterns for a

large and a small flower. You can use the small flower to decorate the top of the cactus, but why not also make a whole collection of multicoloured

flowers to scatter over the tables?

meet ourDESIGNER

“These decorations would beperfect for a Mexican fiesta, witha cactus centrepiece on everytable and some chilled sangria in every glass!”

SUSIE JOHNS

EXCLUSIVE TO Party TimePrepare for a summer fiesta with these fabulous speedy makes by Susie Johns

Party Time p53-55 (P) qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 14:26 Page 2

Measurements & sizesBunting: length approx 1.7mCoaster: fits average size wine glassCactus: height approx 13cm

Let’s ShopPatons 100% Cotton DK costs£4.69 per 100g (210m) balland Patons Diploma Gold DKcosts £2.85 per 50g (120m)ball from 0845 576 0007,www.loveknitting.comTo get 10% off all orders at Love Knitting,turn to page 25Rico Essentials Cotton DKcosts £2.50 per 50g (130m)ball from 01522 522865,www.spinsandneedles.myshopify.com

Knit KitYarn: Patons 100% Cotton DK,(A) shade 2691 White, (B) shade 2703 Kiwi, (C) shade2725 Bright Pink, (D) shade2740 Yellow, (E) shade 2734Candy, (F) shade 2741 Neroli,(G) shade 2726 Jade, one100g ball of each, (H) PatonsDiploma Gold DK, shade 6237Taupe, one 50g ballNeedles: 3.25mm, 3.75mmButton: one per coasterThick cardboardBucket or flower potPolyester waddingTapestry needleStitch marker

Tension Square22 sts x 30 rows10cm x 10cm stocking stitch3.75mm needles

Start knitting here

About the YarnPatons 100% Cotton DK issmooth and easy to knit with,and comes in a reallyattractive palette of colours

Need anAlternative?Rico Essentials Cotton DK is acotton yarn that comes in 50gballs in over 40 colours!


Q U I C K K N I T S

BUNTINGSPIRAL (make 14 in assortedcolours)Using 3.25mm needles and yarn ofchoice, cast on 25 sts£ Row 1: (inc2) in each st. 75 sts£ Row 2: sl 1, k to end£ Row 3: as Row 2£ Cast off

To make upUsing 3.25mm needles and yarn A,cast on 60 sts£ Cast on 40 sts, * pick up and kthree sts across end of one spiral,cast on 20 sts, rep from * until allspirals have been joined, cast on40 sts, turn £ K tbl across row£ Cast off

COASTERUsing 3.75mm needles and yarn ofchoice, cast on ten sts£ Row 1: p£ Row 2: (kfb) in each st. 20 sts£ Row 3: p£ Row 4: (k1, kfb) ten times. 30 sts£ Row 5: p£ Row 6: (k2, kfb) ten times. 40 sts£ Row 7: p£ Row 8: (k3, kfb) ten times. 50 sts£ Row 9: p£ Row 10: (k4, kfb) ten times. 60 sts£ Row 11: p£ Row 12: (k4, k2tog) ten times,pm at end of row. 50 sts£ Row 13: p£ Row 14: (k3, k2tog) ten times.

40 sts£ Row 15: p£ Row 16: (k2, k2tog) ten times. 30 sts£ Row 17: p£ Row 18: (k1, k2tog) ten times. 20 sts£ Row 19: (p2tog) ten times£ Cut yarn leaving a long tail, thread through rem ten sts

To make upPull up tail of yarn, then threadthrough tapestry needle and joinside edges to position of stitchmarker to form base, then stitchbutton loop on open edge and sewcorresponding button

SMALL FLOWERUsing 3.25mm needles and yarn C,cast on six sts£ Row 1: k tbl across row£ Row 2: p£ Row 3: cast off five sts. One st £ Row 4: p1, turn and cast on fivests. Six sts£ Rep Rows 1-4 three times intotal, then Rows 1-2 once more£ Cast off £ Cut yarn leaving a tail

LARGE FLOWERUsing 3.25mm needles and yarn C,cast on eight sts £ Row 1: k tbl across row£ Row 2: p£ Row 3: kfb, k to end. Nine sts£ Row 4: p£ Row 5: cast off seven sts, k1.Two sts

SpecialAbbreviationsinc2 – increase two: k into the front,back and front of next st

Pick me upWhen stringing the buntingtogether, you will have to pickup and knit stitches at the top ofeach spiral. Swap your needlesso that the cast-on stitches arein your right hand. Insert yourright-hand needle into the far-right selvedge stitch at the topof your spiral. Wrap the yarnaround the needle anti-clockwise, and then pull throughthe loop. Working towards theleft, repeat this action twicemore, so that there are threenew stitches on your needle.Finally swap your needles backso the stitches are in your lefthand, and continue casting on.

knitwise

10%OFF!

54

www.letsknit.co.uk


55


Easyknittedflower

£ Row 6: p2, turn, cast on six sts.Eight sts£ Rep Rows 1-6 three times intotal, then Rows 1-4 once more£ Cast off£ Cut yarn leaving a tail

To make upThread tail of yarn throughtapestry needle and run throughstitches at base of each petal, pullup to gather and close up hole incentre of flower. To make yellowcentre, cast on ten stitches, thenslip these off needle. Run tail ofyarn through stitch loops and pullup. Stitch to centre of flower

CACTUSUsing 3.25mm needles and yarn B,cast on 24 sts£ Row 1 (RS): p£ Row 2: k15, turn£ Row 3: p15£ Row 4: k to end£ Row 5: p to end£ Rep Rows 2-5 four times more£ Cast off

COMPOSTUsing 3.75mm needles and yarn H,cast on 11 sts

£ Row 1: k£ Row 2: kfb, k to end. 12 sts£ Rows 3-9: Rep Row 2 seventimes more. 19 sts£ Rows 10-25: k £ Rows 26-33: k2tog, k to end. 11 sts£ Cast off£ Cut yarn, leaving a long tail

To make upWith knitted side of Cactusfacing inwards, join cast-on andcast-off edges. Gather top andpull up to close. Stitch smallflower to top of Cactus. Fillcactus with stuffing. Cut a 7.5cmcircle from thick card. Threadtail of yarn from Compostthrough tapestry needle and sewrunning stitch around perimeterof knitted piece, then placecardboard circle in centre ofwrong side and pull up yarn sothat knitting enclosescardboard. Fasten off. Stitch baseof Cactus to centre top ofCompost. Insert Compost intosmall bucket or flowerpot. Eitherglue edges of compost to insideof bucket, or leave it loose andfill with sweets as a surprise forguests LK


S H O P P I N G | G O O D R E A D S

56

www.letsknit.co.uk

HAPPY FEETCathy Carron (£11.77, Sixth & Spring Books)Sock knitters will be delighted withthis collection of fun and quirkypatterns, featuring all manner ofbobbles, colourwork and cables.There’s even a very imaginativepair with a pocket (or rather, a“socket”) for storing keys, sparechange, and other supplies! Ifthere’s one thing most knittershave in common, it’s a talent for

combining invention with practicality! If you’re after something a little more stylish, there’s also a wonderful selection of lacy socks,knee-highs and legwarmers. Whether you’re a seasoned sock knitteror a bashful beginner, there’s sure to be something to catch your eye.www.thegmcgroup.com

LK SAYS: We love the funky, fresh designs in this brilliant new book!

BookshelfTHE Our pick of the bestcurrent books, blogs

and more!

We also LOVE...

NATURA CROCHET FLOWERSTash Bentley (£10.99, Tuva Publishing)There’s no limit to the usefulness of easy,quick-to-make flowers. They can form partof a yarnbombing project, be worn as asimple brooch,or be used tospruce up an

otherwise plain project. For those of ussuffering with hayfever, they might evenbe better than the real thing! These 66different flower patterns are designedusing DMC Natura Crochet Cotton, whichcomes in 60 vibrant colours. From grannysquare motifs to more realistic flowers,bring a little nature into your life.www.dmccreative.co.uk

CROCHET SCANDINAVIAN STYLEEva Wincent and Paula Hammerskog(£12.99, Search Press)The clean, modern lines of Scandi design arenot just popular in the yarn world – they areloved across the globe for their elegantsimplicity. The dynamic duo Eva Wincent andPaula Hammerskog haveput together a fabulous

collection of over 40 Scandinavian-inspiredcrochet designs, from pillows and rugs for thehome, to stylish jackets and scarves. The bookalso features incredibly detailed instructions onhow to get started and the materials required, as well as more advanced techniques for theexperienced crafters. A fantastic resource forcrocheters old and new! www.searchpress.com

MEETING THE PRESSERmtp.ekit.co.uk

Researchers atthe Universityof Leicesterhave created anew web filmapp which

explores the fascinating history of frameworkknitting in the East Midlands. Discover thestory through the words and pictures takenfrom local testimony.

KNITTING DOUBLEAnja Belle (£10.99,Search Press)Learn to knitreversible fabrics onjust one pair ofneedles using thisbrilliant two-colourtechnique. Warm and

versatile, it’s ideal for scarves, blankets andother projects with two right sides!www.searchpress.com

Pick up a skill! GIRL WITH A DUCK JUMPERgirlwithaduckjumper.com

Sara is a graphicdesigner,photographer andweb designerliving in Londonwho simply lovesto knit toys! Her

quirky blog is full ofbeautiful doodles and

illustrations which bring to life the storyof her passion for knitting and crochet.

BLOG

Over 30patterns!

APP

Bookshelf_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:14 Page 1

O N - T R E N D W O O D L A N D S W E A T E R

meet ourDESIGNER

“I had so much fun designing thiscosy oversized woodland sweater.The raglan shape is nice and simplewhich frees you up to concentrateon the cute intarsia motif”

TINA BARRETT

Fox Trot

Your youngsters will bebegging you to knit Tina

Barrett’s animal-motif jumper

EXCLUSIVE TO

Woodland critters are still apopular choice and we lovethe sleepy fox face on thisintarsia sweater. Oversizedjumpers are right on trend, soyour budding fashionistas aresure to be delighted with thiscosy project. If you're feelingreally creative, you could designyour own animal chart – justmake sure it is the samedimensions as the one provided.

57

www.letsknit.co.uk

Fox Trot p57-59 (P) qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:13 Page 2

Measurements & sizesTo fit age (yrs):7-8 (9-10, 11-12) Actual chest (cm):95 (104, 109)Length from shoulder (cm):52 (55, 61)Sleeve length from underarm(cm):34 (40, 43)

Let’s ShopKing Cole Comfort Arancosts £3.59 per 100g (202m)ball from 0800 488 0708,www.deramores.comTo get 10% off allorders at Deramores,turn to the back coverStylecraft Special Aran costs£1.79 per 100g (196m) ballfrom 01376 743123,www.sconchtextiles.co.uk

Knit KitYarn: King Cole Comfort Aran,(A) shade 319 Dill, five 100gballs, (B) shade 347 Cork, (C) shade 313 Silver, (D) shade333 Cream, one 100g ball ofeach, small amount of blackaran weight yarnNeedles: 4.5mm straight,4.5mm circular, 5mm straightTapestry needle

Tension Square18 sts x 25 rows 10cm x 10cm stocking stitch5mm needles

Start knitting here

About the YarnKing Cole Comfort Aran is asoft mix of acrylic and nylon.It's machine washable and can be tumble dried so is a good choice for rough 'n' tumble kids.

Need anAlternative?Stylecraft Special Aran isanother acrylic aran-weightyarn that is a practical choicefor growing children.



58

www.letsknit.co.uk

BACKUsing 5mm needles and yarn A,cast on 88 (96, 100) sts£ Beg with a k row, work in st stuntil Back meas 25 (27, 32) cm,ending after a WS row

SHAPE RAGLANS£ Cast off five sts at beg of nexttwo rows. 78 (86, 90) sts£ Next row: k3, skpo, k to last fivests, k2tog, k3. 76 (84, 88) sts£ Next row: p£ Rep last two rows until 28 (32,34) sts rem, ending after a WS rowLeave sts on a holder

LEFT LOWERFRONTUsing 5mm needles and yarn A,cast on three sts£ Row 1: k to last st, kfb. Four sts£ Row 2: pfb, p to end. Five sts£ Cont to inc as set until there are26 (28, 30) stsCut yarn and leave sts on a holder

RIGHT LOWERFRONTUsing 5mm needles and yarn A,cast on three sts£ Row 1: kfb, k to end. Four sts£ Row 2: p to last st, pfb. Five sts£ Cont to inc as set until there are26 (28, 30) sts£ Next row: p across 26 (28, 30) sts

of Right lower front, cast on 36 (40,40) sts, p across 26 (28, 30) sts ofLeft lower front. 88 (96, 100) sts£ Next row: k£ Cont in st st until front meas 22(25, 29) cm at side seam edge,ending after a WS row£ Next row: k26 (30, 32), workRow 1 from Chart, k26 (30, 32) sts£ Next row: p26 (30, 32), workRow 2 from Chart, p26 (30, 32) stsThese two rows set positioning of Chart£ Cont working from Chart and

AT THE SAME TIME, when frontmeas 25 (27, 32) cm at side seamedge, ending after a WS row, shaperaglans as folls:

SHAPE RAGLANS£ Cast off five sts at beg of nexttwo rows. 78 (86, 90) sts£ Next row: k3, skpo, k to last fivests, k2tog, k3. 76 (84, 88) sts£ Next row: p£ Rep last two rows until 28 (32,34) sts rem, ending after a WS rowLeave these sts on a holder

36

34

32

30

28

26

24

22

20

18

16

14

12

10

8

6

4

2

35

33

31

29

27

25

23

21

19

17

15

13

11

9

7

5

3

1

knitwiseTop of the ChartsSome knitters find it easierto follow a pictorialrepresentation rather thantrying to keep their place ina long string of instructions.Most knitting charts areworked from the bottom tothe top. Right side rows areread from right to left, andwrong side rows are workedback the other way – justlike your rows of knitting.The coloured boxes indicatewhich yarn to use. Thissweater uses the intarsiamethod. Before you begin,wind small bobbins of eachyarn and use a new bobbinfor each colour section onthe row, twisting thestrands together to avoidgetting a hole.

10%OFF!



59


SLEEVESUsing 4.5mm needles and yarn A,cast on 44 (48, 48) sts£ Row 1: [k2, p2] to endThis row sets 2x2 rib£ Cont in 2x2 rib until work meas4cm, ending after a WS rowChange to 5mm needles £ Beg with a k row, work 6 (2, 2)rows in st st£ Next row: k3, m1, k to last threests, m1, k3. 46 (50, 50) sts£ Cont in st st inc as set on every4th (6th, 6th) row until 72 (76, 78)sts rem£ Cont in st st until Sleeve meas34 (40, 43) cm, ending after a p row

SHAPE RAGLANS£ Cast off five sts at beg of nexttwo rows. 62 (66, 68) sts£ Next row: k3, skpo, k to last fivests, k2tog, k3. 60 (64, 66) sts£ Next row: p£ Rep last two rows until 12 stsrem, ending after a WS rowLeave sts on a holder

NECKBANDJoin three raglan seams, leavingleft back raglan open£ Using 4.5mm needles and withRS facing, k12 from left sleeveholder, k28 (32, 34) from Frontholder, k12 from right sleeveholder and k28 (32, 34) from Backholder. 80 (88, 92) sts£ Beg with a p row, work 12 rowsin st st£ K two rows£ Cast off kwiseJoin raglan and neckband seam.Weave in ends, and join side andSleeve seams

LOWER BANDUsing 4.5mm circular needle and with RS facing, join yarn A at left back seam£ Pick up and k 88 (96, 100) stsacross lower back and 88 (96, 100)sts along lower curved Front edge.176 (192, 200) stsJoin in the rnd taking care not to twist sts£ Work in 2x2 rib as before for3cm, ending after a WS row£ Cast off loosely in rib

FACEThread a tapestry needle with asmall amount of black yarn. Using photo as a guide, embroiderthe eyes and eyelash detail using back stitch LK

“This sweater isdesigned to beoversized fortweens, but it

won’t take muchaltering to fit a small adult – just add

more length to the sleeves

and body.”LK Deputy Editor

Adrienne Chandler


NEWPATTERNSA range of newknitting andcrochet patterns for yourdollswardrobe!

www.knittingfordolls.com

One week only from the 28th July – 2nd AugustSpecial offers and reduced yarns

Don't miss out!

SALE!

For more information please contact us on: 0208 6433211 or [email protected]

7 Station Way, Cheam Village, Surrey, SM3 8SD

• Knitting • Crochet. • Workshops • Knit and Knatter group

Lovelyselection offine yarnsperfect for

Summer 2014!

www.addicted2knit.co.ukor tel: 020 8368 9041

Unit 28, CrosswaysShopping Centre,Hyde Road,Paignton, Devon TQ4 5BL - 01803 524402

Great rangeof Wool & Yarns with

Prices & Service tomatch - Always

[email protected]

Find us on Facebook


CROCHETHooked on

Here at LK we’ve never been infavour of the knitting versuscrochet debate and feel thatthey should live harmoniously,side-by-side in this fibre-filledworld. Both are such differentcreative outlets and there’salways room for a newtechnique in your craftyrepertoire. Here, we explain allabout crochet, and whetheryou’re a complete newbie orhave dabbled in the past, thereare plenty of reasons why youshould take up the hook.

WHAT ISCROCHET?The technique involves creatingloops of yarn, known as chainstitches. These can bedeveloped into a whole range of

stitches and effects. It wastraditionally used to makeimitation lace items, leadingto the development ofdistinctive styles, such as Irishand filet lace. Irish lace

became particularly prevalentduring the 19th century potatofamine when charity groupstaught women to crochet to helpthem support theirfamilies. Filetcrochet is atechnique thatproduces asquare grid-likemesh with picture motifs.

WHATWILL I NEED?Crochet is worked using a hook;these are usually around 10-15cmlong and, like knitting needles,come in plastic, wooden or metalvarieties. Traditional crochet isworked using a fine cotton yarn.Instead of being categorised as4ply or DK, crochet cotton isgraded by number – usually 3, 5or 8. The higher the number, the thinner the yarn. However,almost any yarn can be used to crochet. When you’re startingout, use a yarn that is tightlyspun so it’s less likely to split as you work.

Never tried crochet before? Well, here’s why

you should!

61

www.letsknit.co.uk

F E A T U R E | A L L A B O U T C R O C H E T

know?Did you

Queen Victoria loved tocrochet! This helped thecraft lose its ‘poor man’s

lace’ tag and grow in popularity.

1 Cygnet Silcaress is agreat value acrylic yarn witha soft, silky finish. The tighttwist makes it easy to workwith and gives excellentstitch definition making itwell suited to crochet. £1.59 per 50g (103m) ballfrom 01376 743123,www.sconchtextiles.com

2 Patons 100% Cotton DKis cotton yarn that hasundergone a mercerisationprocess to make it strongerand give it a pretty sheen. It produces well-structuredcrochet pieces. £4.69 per100g (210m) ball from 0845 576 0007,www.loveknitting.com

3 Stylecraft Special DK is a smooth acrylic yarn favoured by crocheter Lucy on her popular blog Attic24. It comes in a fabrange of shades. £1.69 per 100g (295m) ball from 0800 505 3300,www.woolwarehouse.co.uk

3 OF THE BESTyarns for crochet 1

2

3

Harmony from RowanMag 55 uses filetcrochet techniques

Designed by Nicki Trench forDebbie Bliss Crochet Living,www.designeryarns.uk.com

Crochet Feature Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:10 Page 2


GRANNY SQUARE STYLEOne of the most recognisable crochettechniques, granny squares are great forbeginners. They’re made up of chain andtreble crochet stitches so are easy to learn, and are a fantastic way to use upyour stash. Granny squares have a retro chic and work well in homewares, like blankets and cushions. You can use all sorts of colour combinations to create different effects.

Once you’ve mastered the basic square,you can apply the technique to a range ofmotifs. Granny Squares All Shapes andSizes by Beatrice Simon and BarbaraWilder (£10.99, Search Press) will help youdo just that. We love this pretty pillowmade from granny hexagons! 01892510850, www.searchpress.com

Practise making grannysquares with this fabulous

retro-inspired cushionfrom Cygnet! Find the

pattern for free atwww.letsknit.co.uk

REASONSto Love

CROCHET

HandmadehomewaresIt’s not just granny squaresthat make good projects forthe home. T-shirt yarn, likeHoooked Zpagetti, can beused to create super chunkydesigns in next to no time.The yarn is made from off-cuts of fabric from the fashionindustry and is perfect forrugs and other statementpieces. This eye-catching setwas made by Susie Johns andis available to download forfree from www.letsknit.co.uk

Hoooked Zpagetti comes insolid or patterned colour effectsand the recommended hook sizeis between 8mm and 12mm. Itcosts £8.99 per 100g (120m)cone from 0800 505 3300,www.woolwarehouse.co.uk

LOVELY LACECrochet became popular becauseof its beautiful openwork fabrics andthey look just as impressive today.The effect is created by usingstrings of chain stitches to break upthe design. Why not combine lacyelements with more structuredstitches, like in this vibrant sweaterfrom King Cole? It’s pattern 3899and is made in the brand’s GizaCotton DK, a mercerised yarn thatcomes in rich shades – this jumperlooks great when worn over asimple vest. For stockists, call 01756703670 or visit www.kingcole.co.uk

Elegant shawls are theperfect outlet for lacy crochetpatterns. They’re light, airy andmake wonderful summeraccessories. This one is featuredon the Sirdar pattern leaflet7015 and is worked in Sirdar Ella,a sparkly cotton-blend yarn. Thesemi-circular shape means it willhug your shoulders and keepyou wrapped up and lookingfabulous all season long! Call01924 231 682 or go towww.sirdar.co.uk to find astockist near you.

62

www.letsknit.co.uk

FREEONLINE

PATTERN


CRAFTYCOMBOSAlthough knittingand crochet are very different, theycan easily becombined into oneproject. Crochet is brilliant foredgings, trims andembellishments, orit can be used toadd lacy detail to asolid knit.

Easy accessories Set up by Thomas Jaenisch and FelixRohland, My Boshi elevates the humblebeanie hat into a vibrant must-haveaccessory. Boshi means beanie inJapanese, and Felix and Thomas came up with a way of enabling customers topersonalise their hats. Non-crafters canorder their design online, while us fibrefans can crochet our own, using theexclusive My Boshi yarn and patterncollection. The yarn is a merino-acrylicblend and is super chunky, so you could easily whip up your boshi in aweekend. For stockists and to find out more, go online atwww.dmccreative.co.uk

AMAZING AMIGURUMIAmigurumi is theJapanese wordfor stuffed toy;these are usuallycrocheted andhave a real

cutesy look. AnaPaula Rimoli is the queen ofadorable amigurumi projects.

“I’ve always loved crochetingand made my first toy when I waspregnant with my first daughter,Oli, who’s now 11. When youcrochet with a smaller hook thanthe yarn calls for you get a tight,sturdy fabric that’s perfect fortoys. Toys are an ideal firstproject because they’re easy andrelatively fast to finish, and youcan use up any leftover yarn.

I always make my toys with

kids in mind andthink of howthey play withthem. I used togive eyes toeverything,until I noticed that Martina(my now seven year-old) wouldput stuffed hammers or cups tobed with her dolls.

As dumb as this is going tosound, I’m happy with a facewhen it reminds me of my dogSantiago. He has this sweet,sleepy face that I love in toys. Ijust keep trying until they ‘speak’to me. Just go with what you feelwhen they’re looking at you!”

See more of Ana’s creationson her blog amigurumipatterns.blogspot.co.uk

Get Ana’s new book Amigurumi At Home (£16.99,Martingale) for just £12.99 with free UK p&p from www.roundhousegroup.co.uk/shop/amigurumioffer or call 01273 603717. The otherpatterns shown here are from Amigurumi Toy Box (£16.99, Martingale), www.amazon.co.uk


COMPETITION CORNERThis issue we’ve got two fabulouscrochet giveaways!

Toft Alpaca is offering six lucky readers a place on one of itsCrochet and Cake Crafternoons. You’ll make an amigurumi-style keyring and get to meet the alpacas.www.thetoftalpacashop.co.uk

DK is giving away six copies of Crochet: theComplete Step by Step Guide (£25, DK). Thisbumper collection features all the techniquesyou’ll need to develop into an experiencedcrocheter! www.dk.co.uk

TURN TO

PAGE 82 FOR

YOUR CHANCE

TO WIN!

HAVE YOUTRIED...

KNOOKING?This little-knowncraft is the perfect

blend of knitting andcrochet. It is workedwith a crochet hook

that has a hole at theopposite end and

creates replicaknitting stitches

using crochettechniques. Thread

a length of wasteyarn through the

hole, then use this tohold your stitches as you work. These

knooking needles arefrom Addi.

For stockists and to find out more, visit

www.roosteryarns.com

Finish your knit with alacy crocheted yoke,from Bergere de France Mag 166

Try adding acrocheted collar, fromBergere de FranceCreations 13/14

For more crochet videos

and tutorials, visitwww.letsknit.

co.uk

Cute homewares from Ana’s new book,Amigurumi At Home, and toys fromAmigurumi Toy Box (inset and below)


SCOTLAND MIDLANDS

ONLINE DESIGNER/ONLINE

CREATIVECorner

Get Crafty With The Crafty Yarn Shop

Yarns n Yards of Knitting Wool & Fabric

@ www.thecraftyyarnshop.co.ukFREE UK POSTAGE OVER £25

10% OFF USE CODE LK10PR

Tel No: 01709 828536

WOOL FABRIC PATTERNS

NEEDLES BOOKS ACCESSORIES

(One use per customer, cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer)

Crochet patterndownloads available

from

www.mrscrochetdesigner.com

Yarns Patterns Needles Buttons Ribbons Threads Kits Zips

www.annieandalicequalityknitwear.co.uk/wool-shopTel: 0141 772 9214

16b, Huntershill Village, 102 Crowhill Road, Bishopbriggs, Glasgow, G64 1RPAll Telephone

Orders Welcome

QUALITY KNITWEAR

WOOLSHOP

www.facebook.com/AnnieandAlice

Stable Gallery, rear of 7 Belwell Lane, Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B74 4AA0121 308 4205 - [email protected]

www.facebook.com/SittingKnitting

Wonderful yarns and patterns for knitting and crochet projects

A range of haberdashery including ribbons and buttons

Variety of Workshops available

Weekly Knitting Groups

follow us on Facebook

Creative Corner Master_ADS 20/06/2014 16:57 Page 64

SKIN CARE/ONLINE ONLINE

BRISTOL/WORKSHOPS/ONLINE SCOTLAND/WORKSHOPS/ONLINE

We bring to you a wonderful section of shopsfor all your needlecraft essentials

FREEPHONE: 0800 917 2219MAIL ORDER: The Skin Care Company, Bont Newydd Mill, St Asaph, LL17 0HH.

www.dermaguard.com

Skin Damage from your craft?You need DermaGuard…the skin protection lotion…

ORDER NOW! POST FREE!

discover the difference...your hands will love it!

250ml - £6.50; 500ml - £12.00

Stockists of Rowan, King Cole,

Stylecraft, Rico,KnitPro + more

Yarns, books, needles, hooks

and more

In store loyaltyscheme

Amazing workshopsKit only £14.80!

Open Monday-Friday 9.30-5.00Saturday 10.00-5.00

39 Brislington Hill, Bristol BS4 5BE0117 300 5211 www.getknitted.com

www.funkyneedles.co.ukHelpline Number 07719447712

www.facebook.com/FunkyNeedleswww.twitter.com/funkyneedles

Like/Follow us for the latest offers/news


LINCOLNSHIRE/ONLINE

HAMPSHIRE/ONLINE

ONLINE

ONLINE

We are now stocking Debbie Bliss, Sirdar, Rowan andBergere de France yarns. Design felt and Tilda material.

Extensive range of rubber stamps e.g. Molly Bloom, Magnolia, HeroArts. Hundreds of 12x12 papers. Die cutting machines, Spell Binder,

Memory Box. A large selection of punches.

FOR ALL YOUR CARDMAKING, SCRAPBOOKING & ALTERED ART SUPPLIES The Craft Box, Elsecar Heritage Centre, Wath Road, Elsecar, Barnsley, S74 8HJ.

Tel/Fax: 01226 350532 www.thecraftbox.biz

KnitPro WAVES Crochet HooksAvailable in a lovely range of colours

Visit us at the website for a huge range ofCrochet Hooks, Cotton, Yarns and Supplieswww.purplelindacrafts.co.uk

Set of 9in a cute case only

£27.99

If you have a haberdashery shop you wouldlike us to know about, contact us at:[email protected] or 01206 505114

CREATIVE

Corner

GLOUCESTERSHIRE

SOUTH YORKSHIRE

Anchor & DMC main agent, hundreds of cross stitch kits instock, plus many accessories. Knitting yarns from

Wendy/Peter Pan, Sirdar, Katia, King Cole and Woolcraft. 3 South Street, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9LY

www.crafty-patch.co.uk01778 422666

Stocking a range of great yarns fromSirdar, Debbie Bliss, Artesano, James C Brett,

Jenny Watson, Rowan, Manos & RicoNeedles from

Knit Pro, Pony and Brittany• Threads • Buttons • Quilting Templates • Quilting Rulers

Unit 13 Fareham Enterprise Centre, Hackett Way, Fareham, Hants PO14 1THTel: 01329 608017

www.jolly-stitcher.co.uk

Come visit our beautiful shop stocking a wide productrange to suit every designing need, from knitting yarnsand locally produced wool, threads, ribbons, felt making

supplies, sewing bags and boxes

New Haberdashery Department!

Creative Needles at Enrico Interiors

Tel: 01452 831725www.creative-needles.co.uk

Harts Barn Craft Centre, Longhope, Gloucester, GL17 0QD

www.laughinghens.com - 01829 740903 - [email protected]

Proud stockists of all Rowan,Debbie Bliss, Noro,

Louisa Harding, Rooster andCascade yarns and books.

Extensive range of Addi knittingneedles and crochet hooks plus

accessories

Your online shop for all yourknitting and crochet needs


P E R F E C T - F O R - S U M M E R B A G

67

www.letsknit.co.uk

We just adore these bold flowermotifs, crocheted in rich jewel-likecolours. This bag is worked in a simpledouble crochet pattern, so it's the perfect

opportunity to try your hand at a newtechnique. As in intarsia knitting, you will

need separate bobbins of yarn for eachcolour section. Read our crochet clever

panel (overleaf) for how to change colourin the middle of a row.

meet ourDESIGNER

Cotton yarn is a great choice forcrocheted bags as it is strong andwill keep its shape.

HELEN ARDLEY

Learnintarsiacrochet!

EXCLUSIVE TO

DaisyChain

Learn crochet colourworkwith Helen Ardley’s

summery shoulder bag

DaisyChain (P) qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 13:58 Page 2

Measurements & sizes28cm x 28cm(excluding handles)

Let’s ShopPatons 100% Cotton DKcosts £4.80 per 100g (210m)ball from 0845 576 0007,www.loveknitting.com

To get 10% off allorders atloveknitting.com,turn to page 25

Stylecraft Classique CottonDK costs £4.10 per 100g(184m) ball from 0117 300 5211,www.getknitted.com

Crochet KitYarn: Paton 100% Cotton DK,(A) shade 2692 Cream, two100g balls, (B) shade 2723Nectarine, (C) shade 2726Jade, one 100g ball of eachHook: 3.5mm, 4mmLining fabric: 40cm x 70cm

Tension Square20 sts x 25 rows 10cm x 10cm double crochet4mm hook

Start knitting here

About the YarnPatons 100% Cotton DK is purecotton yarn that has undergonea process called mercerisation.This makes it super strong andgives it a lovely sheen.

Need anAlternative?For a softer look, try StylecraftClassique Cotton DK. It's also100% cotton but has a mattefinish. Choose from 16summery shades.



68

www.letsknit.co.uk

BACKUsing 4mm hook and yarn A,make 55ch£ Foundation row: 1dc in secondch from hook, 1dc in each ch toend. 54 sts£ Row 1: 1ch, 1dc in each dc to end, turn£ Rows 2-88: as Row 1£ Fasten off

FRONTUsing 4mm hook and yarn A,make 55ch£ Foundation row: 1dc in secondch from hook, 1dc in each ch toend. 54 sts£ Starting at Row 1 and reading RSrows from right to left and WSrows from left to right, work Chartin dc until Row 88 is complete£ Fasten off

SIDES AND BASEUsing 4mm hook and yarn B, make 11ch

£ Foundation row: 1dc in secondch from hook, 1dc in each ch toend, turn. Ten sts£ Row 1: 1ch, 1dc in each dc to end, turnChange to yarn C£ Rep Row 1 twice moreChange to yarn B£ Rep Row 1 twice more£ Cont in two-row stripe sequenceas set until work reaches down oneside, across bottom edge and upother side of Back, approx 106cm£ Fasten off

HANDLES (make two)

Using 3.5mm hook and yarn A,make 101ch£ Foundation row: 1dc in secondch from hook, 1dc in each ch toend. 100 sts£ Row 1: 1ch, 1dc in each dc to end, turn£ Rep last row three more times

10%OFF!

88

86

84

82

80

78

76

74

72

70

68

66

64

62

60

58

56

54

52

50

48

46

44

42

40

38

36

34

32

30

28

26

24

22

20

18

16

14

12

10

8

6

4

2

yarn Ayarn Byarn C

87

85

83

81

79

77

75

73

71

69

67

65

63

61

59

57

55

53

51

49

47

45

43

41

39

37

35

33

31

29

27

25

23

21

19

17

15

13

11

9

7

5

3

1



To make upWeave in ends. Using mattressstitch, sew sides and base to Frontand Back of bag

EDGINGRejoin yarn A to top edge of bag,using 3.5mm hook, work as folls:£ Row 1: 1ch, 1dc in each st to end, turn£ Rep Row 1 twice more£ Fasten offSew handles into place

LININGCut two pieces of fabric slightlylarger than Front of bag. With rightsides together, sew sides andbottom seam. Turn over a 1cmhem along top edge and sew inplace on the wrong side. PlaceLining inside bag and slip stitch tobag, just above start of Edging LK

“If you've never triedintarsia crochetbefore, work apractice swatch

before you begin toget used to juggling

several bobbinsof yarn”LK Deputy Editor

Adrienne Chandler

69


Hooked on IntarsiaThis project uses theintarsia technique, which iswell suited to workingblocks of colour like thisone. Small bobbins of yarnare used for each coloursection across the row.When it comes to joining inthe new shade, work to thelast step of the previousstitch using your old shade,then use the new colour tocomplete the stitch. Forexample, in this pattern itwill be a double crochetstitch. Using the old colour,insert the hook into thestitch before the colourchange, wrap the yarnaround the hook and pullthrough a loop. You willhave two stitches on yourhook. Now, using the newshade, wrap the yarnaround the hook and pullthrough both loops tocomplete the stitch. Leavethe old colour on the WSof the work until you areready to use it on thefollowing row. Whenchanging colour on a WSrow, the yarn will naturallybe hanging on the RS soyou will need to move it tothe WS before introducingthe new colour.

crochetclever

Dre

ss £

45

The

Co

llect

ion

at D

eben

ham

s, b

race

let

fro

m a

sel

ecti

on

at D

eben

ham

s


Knit, Crochet or Sew Outfits for 18" Dolls

18 inch

Dolls

£21.99


F A B F E S T I V A L F A S H I O N

71

www.letsknit.co.uk

meet ourDESIGNER

“Add some fun to your summerwardrobe with these pretty, lacysocks. The short pair would lookgreat with pumps or ballet flatswhilst the long pair are perfectfor festivals with boots orwellingtons”LYNNE ROWE

EXCLUSIVE TO

HighSociety

Stand out from the crowd in these brilliant socks

from Lynne Rowe

“See my Knit School tutorial on page 75 for guidance on

using double-pointed needlesand other methods of working in the round”

LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler

Over-the-knee socks are sure to get younoticed, and wait until you announce that youmade them yourself! Featuring a lacy herringboneeffect and a dainty cabled twist down the back of the

leg, these are an elegant variation on this popularaccessory. If you're after a smaller and quickerproject, there is also an ankle-length version.

High Society p71-73 (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:17 Page 2

Measurements & sizesSize: Ladies' feetSmall (average, large) Height from base of heel:Knee socks (cm): 59 (59, 61.5) Ankle socks (cm):16 (16, 18.5)

Let’s ShopRegia 4ply costs £4.49 per 50g (210m) ball from01829 740903,www.laughinghens.com

West YorkshireSpinners Signature4ply costs £7.20

per 100g (400m)ball. For stockists, contact01535 664500,www.wyspinners.com

Knit KitYarn: Regia 4ply, Knee socks:shade 2020 Violet, 3 (4, 4)50g balls, Ankle socks: shade1976 Rosa, two 50g ballsNeedles: 2.5mm double-pointed (set of five), 2.75mmstraight, one for casting onCable needleStitch markerRibbon: elasticated satin, 1m x 6mm Buttons: small, two per pair of socksSewing needle and thread

Tension Square36 sts x 48 rows 10cm x 10cm stocking stitch2.5mm needles

rnds, for first size, this willrequire an extra ball of yarn

CALF SHAPING£ Rep Rnds 1-12 of main legsection five times more, dec as set in leg shaping on Rnds 6 and12. 60 (64, 68) sts

LOWER LEG£ Rep Rnds 1-12 of main legsection four times more, then repRnds 1-10 once moreRemove markers

HEEL FLAPNOTE: heel flap will be worked on 30 (32, 34) centreback sts, rem 30 (32, 34) stsform instep£Next row: C4B, p2, k11 (12, 13), turn

About the YarnRegia 4ply is a classic sockyarn that blends 75% wool with25% polyamide. The polyamideadds strength to make yoursocks more hard-wearing.

Need anAlternative?

Why not choose aBritish option? WestYorkshire SpinnersSignature 4ply

comprises 75% Britishwool and 25% nylon, and ismade right here in the UK.



KNEE SOCKSUsing 2.75mm straight needle,cast on 88 (92, 96) sts, transfer ststo four 2.5mm dpns and join in thernd, pm at beg of rnd£ Rnd 1: * k2, p2, rep from * to endThis rnd sets 2x2 rib£ Work seven more rnds in 2x2 rib£ Next rnd (eyelet rnd): * k2, yrn,p2tog, rep from * to end£ Work two more rnds in 2x2 rib

LEG SHAPING£ Rnd 1: k4, p16, pm, k11 (13, 15),pm, work Rnd 1 of Centre panelover next 30 sts, pm, k11 (13, 15),pm, p to end NOTE: slip markers throughout£ Rnd 2: k4, p to first marker, k tosecond marker, work next rnd ofCentre panel to third marker, k tofourth marker, p to end £ Rnds 3-4: as Rnd 2, workingappropriate rnd of Centre panel£ Rnd 5: C4B, p to first marker, kto second marker, work Rnd 1 ofCentre panel to third marker, k tofourth marker, p to end £ Rnd 6: k4, p to two sts beforefirst marker, p2tog, k to secondmarker, work Rnd 2 of Centrepanel to third marker, k to fourth marker, p2tog, p to end. 86 (90, 94) sts£ Rnds 7-10: as Rnd 2, workingappropriate rnd of Centre panel£ Rnd 11: C4B, p to first marker, kto second marker, work Rnd 3 ofCentre panel to third marker, k tofourth marker, p to end £ Rnd 12: k4, p to two sts beforefirst marker, p2tog, k to secondmarker, work Rnd 4 of Centrepanel to third marker, k to fourth marker, p2tog, p to end. 84 (88, 92) sts£ Rep Rnds 1-12 once more. 80 (84, 88) sts

MAIN LEG SECTION£ Rnd 1: k4, p to first marker, k to

CENTRE PANEL NOTE: worked over 30 sts

£ Rnd 1: k2, * k2tog, yfwd, k1,yfwd, skpo, k2, rep from * threetimes more£ Rnd 2: k£ Rnd 3: k1, * k2tog, yfwd, k3,yfwd, skpo, rep from * three timesmore, k1£ Rnd 4: kRnds 1-4 set Centre panel

second marker, work Rnd 1 ofCentre panel to third marker, k tofourth marker, p to end £ Rnds 2-4: as Rnd 1, workingappropriate rnd of Centre panel£ Rnd 5: C4B, p to first marker, kto second marker, work Rnd 1 ofCentre panel to third marker, k tofourth marker, p to end £ Rnds 6-10: as Rnd 1, workingappropriate rnd of Centre panel£ Rnd 11: C4B, p to first marker, kto second marker, work Rnd 3 ofCentre panel to third marker, k tofourth marker, p to end£ Rnd 12: as Rnd 1, workingappropriate rnd of Centre panel£ Rep last 12 rnds 6 (6, 7) times moreNOTE: for a slightly longer leg,work an extra rep of these 12

Cable and lacesocks

72

www.letsknit.co.uk

Start knitting here


comingnext issueMONICA RUSSEL’S CUTECABLED ACCESSORIES


Work back and forth in rows as folls:£ Row 1: sl 1 pwise, p29 (31, 33), turn £Row 2: sl 1 kwise, k29 (31, 33), turn£ Rep last two rows a further 13(14, 15) times

HEEL SHAPING £ Row 1: sl 1 pwise, p16 (17, 18),p2tog, p1, turn£ Row 2: sl 1 kwise, k5, ssk, k1, turn£ Row 3: sl 1 pwise, p6, p2tog, p1, turn£ Row 4: sl 1 kwise, k7, ssk, k1, turn£ Row 5: sl 1 pwise, p8, p2tog, p1, turn£ Row 6: sl 1 kwise, k9, ssk, k1, turn£ Row 7: sl 1 pwise, p10, p2tog, p1, turn

£ Row 8: sl 1 kwise, k11, ssk, k1, turn£ Row 9: sl 1 pwise, p12, p2tog, p1, turn£ Row 10: sl 1 kwise, k13, ssk, k1, turn £ Row 11: sl 1 pwise, p14, p2tog, p1, turn£ Row 12: sl 1 kwise, k15, ssk, k0 (1, 1), turn. 17 (18, 18) sts

SECOND AND THIRD SIZES ONLY£ Row 13: sl 1 pwise, p16, p2tog, p- (0, 1), turn£ Row 14: sl 1 kwise, k- (16, 17), ssk,k- (0, 1). 17 (18, 20) sts

ALL SIZESPm to indicate new start of rnd

GUSSETNOTE: after picking up sts, kinto back of picked up st totwist the st and prevent a hole

£ Pick up and k 16 (17, 18) sts alongedge of heel flap, pm, k0 (1, 2),work Rnd 3 of Centre panel overnext 30 sts, k0 (1, 2), pm, pick upand k 16 (17, 18) sts along otheredge of heel flap, k 17 (18, 20) heelsts. 79 (84, 90) sts£ Next rnd: k to two sts before first marker, k2tog, k0 (1, 2), work Rnd 4 of Centre panel, k tosecond marker, ssk, k to end. 77 (82, 88) sts

GUSSET SHAPING£ Rnd 1: k to first marker, k0 (1, 2), work next rnd of Centrepanel, k to end£ Rnd 2: k to two sts before firstmarker, k2tog, k0 (1, 2), work next rnd of Centre panel, k tosecond marker, ssk, k to end. 75 (80, 86) sts

£ Rnd 1: k1, ssk, k to three stsbefore next marker, k2tog, k1, sm,k1, ssk, k to last three sts beforenext marker, k2tog, k1, sm. 56 (60, 64) sts£ Rnd 2: k£ Rep last two rnds nine timesmore. 20 (24, 28) sts£ Distribute sts evenly over twodpns, then graft toe usingKitchener stitch (see p94)£ Make second sock to match,replacing C4B with C4FthroughoutThread elastic ribbon througheyelet holes, tie in a bow and add asmall, pretty button to finish

ANKLE SOCKSUsing 2.75mm needle, cast on 60(64, 68) sts, transfer sts to four2.5mm dpns and join in the rnd,taking care not to twist sts, pm atbeg of rnd£ Work eight rows in 2x2 rib£ Next rnd (eyelet rnd): * k2, yrn,p2tog, rep from * to end£ Work two more rnds in 2x2 rib

ANKLE£ Rnd 1: k4, p2, k11 (13, 15), pm,work Rnd 1 of Centre panel, k11 (13,15), pm, p2£ Rnd 2: k4, p2, k to first marker,work next rnd of Centre panel, k tonext marker, p2£ Rnds 3-4: as Rnd 2, workingappropriate rnd of Centre panel£ Rnd 5: C4B, p2, k to first marker,work next rnd of Centre panel, k tonext marker, p2£ Rnds 6-10: as Rnd 2, workingappropriate rnd of Centre panel£ Rnd 11: C4B, p2, k to firstmarker, work Rnd 3 of Centrepanel, k to next marker, p2£ Rnd 12: as Rnd 2, workingappropriate rnd of Centre panel£ Rep last 12 rnds 1 (1, 2) times more, then rep Rnds 1-10 once more£ Work as for Knee sock fromHeel flap to end£ Make second sock to match,replacing C4B with C4FthroughoutThread elastic ribbon througheyelet holes, tie in a bow and add asmall, pretty button to finish LK

Tshi

rt, £

12.9

0, U

niq

lo, s

hort

s, £

26, R

ed H

erri

ng a

t D

eben

ham

s,sh

oes,

£22

, Nex

t, b

race

lets

fro

m a

sel

ecti

on a

t D

eben

ham

s

73


knitwisePattern perfectIt's really important to usethe right decrease tocreate the herringbonelace pattern. A k2togincrease leans to the rightand a skpo will lean to theleft. By combining thesedecrease stitches withyarn forward increases,you'll create perfectlyarranged eyelets.

£ Rep last two rnds until 61 (64, 68) sts remNOTE: first and third sizes will end after a Rnd 4 of Centre panel,second size will end after a Rnd 2

FOOT£ Rnd 1: k to first marker, k0 (1, 2),work Rnd 1 (3, 1) of Centre panel, k to end£ Rnd 2: k£ Rnd 3: k to first marker, k0 (1, 2),work Rnd 3 (1, 3) of Centre panel, k to end£ Rnd 4: k£ Rep Rnds 1-4 until foot meas 17.5(18.5, 19.5) cm, or 4.5cm shorterthan desired length, ending after aRnd 2 or Rnd 4 AT THE SAMETIME working last rnd as folls forfirst size only:

FIRST SIZE ONLY£ Last rnd: patt to last two sts,k2tog. 60 (-, -) sts

ALL SIZESWork toe over rem 60 (64, 68) stsas folls:

TOE£ Next rnd: k to first markerNOTE: this is now new start of rnd, remove all markersexcept for first and secondmarkers so there are 30 (32, 34) sts between each marker



S H O P P I N G | C O L O U R T H E R A P Y

1 Sirdar Cotton DK – shade 512Black Violet, costs £4.75 per

100g (212m) ball from 0845 0030775, www.wool4less.co.uk

2Rowan Panama – shade 308Jacaranda, costs £5.15 per 50g

(135m) ball from 01925 764231,www.blacksheepwools.com

3Cashmered – shade Lilac, costs £12.95 per 25g (160m)

ball from 01242 256797,www.cashmered.net

4Fyberspates Gleem Lace –shade 710 Lavender Haze,

costs £14.95 per 100g (800m)from 0845 576 0007 ,www.loveknitting.com

1 5

6

7

8

Choose a yarn shade that conjuresup a vision of the countryside

LAVENDERBLOSSOM

1 Cotton tablerunner, £20, 0845 331 1277, www.ochreandochre.com

2 Iittala Maribowl, £49, 07780 693034, www.cloudberryliving.co.uk

3 Alice in Wonderland White Rabbit mug, £10, 0800 015 4395, www.whittard.co.uk

4 Polka dot paper straws, £2.99, 0845 680 2975, www.gingerraay.co.uk5 Cotton bunting, £13.50, 01245 363310, www.cottonbunting.co.uk

HAVE A PURPLE PARTY

FASHION accent

74

www.letsknit.co.uk

Cable cardigan fromDebbie Bliss Land Girl,£5.95, 01829 740903,www.laughinghens.com

3

45Debbie Bliss Party Angel – shade

15 Lilac/Gold costs £7.99 per 25g(200m) ball from 0800 505 3300,www.woolwarehouse.co.uk

6Eden Cottage Yarns Milburn4ply – shade Damson, costs

£8 per 50g (200m) ball from 07961 263518,www.edencottageyarns.co.uk

7Louisa Harding GraceHarmonies – shade 07 Bebop,

costs £9.95 per 50g (100m) ballfrom 01244 389310,www.stashfineyarns.com

8Manos Del Uruguay Manos SilkBlend – shade 9999 Andromeda,

costs £9.49 per 50g (135m) ballfrom 0800 488 0708,www.deramores.com

1

2

5

4

3

2

Colour Therapy 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:17 Page 1

SchoolKnit

75


T U T O R I A L | I N T H E R O U N D

LK deputy editor Adrienne Chandler shows youhow to use double-pointed and circular needles

Part 7: Knittingin the round

CASTING ONCast yourstitches on toone needle asnormal, thentransfer thestitches on tothree or fourdpns, asinstructed inyour pattern. If it doesn't specify, distributethe stitches as evenly possible.

DOUBLE-POINTEDNEEDLES

JOINING IN THE ROUND It is important to join the round before youbegin knitting, or you will end up with a hole.There are two common ways of doing this:swapping the stitches, or decreasing. Before

sponsored byHiyaHiya

Many of you will have learnt to knit on straightneedles, which creates flat pieces of work whichare then assembled into your project. Knitting inthe round creates a tube of knitting with noseams and is worked on double-pointed orcircular needles.

These are known as dpns and are sets of shorterneedles with a point on each end. They are idealfor projects with a small circumference, like

HOLDING THE NEEDLESAlthough yourstitches will bespread over threeor four needles,you only need to hold two at atime. Leave theothers hanging,remembering to keep your stitchespositioned in the middle of each needle toprevent them slipping off.

hats, gloves or socks. They come in varyinglengths, usually ranging from 10cm to 20cm,and in sets of four or five.

you do either of these, lay your needles ona flat surface and make sure that none ofthe stitches are twisted. If they are twistedwhen you join in the round, you will get atwist in your knitting that you won't beable to undo.

Knitting two togetherStep 1: cast on theinstructed numberof stitches plus one.Hold the needles sothe first cast-onstitch is on your LHneedle and the lastcast-on stitch is on

your RH needle.Slip the last cast-on stitch on toyour LH needle. Step 2: knit thelast cast-on stitchtogether with thefirst cast-on stitch.

Swapping the stitchesStep 1: Hold theneedles so thefirst cast-onstitch is on yourright-hand (RH)needle and thelast cast-on stitchis on your left-hand (LH) needle. Insert your LH needle intothe first cast-on stitch and lift it off the RHneedle. Leave it on the LH needle.

Step 2: Insertyour RHneedle intothe last cast-onstitch, which is now thesecond stitchon your LHneedle. Liftthis stitch off the LH needle and leave it onthe RH needle.

WORKING IN THE ROUNDOnce your round has been joined, you arenow ready to start knitting. The working yarnshould be coming from the end of your RHneedle. Place a stitch marker in between thelast two stitches on your RH needle toindicate the end of the round.

Using an empty dpn as your RH needle, knitthe stitches on your LH needle

When all the stitches have been knitted, yourLH needle will be empty. Hold the next needleon your left in your left hand, and use the newempty needle as your RH needle. Keepworking in this way, slipping the marker atthe end of each round.

You do not have to turn your work, everyround will have the right side facing.

Knit school_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 11:59 Page 2

For projects witha largercircumference,you can usecircularneedles. Theselook like two straightneedles that are joinedwith a cord. They most commonly come in40cm, 60cm, 80cm and 100cm lengths.Choose a circular needle that is shorter thanthe circumference of your project.

76

www.letsknit.co.uk

Knit School is sponsored by HiyaHiyaneedles. Find a range of double-pointed, circular and interchangeableneedles, available in stainless steel orbamboo varieties. The needles used inthis tutorial were HiyaHiya's bamboodouble-pointed needles and Sharpstainless steel circular knitting

needles in 40cm and 100cm lengths. Also featuredwere the brand's locking stitch markers. Visitwww.hiyahiya-uk.com/retailers for stockists and further information.

T U T O R I A L | I N T H E R O U N D

CASTING ONCast all your stitches on to one needle tip andspread them out until they fill the full lengthof the needle. They should reach to the end ofthe other needle tip.

JOINING IN THE ROUND Hold a needle tip in each hand and treatthese as your LH and RH needles. Join in theround using one of the methods given onthe previous page.

MAGIC LOOP

It is possible to use a long circular needle toknit projects with a small circumference. Thisis known as the magic loop method and wasmade popular by Bev Galeskas and SarahHauschka. It's ideal for those of you who finddpns tricky to manage. You will need acircular needle that is at least 100cm long andhas a flexible cord.Step 1: Cast on your stitches as normal, thenfind the centre point of the cast-on row andpull through a loop of your cord. If you havean odd number of stitches, just divide them asevenly as you can.

Step 2: Slide both sets of stitches up to thetips of the needles, making sure the stitchesare not twisted. The yarn should be comingfrom the right-hand side of the back needle.

Step 3: Keeping the stitches on the frontneedle in place, pull the back needle tip untilyou have enough slack in the cord to bring the

tip around and use it to knit with. Thereshould still be a loop on the left-hand sidebetween the two sets of stitches.

Step 4: Knit the stitches off the frontneedle, then turn your work, so theunworked stitches (on the cord) are at the front.

Step 5: slide the front stitches on to thefront needle tip. You are now ready to knitthe second set of stitches.

Repeat Steps 3-5 to complete the round.Each repeat of Steps 3-5 is half a round.Make sure you knit the first stitch tightlyon each pass to avoid a ladder.

How working in the roundaffects your stitch patternWhen you are knitting in the round, youalways have the right side of the work facingyou. You never have to turn your work, whichmeans you never have a wrong side row. Thisdoes have an impact when working stockingand garter stitch patterns. See our table to seethe difference:

Stitch

Garter stitch

Stocking stitch

When knittedin rows

Knit every row

Knit one row,purl one row

When knittedin the round

Knit one round,purl one round

Knit everyround

I-CORDThis is a very narrowtube that forms acord; it is frequentlyused for ties,handles and trims.It is worked on two dpns.Step 1: Cast onthree stitches, thenknit one row. Step 2: Instead ofturning your workas you normallywould, slide thestitches to the otherend of the needle.The yarn will becoming from theleft-hand side. Step 3: Pulling theyarn tightly acrossthe back of thework, knit one row.

Repeat Steps 2-3until your i-cord isthe desired length,then cast off.

1

2

3

4

5

1

2

3

WORKING IN THE ROUNDThe working yarn from the ball should becoming from your RH needle tip. Place amarker to indicate the beginning of theround, and start knitting as normal.

When you reach the end of the round, justslip the marker and continue working in thesame direction for your next round. You donot have to turn your work, every round willhave the right side facing.

CIRCULAR NEEDLES

Knit school_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 11:59 Page 3

S P A R K L Y A U T U M N A C C E S S O R I E S

The British summer is notoriously unpredictableand you never know how long it will last.Make sure you are prepared for the onset of autumn byknitting up this elegant ruffled scarf and mittens combo.It's made in a yarn that's adorned with sequins, so willcatch the light and bring a smile. These mittens can beworn with the ruffle at the top or at the bottom.

meet ourDESIGNER

“To make sewing up easier, snipthe sequins off, being careful notto cut the yarn or thread fromwhich they are suspended”

CHARMAINE FLETCHER

EXCLUSIVE TO

77

www.letsknit.co.uk

SilverLining

Get ready for the change ofseason with Charmaine

Fletcher’s sparkly set

Silver lining_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 12:34 Page 2

Measurements & SizesScarfTop edge: 103cmBottom edge: 193cmHeight: 10cmMittensCircumference at base:22cmHeight: 16cm

Let’s ShopJames C. Brett Aria DKcosts £3.50 per 50g (215m)ball from 01729 822946,www.cottontailcrafts.co.ukStylecraft Alpaca DK costs£3.49 per 100g (240m) ballfrom 0800 505 3300,www.woolwarehouse.co.uk

Knit KitYarn: James C. Brett Aria,shade Z5 Grey, one 50g ballfor each projectNeedles: Mittens: 3.25mmdouble-pointed, 3.75mmdouble-pointed, Scarf: 3.5mm(120cm) circularButton: 10mm crystal effect(for Scarf)Tapestry needle

Tension Square24 sts x 32 rows 10cm x 10cmstocking stitch3.25mm needles

Start knitting here

About the YarnJames C. Brett Aria comprises68% acrylic, 10% polyester, 9%wool, 9% mohair and 4%payette. The latter is in the formof little sequins scatteredthroughout the yarn, while themohair adds a subtle halo.

Need anAlternative?If you don't fancy sequins, tryStylecraft Alpaca DK. It's ablend of 80% acrylic and 20%alpaca, and is wonderfully soft and snuggly. It can bemachine washed.



1One at a time, slip thenext two stitches on the

left-hand needle knitwiseonto the right-hand needle.Because you have slippedthe sts, you have turnedthem and what were theback loops are now at the front.

2Knit them togetherthrough the back

loops; to do this, put theleft-hand needle into thestitches in front of theright-hand needle, and knitthe two together.

Slip slip knit (ssk)

78

www.letsknit.co.uk

SCARFNOTE: leave 4m of yarn for long-tail cast on, then makeyour slip knot

Using 3.5mm circular needles andthe thumb method, cast on 388 stsDo not join in the rnd, work backand forth in rows as folls:£ Row 1 (RS): sl 1 kwise, (p1, k1) tolast st, p1£ Row 2: sl 1 pwise, p to last st, k1£ Row 3: sl 1 kwise, k to end£ Row 4: sl 1 pwise, p to end£ Rows 5-20: rep Rows 3-4 eighttimes more£ Row 21 (gathers): sl 1 kwise, (ssk)to last st, k1. 195 sts£ Row 22 (button loop): cable caston ten sts, do not turn, cast off tensts kwise [one loop on RH needle],p to end. 196 sts£ Row 23: sl 1 kwise, k to last twosts, ssk. 195 sts£ Cast off kwise, leaving a long tail

To make upUsing yarn tail, sew button to endof Scarf between top and bottompurl rows on top border. Foldbutton loop to form a circleensuring it is tight enough to holdbutton, then secure it on wrongside of neck border

MITTENS (make two)

Using 3.75mm dpns and thumbmethod, cast on 44 sts, join in thernd taking care not to twist sts£ Rnds 1-2: kChange to 3.25mm dpns£ Rnd 3 (picot): * yfwd, k2tog, rep from * to end£ Rnds 4-5: k£ Rnd 6: p£ Rnds 7-20: k

DIVIDE FOR THUMB£ Row 21: k to end, turn£ Row 22: p to end, turn£ Cont as set, working 17 morerows in st stRejoin in the rnd and cont as folls:£ Rnds 40-50: k£ Rnd 51: p£ Rnds 52-55: k£ Rnd 56: p£ Rnds 57-60: k£ Using 3.75mm dpns, loosely cast off kwise

RUFFLES(make two for each mitten)

£ Using 3.25mm needles, with RSfacing and cast-off edge closest toyou, pick up and k 44 sts just underp row nearest cast-off edge. Join inthe rndChange to 3.75 mm dpns£ Rnd 1: k£ Rnd 2: (k1, kfb) to end. 66 sts£ Rnds 3-8: k£ Rnd 9: p £ Cast-off in (k1, p1) rib to stopruffle curling and create a pretty border£ Work another ruffle belowsecond p row of mitten

To make up Weave in ends. Fold work at picot row and secure to inside ofmitten, following direction of cast-on stitches. Fold down cast-off edge so edge of first ruffle becomes edge of mitten.Secure on the inside. Carefullyblock to measurements LK



79


knitwisePretty picotThese mittens have amock picot edge, whichcreates a decorative rowof points. True picotsinvolving casting on andcasting off stitches in turn,but this method is a quickand easy alternative. Worktwo rounds of stockingstitch, then a round ofeyelets. These are madeup of yarn forwards and k2tog decreases.Continue in your stitchpattern as instructed.When you come tomaking up, fold your workat the eyelet row and sewthe stocking stitch rows tothe wrong side. Theeyelets will then formpretty little points alongthe edge of your work.


Here's LK Editor Sarah and her daughter Katie demonstrating howthese turban-style headbands are designed to suit all ages!

The heather shade is a subtle summer tone; if purple is your thing, take a look atthis month's Colour Therapy (page 74) for lots more lavender shades.

Mother’s LoveThis mother-and-daughter headband set by

Jane Burns will be a family favourite.

Measurements & SizesMother's headband: 47cmlong x 8cm wideDaughter's headband: 35cmlong x 4.5cm wide

Let’s ShopJames C. Brett Legacy DK costs £2.79 per 50g (128m) ball from 01925 764231,www.blacksheepwools.com

Rico Essentials Merino DK costs £3.69 per 50g (120m) ball from 0800 505 3300,www.woolwarehouse.co.uk

Knit KitYarn: James C. Brett LegacyDK, shade 05 Heather, two50g ballsNeedles: 4mm, double-pointed

About the YarnJames C. Brett Legacy DK is100% superwash wool that canbe machine washed and isavailable in a range of subtleand bold shades.

Need anAlternative?Rico Essentials Merino DK isan extra fine superwash yarnmade of 100% wool. It's easyto knit with and results in veryeven knitting.

M A T C H I N G A C C E S S O R I E S

80

www.letsknit.co.uk

Start knitting here

MOTHERUsing two 4mm dpns, cast on 25sts. Do not join in the rnd, workback and forth in rows£ Row 1: sl 1, (k3, p1) to end£ Row 2: sl 1, k1, p1, (k3, p1) to lasttwo sts, k2£ Rep Rows 1-2 until piece meas20cm from cast-on edge, endingafter a WS row, pm

FIRST STRAND£ Row 1: sl 1, (k3, p1) three times,turn and work on these 13 sts only£ Row 2: sl 1, k1, p1, (k3, p1) twice, k2£ Rep Rows 1-2 until first strandmeas 7cm from marker, endingafter a WS rowCut yarn and leave these sts on dpn

SECOND STRANDUsing an empty 4mm dpn andwith RS facing rejoin yarn to remheadband sts and cast on one st£ Row 1: sl 1, (k3, p1) three times, turn£ Row 2: sl 1, k1, p1, (k3, p1) twice, k2£ Row 3: sl 1, (k3, p1) three times£ Rep Rows 2-3 until piece meas7cm from marker, ending after aWS row

JOINING ROW£ Cross First strand over top ofSecond strand, keeping sts in their new order slip all 26 sts on toone dpn£ Row 1: sl 1, (k3, p1) twice, k3,p2tog, (k3, p1) three times. 25 sts£ Row 2: sl 1, k1, p1, (k3, p1) to lasttwo sts, k2

£ Row 3: sl 1, (k3, p1) to end£ Rep Rows 2-3 until piece meas50cm (or desired headcircumference)£ Cast off

CHILDUsing 4mm needles, cast on 17 sts£ Row 1: sl 1, (k3, p1) to end£ Row 2: sl 1, k1, p1, (k3, p1) to lasttwo sts, k2£ Rep Rows 1-2 until piece meas14cm from cast-on edge, endingafter a WS row, pm

FIRST STRAND£ Row 1: sl 1, (k3, p1) twice, turnand work on these nine sts only£ Row 2: sl 1 k1, p1, k3, p1, k2£ Rep Rows 1-2 until First strandmeas 7cm from marker, ending

Tension Square22 sts x 28 rows10cm x 10cmstocking stitch 4mm needles


Mother's love (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:44 Page 1

M A T C H I N G A C C E S S O R I E S

EXCLUSIVE TO

81


knitwiseMeasuring up!When a pattern asks youto knit to a specific length,it's important that youmeasure your workcorrectly. The main rule toremember is to measurestraight up your work andto not follow the edges asthey could well be shapedand won't give you thetrue measurement.Remember to beconsistent too, decide onwhether to measure fromthe cast-on edge to above,or below your needle andstick to it! Measuringbelow your needle willgive you a little extrabreathing space, if youfeel you might need it.

after a WS rowCut yarn and leave these sts on dpn

SECOND STRANDUsing an empty 4mm dpn andwith RS facing rejoin yarn to remheadband sts and cast on one st£ Row 1: sl 1, (k3, p1) twice, turn.Nine sts£ Row 2: sl 1, k1, p1, k3, p1, k2£ Row 3: sl 1, (k3, p1) twice£ Rep Rows 2-3 until piece meas7cm from marker, ending after aWS row

JOINING ROW£ Cross First strand over top ofSecond strand, keeping sts in their new order, slip all 18 sts on toone dpn

£ Row 1: sl 1, k3, p1, k3, p2tog, (k3,p1) twice. 17 sts£ Row 2: sl 1, k1, p1, (k3, p1) to lasttwo sts, k2£ Row 3: sl 1, (k3, p1) to end £ Rep Rows 2-3 until piece meas 35cm (or desired

comingnext issueJANE BURNS’ QUIRKYKNITTED CLOCK


head circumference)£ Cast off

To make upOn each headband, join cast-offand cast-on edges LK

“If you've already taughtyour daughter to knit,

why not knit thesetogether?”

LK Editorial Assistant Katie Wilding

Mother's love (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:44 Page 2

82

www.letsknit.co.uk

LOOK AT THESE INCREDIBLEPRIZES WORTH ALMOST £1000!

BESIDE THE SEASIDEThese sets from The Little Knit KitCompany get us in the mood for a trip to

the beach! We're giving away three icecream kits and two seaside cottage kits,each worth over £15. They would be the

perfect project to take away on holidaywith you! For all their makes, go towww.thelittleknitkit company.co.uk.

Seaside

LOLLY CUSHION KITFrom Siân Brown's brand new Make atHome range, this tasty-looking kitincludes the pattern to make an ice lollycushion, along with cotton DK yarn andspotty buttons, all in a cotton tote bag.The jolly cushion is striped on the back andhas a contrasting button band. See all of Siân's kits at www.makeathome.co.uk.

Siân Brown

COMPLETELY CROCHETIf there is ever anything you want to know about crochet, you'll findit in this huge handbook! Dorling Kindersley are giving six crochet-keen readers a copy of Crochet: The complete step-by-step guide,full of tools, techniques and over 80 projects and worth £25 each.Have a read of our Hooked on Crochet feature on page 61 for loadsof reasons to get started! For all of their books, go to www.dk.co.uk.

Dorling Kindersley

GIVEAWAYFORM ONLINE GIVEAWAYS

WORTH OVER £500!We have even more fantastic prizes to be won!These giveaways can only be entered online atwww.letsknit.co.uk.

• Six places on a Crochet and CakeCrafternoon, Toft Alpaca Shop,Warwickshire, 21st August.www.thetoftalpacashop.co.uk

• Ten pairs of tickets to Weald of Kent Craft& Design Show, Tonbridge, 5th-7thSeptember. www.thecraftshows.co.uk

• Ten pairs of tickets to British WoolWeekend, Harrogate, 6th-7th September.www.britishwool.net

Rowan Seaside Bergere Dorling Kindersley Siân Brown

Why did you decide to buy this issue? (tick all that apply)

I’m a subscriber I liked the free gift I liked the cover projects I buy every

issue Recommended by a friend Other (please specify)

Please complete your contact details:

Mr/Mrs/Ms/Other Forename Surname

Address

Poscode

Daytime telephone Email

Date of birth: Day Month Year

You may photocopy this form to avoid cutting your magazine. Full terms & conditions on page 95.

To enter our giveaways, just tick the box (or boxes) corresponding

with the prize you want to win and send your entry to us, to arrive

no later than 08/08/14. Mark your envelope: Let’s Knit, August

Giveaways, PO Box 443, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8WG

Please tick here if you DO NOT wish to receive such information by Post ❑ Phone ❑ Email ❑ SMS ❑. From time to time Aceville Publications will share details with other reputablecompanies who provide products and services that may be of interest to you. Please tick here if you DO NOT wish to receive such information by Post ❑ Phone ❑ Email ❑ SMS ❑.

PURE AND SIMPLEOur friends at Black Sheep Wools are givingone lucky reader this Rowan Pure Linen patternbook, full of beautiful light-weight summergarments, along with eight balls of RowanPure Linen yarn.www.blacksheepwools.com,www.knitrowan.com

Rowan

5kits towin!

2to win!

I N E V E R Y I S S U E | W I N A M A Z I N G G O O D I E S

EARN YOUR STRIPESYou know us, we love all things nauticaland we crave a good boating holiday! The Woolhouse is giving away thisnautical-inspired Bergere de Francesweater pattern, along with enoughCoton Fifty yarn to make it inany size – that's over £45worth of yarn! To see whatelse The Woolhouse have on offer, go towww.the-woolhouse.co.uk.

Bergere

3to win!

6to win!

Giveaways 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 16:29 Page 3

E A S Y F I R S T G A R M E N T

When the evenings start to turn chilly, you hunt aroundfor something that's easy to wear and will keep you snug

– this sparkly poncho is just the thing.It's really simple to make as it's worked from side to side, and

alternates basic knit and purl stitches to create a subtle texture.It's a great first garment for new knitters as the only shaping

is at the neck edge.

83

www.letsknit.co.uk

Under CoverThis chunky poncho from

Bergere de France is the perfect choice for beginners

Super easyknit forautumn

Under cover_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 10:10 Page 2

Measurements & SizesSize (approx): S-M (L-XL)Actual chest (cm): 140 (156)Length when flat (cm): 58 (61)Length when worn (cm): 73 (76)

NOTE: poncho stretcheswhen worn

Let’s ShopBergere de France Galaxiecosts £3.60 per 50g (35m)ball from 0845 838 3762,www.intoknit.co.uk

Knit KitYarn: Bergere de FranceGalaxie, shade 299.581Sangria, 24 (30) 50g ballsNeedles: 6mm

Tension Square13.5 sts x 18 rows 10cm x 10cm stocking stitch6mm needles

About the YarnBergere de France Galaxie is asuper chunky yarn that blends80% acrylic and 18% wool, with2% sparkly polyester thread. Itcomes in 12 shades and can bemachine washed and tumbledried. The ball band gives atension of 11 stitches x 13 rowson 8mm needles.


E A S Y F I R S T G A R M E N T

knitwiseCasting callTo shape the neck you arerequired to cast on andcast off. Casting off isdone in the usual way, butto cast on during shapingwe recommend the cablecast-on technique. To dothis, insert your right-hand needle between thefirst and second stitcheson your left-hand needle.Wrap the yarn around theneedle as if to knit andpull through the loop.Place this loop on to theend of your left-handneedle. One stitch hasbeen cast on. If you needto cast on additionalstitches, do the samething, counting therecently placed loop asthe first stitch on the left-hand needle.

edge, then two sts at same edge onfoll alt row, then one st at sameedge on foll three alt rows. 67 (71) sts£ Work nine rows in patt withoutshaping£ Cast off

RIGHT FRONTNOTE: start at front opening edge

Using 6mm needles, cast on 67 (71) sts£ Work ten rows in patt as for Back£ Cast on one st at right-handedge on next and two foll alt rows, then two sts at same edge on next alt row, then sevensts at same edge on foll alt row. 79 (83) stsNeck edge is now complete

RIGHT SHOULDER£ Cont in patt without shapinguntil work meas 33 (36.5) cm,ending after a WS row£ Cast off

COLLARUsing 6mm needles, cast on 91 (95) sts£ Work in patt as for Back untilwork meas 33.5cm, ending after aRS row£ Cast off

To make upStitch shoulder seams. Join Collarseam. Sew Collar to neck edge.Weave in all ends LK

BACKNOTE: garment is worked from side-to-side. Take allmeasurements with garmentlaid out flat

Using 6mm needles, cast on 79 (83) sts£ Row 1 (RS): p1, k1, * p3, k1, repfrom * to last st, p1£ Row 2: k3, * p1, k3, rep from * to endThese two rows set patt£ Cont in patt until work meas 23(26.5) cm, ending after a WS rowLeft shoulder is now complete

SHAPE NECK £ Cast off one st at right-handedge on next and two foll alt rows.76 (80) sts£ Work 33 (35) rows in pattwithout shaping£ Cast on one st at right-handedge on next three alt rows. 79 (83) stsNeck edge is now complete

RIGHT SHOULDER£ Cont in patt until work meas 70(78) cm, ending after a WS row£ Cast off

LEFT FRONTUsing 6mm needles, cast on 79 (83) sts £ Work in patt as for Back untilfront meas 23 (26.5) cm, endingafter a WS rowShoulder is now complete

SHAPE NECK£ Cast off seven sts at right-hand

84

www.letsknit.co.uk

Start knitting here

“The collar is knittedseparately and sewnon at the end, butwould also make a

cosy accessory in itsown right!”

LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler

Under cover_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 10:10 Page 3

ORDER YOURS TODAY ONLINE OR BY PHONE aceville.com/bookazines

0844 844 0381 *£2 postage costs included

PICK ONE OF YOUR FAVOURITE COLLECTIONSFROM ONLY £10.99* INCLUDING DELIVERY

•Baby • Toys • Clothes • Accessories • Homewares • Festive

MORE THAN 50 FANTASTICPROJECTS TO CHOOSE FROM

MAKESFOR ALLSKILL

LEVELS

creativeCROCHET

Beautiful

CROCHET

PATTERNS

from the UK’s

leadingdesignersMake these with

your Charm kitFeaturing Designs By: Amanda Berry • Val Pierce • Amanda Walker And More!

DESIGNSFOR ALL CRAFTERS

USE YOURKIT TO KNITTHIS CUTE

CANINE

MAKESTO SUIT

ALL AGES

STITCHA SWEET

HEIRLOOM

CharactersClassicto make

KNIT, STITCH AND CROCHET A COLLECTION OF CRAFTY COMPANIONS

CREATIVE CROCHET...is a bumper collection of projects to make and love.We’ve got everything from baby clothes and cute toys,to stylish throws and fashionable garments ready for you to whip up and adore. Whether you are anexperienced crocheter or you’re new to the craft, thereis something to suit everyone. Crochet newbies willenjoy honing their skills by making our straightforwarddesigns while dab hands can pick from a choice ofmore intricate makes. Improve your skills with a handybroomstick crochet tutorial and learn to perfect thefamous amigurumi technique with our how-to guide in the toys and trinkets section.

COLLECTION OF CLASSICCHARACTERS TO MAKE...is filled with irresistible pals to knit, crochet and sewfor the little, and not-so-little ones in your life, from agorgeous flower fairy to a mystical unicorn. We’veincluded a section dedicated to seasonal makes foryou to be inspired by a wealth of adorable Easter,Halloween and Christmas ideas. This classiccollection features more than 40 lovely keepsakes,with easy-to-follow instructions. You’ll find charmingprojects for boys and girls of every age, from a traditional teddy bear to a cute bunny rabbit and a very cheery giraffe.

BRAND NEW! ORDER YOURS TODAY!

INCLUDES

FREE KIT!

Bookazine house ad June 2014 _Layout 1 20/06/2014 09:38 Page 1

We can't get enough of Jan's sumptuous lace wrap, which uses garter stitch anda Godmother's lace border to create a simple but stunning pattern.

Teamed with the ice cream swirl-effect of Louisa Harding's Amitola yarn, it makes for adelectable and versatile late-summer knit.

meet ourDESIGNER

“This wrap was made on five200-mile round trips in the car. Iwanted something that was easyto knit as the miles passed by!”JAN HENLEY

BlackcurrantSwirl

Sharpen your lace skills with this beautiful wrap by Jan Henley

Measurements & SizesWidth: 163cmDepth at centre: 28cm

Let’s ShopLouisa Harding Amitola costs£6.95 per 50g (250m) ballfrom 01244 389310,www.stashfineyarns.com

West Yorkshire SpinnersSignature 4ply has anRRP of £7.20 per 100g

(400m) ball. Contact01535 664500,www.wyspinners.com for stockists

Knit KitYarn: Louisa HardingAmitola, shade 103 Berries,two 50g ballsNeedles: 4.5mm circularStitch markers: twoTapestry needle

About the YarnLouisa Harding Amitola is agorgeous 4ply yarn whichblends 80% wool with 20%silk. The unusual variegatedcolourways make for simplystunning knits.

Need anAlternative?

For a solid shade, try West YorkshireSpinners Signature 4ply, which uses British

wool and comes in 11different colours.

P R E T T Y L A C E W R A P

86

www.letsknit.co.uk

Start knitting here

SHAWLETTEUsing 4.5mm circular needle andthumb method, cast on 20 sts, donot join in the rnd but work backand forth in rows£ Row 1: sl 1 kwise, k3, (yfwd,k2tog) seven times, yfwd, k2. 21 sts£ Rows 2 and all even-numberedrows: k£ Row 3: sl 1 kwise, k6, (yfwd,k2tog) six times, yfwd, k2. 22 sts£ Row 5: sl 1 kwise, k9, (yfwd,k2tog) five times, yfwd, k2. 23 sts£ Row 7: sl 1 kwise, k12, (yfwd,k2tog) four times, yfwd, k2. 24 sts£ Row 9: sl 1 kwise, k23£ Row 10: cast off four sts usingstretchy cast off (see Knitwise),k19. 20 sts

These ten rows form edging£ Rep Rows 1-10 41 times more,then work Rows 1-9 once£ Cast off 23 sts using stretchycast off (see Knitwise) until one strem on RH needle, do not fastenoff but without turning, pick upand k 216 sts along top edge ofBorder. 217 sts £ K three rows

MAIN BODY SHAPING£ Row 1: sl 1, k112, turn

£ Row 2: sl 1, k8, turn£ Row 3: sl 1, k7, ssk, k3, turn£ Row 4: sl 1, k10, ssk, k3, turn£ Row 5: sl 1, k13, ssk, k3, turn£ Cont shaping work as set (incnumber of sts in first k section bythree on each row) until all yourspare sts have been used up. 165 sts £ Cast off all sts using stretchycast off (see Knitwise)Weave in ends and block to measurements LK

Tension SquareAfter blocking25 sts x 44 rows10cm x 10cm garter stitch4.5mm needles


knitwiseCastawayWith such a pretty lacepattern, you want a goodstretchy cast off techniqueto keep the shawl's shape,and stretch whenblocking. For BlackcurrantSwirl, work the cast off as follows:£Knit two stitches fromthe left-hand needle, * insert left-hand needlefrom front to back intoboth stitches, knit themtogether through the backloops and slip off theneedle. One stitch remainson your right-hand needle£Knit next stitch fromleft-hand needle, thenrepeat from * until therequired number ofstitches have been cast off.

Blackcurrant swirl (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:11 Page 1

P R E T T Y L A C E W R A P

EXCLUSIVE TO

87


comingnext issueJAN HENLEY’S EASY STRIPY SHAWL


“When picking upstitches, you should

find that it is possibleto pick up a stitch

neatly between eachgarter stitch 'bump'”


Blackcurrant swirl (P)_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:12 Page 2

88 www.letsknit.co.uk

Yarn

Sho

pLO

VE

YO

UR

In association with.....Ya

rn S

hop

LOV

E Y

OU

R

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

YORKSHIRE NORFOLK

DEVON

DORSET

MIDLANDS

WARWICKSHIRE

HAMPSHIRE MIDLANDS

YORKSHIRE

LINCOLNSHIRE

WALES

CHESHIRE

YORKSHIRE

SOMERSET

SUSSEX

To find out about more about the campaign please contact: Julie Freestone - [email protected] 01206 505913

Stockists of King Cole, Sirdar, Bergere deFrance, Rico, Rowan and sock yarns.Huge range of patterns, books and

accessories.Knit n Natter every Saturday 10 - 12

beginners welcome.Can't make it to the shop, then you can

order online or over the phone.Unit 2 Wilson House, Charlotte Street,

Wakefield, WF1 1ULTel: 01924 565740.

Web: www.woolnstuff.co.uk

Stocking a large range of yarns andpatterns from Sirdar, Sublime, Rico,

Bergere de France, Debbie Bliss,Adriafil, Stylecraft and Wendy.

Also stocking a range of cross-stitch and haberdashery.

Tel: 01924 494 157119-121 Nab Lane, Mirfield, WF14 9QJ

Anne's Flowers and Crafts

Our online shop is now open:www.twistandpurl.co.ukStockists of: Rico, Stylecraft,

Wendy, Twilleys, Sirdar, Bergere De France,

Cygnet, Sublime, Jenny Watsonand Pony accessories. Workshops.

1 Bradford Road , Cleckheaton, BD19 5AGTel: 01274 873279.

Email: [email protected]

Diss Wool & Craft Shop2 Cobbs Yard, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4LB

open Mon to Sat 9am to 4pm 01379 650640

We also have a huge online selection at

www.disswoolandcrafts.com or email us

[email protected] can find us on

Stylecraft, Rico,

Artesano and Local

Lincoln Longwool.

58 Bridge St,

Gainsborough DN21 1LS

07960 590434

Stylecraft, Rico,

Artesano and Local

Lincoln Longwool.

58 Bridge St,

Gainsborough DN21 1LS

07960 590434

Specialising in exciting, unusual andnatural yarns from around the world

Tel: 01626 836203www.spinayarndevon.co.uk

26 Fore St, Bovey Tracey,Devon TQ13 9AD

RememberWhen

Specialising in an arrayof vintage & modernyarns, patterns &accessories.

Stockists of Debbie Bliss, Colinette, Rowan,Bergere De France, Wendy, Twilleys,Sirdar, Patons, King Cole, SMC & Cygnet

80 High Street, Coleshill, West Midlands, B46 3AHTel: 01675 466418

www.rememberwhenshop.co.uk

K&J CRAFTS

Visit our Websitewww.caricrafts.co.uk

Shop online, or phone your orderson 01633 872619 or visit our shop

at Unit 16 Inshops, The Mall, Cwmbran, Gwent NP44 1PX, Open

9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday.

Second store now open! At 36 LionStreet Abergavenny, NP7 5NT.

We stock all your crafting needs

knitting well

Stocking:• King Cole • James C Brett,

• Debbie Bliss • Bergere de France• T B Ramsden • Adriafil

1 Bell Street, Shaftesbury,Dorset SP7 8AR

01747854178

For friendly help and advise on all yourknitting supplies, come visit our store!

Stockists of all major yarn & craft accessories suppliers including:Bergere, King Cole, Stylecraft, Sirdar,

Katia, Debbie Bliss, Jarol, DY, Noro,Wendy, Peter Pan, Robin Twilleys and

many more

37 Sycamore Road, Bournville, Birmingham B30 2AA

E: [email protected] T: 0121 628 3977www.cityknits.co.uk

T: 01244 389310 E: [email protected]

Stable Gallery, rear of 7 Belwell Lane,Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield B74 4AA

0121 308 [email protected]

www.facebook.com/SittingKnitting

For more information, please contact: Samantha Dean - [email protected] 01206 505114

Relatively Crafty118 Elm Grove, Hayling Island

023 9246 3744We supply...

Wool, Haberdashery,Fabrics & Needlecraft,...and a whole lot more!

JAMES C BRETTSTOCKIST

For all your craft needs

www.relativelycrafty.co.uk

*LOVE YOUR YARN SHOP AUG master_LOVE YOUR YARN SHOP 20/06/2014 16:56 Page 88

GetCrafty!Asomo Craftsis a lovelyworkshopspace inHampshire’sHartley Winteywhich runsclasses for bothkids and adults,as well as sellingeco-friendly craftmaterials such asyarns, paints andcards. Great forpolishing up yourskills or keeping kids entertained!Find out more at01252 844210,www.asomocrafts.co.uk

Marilyn Dancy, owner of Jolly Stitcher

GET THE HOT GOSSIP FROM YOUR FAVOURITE SHOPS AROUND THE UK

S H O P P I N G | R E T A I L R O U N D - U P

Tell us more about Jolly StitcherIt’s a family run business with myhusband, Les, and daughter, Julie.We are coming up to our thirdbirthday! We originally worked fromhome when it was just the website,local halls, and a mobile wool andfabric shop. Our success meant thatwe moved into our present premisesjust a few months after setting upthe business in 2011, and secureonline shopping is still available.

What makes Jolly Stitcher unique?We try to give personal attention toall of our customers, whether it’shelping with old patterns whichneed converting, or providing ahome delivery service for the localswho are unable to get to the unit.

Which are your favourite yarns?I love the Manos Lace, whichhandles beautifully and makesexquisite shawls and lightweightgarments. Another of my favouritesis Mirasol Miski, a 100% llama aranyarn which is lovely and soft!

How did you spend Yarn Shop Day?It was great! We had a lot of supportfrom the local community, andmembers of the knit and nattergroup set up a small craft table tosell some of their projects. We hadfree cake and drinks but we did askfor a small donation to our localcharity (The Rainbow Centre).

What are you currently knitting?Most knitters have several projectson the go, and I’m no exception! I amcurrently knitting an Aran jumper formy father, a Topsy Turvy doll for mygranddaughters, and a pair of socks.

Find out more at www.jolly-stitcher.co.uk or call 01329 608017.

5 Minute chat

what’s in...STORE?

Home Sweet Home Let’s Crochet Again is a new book by Rico Design featuring 45 colourful crochetideas and patterns for your home. Get it for £12.99 from 01803 524402,www.knittingwoolandyarn.co.uk

Mrs Crochet If you were inspired by ourcrochet feature (page 61)then there is a whole worldof new projects andtechniques just waiting tobe discovered! Buy and download thesepretty patterns by mrscrochetdesigner direct fromher website, grab your hook, and get crocheting!www.mrscrochetdesigner.com

89

www.letsknit.co.uk

Hook up!There’s nothing like a string of bunting tobring some extra cheer to a room! Learn

to crochet granny squares with thesecolourful kits by One Half Treble, availableexclusively from Diss Wool and Crafts. The

kits contain Katia Bombay yarn, plaincotton 4ply and a 3.5mm KnitPro crochet

hook. For more, contact 01379 650640,www.disswoolandcrafts.com

CROCHETSPECIAL!

What's in Store 82 Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 15:42 Page 2

Yes, please start my subscription to LET’S KNIT

2

To the Manager.............................................

Address.....................................................................................

...................................................................................................

................................................................................ Postcode

......................................................

Name(s) of Account Holder(s)

Branch Sort Code

Signature(s)

Date.......................................................Data Banks and Building Societies may not accept Direct Debit instructions for some types of accounts

Your full direct debit guarantee will be shown on your confirmation letter

Reference NumberOriginator’s ID No. 677186

Instruction to your Bank orBuilding SocietyPlease pay Aceville Publications Ltd, DirectDebit from the accountdetailed in this instructionsubject to the safeguardsassured by the DirectDebit Guarantee. Iunderstand that thisinstruction may remainwith Aceville PublicationsLtd and, if so, details maybe passed electronically tomy Bank/Building Society.

Instruction to your Bank orBuilding Society to pay Direct Debit

1

Bank/Building Society Account Number

Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd. (publishers of Let’s Knit) in full accordance with data protection legislation. Aceville Publications Ltd. and sister companies may wish to contact you with information of other services and publications we provide which may be of interest. Please tick here if you DO NOTwish to receive such information by Post Phone Email SMS . From time to time Aceville Publications Ltd.will share details with other reputable companies who provide products and services that may be of interest to you.Please tick here if you DO NOT wish to receive such information by Post Phone Email SMS .

I enclose a cheque made payable to Let’s KnitPlease charge my Visa Mastercard Amex Switch/Maestro (issue No.)

CARD NUMBER

EXPIRY DATE VALID FROM

SIGNED: TODAY’S DATE:

Title Forename Surname

Address

Postcode

Daytime No. Mobile No.

Email

SUBSCRIBER DETAILS: please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS

THIS IS A GIFT, MY DETAILS ARE: please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS

*this is a UK only Direct Debit offer. Gift is only available to UK subscribers. Existing subscribers can renew using thisoffer. Your subscription will begin with the next available issue. Subscriptions are for a 12 month period including all giftsubscriptions. Your free gift will be dispatched within 28 days of your payment being received (sent separately from themagazine). If your subscription is a gift, the gift and gift card will be sent to the donor. You can also subscribe viacheque or credit card. In the event of a gift being faulty or damaged, please contact us within 28 days of receiving thegift. This offer is subject to availability this gift will be for the first 100 subscribers only, alternative gift may be suppliedto the same or greater value. This is a limited offer and may be withdrawn at any time. Photocopies accepted.Cancellation policy applies refer online or contact customer services for more details. ^Please note that digitalsubscriptions will not include subscriptions gifts nor covermounted gifts.

Title Forename Surname

Address

Postcode

Daytime No. Mobile No.

Email

2

LKN

081

4

UK CHEQUE/CREDIT CARD £58.50 for 13 issues (1 year) - save 10%£107 for 26 issues (2 years) - save 18%

I would like to renew my subscription with this offer (Cheque/Credit Card)

I would like to purchase a gift subscription

Name and full postal address of yourBank or Building Society

1 DIRECT DEBIT £26 every 6 issues* - save 13%

LKN0814

ORDER FORM

● EXCLUSIVE FREE high valuegifts with every issue

● FASHIONABLE and excitingnew patterns for all ages

● FREE DELIVERY straight toyour door before the shops

● SPREAD THE COST with a Direct Debit

● SAVE £££s off the cover price

LKN, 800 Guillat Avenue, Kent Science Park,Sittingbourne, ME9 8GU

NEED A GIFT IDEA?A GIFT SUBSCRIPTION isthe perfect present thatlasts all year round!

OVERSEAS Eur / Eire £65.00 / ROW £80.00 (1 year)Eur / Eire £125.00 / ROW £150.00 (2 years)

You can nowpay via

just visit www.letsknit.com/

subscribe

DIGITAL EDITIONSare available^

EXCLUSIVEFREE KITSWITH EVERYISSUE!

GREAT REASONS TO SUBSCRIBE:

Pay only

£26every 6issues!*

LK Subs 82 qx_LK Regular Template 20/06/2014 16:37 Page 2

LKN, 800 Guillat Avenue,Kent Science Park, Sittingbourne ME9 8GU

:www.letsknit.co.uk/subscribe0844 844 0947

Quote LKN0814 Lines are open Monday-Friday 8am-8pm, Saturday 9am-1pm

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

3EASY WAYS TO SUBSCRIBE

and receive both Mary Mouseand Farley Fox

Subscribe & R

enew

Both Mary Mouse and Farley Foxkits come complete with everythingyou need to get started. These

adorable kits from the crafty kitcompany would make an ideal

keepsake or token to give as gifts.www.craftykitcompany.com

"These adorablewoodland animals are a quick and easy knit.Both high-quality kitsare yours for free with

a subscription to Let’s Knit!"Sarah Neal, Let’s Knit Editor

Worth£25

Each kit contains: Wool, Toy stuffing, Safety eyes, Pair of Kntting Needles,and tapestry needle all neatly packaged in a recycled cardboard tube

LK Subs 82 qx_LK Regular Template 20/06/2014 16:37 Page 3

TENSION HEADACHEIt's really important to knit tension squarebefore you begin a project. Noteverybody knits the same way – someknit more tightly than others – and thiswill affect how the stitch pattern looksand the finished size of the item. Tensionsquares are usually presented like this:

22 sts x 30 rows10cm x 10cmstocking stitch4mm needles

To knit your tension square, cast on theinstructed number of stitches, in this case22, plus five more. Then, using the needlesize and same stitch pattern given, workthe instructed number of rows, plus fivemore. Using a ruler and taking yourmeasurements from the centre of thesquare, count the number of stitches and number of rows over a 10cm square.If you have more than you should do, itmeans your knitting is a little tight andyou may need to use larger needles.Similarly, if you have fewer stitches and rows, use smaller needles to get the correct tension.

ABBREVIATIONS0 no stitches, times or rows

- no stitches, times or rowsfor that size

alt alternate

approx approximately

beg beginning

bet betweenC4F (cable 4 front) slip two

stitches on to cable needle, hold at front of work, k2, k2 from cable needle

C4B (cable 4 back) slip two stitches onto cable needle, hold at back of work, k2, k2 from cable needle

ch chain stitch

ch sp chain space

circ circular needles

cm centimetres

cn cable needle

cont continue (ing)

dc double crochetdc2tog (insert hook into next stitch, yarn

over hook, pull through loop) twice, yarn over hook, pull through all three loops on hook

dec decrease (ing)

dpn(s) double pointed needle(s)

dtr double treble crochet

foll following

htr half treble crochet

inc increase (ing)

k knit

kfb knit into the front and the back of the next stitch

k2tog knit two stitches together

kwise knitwise

lp loopm1 make one stitch, by picking

up the horizontal loop before next stitch and knitting into the back of it

m1p make one stitch, by picking up the horizontal loop before next stitch and purling into the back of it

meas measure (s)

mm millimeters

N1 (2, 3) needle 1 (2, 3)

p purl

pb place bead

pfb purl into the front and back of next st

pm place marker

p2tog purl two stitches together

prev previouspsso pass slipped stitch over

and off needlep2sso pass two slipped stitches

over and off needlepwise purlwise

rem remain (ing)

rep repeat (ing)

rev st st reverse stocking stitch (p on RS row, k on WS row)

rm remove marker

UK

(m

m)

U.S

.A

Old

UK

/C

an

ad

a

NEEDLE SIZING

2 0 14

2.25 1 13

2.75 2 12

3 - 11

3.25 3 10

3.5 4 -

3.75 5 9

4 6 8

4.5 7 7

5 8 6

5.5 9 5

6 10 4

6.5 10 1/2 3

7 - 2

7.5 - 1

8 11 0

9 13 00

10 15 000

12 17 -

15 - -

16 19 -

19 35 -

20 36 -

25 50 -

“Using the correct size of needlesfor the yarn weight helps to produce a taut, neat fabric”

YARN WEIGHTSSTANDARD TENSION

30-33 sts-36-50 rows

28 sts-36 rows

22 sts-28 rows

18 sts-24 rows

14 sts-19 rows

9 sts-12 rows

YARN TYPE

Lace

4ply

DK

Aran

Chunky

Super Chunky

STANDARDNEEDLE SIZE

2mm-3mm

3.25mm

4mm

5mm

6.5mm

10mm

TABLESTurn the Keep these pages handy to

guide you on your way

RS right side

skpo slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over

sk2po slip next stitch purlwise, knit two together, pass slipped stitch over and off needle

sl 2, k1, slip next two stitches knitwise at the same time, knit one, pass both slipped stitches over

sl 1 slip one stitch

sl st slip stitch

sm slip marker

sp (s) space(s)ssk 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)

tbl through the back loop (s)

tr treble crochet

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 hookyon 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

() [] work instructions inside the brackets as many

times as instructed

92

www.letsknit.co.uk

p2sso

P R A C T I C A L G U I D E S

Practical Pages_LK Regular Template 20/06/2014 09:48 Page 2

93

www.letsknit.co.uk

SUBSTITUTIONThere are many reasons to want to substitute the yarn given in aproject, from price to colour selection,but there are some important pointsto remember.

n Choose a yarn with a similar tensionto the suggested yarn. Match thetension given on the ball band of theyarns, as the pattern may use adifferent stitch. Remember to do atension square in the new yarn beforeyou begin.n Consider the fibre content of theyarn and how this might affect thefinished project. For example, cottonyarn will knit up very differently to awool yarn.

n Don't forget to check the careinstructions of your new yarn. Not allyarns are machine washable.n Look at the meterage of the newyarn, rather than the weight of theball. Not all 50g balls have the samemeterage and you don't want to run short when nearing the end ofyour project.


AT A LOOSE END?Follow these steps for weaving in anytails of yarn:1. Thread the yarn on to a tapestry needle and work with the WS of the project facing upwards.2. Insert the needle under the loop ofeach stitch, and draw it through. Work it

Blocking is the process of stretchingand shaping your finished items tocreate the correct dimensions fromthe pattern and even out yourstitches. It is also really useful forensuring that pieces to be joined fitwell together. There are a fewdifferent ways to achieve this, so check the information on the yarn ball band and pick the mostsuitable option.Wet blocking: dampen the piecesso that they are wet through andgently squeeze out the excesswater. Lay out the pieces and pinthem to the correct measurements,

ON THE BLOCKSthen leave them to dry. For delicate fibres and lace projects, you can just spritz the pieces with a water spray, rather thansubmerging them fully. Steaming: lay a damp cloth over yourwork and gently iron over the top –do not iron directly on to yourknitting. Continue to iron until thecloth is dry. Another option is togently hover over your work with theiron and apply steam until the knittingrelaxes, this is good for delicateprojects and textured stitches. Pin to the desired measurementsand allow to set.

up and down the loops of the stitchesfor 8cm. An alternative method is toweave through the back of the stitch,splitting the strand of yarn as you sew.3. Cut the yarn close to the fabric. NOTE: In colourwork, weave the yarntails into the matching colour section.

Here at LK we try our hardest to make sure our patterns are freefrom errors, but sometimes they do slip through the net. Here youwill find our latest pattern updates; we apologise for anyinconvenience caused. If you have any queries about one of ourpatterns, please call 01206 508622 or email [email protected] further updates visit www.letsknit.co.uk

LK80, JuneElton, p12There is a missingrow at thebeginning of theBody. Here are theupdatedinstructions:£ Foundation row: p£ Row 1: kfb in eachst to end. 12 sts£ Row 2: p£ Row 3: * k1, kfb innext st, rep from *to end. 18 stsContinue as written

UPDATESPattern

Silverstone, p75

There is a missing symbolon the key as C3R hasaccidentally beenduplicated. Here is thesymbol for C3L.


MAKING A SLIP KNOT

1Holding the yarn under your left thumb, wrap ittwice around your left index and middle fingers,

with the second loop closer to the base of the fingers.With the backs of the fingers uppermost, insert thetip of the needle beneath the first loop and over thesecond, and pull the second loop under the first.

2 Remove the two fingers and gently tug on both ends of yarn to tighten the slip knot

around the needle.

1Once cast on, insert the tip of the right needleupwards and from front to back into the top stitch

on the left needle. The right hand needle should sitbehind the left hand one. Wrap the ball end of yarnanticlockwise around the tip of the right hand needle.

2Using the right hand needle, pull a loop of thewrapped yarn through the original stitch to create a

new one on the right hand needle. Slide the original stitchoff the left hand needle. Repeat from step one. You arenow knitting! The knit stitch can be combined with otherstitches to create hundreds of different stitch patterns.

KNIT STITCH

HELPING HANDIf you need a refresher on basic knittingtechiques, visit our websitewww.letsknit.co.uk. You’ll also find the following step-by-stepinstructions in the magazine:

inc (kfb): Albert, p18p2tog: Woodland, p46ssk: Silver Lining, p77m1: Morning Dew, p13

2 Insert the tapestry needle knitwise intothe first stitch on the back needle and

pull the yarn through, leaving the stitch on the needle.

3Having set up as shown in steps 1 and 2, repeatsteps 3 and 4 until all stitches have been grafted.

Insert the tapestry needle knitwise into the first stitchon the front needle and slide the stitch off. Before youpull the yarn through this stitch insert the tapestryneedle into the next stitch on the front needlepurlwise and pull the yarn through, this time leavingthe stitch on the needle.

4 Insert the tapestry needle purlwise into the firststitch on the back needle and slide it off. Before

pulling the yarn through this stitch, insert the tapestryneedle into the next stitch on the back needleknitwise and pull the yarn through, leaving the stitchon the needle.

GRAFT THE TOE

Kitchener Stitch is the method used to acheive this.It is worked as follows:

94

www.letsknit.co.uk


Step-BY-StepLearn to knit today with these clear guides

SET UP: Before starting you need to prepare the stitcheson the needle. Hold the two needles with the remainingstitches parallel. The loose end of yarn should be comingfrom the back needle and lying to the right of the work.

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.


CABLE CAST ON

1Create a slipknot on your left hand needle, pulling ittaut (but not too tight). Carefully insert the right

needle into the knot from front to back, passing underthe left hand needle. Wrap the ball end of yarnanticlockwise around the point of the right needle.

2Pull the loop that forms back through the originalstitch (knot) and insert the tip of the left hand

needle into the new stitch from underneath to transferit from the right hand to the left hand needle. Thereshould now be two stitches on the left hand needle.

3 Insert the right needle between the two stitcheson the left needle and wrap the yarn around the

needle tip anticlockwise. Draw this loop through tomake a stitch and slip it up and onto the left needle.Repeat this creating a new loop behind the last stitchand passing it left needle in front of the previous one.

95

www.letsknit.co.uk


BEGINNING A SEAM

1With the pieces placed next to each other with rightside upwards, thread the yarn tail through the fabric

after the first stitch, moving the needle from front toback. Then, take the needle behind the first stitch on thesecond piece from the back of the work to the front. Theyarn will form a figure 8. Tug gently to secure.

MATTRESS STITCH

1With the two pieces to be joined lying next to eachother, hook the horizontal bar of the first stitch with

the tapestry needle. Move to the other piece and hookthe first horizontal bar of the stitch on that side.

2Repeat this moving from one piece to the nextand pulling the yarn to tighten the join.

BACK STITCH

1Pin the pieces to be joined, with the right sidestogether. Thread the loose end of yarn onto a

tapestry needle. Start by stitching the two outer edgestogether, then bring the needle through the two pieces1cm from back to front ahead of the previous stitch.

2Push the needle back through at the positionwhere the yarn emerged from the previous

stitch. Return it to the front of the work, approx 1cmahead of the stitch just made. Repeat this until thewhole join is complete, working in a straight line.

JOINING CAST OFF EDGES

1Lay the two pieces to be joined right side up andwith the cast off edges touching. Thread a tapestry

needle with the loose yarn and push this through thecentre of the first stitch, and then in and out throughthe centres of two stitches on the opposite side.

2Take the needle over to the first side and insert where it previously exited, bringing

it out through the centre of the next stitch. Repeatthis process alternating sides and stitching singlestitches until the pieces are joined.

LET’S KNIT 1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road,Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY, 01206 [email protected]

EDITOR Sarah Neal, 01206 508622,[email protected]

DEPUTY EDITOR Adrienne Chandler,[email protected]

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Amy Adams,[email protected], Katie Wilding,[email protected]

GROUP EDITOR Lynn Martin 01206 505980

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Helen Tudor 01206 505970

ADVERTISING MANAGER Julie Freestone 01206 505913 [email protected]

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Samantha Dean 01206 505114 [email protected]

ART EDITOR Rick Allen

DESIGNERS Gemma Eales, Phil Dunham

AD PRODUCTION Angela Scrivener

PHOTOGRAPHY CliQQ Photography,www.cliqq.co.uk

HAIR AND MAKE UP Jo Adams

FASHION STYLIST Boo Hill

PROMOTIONS OFFICER Liz Tuthill 01206 [email protected]

ACCOUNTS Phil Bale 01206 505907

SUBSCRIPTIONS EXECUTIVE Jo [email protected]

SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES 0844 844 0947,44(0)1795 414715 [email protected]

MARKETING MANAGER Andrea Turner

PUBLISHER Matthew Tudor

NEWSTRADE SALES Marketforce 0203 148 3300PRINTED In England © Aceville Publications Ltd 2014

GIVEAWAYS TERMS & CONDITIONSThis competition is open to all UK residents aged 18 or over,excluding employees or agents of the associated companies andtheir families. The prize detailed in each competition cannot beexchanged for goods, or towards the purchase of goods at anyretail outlet. It cannot be exchanged for cash, or replaced if lost ordamaged. Illegible entries and those that do not abide by theseT&Cs will be disqualified. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannotbe deferred. The decision of the judge is final and nocorrespondence will be entered into. Winners will be notified by01/09/14, a list of winners will be available on request in writingfrom Andrea Turner, 21/23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road,Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY

Your details will be processed by Aceville Publications Ltd(publishers of Let’s Knit) in full accordance with data protectionlegislation. All entries become the property of Aceville PublicationsLtd, publishers of Let’s Knit. Aceville Publications Ltd and sistercompanies may wish to contact you with information of otherservices and publications we provide which may be of interest.


SUMMER SAVINGSFROM ONLY £19.99* FOR ANY MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTION

6 ISSUESCrafty Inspiration for the Home

6 ISSUESGlamorous Jewellery Inspiration

6 ISSUESExciting Crafty Projects

5 ISSUESFor Makers who love Paper

6 ISSUESStylish Sewing Projects

5 ISSUESKnit and Crochet made easy

6 ISSUESContemporary Knitting Patterns

SAVING33%

SAVING33%

SAVING37%

SAVING44%

FREEYARN KIT

EVERY ISSUE

SAVING33%

SAVING30%

SAVING33%

T r e at y o u rs e l f to da y ! SAVE UPTO 44%

SUUESFREE

MINI PAPER KITSEVERY ISSUE

*TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY, REFER ONLINE FOR FULL DETAILS

CALL:0844 844 0381 QUOTE:SEASONAL

VISIT US ONLINE TO SUBSCRIBE AND TO DISCOVER OUR OTHER TITLES

WWW.ACEVILLE.COM/SS14

&KnitCLICKTO ADVERTISE HERE CALL 01206 505114OR EMAIL: [email protected]

www.letsknit.co.uk 97

Peachey EthknitsSirdar, Sublime, Rowan, Stylecraft, Regia, Patons - Knitting Yarns; Beth Russell,Historical Sampler, Heritage, Derwentwater, Vervaco - Needlework & Rug Kits; DeniseNeedle & Crochet Hook Sets

E: [email protected] Tel: 44(0)1245 327006 www.ethknits.co.uk

Peachey EthknitsSirdar, Sublime, Rowan, Stylecraft, Regia, Patons - Knitting Yarns; Beth Russell,Historical Sampler, Heritage, Derwentwater, Vervaco - Needlework & Rug Kits; DeniseNeedle & Crochet Hook Sets

E: [email protected] Tel: 44(0)1245 327006 www.ethknits.co.uk

www.pennineoutdoor.co.ukSpecialist outdoor fabrics, zips, buckles, webbing etc.

Waterproof fabrics, microfibres, moleskin, sweatshirting,cotton interlock, bag fabrics and canvas etc.

FAST MAIL ORDER SERVICETel: 01524 263377

*Patchwork & Quilting Fabric, Incl. Jelly Rolls, Fat Quarters, Charm Packs etc *Daywear and Bridal Fabric

*Large range of Haberdashery *Knitting Wool & Patterns *Sewing [email protected]

Tel: 0117 3293857 www.fabricsplus.co.uk

Fabrics Plus

Material Needswww.material-needs.co.uk

Tel: 01278 794751 Simplicity, Butterick and Kwik Sew Patterns

FOR DRESS AND QUILTING FABRICS

Stocking yarns and patterns from Stylecraft, Woolcraft, King Cole, Debbie Bliss,Louisa Harding, Opal, Artesano, Schoeller and Stahl.

www.yarnpile.co.uk

InternationalYarns... Locally

Webs AUG Issue 82_LETS KNIT 20/06/2014 16:30 Page 97

ready-made knitwear forbabies and young childrenbut I like to think that, withfashionable designs, Iencourage young mums tolearn to knit.

My daughter Ellie is joiningme in September to learnthe trade whilst doing acourse in fashion at

university. She has beenactively interested in theknitting industry for a numberof years, from sewing onbuttons to photographyshoots – she has beenmodelling in many of my

books since she was nine months old! My two boys learntto knit many years ago too. I have also taken on a youngdesigner and I am in the process of teaching her.

The handknit market is verydifferent to the ready-mademarket and I aim to bridgethe gap fashion-wise. I hopethat one day a high street

brand might launch a handknit collectionalong side its ready-made range on thecatwalk. Quality yarns can be quite expensive,therefore fashionable designs hopefullyencourage and inspire knitters. My advice tonew knitters is 'don’t be afraid to have a go'.You can always pull it back, unlike sewing,where once the fabric is cut, that’s it. Trydifferent colours and make things your own.

To see more of Jenny's designs, go towww.jennywatsondesigns.co.uk

SUE STRATFORD gives us

an insight into her world.

September issue of Let’s

Knit on sale 1st August

I began knitting when I was about13 but I had been surrounded byknitting for many years. My mumwas a brilliant knitter and createdmany complicated garments, whichalways fascinated me. Unfortunatelyshe passed away nearly 30 yearsago and never saw my career growbut I'm sure she would have beenvery proud.

I first got into designing because Ineeded a job. I had just been maderedundant and I was offered aposition at Hayfield Textiles as ahandknitter. I didn't enjoy it; Iknitted solidly for eight hours a day,but it was a job at least. I was thengiven the opportunity to do all FairIsle and picture sweaters. I taughtmyself to maths-check and compile,worked hard and then becameassistant designer. Since then, I havebeen chief designer for Robin, Emu,Studley and then Sirdar.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time aschief designer but found the longdays and commuting meant I didn'tspend enough time with my children.As a freelance designer I still worklong days and weekends but now I can walk to my offices in the centre of Ilkley.My biggest inspiration is the countryside near where I live in West Yorkshire. TheYorkshire Dales are close by and the ever-changing seasons are beautiful.

When I had children, knitwear for babies was quite uninspiring. I felt I could bringsomething new to the handknitting industry.These days you can get some wonderful

98

www.letsknit.co.uk

Jenny’s top choice ofyarns in her stash

1 JW Pure Merino – I love the pinkand the yarn is so soft.

2JW Babysoft DK – The colourpalette is lovely and the yarn

knits up well.

3Noro Silk Garden – I love how the colours blend from one

into another.

4James C. Brett Rustic MegaChunky – It's so big and knits

up quickly.

5King Cole Baby Alpaca DK – It's adelight to knit with.

We’ve been talking to Jenny Watson about knittingfor babies and her career in designing

comingnext issue

I felt I could bringsomething new to the

handknitting industry

TOP FIVE

As someone who learnt to knit from her mother, went on to teach her own children andmake a career out of designing knitwear, Jenny Watson has an interest in bringinghandknitting to the forefront of the fashion industry. She has authored four pattern

books for her own yarns, including a range of garments, accessories and baby knits, pluscollections for top brands, like Noro and West Yorkshire Spinners. We're all familiar with Jenny'sdesigns and yarns but we spoke to her to find out a bit more about the woman behind the wool.

P E O P L E | L A S T W O R D

Last word Qx_LK Project Template 20/06/2014 09:37 Page 1



Lifestyle

Let's Knit August 2014