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                    FRESHEN UP YOUR KNITTY
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THE UK’S BESTSELLING KNIT MAG
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ISSUE 157 May 2020
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£7.99 | May 20 Issue 157


03 letsknit.co.uk Wel c ome! All items from patterns published by Let’s Knit are for personal use only and cannot be sold. Multiple copies of any part of this publication may not be made, and no part of this publication whether in its original form or a reproduction thereof may be sold. All patterns featured within Let’s Knit are reproduced in good faith that they do not infringe any copyright. DISCLAIMER: We recommend that readers use the main specified yarn for every project as this will produce the best results. The alternatives given are suggestions only, and as no two yarns are exactly the same we advise readers to swatch an alternative yarn carefully before choosing to use it for their project. The publishers are not responsible for any safety issues arising from any items knitted from patterns contained within Let’s Knit magazine. Please note that toys with small parts are not suitable for children under three years of age. If making a toy for a very young child, omit any buttons and embroider the details instead. Babies should be supervised when playing with toys. Prices are all correct at time of print. www Find us at facebook.com/ letsknitmag Tweet us @letsknitmag Follow us on pinterest/ letsknitmag Instagram @letsknitmag Visit us at letsknit.co .uk EDITOR’S Letter Go to page 28 and sign up! Sarah sarah.neal@aceville.co.uk ABOVE RIGHT: beautiful one- ball shawl, p33 ABOVE LEFT: this months’ fashion collection, p14 CENTRE: eco friendly products for knitters. p31 LEFT: top up your skills, p45 BELOW: fun and funky kids’ cardigan, p63 12-piece bundle YARN, NEEDLES & MORE! WORTH £30 63 It’s been a challenging few weeks for all of us. Wherever you are, we hope you’re safe and well. As we gradually adjust to staying indoors and keeping our distance from friends and relatives, we can at least rest assured that the comfort, creativity and calm-inducing properties of our knitting will always be there for us. This issue of Let’s Knit is packed with patterns to keep you busy, from Julie Ferguson’s beautiful one-ball shawl on page 33 to Jo Allport’s fun and funky kids’ cardigan on page 63. It’s also full of terrific tips on how to keep crafting through the crisis, including fab resources you can turn to from the comfort of home (p12), handy things to knit from your stash (p56), inspiring ways to top up your skills (p45), and, in our regular mindfulness feature, a reminder of the power knitting has to help you keep calm (p70) We’ve also got plenty of other fab features, including eco- friendly products for knitters (p31) and a round-up the funniest things non-knitters have said to you about your knitting! (p83) We were disappointed to have to postpone Yarn Shop Day, our annual celebration of bricks and mortar stores, due to take place in May. It will definitely be rescheduled, but in the meantime, we would urge you to do all you can to support these local stores. Many are keeping connected with their customers through social media, and you’ll find a directory of terrific independent stores on page 88. Why not look them up? Happy Knitting Get Let’s Knit delivered straight to your door SUBSCRIBE TODAY! 33 28 14 3 1 G I F T S T O Y O U . C O M S H O P 45
04 letsknit.co.uk 67 41 l Exclusive patterns featured in Let’s Knit have been professionally checked and reproduced with the utmost care. Updates can be found at letsknit.co.uk/pattern-updates l Should you encounter any problems we are more than happy to provide support and assistance. Contact us and we will endeavour to respond as soon as possible. BY PHONE: 01206 508622 (office hours only) BY EMAIL: support@letsknit.co.uk BY POST: at the address at the top of page 94 (please mark your envelope ‘Support’) (Please note we cannot offer assistance with patterns not published in Let’s Knit) l Subscription enquiries/ customer services: 0800 904 7000, aceville@dctmedia.co.uk l Advertising enquiries: 01206 505114, samantha.dean@aceville.co .uk l Online registration/website enquiries: webmaster@letsknit.co .uk Let us help you! Contact us WE UNDERSTAND THAT NOTHING IS MORE ANNOYING THAN ERRORS IN KNITTING PATTERNS, SO HERE’S OUR PROMISE TO YOU HAVE ANOTHER QUERY? HERE’S HOW TO GET IN TOUCH Batwing Lace Top Towel Braids 24 Cover Star In this issue May 2020 SHOPPING 8 See It, Want It, Love It! Our top picks for May 31 This Month We’re Loving... The Environment Explore our exciting eco options 36 Your Secret Weapon Uncover the joys of colour changing yarns 43 Cool in Cantaloupe Freshen up your look with this stylish shade 69 Natural For Baby Choose from our collection of pure baby yarns 80 Newsflash Catch up with the latest news in the world of knitting FOCUS 45 Step Up Your Skills Find out how to take your knitting to the next level 56 Stash-busting Secrets Find endless inspiration with our handy tips for using up your yarn 61 6 Knitting Rules That Were Made To Be Broken Do something different with our rebellious guide 62 What’s The Secret? Learn how to create eyelets and improve your Fair Isle 70 Keep Calm & Cast On Sit back and relax with our mindfulness special 83 Say What? Have a giggle with our collection of hilarious reactions PEOPLE 10 Knit It, Write It, Share It! Your incredible makes and letters 12 Handmade at Home Our guide to enjoying your hobby inside 74 Charity Corner Knitters using their needles to make a difference 98 My Life In Patterns Movie knits designer and champion of British wool, Jennifer Monahan IN EVERY ISSUE 3 Welcome 7 Just For You This Month 28 Subscriptions 50 Teabreak 51 Coming Next Month 52 Reader Offer 58 Read & Relax 76 Giveaways 93 Knitter’s Know-How Baby Tunic and Trousers
05 letsknit.co.uk 54 63 OVER £1,000 OF GREAT PRIZES ON PAGE 76 53 THE SEAMLESS COLLECTION Starts on page 14 1 4 - P A G E S E C T I O N Stranded Jumper Top- Down Lace Cardi Butterfly Stitch Top Leaf Cushion Kids’ Cardigan with Bobbles Waterfall Cardigan Cabled Denim Bag Jake The Sheep 37 48 WIN! WIN! WIN! PATTERNS 16 Top-down Lace Cardigan 20 Butterfly Stitch Top 22 Stranded Jumper 24 Batwing Lace Top 26 Waterfall Cardigan 33 Artisan Shawl 38 Leaf Cushion 41 Towel Braids 48 Cabled Denim Bag 53 Jake The Sheep 59 Fringed Wall Hanging 63 Kids’ Cardigan with Bobbles 67 Baby Tunic and Trousers 71 Classic Cardigan 77 Teddy Bear’s Picnic 84 Cosy Cowl Tutorial 86 Crochet Soap Holders
EXCLUSIVE Treats you’ll love ONLY IN LET’S KNIT 3Special sparkly yarn 3Easy unicorn toy pattern 3Money-off discounts 316-page bonus pattern book 3FREE* bumper yarn bundle Find over 1,700 fabulous knitting patterns at letsknit.co.uk THIS MONTH’S FREE* YARN BUNDLE, WORTH OVER £20! Be inspired by the rainbow of shades available in this fantastic yarn collection! This bumper set is available for free* and contains 22 balls of yarn, including brilliant ombre effects. Whether you love knitting or crochet, there’s plenty to keep your crafty fingers busy. Turn to page 52 to claim your bundle today! *UK customers only, just pay postage EASY UNICORN KIT WITH SPARKLY YARN 07 letsknit.co.uk JUST FOR YOU THIS MONTH INTRODUCING THE LOVABLE RASCALS! Make Sachiyo Ishii’s three cheeky monkeys using your yarn pack and add colours from your stash to complete their sweet outfits. These quick-to-knit critters are so simple to make. Plus, there are two adorable puppy patterns to knit too! N o . 1 f o r g i f t s Meet Sparkle-Dash! Steffi Hochfellner’s magical unicorn pal can be made using your exclusive kit. We’ve given you all the yarn you need, including our special glittery turquoise yarn to add a touch of unicorn magic! The instruction leaflet is in the box too. This issue, we’re delighted to present a fantastic extra pattern book from Rico Design. You’ll find eight fun and stylish knits for women and babies in your bonus collection. Enjoy! 150g bumper kit including fabulous sparkle yarn for only £7.99*! Simply visit magazinestoyou.com or call 0800 904 7000 *T&Cs: postage charges apply. Limited stock available. LOVE YOUR YARN KIT? GET MORE! Coming next issue! JUNE ISSUE OF LET’S KNIT ON SALE THURSDAY 7TH MAY DON’T MISS WOW! PATTERN BOOK EXTRA 8 stylish knits from Rico Design
08 letsknit.co.uk Love it! DRINK UP Your crafting coffee breaks will never be the same again thanks to this funky mug! Featuring a sleepy sloth who echoes the sentiments of knitters everywhere, it would make a fantastic addition to your kitchen collection. This mug would also work as a thoughtful gift for someone in your creative circle. Made using high quality ceramic and printed with non-scratch inks, this handmade delight costs £10.99 from livecreategrowgifts.etsy.com Hang On When you’re not drinking from your cheerful new mug, you could be embracing the sloth trend with these super-cute creations from King Cole. Knitted in Tinsel Chunky and DK, these critters could be just the answer to treating the little one in your life. Alternatively, you could just embrace the inevitable and keep a sparkly sloth for yourself – don’t worry, we won’t tell! For stockists visit kingcole.com SEE IT, WANT IT, LIBBY LOUGHNAN PRESENTS OUR TOP BUYS FOR MAY! Don’t be Sheepish Where better to store your favourite yarns and WIPs than in a stylish Japanese Knot bag? This reversible accessory is 100% cotton and has been handmade in the UK. Measuring 27cm x 33cm, it requires no zips or fastenings. Instead, you can close your bag by simply slipping the long handle through the short one. £15 from woolymonkeyshop.etsy.com Make a Statement Taken from Paintbox Yarn’s Accidental Icon collection, this stunning garment is as fun to knit as it is to wear! It has been created using slipped stitches and simple shaping techniques. What’s more, monochrome pieces never go out of fashion. The pattern for the Dazzling Dotted Cape is available as a free download from lovecrafts.com
09 letsknit.co.uk Shop the COLLECTION Supported by KnitPro, Stitchtopia Craft Holidays has announced an exciting new adventure for 2021. Knitters and crocheters alike will visit India, taking in the sites of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. There will be two workshops run by designer Carol Meldrum featuring an exclusive project made from Stylecraft yarn. Guests will also visit KnitPro’s factory to learn how the company supports its female employees and will leave with a goodie bag worth £100. The second visit will be to a village school near New Delhi that is supported by KnitPro. The holiday costs £3,799 and can be booked through arenatravel.com “It means so much to all the staff and students to have visitors, we can’t wait for you to arrive.” Shirish Jain, Executive Vice President at KnitPro Plan-ahead Hols! Ready for blast off! Two- to ned style KNITTING NOTIONS Protect your projects with these snag-free stitch markers. Available in striking red, orange and yellow shades, they have been made from lightweight anodised aluminium. Consequently these accessories won’t just be easy to spot, they will also do their job without pulling your work out of shape. Handmade in the UK, they cost £4.50 from kopouk.etsy.com WHAT’S New 1 3 2 Good Wreath! If you are searching for a selection of projects that will keep you busy all year long, look no further than this exciting new release from Search Press. Crocheted Wreaths for the Home by Anna Nikipirowicz features 12 beautiful wreaths, alongside a selection of smaller designs for you to enjoy. From beautiful birds to pretty pumpkins, Nikipirowicz has an enviable eye for detail. RRP £12 .99. searchpress.com 1 Here at Let’s Knit HQ we’re loving this stylish Rocket Sweater from Bergère de France. An excellent option from the MAG. No31-Enfant collection, this classic knit is not to be missed! 2 Another brilliant pick is this Zipped Hooded Cardigan. Designed with knowledgeable knitters in mind, it features a stunning jacquard pattern and a practical pocket. 3 There are few things we love more than a trendy two-tone sweater and Bergère de France have won our hearts with this particular project. Super-soft and gloriously vibrant, it can be made for ages 4-12 years. This inspirational collection costs £7 from bergeredefrance.co.uk Cute Collection In celebration of its gorgeous Bo Peep Pure baby yarn, West Yorkshire Spinners has released an irresistible collection of knits for infants. Designed by Jenny Watson and featuring a palette of eight solid shades, this stunning range of designs includes smart sweaters, pretty cardigans, gorgeous accessories and so much more. £12 .95 from wyspinners.com
10 letsknit.co.uk Post / Email / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest Knit It, Write It, SHARE IT Star Letter Your wreath is wonderful, Caroline! LK reader Caroline has won two balls of West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4ply PRINTED QUOTES WIN A £10 VOUCHER TO SPEND AT BLACK SHEEP WOOLS! WE LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU – CHECK OUT YOUR AMAZING PROJECTS IN THIS MONTH’S READER GALLERY! Why I Love Knitting! “I love to knit because it ’s therapeutic and stops me overthinking” Alison Balmer Our Star Letter winner, Sheila, has won four balls of Rico Creative Silky Touch DK, plus needles and hooks. Hi there, Let’s Knit! The 4th Dunstable Scout group have been fundraising to build a new scout hut for a number of years and just when they thought they had enough money and planning permission was granted, due to unforeseen circumstances, they now need to raise another £50,000! I thought I would use my knitting skills to try and help out. Each small character is different and contains a creme egg - there are 50 in total. The larger rabbit is for an Easter Guess The Name competition. Hopefully they will help in some small way. Sheila Jackson This is very impressive Sheila. Well done! With Father’s Day coming up in June, you might want to start thinking of some handknitted gift ideas. We’ve collected some great pattern suggestions and put them all together in our Makes for Men board over on Pinterest - including this stylish knit from Martin Storey. Check out our ideas at pinterest.com/letsknitmag © R o w a n Pinspiration! “This is our take on the Celebration Wreath from the March issue 2018. The ladies in our ‘Craft and Chatter’ group all contributed and I supplied your magazine! We all do our own crafts and some people play Scrabble, which is why the capital letters on the wreath are numbered.” Caroline Mobbs Make of the MONTH
11 letsknit.co .uk YOUR Letters Look What You’ve Made! Emma Thrippleton Anne Watts You OUR FAB YARN KITS! You were busy making fab and fluffy Easter knits with our Springtime Friends kit. Here are a few of your super snaps! Sarah Mason BUNNY BONNET “My take on the bunny hat from issue 155” Julia Brown We love it, Julia! Visit facebook.com/letsknitmag every Monday for your chance to enter! EVERY MONDAY OUR FACEBOOK FANS SHARE THEIR LATEST KNITS IN OUR READER MAKES COMPETITION. HERE ARE A FEW OF OUR FAVES . Debs Sherry-Brennan PLA-KNIT OF THE APES “My son asked me to make Ozzie for him. He absolutely loves it and said Ozzie is for short but he’d like to call him Oswold!” Katie Wright You’ve done a great job with Oswold, Katie! GIRL POWER “ I just wanted to share my cavegirl knit with you” Kayleigh Knight This is fabulous, Kayleigh! GET IN TOUCH facebook.com/letsknitmag pinterest.com/letsknitmag twitter.com/letsknitmag instagram.com/letsknitmag EMAIL adrienne.chandler@aceville.co.uk POST Let’s Knit, 1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, CO2 8JY with your stories and snaps We want to recognise those of you who regularly send in your photos of kit makes, so look out for this little logo. You’re amazing! HSTAR MAKER ANIMAL ANTICS “ I enjoyed knitting the bunnies from the February issue so I decided to knit some for our Guild March Coffee Morning. Here are some of them.” Isabel Telfer They’re really sweet, Isabel EASTER FUN “ Easter decorations from 2018’s 16 Easy Knits for Spring” Lesley Bath These look fantastic! LOVE HEARTS “ One hundred blue hearts! I fell in love with the heart garland (LK 154) and thought that it would be just right to decorate the upcoming wedding of my son and future daughter-in-law. My mum and I have been working hard at making these and other craft projects!” Sara Dray This is such a lovely idea, Sara! Elaine Edwards Beth Moore H S T A R M A K E R Debbie Marshall-Osborne Lindley Christine Diane H S T A R M A K E R HSTAR MAKER
12 letsknit.co .uk This month we’re being inspired by pretty pastel shades and gorgeous spring blooms, plus we’re exploring the online crafting community! 4 CRAFTY WEBSITES TO VISIT TODAY 1 TOP CROCHET PATTERNS Our sister site is full of quick makes. topcrochetpatterns.com 2CRAFTS BEAUTIFUL Whatever your hobby, be inspired with this great selection. crafts-beautiful.com 3PAPERCRAFTER There's more than just stationery here. papercraftermagazine.co .uk 4SEW Whip up garments galore with these patterns and ideas. sewmag.co.uk IF YOU’VE MISSED AN ISSUE OF YOUR FAVOURITE KNITTING MAGAZINE, THEN WORRY NOT! YOU CAN BUY DIGITAL COPIES OF ISSUES DATING BACK TO JANUARY 2011. THEY CANBEREADONAPC, MAC, IPAD, IPHONE, ANDROID DEVICE OR AMAZON KINDLE FIRE. VISIT POCKETMAGS. COM/LETS-KNIT- MAGAZINE TO BROWSE AND BUY. STAY IN AND CHECK OUT THESE GREAT IDEAS WATCH & LISTEN KEEP YOURSELF BUSY WITH THESE GREAT FINDS! LK Blog of the Month We love a long weekend! Find great Bank Holiday Knits ideas with our What To Make In Just Three Days feature at letsknit.co .uk/blog Listen to this! if you need to keep your eyes on your WIP, why not listen to the fantastic selection of podcasts, radio shows, comedy, drama and much more at bbc.co .uk/sounds Vlog Spot Trisha (a.k .a TyeDyeDiva) and Arthella (Heiress Knits) share their latest projects and discuss the joys of living a creative life in their Best Day Ever! Crafting Podcast. Search on youtube.com to be inspired! Handmade at HOME WHAT TO DO Today! Knitting Group News It’s such a joy to craft alongside fellow fibre fans, and knitting groups are a great way to do just that. Being stuck indoors doesn't mean having to miss out, as there are virtual groups online that allow you to continue sharing your works in progress. The UK Hand Knitting Association's Facebook page is an ideal place to start your search. Discover DIGITAL DON'T FORGET There are two Bank Holidays in May which means longer weekends and more knitting time! Remember, the May Day Bank Holiday has been moved to Friday 8th May to commemorate VE Day. SORT YOUR STASH Staying at home provides a great opportunity to sort through your yarn stash and put it into some semblance of order. People like to organise in different ways so if your first thought is colour, that’s how you should categorise your stash. Other people prefer to sort by yarn weight or fibre. We’ve got some brilliant stash-busting project ideas over on page 56. Great Idea
YOUR 14 PAGE FASHION SPECIAL G R E A T G R E A T c o l o u r c o m b o PAIR WITH JEANS FOR EVERYDAY STYLE If sewing up is your least favourite part of knitting, then a) you’re not alone, and b) we’ve got five fabulous patterns to solve that problem in one fell swoop. Working in the round automatically eliminates side seams, and we’ve also got one-piece knits that are created from the top down. Try incorporating the sleeves into the body, like in Anniken Allis’s beautiful batwing design (p24), or pick up and knit to join your elements together. It’s time to get clever with construction! Which will you make first? Butterfly Stitch Top PAGE 20 Collection PAGE 16 14 letsknit.co.uk The Seamless CHOOSE FUSS-FREE FINISHING WITH THESE GORGEOUS KNITS GIVE STRIPES A LIFT WITH THIS CLEVER STITCH PATTERN! Top-Down Lace Cardigan Perfect for summer
15 letsknit.co.uk THE STYLE Edit Delightful denim Love the eyelet detail Simple colourwork CLASSIC CLASSIC moss stitch LOOK FORWARD TO SUMMER WITH THIS PRETTY KNIT THIS TEXTURED COTTON COVER-UP IS MADE IN ONE PIECE GET CREATIVE WITH YARN CAKES ITH FOR PAGE 26 Batwing Lace Top PAGE 24 Stranded Jumper PAGE 22 Waterfall Cardigan
LET THE YARN DO THE COLOURWORK IN JO ALLPORT’S STATEMENT KNIT We think self-patterning yarns are brilliant. They allow you to add vibrant colour effects to your projects with zero effort on your part. That means you can focus on your shaping and in this case, get to grips with lace. For the body of the cardigan you’ll be able to work on your eyelet pattern without worrying about shaping, but for the sleeves you’ll be decreasing as you go. Have a read through the pattern before you begin so you know what to expect. Top Down LACE CARDIGAN 16 letsknit.co.uk MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 8 (10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26) To fit chest (cm): 81 (86, 91, 97, 102, 107, 112, 117, 122, 127) Actual chest (cm): 91 (95, 100, 105, 112, 118, 123, 128, 133, 139) Actual length to shoulder (approx, cm): 55 (56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 61, 62, 62) Sleeve length (cm): 43 (46, 46, 46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 48, 48) KNIT KIT Yarn: Stylecraft Regatta, shade 1741 Harbour, 4 (5, 5, 5, 6, 6, 6, 7, 7, 7) 100g balls Needles: 3.25mm, 4mm, both circular and double-pointed Stitch markers: four Stitch holders and waste yarn Buttons: 9 (9, 9, 9, 9, 9, 10, 10, 10, 10) Tapestry needle TENSION SQUARE n21stsx30rows n 10cm x 10cm n Lace pattern n 4mm needles FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Stylecraft Regatta is a DK yarn comprising 74% cotton, 18% polyamide and 8% polyester elastane. There are six shades and projects can be machine washed. It costs £4.59 per 100g (260m) ball from 01924 565740 woolnstuff.co.uk E X C L U S IVE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O • EXC L U S I V E T O • 19 17 15 13 11 9 7 5 3 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 LACE PATTERN (FLAT) CHART KEY RS: knit WS: purl RS: ssk WS: p2tog tbl RS: k2tog WS: p2tog RS: sl 1, k2tog, psso 10 st patt rep RS: yfwd WS: yrn 19 17 15 13 11 9 7 5 3 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 LACE PATTERN (IN THE ROUND) CHART LACE PATTERN - WORKED FLAT NOTE: Worked over a multiple of 10 sts plus 11, and 20 rows £Row1(RS):ktoend £Row2andfollWSrows:p to end £ Row 3: k5, * k5, yfwd, ssk, k3, rep from * to last six sts, k6 £ Row 5: k1, yfwd, ssk, k2, * k3, k2tog, yfwd, k1, yfwd, ssk, k2, rep from * to last six sts, k3, k2tog, yfwd, k1 £ Row 7: k2, yfwd, ssk, k1, * k2, k2tog, yfwd, k3, yfwd, ssk, k1, rep from * to last six sts, k2, k2tog, yfwd, k2 £ Row 9: k3, yfwd, ssk, * k1, k2tog, yfwd, k5, yfwd, ssk, rep from * to last six sts, k1, k2tog, yfwd, k3 £Row11:k4,yfwd, * sl1, k2tog, psso, yfwd, k7, yfwd, rep from * to last seven sts, sl 1, k2tog, psso, yfwd, k4 £ Row 13: k5, * k5, yfwd, ssk, k3, rep from * to last six sts, k6 £ Row 14: p1, yrn, p2tog, p3, * p2, p2tog tbl, yrn, p1, yrn, p2tog, p3, rep from * to last five sts, p2, p2tog tbl, yrn, p1 £Row15:asRow7 £ Row 16: p3, yrn, p2tog, p1, * p2tog tbl, yrn, p5, yrn, p2tog, p1, rep from * to last five sts, p2tog tbl, yrn, p3 £Row17:asRow11 £Row18:ptoend £Row19:ktoend £Row20:ptoend LACE PATTERN - IN THE ROUND NOTE: Worked over a multiple of 10 sts plus 11, and 20 rnds £Rnds1-2:ktoend £ Rnd 3: k5, * k5, yfwd, ssk, k3, rep from * to last six sts, k6 £ Rnd 4 and four foll alt rnds: k to end £ Rnd 5: k1, yfwd, ssk, k2, * k3, k2tog, yfwd, k1, yfwd, ssk, k2, rep from * to last six sts, k3, k2tog, yfwd, k1 £ Rnd 7: k2, yfwd, ssk, k1, * k2, k2tog, yfwd, k3, yfwd, ssk, k1, rep from * to last six sts, k2, k2tog, yfwd, k2 £ Rnd 9: k3, yfwd, ssk, * k1, k2tog, yfwd, k5, yfwd, ssk, rep from * to last six sts, k1, k2tog, yfwd, k3 £ Rnd 11: k4, yfwd, * sl 1, k2tog, psso, yfwd, k7, yfwd, rep from * to last seven sts, sl 1, k2tog, psso, yfwd, k4 £ Rnd 13: k5, * k5, yfwd, ssk, k3, rep from * to last six sts, k6 £Rnd14:asRnd5 £Rnd15:asRnd7 £Rnd16:asRnd9 £Rnd17:asRnd11 £ Rnds 18-20: k to end CORNER Construction This cardi is knitted flat on circular needles, starting at the neckline and working from the top down. This means you will be increasing for your raglan sleeves. Once you have divided for the body, continue to work the left and right fronts together with the back in rows. The sleeves are also worked from the top down but in the round using double-pointed needles or a short circular needle.
17 letsknit.co.uk THE STYLE Edit Brand new YARN! YARN! Super-comfy cotton cardi
18 letsknit.co.uk T - s h i r t , £ 4 . 9 9 , T . K . M a x x , J e a n s , f r o m a s e l e c t i o n a t D e b e n h a m s NECKLINE Using 3.25mm circular needles, cast on 131 (133, 135, 139, 145, 151, 155, 161, 165, 173) sts Do not join in the rnd £Ribrow1(RS):k1, * p1,k1,rep from * to end £Ribrow2:*p1,k1,repfrom*to last st, p1 These two rows set Single rib £ Cont in rib until work meas 2cm, ending after a WS row Change to 4mm circular needles and work as folls: £ Row 1 (RS): k21 (21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31) for Right Front, pm, k21 for Right Sleeve, pm, k47 (49, 49, 51, 55, 57, 59, 63, 65, 69) for Back, pm, k21 for Left Sleeve, pm, k21 (21, 22, 23, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31) for Left Front £ Row 2: p to end slipping all markers £Row3(inc):*ktoonestbefore marker, yfwd, k1, sm, k1, yfwd, rep from * to one st before last marker, yfwd, k1, sm, k1, yfwd, k to end. 139 (141, 143, 147, 153, 159, 163, 169, 173, 181) sts £ Row 4: p to end slipping all markers £ Rep Rows 3-4 until there are 267 (293, 295, 323, 337, 367, 379, 393, 405, 421) sts, ending after a WS row £Nextrow(RS):*ktoonest before marker, m1, k1, sm, k1, m1, rep from * to one st before last marker, m1, k1, sm, k1, m1, k to end. 275 (301, 303, 331, 345, 375, 387, 401, 413, 429) sts £ Work three rows in st st £Replastfourrows3(2,3,2,2, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1) times more. 299 (317, 327, 347, 361, 383, 395, 409, 421, 437) sts £Nextrow(RS):*ktoonest before marker, m1, k1, sm, k1, m1, rep from * to one st before last marker, m1, k1, sm, k1, m1, k to end. 307 (325, 335, 355, 369, 391, 403, 417, 429, 445) sts £Nextrow:ptoend NOTE: there are now 43 (45, 47, 50, 52, 56, 58, 60, 62, 65) sts each for Left and Right Fronts, 91 (97, 99, 105, 111, 117, 121, 127, 131, 137) sts for Back, and 65 (69, 71, 75, 77, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89) sts for each Sleeve Divide for body £ Next row (RS): k43 (45, 47, 50, 52, 56, 58, 60, 62, 65), turn, cast on8(8,10,10,12,12,14,14,16, 16) sts, sl next 65 (69, 71, 75, 77, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89) sts onto waste yarn for Sleeve, k 91 (97, 99, 105, 111, 117, 121, 127, 131, 137) sts for Back, turn, cast on 8 (8, 10, 10, 12, 12, 14, 14, 16, 16) sts, sl next 65 (69, 71, 75, 77, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89) sts onto waste yarn for Sleeve, k43 (45, 47, 50, 52, 56, 58, 60, 62, 65). 193 (203, 213, 225, 239, 253, 265, 275, 287, 299) sts £ Beg with a WS row, work nine rows in st st £ Next row (RS, dec): k12 (11, 11, 13, 15, 10, 11, 16, 13, 12), * k2tog, k22 (18, 19, 20, 21, 19, 20, 20, 18, 19), rep from * to last 13 (12, 13, 14, 17, 12, 12, 17, 14, 14) sts, k2tog, k to end. 185 (193, 203, 215, 229, 241, 253, 263, 273, 285) sts £Nextrow:ptoend Commence Lace Pattern as folls: £Row1(RS):k2(1,1,2,4,0,1,1, 1, 2), work Row 1 of Lace Pattern across 181 (191, 201, 211, 221, 241, 251, 261, 271, 281) sts, k2 (1, 1, 2, 4,0,1,1,1,2) £Row2:p2(1,1,2,4,0,1,1,1, 2), work Row 2 of Lace Pattern across 181 (191, 201, 211, 221, 241, 251, 261, 271, 281) sts, p2 (1, 1, 2, 4,0,1,1,1,2) These two rows set position of Lace Pattern and 2 (1, 1, 2, 4, 0, 1, 1, 1, 2) sts at each edge worked instst £ Cont in Lace Pattern until body meas 30cm from underarm cast-on, ending after a Row 2,12,18or20 Change to 3.25mm needles £BegwithaRSrow,workin Single rib for 4cm, ending after a WS row £Castoffinrib SLEEVES (alike) With RS facing, transfer 65 (69, 71, 75, 77, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89) Sleeve sts onto 4mm dpns £Nextrnd:caston4(4,5,5,6, 6,7,7,8,8)sts,k65(69,71,75, 77, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89) sts, turn and caston4(4,5,5,6,6,7,7,8,8) sts, turn, join in the rnd, pm for beg of rnd. 73 (77, 81, 85, 89, 93, 97, 99, 103, 105) sts £Ksixrnds £ Next rnd (dec): k1, ssk, k to last three sts, k2tog, k1. 71 (75, 79, 83, 87, 91, 95, 97, 101, 103) sts £ K three rnds £ Next rnd (dec): k17 (18, 19, 10, 11, 11, 12, 11, 12, 13), * k2tog, k33 (34, 36, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 23), rep from * to last 19 (21, 22, 13, 13, 14, 14, 14, 14, 15) sts, k2tog, k to end. 69 (73, 77, 79, 83, 87, 91, 93, 97, 99) sts £Nextrnd:ktoend Commence Lace Pattern as folls: £Rnd1:k4(1,3,4,1,3,0,1,3,4), work Rnd 1 of Lace Pattern across 61 (71, 71, 71, 81, 81, 91, 91, 91, 91) sts,k4(1,3,4,1,3,0,1,3,4) This rnd sets position of Lace Patternand4(1,3,4,1,3,0,1,3, 4)stsateachedgeinstst £ Patt one rnd £ Next rnd: k1, ssk, patt to last three sts, k2tog, k1 £Continpattdecasseton every foll 8th (9th, 8th, 7th, 7th, 6th, 6th, 6th, 5th, 5th) row until 51 (51, 53, 53, 55, 55, 57, 57, 59, 59) sts rem £ Cont in patt without shaping until Sleeve meas 40 (43, 43, 43, 43, 44, 44, 45, 45, 45) cm, ending after a WS row “Some knitters find their tension when working in the round is different than when knitting flat. Be aware of this when you come to knit the sleeves” LK Deputy Editor, Adrienne Chandler Start knitting here...
19 letsknit.co.uk 19 letsknit.co.uk THE STYLE Edit £ Next rnd: k2tog, k to end. 50 (50, 52, 52, 54, 54, 56, 56, 58, 58) sts Change to 3.25mm dpns £ Next rnd: * k1, p1, rep from *toend £ Rep last rnd until Sleeve meas 43 (46, 46, 46, 46, 47, 47, 48, 48, 48) cm £Castoffinrib BUTTON BAND £ Using 3.25mm circular needle and with RS facing, pick up and k 113 (115, 117, 117, 119, 121, 123, 123, 125, 125) sts evenly along Left front edge £BegwithaWSrow,workin Single rib as given for Neckband until Buttonband meas 3cm, ending after a RS row £Castoffinrib BUTTONHOLE BAND £ Using 3.25mm circular needle and with RS facing, pick up and k 113 (115, 117, 117, 119, 121, 123, 123, 125, 125) sts evenly along Right front edge £BegwithaWSrow,workin Single rib as given for Neckband until Buttonhole band meas 1.5cm, ending after a WS row £ Buttonhole row (RS): rib 4 (6, 8, 8, 10, 12, 1, 1, 3, 3) sts, yfwd, k2tog, * rib 11 sts, k2tog, yo, rep from * to last three sts, rib to end £ Cont in rib as set until Buttonhole band meas 3cm, ending after a RS row £Castoffinrib TO MAKE UP Sew underarm seam. Attach buttons to correspond with buttonholes. Weave in ends. See ball band for further care instructions LK great ADVICE “Make sure each decrease within the lace pattern is matched by an increase. If there are insufficient stitches to work the increase and decrease, work these stitches in stocking stitch.” LK DESIGNER, Jo Allport L o v e ly lac e d e tails
20 letsknit.co.uk SAY BYE-BYE TO SHAPING WITH TINA BARRETT’S SUMMER TOP This glorious garment may have colourwork and it may have texture but it is actually one of the easiest designs you’ll see this season! The fuss-free rectangular shape means you can put all your attention into mastering the butterfly stitch effect. It’s also mostly worked in the round so the only seams you have to sew up are the shoulders. We love it! Butterfly Stitch VEST MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 8-10 (12-14, 16-18, 20, 22-24) To fit chest (cm): 81-86 (91-97, 102-107, 112, 117-122) Actual chest (cm): 91 (100, 109, 118, 127) Length from shoulder: 47 (47, 49.5, 49.5, 52) KNIT KIT Yarn: Cascade Yarns Ultra Pima, shades (A) 3832 Teal, (B) 3718 Cream, (C) 3750 Orange, (D) 3731 Light Blue, two 100g skeins of each Needles: 4mm straight, 4mm circular Waste yarn Stitch marker Tapestry needle NOTE: only a small amount of second skein of each colour may be required TENSION SQUARE n22stsx39rnds n 10cm x 10cm n Body Butterfly Stitch n 4mm needles n22stsx37rows n 10cm x 10cm n Yoke Butterfly Stitch n 4mm needles SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS k1 uls: insert right needle under loose strands then k tog with next st FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Cascade Yarns Ultra Pima is a machine washable DK cotton yarn that has been mercerised to give it strength and shine. The tightly spun finish gives wonderful stitch definition and there are over 100 shades to choose from. It costs £5.49 per 100g (200m) skein from 0800 505 3300, woolwarehouse.co.uk 10% OFF AT WOOL WAREHOUSE USE THE CODE LK157 NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? Drops Muskat is a machine washable pure cotton yarn that comes in a rainbow of shades. It costs £1.50 per 50g (100m) ball from purplesheepyarns.co .uk E X C L U S IVE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O • EXC L U S I V E T O • FRONT AND BACK Using 4mm circular needles and yarn A, cast on 200 (220, 240, 260, 280) sts, join in the rnd taking care not to twist sts, pm for beg of rnd £Ponernd £Konernd £ Rep last two rnds Commence Body Butterfly Stitch as folls: £Rnd1:*sl5wyif,yb,k5,rep from * to end £Rnd2:ktoend £ Rnds 3-6: rep Rnds 1-2 twice £Rnd7:asRnd1 Change to yarn B £Rnd8:k2, * k1uls,k9,repfrom * to last eight sts, k1 uls, k7 £Rnd9:*k5,sl5wyif,yb,rep from * to end £Rnd10:ktoend £ Rnds 11-14: rep Rnds 9-10 twice £Rnd15:asRnd9 Change to yarn C £Rnd16:k7,k1uls, * k9,k1uls, rep from * to last two sts, k2 Rnds 1-16 set Body patt. Cont as set changing colours on Rnds 8 and 16 in foll stripe sequence: yarn D, yarn A, yarn B, yarn C £ Cont in patt until work meas approx 27cm, ending after a Rnd7inyarnA Divide for armholes Place first 100 (110, 120, 130, 140) sts on 4mm straight needle and leave rem sts on waste yarn £ Next row: using yarn B, k2, * k1uls,k9,repfrom*tolast eight sts, k1 uls, k7 Cont in Yoke Butterfly Stitch as folls: £Row1(WS):ptoend £Row2:*k5,sl5wyif,yb, rep from * to end £Row3:ptoend £ Rows 4-9: rep Rows 2-3 three times Change to yarn C £Row10:k7,k1uls, * k9,k1uls, rep from * to last two sts, k2 £Row11:ptoend £Row12:*sl5wyif,yb,k5, rep from * to end £ Rows 13-19: rep Rows 11-12 three times, then Row 11 again Change to yarn D £Row20:k2, * k1uls,k9,rep from * to last eight sts, k1 uls, k7 Rows 1-20 set Yoke patt £ Cont in Yoke patt changing colours on Rows 10 and 20 in Start knitting here... Fab colour combo!
THE STYLE Edit 21 letsknit.co.uk Stitch this skirt! Find the pattern in the April 2020 issue of Sew magazine. Buy it at giftstoyou.com 8-24! 8-24! Sizes B r a c e l e t , £ 1 0 . 5 0 , N e x t stitches To get the best effect for the Butterfly stitch pattern, slip the stitches purlwise. Your strands should be nice and even – too tight and your fabric will pucker, but too loose and your pattern will be uneven. Spread the slipped stitches out on your right needle before taking the yarn to the back to maintain an even tension. Slipping stripe sequence as set until work meas approx 46 (46, 48.5, 48.5, 51) cm, ending after a Row 9 (9, 19, 19, 9) Change to yarn A £ Next row: as Row 10 (10, 20, 20, 10) £Nextrow:ptoend £ K four rows £ Cast off loosely kwise £ Return rem sts to needle and complete as first side TO MAKE UP Weave in loose yarn ends and steam top into shape with an iron. Join shoulder seams leaving central neck opening 28cm wide ARMHOLE EDGINGS £ Using 4mm circular needle and yarn A, pick up and k 108 (108, 122, 122, 136) sts around armhole edge. Join in the rnd taking care not to twist sts. Pm for beg of rnd £Ponernd £Konernd £Ponernd £ Cast off loosely pwise Weave in ends LK
This wow garment from Bernat is actually a lot simpler than it looks. What’s the secret? Self-striping yarn! It adds a whole new dimension to classic two-colour stranded colourwork. The knitted colour changes happen at frequent intervals too so you don’t need to worry about catching your floats while you knit. The yoke is shaped using short rows. You can read more about them in our information panel below. 22 letsknit.co.uk Stranded JUMPER USE YARN CAKES TO GREAT EFFECT WITH THIS STATEMENT SWEATER “If you need to wind off a section of yarn to get to your preferred neckband shade, make sure you keep the spare yarn in case you need it later” LK Deputy Editor, Adrienne Chandler MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Size: XS-S (M, L, XL, 2-3XL, 4-5XL) To fit chest (cm): 71-86.5 (91.5-96 .5, 101.5-106.5, 112-117, 122-137, 142-157.5) Actual chest (cm): 106.5 (117, 129.5, 139.5, 165, 175.5) Length (cm): 61 (61, 63.5, 66, 71, 74) KNIT KIT Yarn: Bernat® POP!TM, shades (A) 84001 Scarlet Sizzle, (B) 84006 Gold River Rush, 2 (3, 3, 4, 4, 5) 140g balls of each Needles: 5mm (40cm) circular, 5.5mm (80cm) circular, 5mm and 5.5mm, both double-pointed, sets of four Stitch markers Tapestry needle TENSION SQUARE n16stsx20rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 5.5mm needles FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Bernat® POP!TM is an aran-weight acrylic yarn cake that produces wonderful self-striping effects. Projects can be machine washed and even tumble-dried. It costs £5.99 per 140g (256m) ball from, woolwarehouse.co .uk 10% OFF AT WOOL WAREHOUSE USE THE CODE LK157 BODY NOTE: worked from top down. Choose specific shade from yarn A for neckband Using 5mm circular needle and yarn A, cast on 64 (68, 72, 76, 80, 84) sts, join in the rnd taking care not to twist sts, pm for beg of rnd £ Rib rnd (RS): * k2, p2, rep from *toend £ Rep last rnd five times more, pm on last rnd Change to 5.5mm circular needle and commence short-row shaping as folls: NOTE: when working back over a wrapped st, work wrap tog with st (see p97) £ Row 1 (RS): k8 (10, 12, 14, 18, 22), w&t £ Row 2: p8 (10, 12, 14, 18, 22), sm, p8 (10, 12, 14, 18, 22), w&t £ Row 3: k8 (10, 12, 14, 18, 22), sm, k12 (14, 16, 18, 22, 26), w&t £ Row 4: p12 (14, 16, 18, 22, 26), sm, p12 (14, 16, 18, 22, 26), w&t £ Row 5: k12 (14, 16, 18, 22, 26), sm, k16 (18, 20, 22, 26, 30), w&t £ Row 6: p16 (18, 20, 22, 22, 30), sm, p16 (18, 20, 22, 22, 30), w&t £ Row 7: k16 (18, 20, 22, 26, 30), sm, k20 (22, 24, 26, 30, 34), w&t £ Row 8: p20 (22, 24, 26, 30, 34), sm, p20 (22, 24, 26, 30, 34), w&t £ Row 9: k20 (22, 24, 26, 30, 34). 64 (68, 72, 76, 80, 84) sts £ K one rnd, working wraps tog with sts £ Next rnd (inc): * k1, m1, rep from * to end. 128 (136, 144, 152, 160, 168) sts Commence colourwork as folls: NOTE: letter foll instruction indicates yarn shade £Rnds1-4:*k2A,k2B,repfrom *toend £Rnds5-8:*k2B,k2A,rep from * to end Rnds 1-8 set patt £ Next rnd (inc): * k2 A, [m1, k1] B, [k1, m1] A, k2 B, [m1, k1] A, [k1, m1] B, rep from * to end. 192 (204, 216, 228, 240, 252) sts £Nextthreernds:*k2A,k2B, rep from * to end £Nextfourrnds:*k2B,k2A, rep from * to end £ Next rnd (inc): * k2 A, [k1, m1] B, rep from * to end. 256 (272, 288, 304, 320, 336) sts £Nextthreernds:*k2A,k2B, rep from * to end £Nextfourrnds:*k2B,k2A, rep from * to end Second and third sizes only £ Next rnd (inc): keeping patt correct and beg with yarn A, * k- (17, 8, -, -, - ), m1, rep from * to end. - (288, 324, -, -, -)sts Fourth and sixth sizes only £ Next rnd (inc): keeping patt correct and beg with yarn A, k- ( -, -, 7, -, 11),m1,[k-(-, -,8,-,7),m1, k- (-, -, 9, -, 8),m1]-(-, -, 17, -, 21) times, k- ( -, -,8,-,10),m1. - (-, -, 340, -, 380) sts Fifth size only £ Next rnd (inc): keeping patt correct and beg with yarn A, k6, m1, * k4, m1, [k5, m1] twice, rep from * to last six sts, k6, m1. 388 sts Second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth sizes only £Nextthreernds:*k2A,k2B, rep from * to end £Nextfourrnds:*k2B,k2A, rep from * to end Sixth size only £ Next rnd (inc): keeping patt correct and beg with yarn A, * k9,m1,k10,m1,repfrom*to end. 420 sts Start knitting here... ROWS Short Short row shaping is great for adding subtle curves to your work, and is a good choice for shaping the yoke on a top-down garment. When worked properly, it can almost be invisible on your finished project. To do it, turn your knitting part way through the row and carry on back along the stitches you have just worked. This means some sections will have more rows than others and that’s what gives the curve. Find instructions on how to wrap your stitches and work a wrap together with a stitch on page 97.
23 letsknit.co.uk THE STYLE Edit Fun with YARN YARN CAKES CAKES All sizes £ Keeping patt correct and beg with yarn A, cont in patt until work meas 25.5 (25.5, 28, 28, 30.5, 30.5) cm from marked rnd ending after a patt Rnd 8 Divide Body and Sleeves £ Next rnd: patt 40 (44, 48, 52, 62, 66), sl next 48 (56, 66, 66, 70, 78) sts onto waste yarn for Right Sleeve, cast on 4 (4, 6, 6, 6, 6) sts in patt for underarm, patt 80 (88, 96, 104, 124, 132) sts, sl next 48 (56, 66, 66, 70, 78) sts onto waste yarn for Left Sleeve, cast on 4 (4, 6, 6, 6, 6) sts in patt for underarm, patt to end of rnd. 168 (184, 204, 220, 260, 276) sts for Body £ Cont in patt until Body meas 30.5 (30.5, 30.5, 33, 35.5, 38) cm from divide Change to 5mm circular needle and preferred shade for rib £ Next rnd: * k2, p2, rep from *toend £ Rep last rnd for 5cm £ Cast off loosely in rib SLEEVES £Sl48(56,66,66,70,78)sts from waste yarn onto 5.5mm dpns,pickupandk2(2,3,3,3, 3) sts along armhole divide, pm forbegofrnd,pickupandk2(2, 3, 3, 3, 3) sts along rem edge of armhole divide. 52 (60, 72, 72, 76, 84) sts £ Cont in patt until work meas 11.5 (10, 10, 7.5, 2.5, 2.5) cm from Sleeve divide £ Next rnd: ssk, patt to two sts before marker, k2tog. 50 (58, 70, 70, 74, 82) sts £Work8(6,3,4,4,4)rnds without shaping £ Keeping patt correct, rep last 9 (7,4,5,5,5)rnds5(7,13,11,13,13) times more. 40 (44, 44, 48, 48, 56) sts Change to 5mm dpns and preferred shade for rib £ Next rnd: * k2, p2, rep from *toend £ Rep last rnd for 5cm £CastoffinribLK Bring a smile with cheery shades
24 letsknit.co.uk 24 letsknit.co.uk A super-comfy shape and simple eyelet detail make this a winner for your new season collection. The loose fit is easy-to-wear and flattering too. We’ve chosen a cotton yarn which, as you can see, takes dye so well that you can get some really vibrant shades. It’s an affordable choice too at under £2 per ball so why not make multiple versions in different colourways! BODY Using 3.25mm long circular needle, cast on 212 (236, 256, 292) sts, join in the rnd being careful not to twist sts, pm for beg of rnd and after 106 (118, 128, 146) sts for side £Rnd1:[k2,p2]toend This rnd sets rib £ Rep last rnd until work meas 3cm £ Work in st st until Body meas 28 (28, 27.5, 27.5) cm Shape sleeves £Nextrnd:[k1,m1,ktoonest before marker, m1, k1] to end £ Rep last rnd 9 (20, 18, 10) times more. 252 (320, 332, 336) sts £ Cont to inc as set on every alt rnd 20 (8, 10, 14) times. 332 (352, 372, 392 ) sts Divide for front and back Leave 166 (176, 186, 196) sts for Front on holder and work on sts for Back only as folls: £ Next row (RS): k to end. 166 (176, 186, 196) sts £ Next row (WS): p to end £ Rep last two rows until work meas 5 (6, 6, 7) cm from divide, ending after a WS row £ Work Rows 1-8 of Chart 2 (2, 3, 3) times working 10-st rep 16 (17, 18, 19) times across row with edge sts as shown £ Cont in st st until Back meas 55 (57, 58.5, 60.5) cm from cast-on edge, ending after a WS row Shape right back neck £ Next row (RS): k59 (63, 67, 71), k2tog, k1, turn. 61 (65, 69, 73) sts Leave rem sts on holder £ Next row (WS): p1, p2tog, p to end. 60 (64, 68, 72) sts Leave rem sts on holder Shape left back neck Leave next 42 (44, 46, 48) sts on holder for Back neck and with RS facing, rejoin yarn to rem 62 (66, 70, 74) sts £ Next row (RS): k1, ssk, k to end. 61 (65, 69, 73) sts £ Next row (WS): p to last three sts, p2tog tbl, p1. 60 (64, 68, 72) sts Leave rem sts on holder FRONT With RS facing, rejoin yarn to rem 166 (176, 186, 196) sts £ Next row (RS): k to end £ Next row (WS): p to end £ Rep last two rows until work meas 5 (6, 6, 7) cm from divide, ending after a WS row £ Work Rows 1-8 of Chart 2 (2, 3, 3) times working 10-st rep 16 (17, 18, 19) times across row with edge sts as shown £ Cont in st st until Front has two rows fewer than Back to beg of neck shaping, ending after aWSrow Shape left front neck £ Next row (RS): k61 (65, 69, 73), k2tog, k1, turn. 63 (67, 71, 75) sts Leave rem sts on holder Batwing LACE TOP Start knitting here... BE BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL IN THIS LACY STUNNER FROM ANNIKEN ALLIS MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 6-8 (10-12, 14-16, 18-20) To fit hips (cm): 89 (100, 110, 126) Actual hips (cm): 101 (112.5, 122, 139) Length (cm): 57 (59, 60.5, 62.5) Cuff to cuff width (cm): 85 (90, 94.5, 99.5) KNIT KIT Yarn: Scheepjes Catona 4ply, shade 410 Rich Coral, 8 (9, 9, 10) 50g balls Needles: 3.25mm (40cm and 80cm) circular, 3.25mm double-pointed Stitch markers Stitch holder Tapestry needle TENSION SQUARE n21stsx32rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 3.25mm needles SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS sssk: one at a time, slip next three sts kwise, return sts to left needle and k these three sts together tbl FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Scheepjes Catona 4ply is a 100% mercerised machine- washable cotton giving projects excellent stitch definition, a pretty sheen and an elegant drape. Choose from 100 colour options. It also comes in 25g balls so check before you buy. It costs £1.99 per 50g (125m) ball from 0845 519 4573, deramores.com 15% OFF AT DERAMORES WHEN YOU SPEND OVER £20. USE THE CODE GREENAPPLE LOOK! Special discount packs with all the yarn you need are available at deramores.com/ collections/lets-knit WRITTEN CHART INSTRUCTIONS NOTE: patt rep is shown in square brackets £ Row 1 (RS): k3, [yfwd, k2, k3tog, (yfwd) twice, sssk, k2, yfwd] to last three sts, k3 £ Row 2 (WS): p3, [(p1 tbl, p4) twice] to last three sts, p3 £ Row 3: k3, [k1 tbl, yfwd, k2, ssk, k2tog, k2, yfwd, k1] to last three sts, k3 £Row4:ptoend £ Row 5: k3, [k1, k1 tbl, yfwd, k1, ssk, k2tog, k1, yfwd, k1 tbl, k1] to last three sts, k3 £Row6:ptoend £ Row 7: k3, [k2, k1 tbl, yfwd, ssk, k2tog, yfwd, k1 tbl, k2] to last three sts, k3 £Row8:ptoend These eight rows set patt 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 STITCH PATTERN KEY RS: knit WS: purl RS: k3tog RS: sssk RS: k2tog RS: ssk RS: k1 tbl WS: p1 tbl Pattern repeat RS: yfwd
25 letsknit.co.uk 25 letsknit.co.uk £ Next row (WS): p1, p2tog, p to end. 62 (66, 70, 74) sts £ Next row: k to last three sts, k2tog, k1. 61 (65, 69, 73) sts £ Next row: p1, p2tog, p to end. 60 (64, 68, 72) sts Leave rem sts on holder Shape right front neck Leave next 38 (40, 42, 44) sts on holder for Front neck and with RS facing, rejoin yarn to rem 64 (68, 72, 76) sts £ Next row (RS): k1, ssk, k to end. 63 (67, 71, 75) sts £ Next row (WS): p to last three sts, p2tog tbl, p1. 62 (66, 70, 74) sts £ Next row: k1, ssk, k to end. 61 (65, 69, 73) sts £ Next row: p to last three sts, p2tog tbl, p1. 60 (64, 68, 72) sts Leave rem sts on holder SLEEVE EDGING Join top of Sleeves/shoulders using a three-needle cast off on the WS £ Using 3.25mm dpns, with RS facing and beg at underarm, pick up and k 68 (72, 76, 80) sts around Sleeve, join in the rnd, pm for beg of rnd £ Rnds 1-10: k1, [p2, k2] to last three sts, p2, k1 £ Cast off in patt NECK EDGING £ Using 3.25mm short circular needle, with RS facing and beg at left shoulder, pick up and k eight sts to Front neck, k 38 (40 42, 44) sts from Front neck holder, pick up and k eight sts to right shoulder, two sts to Back neck, k 42 (44, 46, 48) sts from Back neck holder, pick up and k two sts to left shoulder, join in the rnd, pm for beg of rnd. 100 (104, 108, 112) sts £ Rnds 1-5: [k2, p2] to end £ Cast off in patt TO MAKE UP Weave in all loose ends. Block sweater to measurements by spraying it with water on both sides. Stretch to size and shape. Pin in place and leave to dry LK THE STYLE Edit UNDER UNDER £20! £20! All sizes f o r Hold the two sets of stitches parallel, right sides facing. Insert a third needle into the first stitch on the front and back needle, knit them together and slip them off the needles. Do the same in the second stitch on each needle. Lift the first stitch on the right needle over the second stitch and off the needle to cast off. Continue until all your stitches are cast off. CAST OFF Three-needle N e c k l a c e , £ 8 . 5 0 , N e x t ; J e a n s , £ 4 5 , R i v e r I s l a n d E X C L U S I VE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O • EXC L U S I V E T O •
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 6-8 (10-12, 14, 16, 18, 20) To fit chest (cm): 76-81 (86-91, 96, 102, 106, 112) Actual chest (cm): 90 (95, 100, 108, 115, 120) Length (cm): 41 (41.5, 43, 47, 50, 50) Underarm (cm): 23 (23, 24, 24, 25, 25) KNIT KIT Yarn: Drops Paris Recycled Denim, shade 102 Spray Blue, 11 (12, 13, 14, 16, 18) 50g balls Needles: 5mm (30cm and 120cm) circular, 4.5mm (120cm) circular Stitch holders Stitch markers Tapestry needle TENSION SQUARE n16.5stsx27rows n 10cm x 10cm n Moss stitch n 5mm needles (after wash-finishing) FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Drops Paris Recycled Denim is spun from thin strands of 100% recycled cotton. This eco-friendly fibre is incredibly soft and is available in a selection of subtle blue shades. Offering high absorbency and suited to a wide range of projects, it costs 85p per 50g (75m) ball from lindehobby.co.uk NEED AN ALTERNATIVE Rico Creative Cotton Aran is available in handy 50g balls. 100% cotton and suitable for machine washing on a gentle setting, this fibre comes in a wide range of shades and costs £2 per 50g (85m) ball from 0330 026 1400, hobbycraft.co.uk 26 letsknit.co.uk E X C L U S I V ET O • E X C L U S I V E T O • E XCL U S I V E T O • Recycled denim yarn great ADVICE “This yarn becomes tighter and evens out after washing so please make a moss stitch test swatch and wash-finish to test your tension. If you are substituting your yarn for one that doesn't respond in the same way, consider changing needle size or knitting a different size.” LK DESIGNER, Jacinta Bowie
For many knitters sewing up is the least enjoyable part of completing a project. Luckily, not all designs have this as a requirement. Knitted in one piece, this gorgeous denim garment is an excellent choice for crafters who are searching for a simple yet effective design. You should also consider taking on this project if you are a fan of moss stitch and would like to enhance your shaping skills. Waterfall CARDIGAN 27 letsknit.co.uk B l o u s e f r o m a s e l e c t i o n a t N e w L o o k ; T r o u s e r s , £ 8 0 , B e t t y B a r c l a y ; E a r r i n g s , £ 7 5 , Y a a Y a a L o n d o n CARDIGAN NOTE: made in one piece Using 4.5mm circular needle, cast on 140 (150, 160, 160, 164, 174) sts. Do NOT join in the rnd £Ksixrows Change to 5mm (120cm) circular needle £ Row 1: k4, pm, [p1, k1] 19 (20, 21, 21, 22, 23) times, pm, k4, pm, [p1, k1] 4 (5, 6, 6, 6, 7) times, pm, k4, pm, [p1, k1] 12 (13, 14, 14, 14, 15) times, pm, k4, pm, [p1, k1] 4 (5, 6, 6, 6, 7) times, pm, k4, pm, [p1, k1] 19 (20, 21, 21, 22, 23) times, pm, k4 £ Row 2: k4, sm, [k1, p1] 19 (20, 21, 21, 22, 23) times, sm, k4, sm, [k1, p1] 4 (5, 6, 6, 6, 7) times, sm, k4, sm, [k1, p1] 12 (13, 14, 14, 14, 15) times, sm, k4, sm, [k1, p1] 4 (5, 6, 6, 6, 7) times, sm, k4, sm, [k1, p1] 19 (20, 21, 21, 22, 23) times, sm, k4 £ Row 3: k4, sm, [p1, k1] 19 (20, 21, 21, 22, 23) times, sm, k4, sm, [p1, k1] 4 (5, 6, 6, 6, 7) times, sm, k4, sm, [p1, k1] 12 (13, 14, 14, 14, 15) times, sm, k4, sm, [p1, k1] 4(5,6,6,6,7)times,sm,k4, sm, [p1, k1] 19 (20, 21, 21, 22, 23) times, sm, k4 Last two rows set Moss st patt and position of Moss st and Garter st patts between markers. Cont to work in patt as set work incs for armhole shaping and decs at front edges as folls: £ Row 4: k4, sm, k2tog, patt to marker, * m1, sm, k4, sm, m1, patt to marker, rep from * twice more, m1, sm, k4, sm, m1, patt to two sts before marker, ssk, sm, k4. Six sts inc £Row5:patttoendsm across row £ Row 6: k4, sm, patt to marker, * m1, sm, k4, sm, m1, patt to marker, rep from * twice more, m1, sm, k4, sm, m1, patt to marker, sm, k4. Eight sts inc £Row7:patttoend,sm across row Last four rows set shaping £ Rep last four rows 9 (9, 9, 10, 11, 11) times more. 280 (290, 300, 314, 332, 342) sts Divide for back £ Next row: k4, sm, k2tog, patt to two sts after next marker, sl next 52 (54, 56, 60, 64, 66) sts onto holder, cast on 4 (6, 8, 10, 12, 14) sts, patt to two sts after next marker, sl next 52 (54, 56, 60, 64, 66) sts onto holder for second sleeve, cast on 4 (6, 8, 10, 12, 14) sts, patt to last six sts, ssk, k4. 182 (192, 202, 212, 226, 236) sts Patt for remainder of body £ Rows 1-3: k4, sm, patt in moss st to last four sts, sm, k4 £ Row 4: k4, sm, k2tog, patt in moss st to last six sts, ssk, sm, k4 Last four rows set patt and are repeated £ Rep last four rows 11 (11, 12, 13, 14, 14) times more. 158 (168, 176, 184, 196, 206) sts Change to 4.5mm needles £Ksixrows £ Cast off kwise SLEEVES £ Using 5mm (30cm) circular needle, with RS facing, beg at 2nd (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th) cast-on st at underarm, pick up andk2(3,4,5,6,7)ststostsleft on holder for arm, work in moss st across 52 (54, 56, 60, 64, 66) sts on holder, pick up and k 2 (3, 4, 5, 6, 7) sts along rem cast-on sts at underarm, pm. 56 (60, 64, 70, 76, 80) sts £ Work in rnds in Moss st patt until sleeve meas 21 (21, 22, 22, 23, 23) cm at underarm £ Cont working in rnds, work six rnds in garter st [one rnd k, one rnd p] TO MAKE UP Weave in all ends. Wash-finish by hand and block to dimensions given LK Start knitting here... EMBRACE A COOL AND COMFY LOOK WITH JACINTA BOWIE'S DESIGN WAY UP? Which The construction of this garment is slightly unusual. It’s worked in one piece, from the top down.You begin with the garter stitch front bands, then change to working the main body in moss stitch with garter stitch bands either side of the sleeves. From Row 4 onwards you are simultaneously decreasing at the front edges and increasing for the Sleeves. Once they are wide enough, the Sleeves are put on holders and the rest of the body is completed. Finally the Sleeves are picked up and finished one by one. Take care as these are done in the round so your moss stitch pattern will be worked differently from on the body. M O S S M O S S S T I T C H S T I T C H m a k e
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31 letsknit.co.uk The Natural CHOICE This Month WE’RE LOVING... If you want to teach your little one an important lesson about loving the world we live in, why not try knitting them this eco-friendly dress? Proving that recycled yarn can still be an excellent match for sensitive skin, ECOTON from Bergère de France is a clever mix of recycled cotton, acrylic and additional fibres. The garment itself is machine washable on a 30oc setting and should be dried flat. Even novice knitters could give this project a try, as it requires only basic garter and stocking stitches. MAG.NO.29 KIDS AND BABIES costs £7 from bergeredefrance.co.uk The Environment Oh So Organic Another excellent option is this organic wool from Loop. Plant dyed by Mette Mehlsen in Denmark, this beautiful lace weight fibre is a dream to crochet, embroider or knit with. Loop proudly sells these beauties as single bundles or in the form of exclusive kits. If you would like to treat yourself to such a gorgeous purchase, simply visit the store or find what you need online via loopknittingshop.com WITH AN ECO-FRIENDLY OUTLOOK IN MIND, WE EXPLORE THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR PLANET-FRIENDLY CRAFTING SOCIAL MEDIA STARS 1 @offset_warehouse This account regularly provides environmentally conscious posts and creative content @collingwoodknits Follow for updates on an eco-friendly range of kitchen and bathroom bits @chloe_elizabeth_knitwear An account dedicated to sustainable knitwear design and handmade fibres. We love the Scrap Yarn Scrunchie! TAKE NOTE Keep your pattern notes and project ideas in order with your very own sustainable stationery. The paper is 100% recycled and we can all agree the designs are absolutely irresistible. Not only will these notebooks help to introduce a burst of colour to your knitting corner, they will also allow you to feel guilt-free about your purchase. A set of two costs £8.50 from quincatarinaquintal.etsy.com Beregère de France also offers an eco yarn called RECYCLAINE. A blend of wool, acrylic and other fibres, it costs £5.35 per 100g (70m) ball. 2 3 READY TO READ Making excellent use of its recycled yarn Denim Revive, Rowan’s Quail Studio has released a relaxed collection of four cardigans and sweaters for you to enjoy. The pattern book costs £2 from laughinghens.com SUPER SOAKER Biodegradable, phosphate -free and non-toxic, what more could you ask of an eco-friendly cleaning product? The concentrated, rinse-free formula is just the thing for gently cleaning your knits. Designed with hand and machine washing in mind, a travel size bottle of Soak costs £5.50 from lovecrafts.com
ACCESSORY pattern 33 letsknit.co.uk E X C L U SIV E T O • E X C L U S I V E T O •EX C L U S I V E T O • If you picked up the March Issue of Let’s Knit, you will already know how much we love hand-dyed yarn! If you share our enthusiasm, why not treat yourself to this stunning shawl? Knitted in a gorgeous fibre from Truly Hooked, it is a beautiful blend of simple garter stitch and intricate eyelets. Quick to knit, easy to make up and a joy to look at, this pretty pattern is not to be missed! O n e - o f - a - k i n d Y A R N ARTISAN Adventure USE A HAND-DYED YARN TO MAKE THIS GORGEOUS SHAWL BY JULIE FERGUSON
34 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS 4PLY YARN 3.25MM NEEDLES SHAWL NOTE: slip all stitches purlwise Using 3.25mm circular needle, cast on seven sts Garter section £ Row 1: sl 1 wyib, k2, yfwd, k to last three sts, yfwd, k1, sl 1 wyib, p1 £Row2:sl1wyib,p1,kto last two sts, sl 1 wyif, p1 £ Rep Rows 1-2 15 times more. 39 sts Eyelet section £ Row 1: sl 1 wyib, k2, yfwd, k1, * yfwd, k2tog, rep from * to last three sts, yfwd, k1, sl 1 wyib, p1 £Row2:slwyib,p1,kto last two sts, sl 1 wyif, p1 £ Rep Rows 1-2 four times more. 49 sts £ Rep Garter section and Eyelet section three times more. 175 sts Garter Drop Stitch Section £ Row 1: sl 1 wyib, k2, yfwd, k to last three sts, yfwd, k1, sl 1 wyib, p1 £Row2:sl1wyib,p1,kto last two sts, sl 1 wyif, p1 £Row3:sl1wyib,k2, yfwd, * k1 winding yarn twice round needle, rep from * to last three sts, yfwd, k1, sl 1 wyib, p1 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 130cm wide x 49cm deep KNIT KIT Yarn: Truly Hooked Sock Yarn, shade Monsters Inc, one 100g ball Needles: 3.25mm circular TENSION SQUARE n20stsx60rows n 10cm x 10cm n Garter stitch n 3.25mm needles FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Truly Hooked Sock Yarn is a gorgeous blend of 75% merino and 25% nylon. Hand-dyed in Nottingham, it would make a vibrant, super-soft and distinctive addition to your yarn stash. This fibre costs £20 per 100g (425m) skein from 01433 620933, woolfull.com NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? Dye Candy Super Sock is another beautiful fibre. 75% merino and 25% nylon, this 4ply sock yarn is hand-dyed in Belfast. Available in a stunning selection of shades, it costs £17 per 100g (425m) skein from 01433 620933 woolfull.com Start knitting here... A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88 With a hand-dyed yarn, every skein is slightly different To create a lifeline, simply thread a length of waste yarn through a row of your stitches using a tapestry needle. If you are following a pattern repeat, it makes sense to introduce a lifeline at the start of every repeat. That way, if you make a mistake and need to frog a section of your work, you will know exactly what instruction to start with. Lifelines will also come in handy if you drop a stitch, as they will prevent the stitch from falling to the bottom of your work, making it much easier to pick up. When selecting the yarn for your lifeline, opt for a fibre that is thinner than your working yarn. It should also be in a striking colour that will be easy to spot. Lifelines Next issue FLOWER BUD LACE WRAP BY SIAN BROWN June issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 7TH MAY £Row4:sl1wyib,p1,k2, * k1 dropping extra loop, rep from * to last four sts, k2, sl 1 wyif, p1 £ Rows 5-8: rep Rows 1-2 twice £ Rep Rows 3-8 nine times more. 231 sts £ Using a needle one size larger, cast off very loosely TO MAKE UP Sew in ends and block carefully LK
Your 36 letsknit.co.uk SECRET WEAPON EMBRACE ZERO EFFORT COLOUR CHANGES WITH OUR TOP VARIEGATED YARNS 1 8 7 6 5 4 3 2
37 letsknit.co.uk 1 Bernat Baby Blanket, shade 4795 Baby Blue Green, £9.99 per 300g (201m) ball, woolwarehouse.co .uk 2 Patons Fab DK 100g, shade 2080 Aqua Colour, £2.15 per 100g (274m) ball, purplelindacrafts.co.uk 3 Stylecraft Head Over Heels All Stars, shade 3918 Pool, £6.49 per 100g (400m) ball, blacksheepwools.com 4 Rico Creative Pompon Print, shade 28 Turquoise Mix, £9.99 per 200g (100m) ball, deramores.com 5 Paintbox Yarns Chunky Pots, shade PP02 Feeling Blue, £9 per 200g (272m) ball, lovecrafts.com 6 Lily Sugar 'n Cream Stripes, shade Country Stripes, £2.49 per 56.7g (86m) ball, woolwarehouse.co .uk 7 Sirdar Snuggly Baby Crofter Chunky, shade 512 Abby, £4.35 per 50g (75m) ball, sconch.com 8 Wool and the Gang Shiny Happy Cotton, shade 89 Space Cadet Colours, £9.40 per 100g (142m) ball, woolandthegang.com 9 James C. Brett Funny Feetz, shade FZ02, £4.99 per 100g (400m) ball, thewoolfactoryonline.com 10 Debbie Bliss Rialto Luxury Sock, shade 11 Fuji, £11.49 per 100g (400m) ball, lovecrafts.com 11 Caron Simply Soft Ombre, shade 22006 Saturday Blue Jeans, £4.29 per 141g (215m) skein, woolwarehouse.co.uk 12 Sirdar Hayfield Spirit, shade 0409 Escape, £4.25 per 100g (345m) ball, thecheapshoptiptree.co .uk 13 West Yorkshire Spinners The Croft Aran, shade Eswick, £9.50 per 100g (166m) skein, wyspinners.com 14 Scheepjes Secret Garden, shade 703 Secluded Lake, £4.59 per 50g (93m) ball, woolwarehouse.co.uk There’s nothing we love more than a pop of colour in our makes but sometimes changing yarns can be time-consuming and means having several balls of yarn on the go at once, not to mention more ends to weave in! Step up our secret weapon – variegated shades, which do all the work for you. Whether you prefer making cute toys or chic accessories, these bright yarns are great fun to work with and take all the effort out of changing colours. 14 13 12 11 10 9
Let the yarn do the colourwork, while you concentrate on creating a beautiful raised leaf pattern for your newest cushion. This is a classic motif in knitting and it uses eyelet techniques. Your stitch count will increase to make the leaves three-dimensional, then you’ll decrease back down to your original stitch count. Solid shades are also available in this yarn if you’d prefer a monochrome look, or why not experiment with your own stripe sequence. LEAVES New BRING THE OUTDOORS IN WITH SIÂN BROWN’S NATURE-INSPIRED MAKE E X C L U S IVE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O • EX C L U S I V E T O • 38 letsknit.co.uk K n i t t e d h o m e S T Y L E
39 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS WORSTED YARN 4MM NEEDLES WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 40cm x 40cm KNIT KIT Yarn: Cygnet Boho Spirit, shade 6464 Folk, three 100g balls Needles: 4mm Cushion pad: 40cm Tapestry needle Buttons: 2cm, five TENSION SQUARE n22stsx30rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 4mm needles FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Cygnet Boho Spirit is a roving-effect yarn that’s vegan-friendly, as it’s 100% acrylic. It is more of a worsted weight yarn, falling between a DK and an aran weight. Projects can be machine washed. It costs £3.45 per 100g (240m) ball from 01376 743123, sconch.com The leaves in this design are a classic knitting motif and are made by working yarn over increases. This will change your stitch count, but don’t worry, your finished cushion will be still square. This type of increase also creates a pretty eyelet design which is an added bonus. Keep increasing as instructed until you reach the widest part of the leaf. On the subsequent rows, you will start decreasing down again until you get to the tip and complete the shape. Pretty PATTERNS Start knitting here CUSHION COVER NOTE: worked in one piece £ Set-up row 1: (k1, p1) to end £ Set-up row 2: (p1, k1) to end These two rows set moss st £ Work three rows more in moss st £Begwithakrow,work in st st until cover meas 28cm from cast-on edge, ending after a RS row £ Next row (WS): k to end Front £Row1:p6, * yon,k1,yrn, p6, rep from * to end. 114 sts £Row2:k6, * p3,k6, rep from * to end £Row3:p6, * k1,yon, k1, yrn, k1, p6, rep from * to end. 138 sts £Row4:k6, * p5,k6, rep from * to end £Row5:p6, * k2,yon, k1, yrn, k2, p6, rep from * to end. 162 sts £Row6:k6, * p7,k6, rep from * to end £Row7:p6, * k3,yon, k1, yrn, k3, p6, rep from * to end. 186 sts £Row8:k6, * p9,k6, rep from * to end £Row9:p6, * skpo, k5, k2tog, p6, rep from * to end. 162 sts £Row10:k6, * p7,k6, rep from * to end £ Row 11: p6, * skpo, k3, k2tog, p6, rep from * to end. 138 sts £Row12:k6, * p5,k6, rep from * to end £ Row 13: p6, * skpo, k1, k2tog, p6, rep from * to end. 114 sts £Row14:k6, * p3,k6, rep from * to end £Row15:p6, * sl1, k2tog, psso, p6, rep from * to end. 90 sts £Row16:ktoend £Row17:ptoend £ Rows 18-19: rep Rows 16-17 £Row20:ktoend Rows 1-20 set patt £ Cont in patt until six reps have been worked £Nextrow:ktoend Overlap £Begwithakrow,work in st st until Overlap meas 9cm or reaches cast-on edge when cover is folded Buttonhole band £Row1:(k1,p1)toend £Row2:(p1,k1)toend These two rows set moss st £ Row 3 (buttonholes): moss 8, k2tog, yon, (moss 16, k2tog, yon) four times, moss 8 £Row4:asRow2 £Row5:asRow1 £ Cast off TO MAKE UP Pin and sew side seams. Sew on buttons to correspond with buttonholes LK Next issue PART ONE OF OUR NEW NAUTICAL KNITALONG BY SIÂN BROWN June issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 7TH MAY “Place stitch markers between each motif to keep track of your pattern” LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler HOME pattern A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88
Personalised Craft Bags and Toys! Craft bags just £9.99 with name or message included www.thedroppedstitch.co.uk Fantastic deals to be found on our ebay shop at www.ebay.co.uk/str/thedroppedsportslade Small and large sizes available in a range of colours A large range of yarn also available Toys only £15.99 A large range of cute characters to choose from with message included Telephone: 01274 743374 Email: sales@cygnetyarns.com www.cygnetyarns .com
HOME pattern 41 letsknit.co.uk BRIGHTEN YOUR WASHROOM WITH SUSIE JOHNS’ VIBRANT SET BUDDIES Bathroom Add a knitty touch to your towels and flannels with these quick and easy transformations. There are three styles to try including a fabulous fringe effect. These embellishments would also work well on cushions, blankets or bags. As more and more people are switching to bar soap, this little holder is a super practical addition to your bathroom. EXC L U S I V E T O • E X C L U S I VE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O •
Start knitting here... 42 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS DK YARN 4MM NEEDLES FRINGED EDGING Using 4mm needles and yarn A, cast on 17 sts using two-needle method £Row1:castoff13sts,kto end. Four sts £Rows2-3:ktoend £ Row 4: k4, turn, cast on 13 sts £ Rep Rows 1-4 until work meas 50cm £ Cast off WIDE BOBBLE BRAID Using 4mm needles and yarn A, cast on 102 sts using two-needle method £Ksixrows Do not cut yarn A, change to yarn B £Row7:*k3,MB,k1,rep from * to last two sts, k2 £ Cast off kwise £ Using 4mm needles and yarn A, pick up and k each st along cast-off edge. 102 sts £Kfiverows £ Cast off NARROW BOBBLE BRAID Using 4mm needles and yarn B, cast on 63 sts using two-needle method £ K four rows £Pfiverows £ Cast off Thread a tapestry needle with a length of yarn A. With RS facing, sew a line of backstitch along centre of braid, embroidering a French knot on third and every following fifth stitch SOAP HOLDER Using 4mm needles and yarn B, cast on 36 sts £Row1:ktoend £Row2:k1,skpo,ktolast two sts, kfb, k1 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES To fit towel: 50cm wide To fit face cloth: 30cm wide Soap holder: 15cm diameter KNIT KIT Yarn: Stylecraft Classique Cotton DK, shades (A) 3674 Shrimp, (B) 3662 Sunflower, one 50g ball of each Needles: 4mm Sewing needle and thread Hand towel: 90cm x 50cm Face cloth: 30cm square Tapestry needle TENSION SQUARE n22stsx28rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 4mm needles SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS MB: make bobble - k into front, back, front, back and front of next st to create five sts, turn, p5, turn, k5, turn, p5, turn, k5, slip first four sts over fifth st, leaving one st FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Stylecraft Classique Cotton DK is a soft cotton yarn with a matte finish. There are 28 shades to tempt you and it can be machine washed. It costs £1.99 per 50g (92m) ball from 01925 764231, blacksheepwools.com NEED AN ALTERNATIVE? Any DK can be used for this project so see what’s in your yarn stash. Cotton is a good choice as it can be washed on higher temperatures, which is ideal for towels. £ Rep Rows 1-2 until work meas 20cm £ Cast off TO MAKE UP Weave in all yarn ends. Press fringe and both lengths of braid lightly, avoiding bobbles. Pin Fringed Edging in place along one short edge of towel and Wide Bobble Braid just above. Using sewing thread, stitch braids in place. Stitch Narrow Bobble Braid across one end of face cloth. For Soap holder, stitch cast-on and cast-off edges together. Cut a 40cm length of yarn and weave it in and out of row-ends along one side. Pull ends to gather tightly to close bottom and secure with stitches. Cut a second length and repeat along opposite side, pull to gather and tie inabowLK A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88 GARDEN-THEMED BLANKET BY JULIE FERGUSON June issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 7TH MAY These are handy for adding decorative details. Thread the yarn onto a tapestry needle and bring it out through the fabric from back to front. Tensioning the yarn in your left hand, wrap the needle around the yarn from back to front – the more wraps, the larger the knot. Still holding the yarn tightly with your left hand, insert the needle back into the fabric and pull the yarn through, releasing your left hand at the last minute. This leaves a knot on the right side of your work. French KNOTS E a s y b a t h r o o m U P D A T E S Next issue
RA-RA RAFFIA , shade Cinnamon Dust. £14 .50 per 100g (250m) ball from woolandthegang.com WELCOME THE WARMTH WITH THIS CHEERFUL SHADE CANTALOUPE 43 letsknit.co .uk Cool in KING COLE MERINO BLEND DK SUPERWASH WOOL, shade 1988 Redwood. £2.99 per 50g (112m) ball from purplelindacrafts.co .uk SCHEEPJES SOFTY, 485 Orange. £2.19 per 50g (145m) ball from 0845 528 2999, ritohobby.co .uk STYLECRAFT LINEN DRAPE DK, shade Coral. £4.80 per 100g (185m) ball from 0845 519 4573, deramores.com RICO ESSENTIALS SUPER KID MOHAIR LOVES SILK, shade 011 Silk Apricot. £6.29 per 25g (200m) ball from woolwarehouse.co.uk LUST RESIN HOOP THREAD-THROUGH EARRINGS, £15, 0208 974 0110, oliverbonas.com MINDFUL MANILA TUMMY CONTROL SWIMSUIT, £45, 0345 401 2014, figleaves.com PUSSY BOW TOP, £27.99, 0333 200 6014 , bonprix.co.uk BERROCO ESTIVA, shade 2617 Tomato. £25.99 per 150g (307m) ball from 01409 404010, lovecrafts.com ROMAN ORIGINALS TOP, £22, romanoriginals.co .uk BERNAT BABY BLANKET TINY, shade Tea Rose. £4.99 per 100g (288m) ball from 0116 271 3759, readicut.co.uk DRILL BY SARAH HATTON, KNITTED IN ROWAN COTTON CASHMERE, £4, knitrowan.com TIERED FLORAL SKIRT, 0844 844 1111 , cottontraders.com L’OREAL PARIS COLOR RICHE LIPSTICK, shade 235 Nude, £6.99 from lookfantastic.com DMC NATURA XL JUST COTTON, shade 10. £4.25 per 100g (75m) ball from 0161 464 7310, stitcher.co.uk
Brambles & Me Beautiful naturally hand-dyed yarns from the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne. Using only naturally derived extracts from roots, bark and insects to create unique colours influenced by the great outdoors. Ginger Twist Studio Ginger’s Hand Dyed is a range of gorgeous kettle dyed, semi-solids; everything from lace to chunky! Produced by Jess of Ginger Twist Studio in Edinburgh, the cutest wee yarn shop ever. Loop Loop has an incredible selection of exquisite hand dyed yarns from around the world, including Life in the Long Grass which has been dyed for them in Ireland. Kernow Designs Beautiful & unique Hand-Dyed yarns, created in my small studio in rural Cornwall. With a passion for colour and natural inspiration all around, you’re guaranteed to find something special at Kernow Designs. Little Acorn Crafts Hand dyed yarn and fibre that is produced in small batches on a variety of beautiful bases. Little Acorn Crafts also supply accessories for knitters, crocheters and felters. Craft Days Colours of Saffron Walden Hand dyed exclusively for Craft Days. Inspiration comes from pictures taken in and around our town. With names like ‘ Brick Wall’, ‘Crocus’, ‘Helen’s Field’ and ‘Castle Street’ . T he yarn is a soft Merino/Silk 4ply. The Yarn Whisperer Make your next project gorgeously individual with delicious hand-dyed yarn sent directly to you from my home dye studio in East London, UK. WITH LOVE! Top up your yarn stash with these gorgeous hand dyed yarns. Hand Dyed kernowdesigns.ecwid.com littleacorncrafts.co .uk craft-days.co.uk yarnwhisperer.co.uk bramblesandme.uk gingertwiststudio.com loopknittingshop.com Ashcroft Makers Naturally hand-dyed British yarns from the Scottish Highlands. These heirloom quality yarns offer a natural lustre and are perfect for creating socks, garments or accessories. Enjoy mini skeins, kits and more! ashcroftmakers.com 10% off with code CREATETOGETHER ADVERTORIAL
45 letsknit.co.uk TURN OVER FOR MORE GREAT IDEAS! IT’S TIME TO TAKE YOUR KNITTING TO THE NEXT LEVEL! STEP UP YOUR If you’re anything like us, you’ll have your go-to patterns and favourite stitches, the tried and trusted designs that form your crafty safe space. But the knitting world is as big as your imagination and there’s always something new to discover. There’s no time like the present to settle down and study a new technique or several. Read on to find out how you can expand your knitty horizons from the comfort of your own home! skills Climb the colourwork ladder STRANDING Carry yarns across the back of your work for regular colour changes. Add a twist with modern colour combos. INTARSIA Use multiple bobbins of yarn to make picture motifs, colour blocks and vertical stripes. MOSAIC KNITTING Slip certain stitches during your stripe pattern to create intricate colour effects with little effort. HORIZONTAL STRIPES Mix up the widths of your colour sections to see how it looks! If you’ve already reached the top of the ladder, take it further with two-handed stranded colourwork. Boost your skills and learn continental knitting so you can carry one shade in your left hand and the other in your right. You’ll probably find it makes the whole thing much easier! Try stranded colourwork with new Sirdar leaflet 10128 If you’ve never tried any form of rainbow knitting before, then start simple and work your way up. Embrace artisan yarn Give your projects a unique look by using hand-dyed yarns. These fab fibres are coloured into effects ranging from kaleidoscopic mixes to gradual tonal shifts. Have a go with Julie Ferguson’s artisan shawl on page 33. Turn to page 66 to find some fantastic yarn suggestions! GIVE IT A GO! Naturally-coloured yarn provides a blank canvas for getting creative! Search online to buy a beginner’s yarn dyeing kit or have a forage in your cupboards, fridge or garden. Onion skins, beetroot, berries, leaves, and flower petals can all be used to produce different hues! Available at marrineryarns.com
Socks might have a bad rep as being one of the most unoriginal presents money can buy but when you knit your own, you are transported to a world of endless creativity. These practical, portable projects can be knitted on two needles, four needles, or one long circular needle – check out the magic loop method: Tin Can Knits has a brilliant step-by-step guide at blog.tincanknits.com As for construction, you can start from the cuff down or the toe-up (using one of several fancy cast-ons), try a short-row heel or perhaps a heel flap and gusset – there are few things as satisfying as successfully turning a heel – and we haven’t even mentioned all the stitches you could try. Eye of the partridge anyone? Find patterns galore on ravelry.com 46 letsknit.co.uk Create lovely lace knits Yarn Pick YOURS stitches Intricate lace work is often considered the peak of knitting prowess and you can’t deny it looks stunning. But here’s the secret: once you’ve got to grips with the basic stitches, you can knit any lace design, from easy eyelet patterns to exquisite shawls. Start simple and work your way up. The only thing that makes larger patterns more difficult is the level of concentration required, so switch off the box and tune into your stitches! DISCOVER EASY EYELETS ON PAGE 62! TEST THE WATERS Add in a few eyelet details to get the hang of the technique. Pattern 5615 from King Cole is a great place to start and you can choose from a sweater or sleeveless top design. TAKE IT FURTHER Get to grips with left and right leaning decreases to create more detailed patterns. We love how the openwork sleeves pair with the simple body of this cardi from Stylecraft (leaflet 9738). SHOUT ABOUT IT Someone once said, ‘ i f you’ve got it, flaunt it’ and that’s certainly the case when it comes to knitty talent. This stunning Lotus Lace Shawl pattern by Jan Henley can be downloaded at letsknit.co.uk 1 2 3 Goodwill Socks pattern by Rachel Ferguson, available to buy at ravelry.com Create a yarn that’s entirely unique to you by holding multiple strands together while you work. Try mixing different textures, like a mohair or alpaca with a smooth yarn or metallic effect. Even just two strands of the same yarn can create fabulous colour blends. Go on, get creative! Every issue we introduce you to a new stitch pattern to add to your knitting arsenal. Turn to page 95 to see this issue’s Square of the Month. Make it Boost your UP THE ANTE ON SOCKS West Yorkshire Spinners Signature 4ply is a wool and nylon mix which means it’s soft yet durable for comfy socks. See the range of colours at wyspinners.com Try clever constructions
We often refer to big or small projects at LK HQ but we rarely use the terms quite so literally. Wool Couture Company is well known for its mega chunky yarns that knit up on huge needles, sometimes up to 40 or 60 millimetre in diameter! You can also use the yarns for arm knitting projects. Find kits, patterns, ideas and more at woolcouturecompany.com At the other end of the spectrum is micro knitting. Here you’re looking at needles that are smaller than 2mm. You’ll be using fine laceweight yarns or embroidery threads to create close knit fabrics. It’s just the thing for collectable dolls’ house pieces or textile art. Althea Crome’s Japanese Crane Jacket measures just two inches from neck to hem! See more at altheacrome.com Most of us tend to start all our projects the same way - and we don’t just mean full of enthusiasm! The popular cast-on techniques are the two-needle, cable cast-on or long tail methods, but these are just the tip of the knitting iceberg. When choosing which technique to use, think about your finished item. Will the edge be visible or hidden by a trim or seam? Does it need to be firm or stretchy? Should it look identical to your cast-off edge? Do you want a decorative edge? For each of these questions, there’s a different cast-on to try. Here are a few to have a go at: PROVISIONAL CAST ON – There are several ways of doing this and all allow you to cast on leaving ‘live’ stitches that can be picked up later. This is handy for changing direction or creating two symmetrical sections on a project like a scarf. TUBULAR CAST ON – Perfect for ribbed cuffs and welts, this gives a wonderfully stretchy edges that also has a rounded look, just like your shop-bought knits! INVISIBLE CIRCULAR CAST ON – Used for making a closed ring when knitting in the round. It’s ideal for circular bags, top-down hats or teacosies, or knitting flat circles. It’s similar to the idea of a magic ring in crochet. 47 letsknit.co.uk S Knitting and crochet aren’t opposites, they’re complementary. If you’re still struggling to master the craft, you can hone your skills using the videos tutorials on our sister website topcrochetpatterns.com. Once you’ve got the hang of the hook, you can use crochet to add edges or decorations to your projects, or can seamlessly mix the two fabrics as Susie Johns has done in her stylish Knit and Crochet Tunic Top. Download the pattern at letsknit.co.uk eit CHOOSE A NEW CAST ON This month’s Fashion Collection offers variations on classic construction. Sweaters and cardigans can be worked from the top down which reduces the amount of sewing up and often means you can try on your project as you go to ensure a custom fit. If you really want to avoid seaming, try an all-in-one garment like Jacinta Bowie’s Waterfall Cardigan (p26). You can also work your projects from side to side, which is an easy way to create vertical stripes or horizontal cable effects. Download Kaffe Fassett’s Garden Party Stripes pattern at knitrowan.com CRAFTS Combine your Reliable Resources BOOKS Whether you’re after a specific technique or an all-encompassing crafty directory, you can’t beat a book. BLOGS Be inspired by your fellow creatives! Many of them show off their skills with project ideas and handy how-to guides. PODCASTS Get knitty wisdom straight from the experts’ mouth! Podcasts allow you to listen and learn from the best in the biz. VIDEOS Some people prefer to watch and learn. YouTube has a whole library of video tutorials which you can pause and rewind at your viewing pleasure. CHECK OUT THESE STAY-AT-HOME SOLUTIONS Free at knitrowan.com PLAY WITH SCALE Show off your sewing skills by adding embroidered details to your next knit. Simple daisy chain stitch can be used to transform Penny Hill’s Beginner’s Baby Cardigan. Find the pattern at letsknit.co.uk. Alternatively, make a statement with a bold floral design. Give it a try with Debbie Bliss Leaflet DB185, available from lovecrafts.com
32 letsknit.co.uk ACCESSORY pattern If you enjoy working in the round and have a soft spot for cables, do we have the project for you! In fact, even if you are intimidated by both of the aforementioned knitting techniques, this project could provide the perfect opportunity for you to step outside your comfort zone. Offering a stylish denim effect, this bag isn’t just eco-friendly because it has been made using recycled fibres, it is also an excellent alternative to plastic shoppers. BAG In the KNIT JACINTA BOWIE’S PRETTY AND PRACTICAL ACCESSORY E X C L U S IVE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O • EX C L U S I V E T O • 48 letsknit.co.uk E C O a c c e s s o r y
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS DK YARN 3.25MM, 3,75MM NEEDLES WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Depth (excluding straps): 42cm Width: 42cm KNIT KIT Yarn: Rowan Denim Revive DK, shade 00212 Airforce, seven 50g balls Needles: 3.75mm, 3.25mm (120cm) circular Tapestry needle TENSION SQUARE n23stsx34rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over patt n 3.75mm needles (after washing) n20stsx28rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over patt n 3.75mm needles (before washing) SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS C6F: cable six front - slip three sts onto cn and hold at front of work, k3, k3 from cn FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Rowan Denim Revive DK is a beautiful blend of recycled denim and cotton. Available in eight subtle shades, this super-soft fibre should only be washed by hand. It costs £4.28 per 50g (100m) ball from 0845 519 4573, deramores.com 15% OFF WHEN YOU SPEND OVER £20 AT DERAMORES. USE THE CODE GREENAPPLE. Start knitting here Next issue FABULOUS LACY BATWING JUMPER BY JACINTA BOWIE June issue of Let’s Knit on sale 7th May 49 letsknit.co.uk CABLE PATT £Rnd1:*C6F,k4,rep from * to end, sm £Rnd2:*k6,p4,rep from * to end, sm £Rnd3:ktoend,sm £Rnd4:*k6,p4,rep from * to end, sm £Rnd5:ktoend,sm £Rnd6:*k6,p4,rep from * to end, sm NOTE: the last six rounds form the pattern and are repeated GARTER ST £Rnd1:ktoend,sm £Rnd2:ptoend,sm NOTE: the last two rounds form the pattern and are repeated LOOK! Special discount packs with all the yarn you need are available at deramores.com/ collections/lets-knit “The suggested yarn shrinks and becomes tighter after machine washing to give a more suitable fabric for a bag. If you decide to use an alternative yarn, you may need to change your needle size to get the final tension.” LK Designer, Jacinta Bowie Cable patt once more Change to 3.25mm needles £ Work in garter st for six rnds £ Set up rnd for handles: k30, cast off 40 sts, k60, cast off 40 sts, k30, sm £ Next rnd: k30, cast on 60 sts, k60, cast on 60 sts, k30, sm NOTE: take care not to twist cast on sts for handles £ Cont on these 240 sts in garter st for nine rnds £ Cast off working all sts kwise tbl to create a tighter stronger cast off TO MAKE UP Weave in all ends. Flatten knitted Bag and join base with mattress stitch. To strengthen tension of bag, wash finished piece on its own in washing machine at 60 degrees. Pull to shape and dry flat LK BAG Using 3.75mm needles, cast on 200 sts, join in rnd taking care not to twist sts £Konernd,pm £ Work Rnds 1-6 of Cable patt 21 times £ Work Rnds 1-2 of When knitting in the round on a circular needle, as with this bag, you don’t turn your work so you are always working with the right side facing you. This is why knitting every round produces stocking stitch but for garter stitch you must alternate with purl rows. Working in the ROUND
amazing. It’s basically a pet you can knit, so it wins in two categories of my preferred present. I bet that when their fleece is fully grown, it’s like cuddling a cloud. But a cloud that kicks quite hard. OK, maybe not a sheep. Leaning back on the sofa, I allow my daydreams full rein. What about if money were no object? Well, then I’d like him to buy me my own little independent yarn store, stuffed full of soft jewel shades every colour of the rainbow, with walls of wool and aisles of angora, a mezzanine full of merino and maybe even some qiviut where you queue. All the notions would be smooth wooden needles and odd bright stitch markers. And there would be comfy sofas where you could knit up a swatch to see if you liked the feel of But on wedding anniversaries, we cast our prescribed interests to one side and embrace my otherwise most hated word “su rprise.” On wedding anniversaries we have evolved a tradition of the most inventive presents that link to the tradition associated with the year. Last year it was our leather anniversary, and he lost points for getting me a handbag instead of the sofa I hoped for. I can’t say he was thrilled with the lederhosen, but at least they were unexpected. Anyway, this year is the one I’ve been waiting for. That’s right. It’s our wool anniversary. Oh man. What will he get me? A sheep? I really hope it’s a sheep. A sheep would be Something is afoot in the air. It’s coming up to our wedding anniversary, and that means Presents with a capital P. Now, normally I use the Amazon wish list strategy when buying presents for my husband, which means that I tend to get him presents that he just hasn’t got round to buying for himself yet. And with my limited interests of books, yarn, pets, wine and chocolate, the pool of acceptable presents he can buy for me is similarly a bit restricted. (Reading that back, I just realised that we are boring as heck, help!) STEP AWAY FROM YOUR CURRENT KNIT TO RELAX WITH OUR PURLS OF WISDOM COLUMN AND BRILLIANT KNIT-THEMED BRAINTEASERS! SHARE YOUR PHOTOS! Tag us @letsknitmag on Instagram or post your pics of your home knits on Facebook the yarn before you bought it. And since I would never want to sell any of the yarn, he would have to install a lovely knitter lady to manage it and take care of the business side, and every day she would close up at 2pm (which is the perfect time of day to buy yarn) to let me browse in peace around my lovely little yarn shop that was all my own. That’s what I’d have if money was no object. Unfortunately money is very much an object, so I think my dream will have to stay a dream this time, at least until my numbers come up on the lottery. Anyway, I’ll tell you what I’ve got him. I measured his favourite (old bobbly acrylic) jumper and made him one that fits the same, but in beautiful grey-blue merino that is exactly the shade of his eyes. Fast forward to the special day, I can tell you he loved it. He loved it a lot more than I loved my yarn store gift voucher, but hey, it’s still free yarn. And I get to choose it! Claire Thomas is a freelance journalist and founder of Stitch ‘n’ Bitch group, Knit Pickers 50 letsknit.co .uk Break TEA By Claire Thomas DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER, BUT WHAT’S WOOL? Can you solve our tricky clues? 1 Forecasting balmy weather over Shetland (4, 4) 2 Make a point in a roundabout way (8, 6) 3 Don’t forget your embroidery when visiting the Alps (5, 7) 4 The design was really cutting edge (7) 5 Jason found it was a rip-off (6) CRYPTIC QUIZ Purls of Wisdom WIN! PRINTED PHOTOS WIN A PRIZE “Hue Shift Afghan” Wendy Beckett DICTIONARY CORNER Which word describes the outer edges of your knitting, or the first and last stitches of a row? ANSWERS: CRYPTIC QUIZ: 1. Fair Isle, 2. circular needle, 3. Swiss darning, 4. steeked, 5. fleece DICTIONARY CORNER: Selvedge WORD PLAY: right side, continue without shaping CLEVER CONNECTIONS: Alpaca WORD PLAY Which knitting terms are shown here? SIDE SIDE SIDE SIDE SIDE 3 SIDE CONTINUE SHAPING C l e v e r C o n n e c t i o n s What connects these four words or phrases? n Cria n TOFT n Suri n Peru
51 letsknit.co.uk Don’t miss our... Next issue 1 Celebrate summer with a strawberry wreath 2 Knit our garden-themed blanket 3 Crochet Hannah Cooper’s prima ballerinas 4 Accessorise with Siân Brown’s flower bud shawl 5 Gift Susie Johns’ adorable wedding bears 6 Cast on Jacinta Bowie's beautiful lace sweater P r o j e c t s s u b j e c t t o c h a n g e . * J u s t p a y p o s t a g e , U K c u s t o m e r s o n l y JUNE ISSUE OF LET’S KNIT ON SALE THURSDAY 7TH MAY SUMMER LOVING! Discover light and lacy knits and fabulous stitch effects with our exciting new pattern collection PLUS 4 TOP TIPS FOR SUMMER KNITTING SUCCESS 4 BRING THE OUTDOORS IN AND BE INSPIRED! 4 BEST BUY SHOPPING GUIDES FOR ALL YOUR KNITTING NEEDS Worth £6.99! pattern picks BONUS PATTERN BOOK Fro m LITTLE RASCALS YARN KIT! Soft yarn + fab pattern ideas Worth £7.99 PLUS! ALSO! FAB PATTERN DOWNLOADS Quick & easy toy knits FREE* YARN! EIGHT BRIGHT SHADES
22 BALL YARN BUNDLE, WORTH £20.97! Here at Let’s Knit, we have arranged for our readers to receive a FREE* mega yarn bundle, with 22 balls of yarn, including 2 ombre balls, worth £20.97. Get stuck straight in with all your knitted makes with these gorgeous colours! Visit giftstoyou.com/bundle and enter discount code MEGA in your shopping basket or call 0800 904 7000 Title SKU Price £14.99 £14.99 FREE* Quantity Total TOTAL Terms and conditions and your data protection preferences: *UK postage costs £3.99. Orders must be received by 17th May 2020. Postal orders must be submitted with a completed coupon and a cheque or postal order for the correct amount to cover postage if applicable. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Offer subject to availability. Only 1 bundle per customer. While stocks last, we reserve the right to send an alternative bundle. We can only provide refunds for damaged or faulty goods. Open to UK residents only. Please allow 28 days for delivery. If paying by cheque, delivery will be delayed until cheque is cleared. Aceville Publications Ltd, (publishers of Let’s Knit magazine) will use the data supplied to fulfil your reader offer request. We will use your information to communicate other relevant information in regard to this reader offer with you. If you would like to receive correspondence from Aceville Publications Ltd about other services and publications we provide which may be of interest, please agree to us contacting you by ticking the relevant boxes. Post o Phone o Email o Aceville Publications Ltd will NOT share your personal details with anyone else. *£3.99 MY DETAILS ARE: please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS £ CARD NUMBER EXPIRY DATE SECURITY NUMBER (on back of card) SIGNED : TODAY’S DATE: Please charge my Visa Mastercard Maestro (Issue No.) Title Initial Surname Address Postcode Contact tel no. Email I enclose a cheque made payable to ‘Aceville Publications Ltd’ HOW TO ORDER Simply complete the coupon below and either fill in your credit card details or send a cheque or postal order for the correct amount (made payable to Aceville Publications Ltd) to Aceville Reader Offers, DC Thomson, 2 Albert Street, Dundee, DD1 1DD Bold and Bright Kit P1622 Postage Office Code: LMC84RO Peony Kit P2248 Mega Yarn Bundl P2385 1 FREE* % G I F T S T O Y O U . C O M S H O P MEGA YARN BUNDLES! MEGA YARN BUNDLES! FREE * DON’T FORGET TO CLAIM YOUR 6 0 0 G B O L D A N D B R I G H T K I T R R P £ 1 4 . 9 9 6 0 0 G P E O N Y Y A R N K I T R R P £ 1 4 . 9 9 B O N U S F L U F F Y Y A R N B O N U S P O M -P O M M A K ER VIST US AT GIFTSTOYOU.COM OR CALL 0800 9047000
TOY pattern 53 letsknit.co.uk Our handsome four-legged friend is a Valais Blacknose and if you haven’t seen one before, we can only describe them as a bundle of teddy bear-like sheepy adorability. Their cuddly fleeces and sweet faces will melt any heart and designer Val has captured them perfectly. Watch your stitch counts when working with the bouclé yarn as the texture means it can be tricky to spot any mistakes. VAL PIERCE HAS DONE IT AGAIN WITH ANOTHER SUPER CUTE CREATION! SHEEP Jake the E XC L U S I V E T O • E X C L U S I VET O • E X C L U S I V E T O •
54 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS DK YARN 3.75MM, 4MM , 4.5MM , 5MM NEEDLES BODY Using 5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £Row1andallRSrows: ptoend £Row2:*kfb,repfrom * toend.20sts £Row4:*k1,kfb,repfrom * toend30sts £Row6:*k2,kfb,repfrom * toend.40sts £Row8:*k3,kfb,repfrom * toend.50sts £Row10:*k4,kfb,repfrom * toend.60sts £Row12:*k5,kfb,repfrom * toend.70sts £ Cont in st st without shaping until work meas 20cm Shape body £ Next row: * k5, k2tog, rep from * to end. 60 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k4, k2tog, rep from * to end. 50 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k3, k2tog, rep from * to end. 40 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k2, k2tog, rep from * to end. 30 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k1, k2tog, rep from * to end. 20 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k2tog, rep from * to end. Ten sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off HEAD Using 4mm needles and yarn B, cast on ten sts £Row1andallRSrows: ptoend £Row2:*kfb,repfrom * toend.20sts £Row4:*k1,kfb,rep from*toend30sts £Row6:*kfb,k2,rep from * to end. 40 sts £Row8:*kfb,k3,rep from * to end. 50 sts Pm at each end of last row £ Cont in st st without shaping until work meas 8cm from markers, ending after a p row Change to yarn A £Begwithakrow,work20 rows in st st Shape head £ Next row: * k6, k2tog, rep from * to last two sts, k2. 44 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k5, k2tog, rep from * to last two sts, k2. 38 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k4, k2tog, rep from * to last two sts, k2. 32 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k3, k2tog, rep from * to last two sts, k2. 26 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k2, k2tog, rep from * to last two sts, k2. 18 sts £Nextrow:ptoend £ Next row: * k2tog, rep from * to end. Nine sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off EARS (make two) Using 3.75mm needles and yarn B, cast on 14 sts £ Work 26 rows in garter st £Deconestateachendof next row and every foll alt row until two sts rem WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Height: 32cm KNIT KIT Yarn: (A) Sirdar Snuggly Bouclette, shade 001 Coconut White, three 50g balls, (B) Sirdar Snuggly DK, shade 312 Black, one 50g ball, (C) DK, Beige, oddments Needles: 3.75mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm Safety toy stuffing Safety toy eyes: black, two Stitch markers Tapestry needle FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Sirdar Snuggly Bouclette comprises 37% wool, 36% nylon and 27% acrylic. The loopy texture is soft and ideal for toys. It costs £4.50 per 50g (95m) ball. Sirdar Snuggly DK is a versatile nylon and acrylic yarn that comes in 49 shades. It costs £3.29 per 50g (165m) ball. Both yarns are available from knitting-yarn.co.uk Start knitting here... £ Next row: k2tog. One st £ Fasten off NOSE Using 3.75mm needles and yarn B, cast on eight sts £ Work eight rows in garter st £Deconestateachendof next row and every foll alt row until two sts rem £ Next row: k2tog. One st £ Fasten off, leaving a long tail TAIL Using 4.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on 20 sts £Begwithakrow,work20 rows in st st £ Cast off A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88 If you are giving this project to a child, make sure to use certified safety toy stuffing. This will ensure the filling is non-toxic, fire safe and free from any stray fibres or materials. To get a firm finish, use smaller amounts of stuffing teased apart, then compact them down as required. Super STUFFING I ’ m s o W O O L L Y ! “Use locking stitch markers or a coloured thread to indicate the right and wrong side of your knitted fabric” LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler
55 letsknit.co.uk £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off TO MAKE UP Sew Body seam, stuffing firmly before closing seam. Sew seams on Legs. Stuff firmly but leave shaped top open. Pin Legs to Body with shaped ends at top, ensuring Legs are level and sheep will stand unaided. Lightly stuff top of each leg as you sew so it is firm on Body. Fold Tail in half lengthwise, sew seam, lightly stuffing as you go. Attach to Body. Sew Head seam, stuffing and shaping as you go. Before closing insert safety eyes to sit either side of nose. Close seam. Pleat base of Ears and sew to Head. Fold Horns lengthwise, then twist to shape, securing each twist with a few stitches. Sew to Head above Ears. Sew Nose to Head, pulling yarn tail down to base of chin. Sew in place, pulling firmly to accentuate mouth. Wind lengths of yarn A around the palm of your hand. Cut yarn and, starting at bottom, lay strands onto side of Body. Firmly sew across centre of strands. Fold top section over bottom section. Continue to sew layers of yarn in the same way until Body is covered. Sew more strands to front part of Body and trim layers so they lay neatly. Sew more strands to Head and trim. Make a topknot of shorter strands and sew to top of Head allowing some strands to fall down over forehead and eyes. Trim and fluff up yarn to get a woolly effect LK Next issue KENNY THE RHINO BY VAL PIERCE June issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 7TH MAY HORNS (make two) Using 3.75mm needles and Beige DK, cast on 12 sts £ Work 24 rows in garter st £Deconestateachendofnext row and every foll alt row until two sts rem £ Next row: k2tog. One st £ Fasten off LEGS (make four) Using 4.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on 12 sts £Konerow £ Cont in garter st, inc one st at each end of next row and foll alt rows until there are 24 sts Pm at each end of last row £Begwithakrow,workin st st until Leg meas 9cm from markers Change to 3.75mm needles and yarn B £ Work eight rows in garter st £ Next row: * k2tog, rep from * toend.12sts £ Next row: * k2tog, rep from * to end. Six sts great ADVICE “Making the fleece is quite time consuming so you can add as much or as little of the woolly coat as you want” LK DESIGNER, Val Pierce
If it is likely that you will be staying at home for the foreseeable future or at the very least limiting your interaction with the outside world, it’s important that you have plenty to keep you occupied. In one sense this is the perfect time to take on a whole host of knitting projects; however, if you are unable to purchase new and exciting fibres, you may be at a loss for inspiration. Luckily, we have compiled a collection of brilliant patterns that will help you to sort through your stash. What’s more, they are all available for download, so you will be able to access them from the comfort of your own home! 56 letsknit.co.uk Stash-busting SORT YOUR STASH Before you get started on a new project, take the time to look through your yarn collection. Don’t do things by halves – pull out your boxes, unload your bags and analyse every inch of your crafting corner. If your stash is a bit of a mess (don’t worry we’re not judging), try to introduce a system. Whether you arrange your yarns in relation to brand, weight, colour or value, the most important thing is that your fibres are easy to access and protected from potential damage. It may take you a while, but once you are finished you will be able to move on to the fun task of selecting your next knit. THE WORLD MAY CHANGE BUT WE’LL ALWAYS HAVE OUR KNITTING. WHY NOT CELEBRATE CRAFTING WITH THESE PRETTY AND PRACTICAL PROJECTS? Using more than one yarn shade at a time offers an excellent opportunity for you to work through your stash. From colourful bunting and beautiful cushions to a striking blanket and super-cute jumper, there are tons of vibrant knits for you to try out. Although we love the shades pictured, the beauty of multi-coloured makes is that you can easily personalise them to match your tastes and complement your existing collection of yarn. Garter Stitch Rainbow Baby Jumper free from letsknit.co.uk Brick Work Afghan in Paintbox Yarns Simply Chunky free from lovecrafts.com Sproglets Kits Bunting, free from sprogletskits.co.uk Kerstin, £4 from knitrowan.com MAKES SECRETS Multi-coloured
57 letsknit.co.uk ONLY OFFLINE? Here is our advice for anyone who struggles to download patterns from the internet. If you’re wondering what to do with the pesky ball of yarn that’s rolling around your craft space, now ’s the time to find a one-ball project that takes your fancy! Update your wardrobe with wraps, cowls and scarves or opt for quick-knits such as these beautiful socks from West Yorkshire Spinners. For knitters who are prone to hoarding, using up a solitary ball may feel like a drop in the ocean. But, you need to start somewhere and you’ll soon find that there’s something incredibly satisfying about turning your spare yarn into something that can be treasured for years to come. Signature Style Cascading Vine Socks, £2.40 from wyspinners.com One Ball Sparkly Cowl, free from letsknit.co .uk Lacy Hearts Hand Knit Headband, £2.99 from knittiana.etsy.com One Ball Beaded Shawl, free from letsknit.co.uk The smaller the project, the more flexibility you will have in terms of using up your yarn stash. Instead of hoping you have enough materials to get to the end of your knit, you will be able to relax safe in the knowledge that your make only requires the bare minimum. And what if you are left with excess? You can make more than one of course! Whether you opt for stylish anklets or super-cute toys to delight the little ones in your life, miniature projects are the way to go if you are happy to work through your stash slowly but surely. Anklet Trio, free from letsknit.co.uk Aeroplane Toys, free from letsknit.co.uk Mini Knitted Ocean by Sachiyo Ishii, Kindle edition £6.02 from amazon.co.uk Another excellent and eco- friendly idea is to update your existing knits. Rather than frogging the lot, you could use embellishments to transform your garments, accessories, toys and homewares. Why not line a knitted blanket with a row of tassels or add a colourful pom-pom to an old woolly hat? Maybe you could make a new wardrobe for your youngster’s favourite toys? Before long you will have a new- found appreciation for your old projects. You could view this as a golden opportunity to help out a worthy cause. There are so many charities asking for knitted or crocheted squares, so why not use your odds and ends? Another option is to keep an eye out for the charity patterns we share in Let’s Knit. These pretty pink cupcakes were designed by Tina Barrett and could be sold to raise money for Breast Cancer Care. When you are sorting through your stash, also take the time to look through your collection of magazines, books and physical patterns – hopefully you will fall back in love with designs you have forgotten. Try to view any limitations as a series of challenges. This could be your chance to play designer for the day. Take a look at existing patterns and think about the embellishments you could add. Why not put your own twist on a pattern by introducing exciting effects such as stripes or motifs? You could take this one step further by designing your very own pattern from scratch. If you are searching for inspiration, take a look at some of the simpler designs in this magazine. Using your imagination and knitting know-how, you could create something similar. Find out if any of your crafty circle could download patterns for you and send them to you. This could be a fantastic option if you are able to access emails but struggle to download files. Alternatively, you could always place your trust in a handwritten letter! Finally, ask if any of your local yarn shops are running a service where they send out materials and patterns to their customers. This could also be a brilliant way for you to support your favourite bricks-and-mortar stores. 1 2 3 4 5 Pocket Pompoms by Sachiyo Ishii, kindle edition £6.64 from amazon.co.uk Roses, Roses, Roses, £1.44 from madebymarianna.etsy.com Join in with a charityblanket challenge, visit lovinghands.org.uk Knit Pink Cupcakes forBreast Cancer Care, free from letsknit.co.uk KNITS CRAFTS ADDED PROJECTS One-ball Charity embellishments Teeny tiny
58 letsknit.co.uk UPDATE YOUR READING LIST WITH THESE INSPIRING TITLES! This month’s focus... Colourful Knits TOP-DOWN KNIT SWEATERS by Corrina Ferguson (Stackpole Books, £21) If you are a fan of gorgeous textures and beautiful colourwork designs, you are going to fall head over heels for this exciting new release. Featuring 16 versatile patterns, Top-down Knit Sweaters is an excellent book for any crafters who come into their own when making garments. Not just for the colder months, there are also stunning short-sleeved looks for you to enjoy. HIGHLIGHTS: The Idabelle Cardigan Amazing Loom Knits by Nicole F. Cox (Stackpole Books, £21) From cabled hats and colourwork scarves to pretty cowls and stylish socks, this fantastic collection of designs will leave you spoilt for choice. As if the helpful instructions and attractive patterns weren’t enough, this book also offers incredible images, as when Cox isn’t busy loom knitting, she works as a photographer. HIGHLIGHTS: The Flourish Tote Bag GRADIENT STYLE Kerry Bogert (F&W Media, £17.99) Rather than opting for a limited selection of shades, why not embrace a gradient design? Not only is this approach to colourwork bang on trend, it’s also incredibly easy to achieve. Sit back and relax as your variegated yarn changes hue before your eyes or explore the joys of mini-skeins. There are 19 original projects on offer, plus top tips on how to choose the ultimate combinations. Must see: instructions on using a colour wheel SIMPLE COLOUR KNITTING Erika Knight (Quadrille Publishing Ltd, £10) Keeping things simple, Knight has designed 20 projects, each teaching you a new technique. Whether you have your heart set on mastering Fair Isle or secretly dream of getting your head around motifs, this informative and inspirational guide will take you one step closer to your goal. Must see: the stylish cushions RAINBOW KNITS Nicki Trench (CICO Books, £12.99) LK favourite Nicki Trench has put together a collection of 20 striking patterns. Suited to all skill levels, Rainbow Knits boasts a silky striped tie, a fancy floral purse, a cool cabled scarf and an adorable baby blanket to name a few. Don’t be put off if you aren’t a fan of bold shades, there are also plenty of pastel options available. Must see: the super-cute stripy sweater Get creative with... Our top pick... by Alison Dupernex (The Crowood Press, £29.95) Do something different with this comprehensive guide to machine knitting. It offers a history of hand frame knitting, an amazing selection of techniques and stitches, a helpful breakdown of the design process, expert advice on turning your hobby into a career, and so much more! If you have an open mind and a soft spot for vibrant colour combinations, you are sure to find endless inspiration. Machine Knitting by Teresa Carter (Blue Star Press, £22.99) Step into the future with this collection of patterns for the minimalist maker. Proving that crochet can be whatever you make it, Carter has designed beautiful accessories such as a cosy infinity scarf and a casual summer clutch. She has also provided the secrets to transforming your living space with her luxury blankets and practical storage baskets. Why not step away from the colour and chaos of everyday life and choose to keep things simple with these refreshing makes? Modern Crochet Read relax Book CHOICE LEARN SOMETHING WITH...
HOME pattern 59 letsknit.co.uk BRIGHTEN UP YOUR SPACE WITH THIS CHIC DESIGN FROM NICOLA VALIJI Hang In Spending more time at home gives you the opportunity to embrace the joys of interior design and we think there is no better way to do this than with your knitting needles. This beautiful wall hanging would cost a great deal from a high end boutique, but you can create your own version for under £12! Attractive, affordable and begging to be personalised, it is the perfect fit for stylish knitters. EXC L U S I V E T O • E X C L U S I VE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O • THERE
Start knitting here... 60 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS ARAN YARN 5MM NEEDLES WALL HANGING Using 5mm needles and yarn E, cast on 50 sts £Row1(WS):k2,ptolast two sts, k2 £Row2:k1,kfb,k5,sl1,k1, psso, k2tog, k5, * (kfb) twice, k5, sl 1, k1, psso, k2tog, k5, rep from * to last two sts, kfb, k1 £ Rows 3-12: rep Rows 1-2 Change to yarn D £ Rows 13-24: rep Rows 1-2 Change to yarn C £ Rows 25-36: rep Rows 1-2 Change to yarn B £ Rows 37-48: rep Rows 1-2 Change to yarn A £ Rows 49-60: rep Rows 1-2 £ Cast off kwise HANGING TABS (make four) Using 5mm needles and yarn A, cast on six sts £ Rows 1-14: beg with a k row, work in st st £ Cast off POM-POM STRING Using 5mm needles and yarn D, cast on 45 sts £ Cast off TO MAKE UP Block Wall hanging to eliminate curling. Cut yarn E into 30cm lengths, fold these in half individually and thread onto bottom section of piece. Trim fringe so that ends are even. Make three large pom-poms in yarns E, C and B. Attach pom-poms to Pom-pom string spacing them evenly apart. Make a tassel in yarn D and attach to bottom of Pom-pom string. Attach Pom-Pom string to Wall hanging at top and to one side. Fold Hanging tabs in half joining cast-on and cast-off edges together. Sew all four tabs to top of Wall hanging. Thread wooden dowel through Hanging tabs LK WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 30cm wide x 45cm long KNIT KIT Yarn: Deramores Studio Aran, shades (A) Gardenia, (B) Pewter, (C) Cyan, (D) Punch, (E) Juniper, one 100g ball of each Needles: 5mm Tapestry needle Wooden dowel: 30cm TENSION SQUARE n18stsx24rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over patt n 5mm needles FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Deramores Studio Aran is anti-pilling and can be machine washed on a gentle setting. This makes it an excellent choice for durable home knits. Available in an impressive selection of shades, it costs £2.29 per 100g (165m) ball from 0845 519 4573, deramores.com 15% OFF WHEN YOU SPEND OVER £20 AT DERAMORES. USE THE CODE GREENAPPLE A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88 STUNNING STRAWBERRY WREATH BY NICOLA VALIJI June issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 7TH MAY To make a tassel, pinch a piece of yarn between your thumb and the bottom of your little finger, then wind the yarn around your four splayed fingers. Keep winding then slide the loop of yarn off your hand. Cut a short length of yarn and thread through the loop. Tie the yarn into a tight knot. Cut another short length of yarn and tie it securely about 2cm from the top of your loop. Finally, cut the bottom of your loop so that you are left with a tassel. making a TASSEL S t y l i s h S H A D E S Next issue LOOK! Special discount packs with all the yarn you need are available at deramores.com/ collections/lets-knit
61 letsknit.co.uk Join the conversation on social media! Knitting Rules 6THATWEREMADETO BE When we’re first taught to knit, we are often told a few hard and fast rules that actually turn out to be more like guidelines. We’re not saying that you shouldn’t listen to what other knitters tell you, but remember that there is always an exception to the rule. Broken! DON’T STOP IN THE MIDDLE OF A ROW If you haven’t yet learnt to read your stitches or your tension is inconsistent, this isn’t a bad practice to follow. However, if you’re working on a project that has hundreds of stitches, like a blanket or shawl, it is perfectly understable if you can’t finish your row before bedtime (or nature calls). Just make a note of which row you’re on and slide the stitches down the needle so they don’t drop off the end. When you return to your project, the yarn will be coming from your right needle. Only join a new yarn at the start of a row That’s great in theory, but if you’re working in the round, you don’t have much choice! Similarly when working with a self-patterning yarn, cutting out a chunk of the colour sequence because there’s not enough to complete a full row is going to be really noticeable. Just try to make your join as inconspicuous as possible, wherever it comes. Wash your knits by hand Not everyone has time for that, so let’s pause to appreciate the marvellous invention that is superwash wool! Choose your yarn wisely and you can pop your project in with your regular wash. Knot yarns together when changing colours Some knitters like to do this and that’s perfectly ok. But you don’t have to. Just work a few stitches and the new yarn will be secure. After a couple of rows, you can safely weave in your ends. Use the ‘correct’ needles for your yarn The labels on yarn balls often include a tension and needle size, which is great as a suggestion but not everybody knits to the same gauge. If you’re a loose knitter, you might need a smaller needle to match the tension given in your pattern. For those of you who are dabbling at designing, you might be trying out a different effect - a bigger needle and a thinner yarn creates an easy lacy look. ‘Correct’ is actually rather subjective. Always do a tension square Theoretically yes. However, in reality it depends on the project. For garments, you should do a tension square, but for a toy it is far less important - just make sure the stuffing won’t show through and you’re golden.
62 letsknit.co.uk What’s The Secret? DISCOVER TOP TIPS FOR TRICKY TECHNIQUES QWhen doing Fair Isle, is there a method to how you should strand the colours? A Fair Isle knitting is one of our favourite techniques but, because it looks so complex and you are using more than one strand of yarn, many people are put off trying it. Taming your wool is the secret to successful stranding so here are a few tips for you: Learn continental knitting. That way you can hold one yarn in your left hand and one in your right and you won’t need to untangle your colours at the end of the row. Admittedly it will take a bit of practise, but it will definitely help your strands to lie nice and flat. Organise your colours. If our first tip is not for you, be consistent with your yarns when changing colours. For example, make sure you always take colour A from the top when you pick it up and colour B from the bottom. You will know if you have got this right because, again, your yarn won’t be tangled. You could try a knitting thimble. This is a little metal coil with a loop at each end. You place one colour in one loop and the other in the opposite loop. This will help you manage your yarns as you knit. Don’t pull your strands too tight. As you knit make sure you aren’t adding too much tension to the yarn that is being stranded or your knitting will look puckered. Make sure the stitches you are stranding across are spread out and don’t pull too much as you strand colours. The Yarn Doctors JULIET AND BRONAGH FROM THE UKHKA OFFER THEIR EXPERT ADVICE How to make an eyelet Eyelets are the deliberate holes that form your openwork pattern and whether you are adding tiny detail or are working on an lace masterpiece, the principle is the same - all you need is a yarn over increase and a corresponding decrease. To increase, make an extra stitch by taking the yarn over the top of the right needle from front to back. If your yarn is at the back of the work, move it between the needles first before making your increase. A knit two together (k2tog) leans to the right, while a slip, slip, knit (ssk) decrease leans to the left. Slip the stitches one at a time before returning them to the left needle and knitting them together through the back loop. Because you have increased, you need to decrease to keep your stitch count correct and complete your eyelet. Using the correct decrease will shape your eyelet pattern so the stitches are angled in a specific direction. Eyelets can be arranged into pretty patterns, like the zigzags on Anniken Allis’s Batwing Lace Top. Find the pattern on page 24! THANKS TO JULIET AND BRONAGH FROM THE UKHKA Eyelets can also be used to make small buttonholes or the openings the thread a drawstring through! So versatile! A yarn forward (yfwd) is worked between two knit stitches, a yarn over needle (yon) is worked between a purl and a knit, and a yarn round needle (yrn) is used between two purl stitches or a knit and a purl. K2TOG SSK
KIDS’ pattern 63 letsknit.co.uk Here at Let’s Knit HQ we are always on the look out for new and exciting ways to embellish our projects, so you can imagine our delight when we first spotted the bobbles on this super-cute jumper. Simple to make and incredibly effective, they add an unusual design touch to an otherwise traditional knit. With an age range of three months to seven years, youngsters everywhere will be able to embrace this funky look. YOUR LITTLE ONE WILL LOVE THIS FUNKY GARMENT FROM JO ALLPORT CROSSOVER Cool E XC L U S I V E T O • E X C L U S I VET O • E X C L U S I V E T O •
64 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS DK YARN 3.25MM, 4MM NEEDLES Pattern Stitches BOBBLE PATT NOTE: this pattern is worked over a multiple of six stitches and 16 rows. Carry yarn A up the side of your work. Either cut yarn B and rejoin or carry up the side. When slipping stitches, spread them out to keep fabric elastic £Row1:usingyarnA,k to end £Row2:usingyarnA,p to end £ Row 3: using yarn B, * sl1wyib,MB,sl4wyib,rep from * to end £ Row 4: using yarn B, * sl4wyif,p1tbl,sl1wyif,rep from * to end £Row5:usingyarnA,k to end £Row6:usingyarnA,p to end £ Rows 7-10: rep Rows 5-6 £Row11:usingyarnB, * sl4 wyib, MB, sl 1 wyib, rep from *toend £ Row 12: using yarn B, * sl1wyif,p1tbl,sl4wyif,rep from * to end £ Row 13: using yarn A, k to end £ Row 14: using yarn A, p to end £ Rows 15-16: rep Rows 13-14 CHART WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Age (approx): 3-6mths (6-12mths, 12-24mths, 2-3yrs, 4-5yrs, 6-7yrs) To fit chest (cm): 41 (46, 51, 56, 61, 66) Actual chest (cm): 46 (52, 57, 65, 70, 75) Actual length to back neck (cm): 27 (30, 32, 38, 43, 48) KNIT KIT Yarn: Rico Baby Dream DK, shades (A) 002 Pink Mix, 3 (3, 4, 5, 5, 6) 50g balls; (B) Rico Baby Cotton Soft DK, shade 055 Purple, one 50g ball Needles: 3.25mm straight and circular, 4mm straight Stitch holder TENSION SQUARE n22stsx28rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 4mm needles TENSION SQUARE n22stsx31rows n 10cm x 10cm n Bobble pattern n 4mm needles FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Rico Baby Dream DK is a super-soft mix of acrylic and polyamide. A practical pick, this yarn can be machine washed and features stunning shades that create gorgeous stripes once knitted. Designed with little ones in mind, it costs £3.79 per 50g (122m) ball from woolwarehouse.co.uk 10% OFF AT WOOL WAREHOUSE. USE THE USE THE CODE LK157. £ Next row: work without shaping £ Rep last three rows until a total of 39 (43, 47, 52, 56, 60) sts have been decreased at neck edge AT THE SAME TIME when 41 (45, 49, 63, 73, 87) rows have been completed, work armhole shaping as folls: £ Next row (WS): cast off 2 (2,2,3,3,3)sts,worktoend as set £ Work another 26 (30, 32, 34, 38, 40) rows dec one st at armhole edge of next and every foll RS row until 11 (11, 11, 11, 12, 13) sts rem £ Work one row without shaping NOTE: Front should meas same as Back to shoulders £ Cast off LEFT FRONT £Work**to**asforBack Change to 4mm needles and work in Bobble Patt as folls working in yarn shades stated in Bobble Patt: £ Next row (RS): using yarn A, k1, work Bobble Patt Row 1 across 48 (54, 60, 72, 78, 84) sts,k4(4,4,0,0,0) £ Next row: using yarn A, p4 (4, 4, 0, 0, 0), work Bobble Patt Row 2 across 48 (54, 60, 72, 78, 84) sts, p1 These two rows set position of patt NOTE: when working on a yarn B row, slip all sts apart from the first and last sts of the row, to keep only the Bobbles in yarn B £Work2(2,2,4,6,12)rows more in patt as set Work sloping neckline as folls: First, second, third and fourth sizes only Cont in patt as set working shaping as folls: £ Next two rows: dec one st Start knitting here... A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88 KEY RS: knit WS: purl yarn A bobble WS: p tbl 6 st patt rep RS: slip purlwise with yarn at the back WS: slip purlwise with yarn in front yarn B BACK ** Using 3.25mm needles and yarn A, cast on 53 (59, 65, 73, 79, 85) sts £Row1(RS):k1, * p1,k1,rep from * to end £Row2:*p1,k1,repfrom * tolastst,p1 These two rows set Single rib £ Work in Single rib for 3cm, ending after a WS row ** Change to 4mm needles £Begwithak(RS)row, work 40 (44, 48, 62, 72, 86) rows in st st, ending after a WS row Shape armhole £Castoff2(2,2,3,3,3)sts at beg of next two rows. 49 (55, 61, 67, 73, 79) sts £ Work 26 (30, 32, 34, 38, 40) rows more AT THE SAME TIME dec one st at each end of next and every foll RS row until 47 (49, 51, 53, 57, 61) sts rem, ending after a WS row Shape shoulders £ Cast off 11 (11, 11, 11, 12, 13) sts at beg of next two rows Place rem 25 (27, 29, 31, 33, 35) sts on a holder RIGHT FRONT £Work**to**asforBack Change to 4mm needles £Begwithakrow,work4 (4,4,6,8,14)rowsinstst Cont in st st, working sloping neckline as folls: £ Next two rows: dec one st at neck edge
65 letsknit.co.uk £ Work another 31 (35, 37, 39, 43, 45) rows dec one st at armhole end of next and every foll RS row until 11 (11, 11, 11, 12, 13) sts rem NOTE: Front should meas same as Back to shoulders £ Cast off SLEEVES (make two) Using 3.25mm needles and yarn A, cast on 36 (36, 38, 40, 44, 46) sts £Row1(RS):*k1,p1,repfrom *toend This row sets Single rib £ Work in Single rib until cuff meas 3cm, ending after a WS row Change to 4mm needles £Begwithakrowworkfour rows in st st £Row5(inc):k1,m1,ktolastst, m1, k1 £ Cont in st st working inc row on every foll 10th (8th, 6th, 6th, 8th, 8th) row until there are 42 (46, 50, 54, 60, 64) sts £ Cont without shaping until Sleeve meas 15 (17, 20, 24, 29, 33) cm, ending after a WS row Shape sleeve top £Castoff2(2,2,3,3,3)stsat beg of next two rows. 38 (42, 46, 48, 54, 58) sts £Deconestateachendof next four rows. 30 (34, 38, 40, 46, 50) sts £Deconestateachendofnext and every foll RS row for a total of 4 (6, 10, 12, 12, 12) rows. 26 (28, 28, 28, 34, 38) sts £Deconestateachendofnext 4(4,4,4,4,6)rows.18(20,20, 20, 26, 26) sts ** £Castoff6(6,6,6,8,8)stsat beg of next two rows £ Cast off rem sts NECKLINE EDGING Sew both shoulder seams £ Using 3.25mm circular needle and yarn B with RS facing and starting at Right front, pick up and k 60 (66, 72, 82, 92, 102) sts across diagonal, k25 (27, 29, 31, 33, 35) sts from Back holder, pick up and k 60 (66, 72, 82, 92, 102) sts across left front diagonal. 145 (159, 173, 195, 217, 239) sts £ K four rows £ Cast off TO MAKE UP Sew sleeve caps into armholes. Overlap Left Front so Bobble patt is uppermost then sew side seams catching both layers. Sew sleeve seams. See ball band for further care instructions LK C u t e C R O S S O V E R C R O S S O V E R at neck edge £ Next row: work without shaping £ Rep last three rows until a total of 39 (43, 47, 52, -, -)stshave been decreased at neck edge AT THE SAME TIME when 44 (50, 54, 68, -, - ) rows have been completed, work armhole shaping as folls: Fifth and sixth sizes only Cont in patt as set working shaping as folls: NOTE: where there is a decrease on a yarn B row, work the decrease in yarn B £Deconestatendofnextand every foll RS row until a total of - (-, -, - , 56, 60) sts have been decreased AT THE SAME TIME when - (-, -, -, 80, 96) rows have been completed, work armhole shaping as folls: Armhole shaping (all sizes) NOTE: the length to the armhole should match the Back £ Next row (RS): cast off 2 (2, 2, 3,3,3)sts,worktoendasset
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LK favourite Susie Johns has used a natural fibre and colour palette to create an utterly adorable outfit for the little one in your life. This unisex knit is a traditional choice that will give your youngster a fuss-free look throughout the spring and summer months. Not only is this project attractive, it is also practical, as the tunic features a generous neckline and slits up the side, with the shorts held up by elastic and offering plenty of room for nappies or training pants. WONDER Natural TREAT YOUR TOT TO THIS GORGEOUS TUNIC AND TROUSER SET E X C L U S IVE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O • EX C L U S I V E T O • 67 letsknit.co.uk B e s t f or B A B Y
68 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS DK YARN 3.75MM , 4.5MM NEEDLES WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Age (mths): 3-6 (6-12, 12-24) Tunic chest (cm): 50 (54, 58) Tunic length (cm): 27 (29, 31) Sleeve length (cm): 16 (17, 18.5) Length of trousers (cm): 30 (33, 40) KNIT KIT Yarn: King Cole Finesse Cotton Silk DK, shade 2811 Cream, 4 (5, 6) 50g balls Needles: 3.75mm, 4.5mm Stitch holders Tapestry needle Safety pin Elastic: 38 (40, 42) cm x 15mm Sewing needle and thread TENSION SQUARE n20stsx28rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over patt n 4.5mm needles FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN King Cole Finesse Cotton Silk DK is 77% cotton and 23% silk. It comes in a range of ten subtle colours. The natural fibres are just right for a baby and the knitted fabric is soft and drapey. Hand washing is recommended. This DK yarn costs £2.49 per 50g (120m) ball from 01409 404010, lovecrafts.com NEED AN ALTERNATIVE Rico Creative Cotton DK is a beautiful 100% cotton choice that comes in a range of pretty pastel shades. Suited to sensitive skin, this practical fibre can be machine washed on a gentle setting. It costs £1.65 per 50g (115m) ball from 01283 713742, zarela.co .uk Start knitting here Tunic * Using 4.5mm needles, cast on 52 (56, 60) sts £Row1(RS):ktoend £ Rows 2-3: rep Row 1 twice more £Row4:k3,pto last three sts, k3 £Row5:ktoend £ Rep Rows 4-5 eight times £Begwithaprow,workin st st until work meas 16 (17, 18) cm from cast-on edge, ending after a RS row Shape armholes £ Cast off three sts at beg of next two rows. 46 (50, 54) sts ** £ Cont in st st until work meas 26 (28, 30) cm, ending after a WS row Right shoulder £Row1:k16(17,18),turn and leave rem sts on holder £ Rows 2-5: dec one st at neck edge on next four rows. 12 (13, 14) sts £Row6:ptoend £ Cast off Left shoulder £ With RS facing, sl centre 14 (16, 18) sts on holder, rejoin yarn to rem 16 (17, 18) sts, k to end £ Complete as for Right shoulder, reversing shaping FRONT £WorkasforBackfrom*to** £ Cont in st st until work meas 19 (20, 21) cm from cast-on edge, ending after a WS row Left front £ Row 1: k22 (24, 26), turn and leave rem sts on holder £Continststonthese sts until work meas 23 (25, 27) cm from cast-on edge, ending after a RS row £Nextrow:castoff4(5,6) sts, p to end. 18 (19, 20) sts £ Dec one st at neck edge on next six rows. 12 (13, 14) sts £ Cast off Right front With RS facing, rejoin yarn to sts on holder £Castofftwosts,ktoend £ Complete as for Left front, reversing shaping Sleeve (make two) Using 3.75mm needles, cast on 28 (30, 32) sts £Rows1-3:ktoend Change to 4.5mm needles £Row4:ptoend £Row5:k1,kfb,kto last two sts, kfb, k1 £ Rows 6-10: beg with a p row, work five rows in st st £ Rep Rows 5-10 until there are 40 (44, 48) sts £ Cont in st st with no further shaping until work meas 16 (17, 18.5) cm from cast-on edge £ Cast off Neckband Join back and front along Right shoulder £ With RS facing, starting at front left shoulder, pick up and k 10 (11, 12) sts along Left front neck, 8 (9, 10) sts down Left front opening, two sts along base of Front opening, 8 (9, 10) sts up Right front opening, 10 (11, 12) sts along Right front neck, five sts down right Back neck, 14 (16, 18) sts from holder, and five sts up left Back neck. 64 (69, 74) sts £ Cast off Trousers LEG (make two) Using 3.75mm needles, cast on 69 (76, 83) sts Next issue COLOURFUL BABY DRESS BY JO ALLPORT June issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 7TH MAY BABY pattern A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88 £Begwithakrow, work five rows in st st £Konerow £Begwithakrow, work four rows in st st Change to 4.5mm needles £ Cont in st st until work meas 21 (23, 25) cm from cast-on edge Shape leg £Continstst,decone st at each end of next and every foll 3rd (3rd, 4th) row, until 49 (54, 59) sts rem £ Cont without further shaping until work meas 31 (33, 35)cm from cast-on edge, ending with a k row Change to 3.75mm needles £ K three rows £ Cast off TO MAKE UP Stitch left shoulder seam of Tunic. Join sleeves to armhole edge, then stitch sleeve seams. Sew side seams, stopping at garter stitch edge to form side slits. Weave in all remaining ends. Join centre back and front seams of trousers. Stitch inside leg seams. On top edge, form a waistband by folding to wrong side along garter stitch ridge. Stitch cast-on edge to inside, leaving a small (2-3cm) gap. Thread elastic on to a safety pin or bodkin and thread through channel. Overlap ends by 2cm and stitch firmly together, then close gap in seams LK
69 letsknit.co.uk Long length yarns Next issue Pure fibres that are perfect for little ones Get more top yarns at your local yarn shop! Find your nearest store on p88. NATURAL for Baby CALL IT A CRUSH Offering five unique ombre colour ways, this DK yarn from King Cole is a favourite here at Let's Knit HQ. Released alongside a collection of adorable baby patterns, including a pretty pinafore and a practical hooded jacket, it is a super-soft cotton with all the components of an excellent baby yarn. King Cole Cottonsoft Baby Crush DK, shade 2874 Blues, 100g, £4.79, purplelindacrafts.co.uk BEAUTIFUL BLEND From incredible stitch definition and a fabulous colour palette to a super-soft feel and a luxurious blend, Rowan's Baby Cashsoft Merino has so much to offer. Although it is the perfect fibre for treating your tot, it could also work well for adult garments and accessories. Don't be deceived by the high-quality aspects of this yarn, it is practical too and can be machine washed on a gentle setting. ROWAN BABY CASHSOFT MERINO, shade 116 Fuchsia, 50g, £4.99, blacksheepwools.com PRECIOUS PICK Another excellent option is this 100% Merino Wool fibre. Choose from a whole host of attractive shades as you explore this pretty offering from the Peter Pan collection. Babies will love the super-soft texture, plus parents will thank you for the fact that this yarn is machine- washable and hardwearing enough to stand the test of time. PETER PAN MERINO BABY DK, shade 3038 Apricot, 50g, £3.23, smdknitting.com SAY YES TO SILK If you have a soft spot for colourful yarns, allow us to introduce you to this fabulous fibre. Available in over 40 shades, there is sure to be a colour combination that will delight your youngster. A gorgeous blend of wool, silk and cashmere, this yarn is a must have for knitters everywhere. SUBLIME BABY CASHMERE MERINO SILK DK, shade 162 Pinkaboo, 50g, £4.99, woolwarehouse.co .uk ABSOLUTE BLISS Available in a range of signature Debbie Bliss shades, this super-soft fibre is just the thing for your upcoming baby knits. Practical too, it can be machine washed on a gentle setting, so you won't have to worry about the reality of everyday life with a little one. Cosy, cute and durable, this fibre really does have it all. DEBBIE BLISS BABY CASHMERINO, shade 91 Acid Yellow, 50g, £4.99 from lovecrafts.com C h o o s e C A S H M E R E 7 L U X U R Y F i b r e 4 ply YARN BEST OF BRITISH Spun from 100% Falkland Islands Wool, this yarn isn't just a joy to look at, it is sustainable too! Together you and your youngster can show your support for the British wool industry, simultaneously enjoying an incredibly soft fibre that comes in a selection of classic shades. If you decide to treat yourself to this classic pick, be sure to check out the adorable pattern collection. WEST YORKSHIRE SPINNERS BO PEEP PURE, shade 446 Dandelion, 50g, £6.50 from wyspinners.com S T R I K I N G S h a d e s COLOUR Effect 1 5 2 Wash by HAND 6 4 MERINO MAKES Designed with babies and children in mind, this soft and gentle yarn is a joy to craft with. Suited to any 4ply knitting pattern it is also a versatile pick and would therefore make a sensible addition to your stash. This fibre comes in handy 50g balls and is offered in a selection of stunning shades. NOVITA BABY MERINO, shade 326 Silver Willow, 50g, £5.50 from deramores.com 3
70 letsknit.co.uk KEEP CALM AND Me-time MOMENT... Cast On! SIMPLE WAYS TO BRING MINDFULNESS INTO YOUR WORLD – AND YOUR KNITTING! “Being engaged in the rhythm of the stitch helps to focus the mind and keep in the present moment, so the very act of knitting becomes a form of meditation” ERIKA KNIGHT Does good preparation lead to good perception? When I started to master the intarsia technique I thought I would knit a pattern of circles in different colours on a scarf. Most knitting patterns I found had intarsia squares or rectangles, perhaps triangles or diamonds. I can be a trifle stubborn, so circles I was having. 4mm needles, DK weight yarn wound onto bobbins for the colour changes, stitch pattern drawn onto graph paper. With preparation complete I commenced with the knitting. First circle knit. It looked terrible. My methodology was correct. I had spent care and time on the preparation, the execution of the construction was meticulous, but something was wrong. It was all jagged at the edges, resulting in a circle with poor resolution on the border. Then I realised, I was looking at the circle the wrong way. Smaller needles and thinner yarn would have allowed me a clearer, more defined edge. However, to make a circle of the same size more stitches would be required than with the DK equivalent. This means more time, more breaths and more thoughts. This made me realise more about my life and actions. They say ‘perfect preparation prevents poor performance’, however, the ‘P ’ that was missing in this case was ‘perception’. I started to think, and realise that preparation is all well and good in the planning, but having a break, stopping to think and considering the minutiae of a project is what leads to perfect results. The perception by others of one’s actions need to be deeply considered. PUT THE KETTLE ON Relax and enjoy a mindful brew 1 Dr Stuarts Tranquility Tea, £2 .79 from drstuarts.com 2 Happy Hedgehogs mug cosy pattern, $8 from saylittlehenshop.com 3 Knitting Is My Happy Place mug, £10 from myhappyplacewoolshop.co .uk Sock expert Christine Perry, aka Winwick Mum, knows all about the calming effects of sock knitting. She aims to encourage beginners ‘to not only enhance their sock drawers but also their wellbeing as they discover the simple pleasure of knitting in the round’. The Winwick Mum Collection features four designs for adventurous beginners in new shades of West Yorkshire Spinners’ Signature 4ply, with colours that slowly reveal themselves as you work. The book has an RRP of £8.50 and the yarn £7.50. Visit wyspinners.com for stockists. The circles of life Dr Thomas Ernst FRCP says... Mindful knitting with JAMES MCINTOSH knitmcintosh.com “Taking a deliberate pause to collect one’s thoughts can lead to a better outcome, even if you think you know the answer. Sit still and let your thoughts meander, following each thought with a conscious breath.” Dr Thomas Ernst FRCP is a senior consultant physician at a leading London teaching hospital specialising in mindfulness 1 2 3 “I had spent care and time on the preparation, but something was wrong.”
GARMENT pattern 71 letsknit.co.uk KNIT MARTIN STOREY’S ELEMENTARY CARDIGAN SIMPLE Stitch Drapey, textured, and comfortable to wear, there are many things to love about this chic and stylish knit from Rowan. One more thing to note: it’s got pockets, which makes it practical too! There’s a four-row knit and purl pattern repeat that’s easy to remember and the sleeves are worked along with the body to reduce the amount of sewing up. The neutral shade makes it an everyday favourite but you could use any colour you like!
Start knitting here... 72 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS DK YARN 3.25MM, 4MM NEEDLES BACK Using 3.25mm needles, cast on 127 (139, 149, 161, 171) sts £Ksixrows Change to 4mm needles and commence patt as folls: £Row1(RS):k1, * p1,k1,rep from * to end £Row2:asRow1 £Row3:p1, * k1,p1,repfrom *toend These four rows set patt £ Cont in patt until Back meas 34 (34.5, 35, 35.5, 36) cm, ending after a WS row Shape sleeve £Continpattinconestat each end of next and two foll fourth rows, then on foll four alt rows, then on foll 15 rows, ending after a WS row. 171 (183, 193, 205, 215) sts £Caston5(5,7,7,7)stsat beg of next two rows. 181 (193, 207, 219, 229) sts £ Patt 42 (46, 50, 56, 60) rows, ending after a WS row Shape shoulders £ Next row (RS): cast off 4 (4, 4, 5, 5) sts, patt until there are 17 (17, 20, 20, 20) sts on right needle, turn Leave rem sts on a holder and work each side of neck separately £ Dec one st at neck edge on next five rows, ending after a WS row AT THE SAME TIMEcastoff4(4,5,5,5)sts at beg of second and foll alt row.4(4,5,5,5)sts £ Cast off £ With RS facing, leave next 29 (29, 31, 31, 33) sts on a holder for front band, rejoin yarn and patt to end £ Complete to match first side, reversing shapings POCKET LININGS (make two) Using 4mm needles cast on 33 (33, 35, 35, 37) sts £BegwithaRow1,work46 (46, 48, 48, 50) rows in patt as for Back Cut yarn and leave sts on a holder LEFT FRONT Using 3.25mm needles, cast on 63 (69, 74, 80, 85) sts £Ksixrows Change to 4mm needles and commence patt as folls: £Row1(RS):*k1,p1,rep from*tolast1(1,0,0,1)st,k1 (1,0,0,1) £Row2:k1(1,0,0,1), * p1,k1, rep from * to end £Row3:*p1,k1,repfrom * tolast1(1,0,0,1)st,p1(1, 0,0,1) £Row4:p1(1,0,0,1), * k1,p1, rep from * to end These four rows set patt £ Cont in patt for a further 42 (42, 44, 44, 46) rows, ending after a WS row Place pocket as folls: £ Next row (RS): patt 12 (14, 16, 18, 20) sts, slip next 33 (33, 35, 35, 37) sts onto a holder for pocket top, patt across 33 (33, 35, 35, 37) sts of first Pocket lining, patt rem 18 (22, 23, 27, 28) sts £ Cont in patt without shaping until six rows fewer have been worked than on Back to beg of sleeve shaping, ending after a WS row Shape front slope £ Keeping patt correct, dec one st at end of next row. 62 (68, 73, 79, 84) sts £ Patt five rows Shape sleeve £ Keeping patt correct, inc one st at beg of next and two WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Dress size (approx): 8-10 (12-14, 16-18, 20-22, 24-26) To fit chest (cm): 81-86 (91-97, 102-107, 112-117, 122-127) Actual chest (cm): 115.5 (126.5, 135.5, 146.5, 155.5) Length (cm): 71.5 (73, 75, 77.5, 79) KNIT KIT Yarn: Rowan Softyak DK, shade 245 Taupe, 10 (11, 12, 14, 15) 50g balls Needles: 3.25mm, 4mm, both straight, 3.25mm (120cm) circular Stitch holder Tapestry needle TENSION SQUARE n22stsx31rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over patt n 4mm needles FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Rowan Softyak DK is a gorgeous mix of 76% cotton, 15% yak and 9% nylon. The chainette construction makes it light to wear and it’s machine washable too. It costs £7.29 per 50g (135m) ball from 01925 764231, blacksheepwools.com foll fourth rows, then on foll four alt rows, then at same edge on foll 15 rows, ending after a WS row AT THE SAME TIME dec one st at front slope edge on next and five foll sixth rows. 78 (84, 89, 95, 100) sts £Caston5(5,7,7,7)stsat beg of next row. 83 (89, 96, 102, 107) sts £ Keeping patt correct, dec one st at front slope edge on fourth and 6 (7, 7, 7, 9) foll sixth rows, then on 0 (0, 0, 1, 0) foll eighth row. 76 (81, 88, 93, 97) sts £Work3(1,5,3,3)rows, ending after a WS row Shape shoulder £ Keeping patt correct, cast off3(3,4,4,4)stsatbegof next and foll 8 (2, 16, 10, 6) alt rows,then4(4,5,5,5)stsat beg of foll 10 (16, 2, 8, 12) alt rows AT THE SAME TIME dec one st at front slope edge of 3rd (5th, next, 5th, 5th) and 3 (0, 2, 0, 0) foll sixth rows, then on 1 (3, 2, 3, 3) foll eighth rows. 4 (4, 5, 5, 5) sts £ Patt one row £ Cast off RIGHT FRONT Using 3.25mm needles, cast on 63 (69, 74, 80, 85) sts £Ksixrows Change to 4mm needles and commence patt as folls: £Row1(RS):k1(1,0,0,1), * p1,k1,repfrom*toend £Row2:*k1,p1,repfrom* A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88
tolast1(1,0,0,1)st,k1(1,0, 0, 1) £Row3:p1(1,0,0,1), * k1, p1, rep from * to end £Row4:*p1,k1,repfrom * tolast1(1,0,0,1)st,p1(1, 0,0,1) These four rows set patt £ Cont in patt for a further 42 (42, 44, 44, 46) rows, ending after a WS row Place pocket as folls: £ Next row (RS): patt 18 (22, 23, 27, 28) sts, slip next 33 (33, 35, 35, 37) sts onto holder for pocket top, patt across 33 (33, 35, 35, 37) sts of second Pocket lining, patt rem 12 (14, 16, 18, 20) sts £ Cont in patt without shaping until six rows fewer have been worked than on Back to beg of sleeve shaping, ending after a WS row Shape front slope £ Keeping patt correct, dec one st at beg of next row. 62 (68, 73, 79, 84) sts £ Complete to match Left front, reversing shapings TO MAKE UP Lightly press. Join both shoulder seams using backstitch or mattress stitch FRONT BAND £ Using 3.25mm circular needle and with RS facing, beg and ending at front cast-on edges, pick up and k 76 (77, 78, 79, 80) sts up right front opening edge to beg of front slope shaping, 94 (97, 101, 108, 112) sts up Right front slope, and five sts down right side of Back neck, k across 29 (29, 31, 31, 33) sts on Back holder inc one st at centre, then pick up and k five sts up left side of Back neck, 94 (97, 101, 108, 112) sts down left front slope to beg of front slope shaping, and 76 (77, 78, 79, 80) sts down left front opening edge. 380 (388, 400, 416, 428) sts £Row1(WS):k1,p2, * k2, p2, rep from * to last st, k1 £Row2:k3, * p2,k2,rep from * to last st, k1 These two rows set rib £ Cont in rib for a further 12 rows, ending after a RS row £Row15(WS):k1,p3(2,3,1, 2), p2tog, [p8, p2tog] 37 (38, 39, 41, 42) times, p3 (2, 3, 1, 2), k1. 342 (349, 360, 374, 385) sts £Row16:ktoend £Row17:k1,ptolastst,k1 £ Rep last two rows twice more £ Cast off CUFFS (alike) £ Using 3.25mm needles and with RS facing, pick up and k 66 (74, 78, 86, 94) sts evenly along armhole opening row-end edge £Row1(WS):p2, * k2,p2, rep from * to end £Row2:k2, * p2,k2,rep from * to end These two rows set rib £ Cont in rib until Cuff meas 8cm, ending after a WS row £Castoffinrib POCKET TOPS (alike) Slip 33 (33, 35, 35, 37) sts onto 3.25mm needles and rejoin yarn with RS facing £Konerow,inc3(3,1,1,3) sts evenly across row. 36 (36, 36, 36, 40) sts £ Beg with Row 1, work five rows in rib as given for Front band £Castoffinrib Sew side, underarm and pocket seams. Weave in ends LK Introducing your new everyday favourite cardi - available in sizes 8-26! 73 letsknit.co.uk
OUR MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF HOW YOU CAN USE YOUR NEEDLES FOR A GOOD CAUSE Launched in January 2018, the red hat appeal is an initiative from the National Maternal and Neonatal Health Safety Collaborative. They have asked knitters to make tiny hats using red wool. The hats are then given to babies who have to be monitored closely, so that parents and staff members can easily identify the little ones in need of extra care. This worthy cause was brought to our attention by Let’s Knit reader Anita Darch who has been busy making an impressive number of woolly donations. If you would like to show your support go online to find out if your local maternity unit is in need of red hats. Over to you ENDLESS CREATIVI-TEA With more than 60 talented members, the inspirational craft group Creativi-TEA transformed St John the Baptist Church in Heather, Leicestershire into the first church in the country to be yarn bombed. The display took over a year to create and raised more than £3,000 for the church’s tower fund. The group supports a number of charities and is currently working towards a £5,000 target to buy and train a guide dog for the blind. If you would like to lend your support or learn more about this generous group of crafters, you can contact their leader Paula Sharpe via paula@cpsharpe.co.uk TALES OF YOUR TERRIFIC CHARITY EFFORTS! CORNER Charity 74 letsknit.co .uk Hats to “ Knitted chicks, hens, rabbits and blue tits which contain a Creme Egg for Easter. I, along with my 95 year old mother, Kitty Lee, have been knitting them to sell in aid of the Rowan’s Hospice in Portsmouth.” Elizabeth Holman These are fantastic, Elizabeth HELP Let us know your favourite charitable causes to knit for! Share your stories and photos on social media or email them to adrienne.chandler@aceville.co.uk “T h is is my octopus. I send them to get checked before they get sent to preemie babies at hospital. This is number ten so far this year!” Tracy Mccarthy Wow, well done Tracy! “ Currently making little hats for the Innocent Big Knit” Yvonne Mather You’ve been very busy, Yvonne! “ Hat for charity from the March issue of Let’s Knit” Ann Arbuckle This is lovely, Ann “Some of the 50 plus chicks and eggs for the local Family Space and playgroup for Easter. Because some of the children are not allowed chocolate I knitted the eggs instead of cream eggs. They will be used in an egg hunt.” Chris Hancock That’s so impressive, Chris Beautiful Butterflies Founded by Donna Dighton in 2015, the Purple Butterfly Facebook group work together to create knitted items that are then donated to hospitals in need within the UK. From cup cosies that were sent to hospitals in time for Father’s Day to teddies and puppets that were shared with younger patients, this fabulous group of creatives have produced so many wonderful projects. They are currently working on purple hats in celebration of World Prematurity Day which takes place on Tuesday 17th November. If you would like to join the closed group you can find Purple Butterfly on Facebook, make your request and answer the relevant questions.
75 letsknit.co.uk Support Stroke Association’s annual campaign by organising a purple-themed fundraiser. This pretty pattern is the perfect accessory to knit for your Make May Purple event - and you can wear it all year long. The design is finished off with a crochet border. STYLISH SHAWL MEASUREMENTS AND SIZES One size KNIT KIT Yarn: DROPS Nepal, shades (A) 4434 Purple/Violet Mix, five 50g balls, (B) 4311 Purple/Grey, one 50g ball Needles: 5mm (80cm) circular Crochet hook: 4.5mm TENSION n17stsx22rows n 10cm x 10cm n Stocking stitch n 5mm needles ABOUT THE YARN Drops Nepal blends 65% wool and 35% alpaca. Projects should be handwashed. It costs £2.05 per 50g (75m) ball from purplesheepyarns.co.uk SHAWL Using 5mm circular needle and yarn A, cast on four sts Work back and forth in rows as folls: £Rows1-2:ktoend Commence Drop St Patt as folls: £Row3(RS):k2,ktolasttwo sts, k2 £Row4:k2,ptolasttwosts, m1p, k2 These two rows set st st with garter st edges and incs £ Cont to work in patt, inc one st as set at end of every fourth row until there are 56 sts and work meas approx 95cm Cont to inc as set on every fourth row AT THE SAME TIME work short rows as folls: £ Next row (RS): patt to last three sts, turn £ Next row: patt to end £ Next row: patt to last six sts, turn £ Next row: patt to end £ Cont as set working three sts Start knitting here... C A M P A I G N K N I T fewer before each turn until there are a total of 65 sts after inc £ Patt four rows across all sts without shaping £ Next row (RS, dec): k2, k2tog, k until there are 54 sts on right needle, turn £ Next row: patt to end £ Next row: patt until there are 51 sts on right needle, turn £ Next row: patt to end £Conttodecassetatbeg of next row and every foll fourth row AT THE SAME TIME Knit and wear this May is Stroke Awareness month, and this year the Stroke Association wants your help to Make May Purple. You can bake, walk, host a quiz – the choice is yours. The main aims are to have fun, maybe challenge yourself and raise vital funds to help rebuild lives after stroke. Help to Make May Purple by signing up at stroke. org.uk/may cont short rows as set working three sts fewer before each turn until there are 56 sts in total after dec £ Cont to dec as set until four sts rem £Ktworows £ Cast off CROCHET BORDER: Using 4.5mm hook join yarn B in middle along top of shawl £ 1dc, * 3ch, 1tr in first of 3ch, miss four garter sts, 1dc *, rep from * to * to corner, 17ch, turn, miss first ch, 3dc in each of next 16ch, 1dc in shawl, 13ch, turn, miss first ch, 3dc in each of next 12ch, 1dc in shawl, rep from * to * along side of the shawl to bottom point and up along other side, 17ch, turn, miss first ch, 3dc in each of next 16ch, 1dc in shawl, 13ch, turn, miss first ch, 3dc in each of next 12ch, 1dc in shawl, rep from * to * along top of shawl back to middle, sl st in first dc from beg of rnd £ Fasten off Weave in ends Make May Purple MAKE MAY PURPLE WITH THIS EASY PATTERN FROM DROPS
76 letsknit.co.uk GIVEAWAYS GORGEOUS YARN BUNDLE Transform your warm weather knitting projects with this fantastic prize from Rico Design. Four lucky readers will each receive eight balls of Lazy Hazy Summer Cotton in this beautiful bluey-green shade. This DK fibre is just the thing for your upcoming garments and accessories. A clever blend of cotton, acrylic and polyester, this yarn is soft to the touch, but can also be machine washed on a gentle setting. Versatile too, it really does tick all the boxes. rico-design.com £ Rico Design MINIATURE MAKES Update your reading list with a copy of the fabulous 100 Little Knitted Projects by Sarah Keen. The ideal book for any crafters who are looking to sort through their stashes, this title is packed full of fun projects for you to enjoy. From a colourful lighthouse and a funky hamburger to a super-cute fox and a roarsome dinosaur, the seven winners of this fantastic prize are sure to be spoilt for choice! gmcbooks.com £ GMC Publications BEAUTIFUL BLANKET KIT How would you like to win the pattern and yarn required to complete this trendy project? Knitted in the super-soft Bernat® BlanketTM, this folksy piece has what it takes to transform your living space. Even novice knitters should enter into this fantastic competition, as the blanket is mainly worked in garter stitch. What’s more, the hexagonal starburst afghan is made in separate triangles which are later joined together, so you will be able to power through the project one step at a time. hobbycraft.co.uk £ Bernat® BlanketTM Exciting goodies MYSTERY BUNDLE! Including a pretty project bag, a selection of crafting titles and a whole lot of yarn, this mystery bundle is not to be missed. Whether you keep the treats to yourself or gift them to your crafty friends, you are sure to be thrilled with the results. One lucky reader will win this exciting bounty and if you enter today it could be you! letsknit.co.uk £ Mystery Bundle IN THE BAG Made from a durable linen fabric with a check design and lined throughout with coordinated cotton material, this versatile project bag is the perfect place for storing your favourite yarns and WIPs. Fastened with a sturdy zip along the top and featuring a practical pocket at the front, this wonderful accessory has been designed with knitters in mind. As if this wasn’t enough, there is an eyelet on the end panel which is ideal for holding any additional yarn. Why not enter today for your chance to win? theknittinggiftshop.co.uk £ The Knitting Gift Shop Three to win LOOK AT THESE AMAZING PRIZES WORTH OVER £1,000! MAKE IT YOURSELF Here at Let’s Knit HQ we know many of our readers are experts in a wide range of disciplines. If you also have a soft spot for sewing, you are going to love this brilliant prize. Fifteen crafters will receive a copy of this beginner-friendly pattern for The Kato Drawstring Project Bag. Not only will you have chance to enjoy making this accessory from scratch, you will also be able to put it to excellent use storing your craft supplies. Offering clear instructions and helpful photos, this wonderful pattern is not to be missed! kandoupatterns.etsy.com £ Kandoupatterns Stunning Kit Exciting project Six to Win Seven winners! New release Sew stylish HAPPY HOME Two readers will each receive a fabulous DIY pouf kit! If you are lucky enough to win, you will have the option of either knitting or crocheting this gorgeous home accessory in Hoooked Zpagetti. Along with your choice of patterns, you will also receive a pair of bamboo knitting needles, a bamboo crochet hook, a portable gift box and of course the relevant yarn. With a cross section of 65-70cm and a height of 30-40cm, the finished pouf would make a lovely addition to any household. hoookedyarn.com £ Hoooked
TOY pattern 77 letsknit.co.uk If you go down to the woods today you’ll find these three little cuties with a basket full of tasty goodies! Our sweet bears are designed by Sachiyo Ishii and come with an adorable pattern for a traditional checked blanket, as well as a bear-sized picnic basket and selection of fruit. If you love miniature makes, this is the project for you. MAKE PLAYTIME EVEN MORE FUN WITH THIS FAB TOY SET! PICNIC Teddy bear’s E XC L U S I V E T O • E X C L U S I VET O • E X C L U S I V E T O •
78 letsknit.co.uk GREAT FOR IMPROVERS DK YARN 3.5MM NEEDLES Daddy Bear BODY Using 3.5mm needles and yarn B, cast on ten sts £Row1(WS):ptoend £Row2:(kfb)toend.20sts £Row3:ptoend £Row4:(k1,kfb)to end. 30 sts £ Rows 5-10: beg with a p row, work in st st Change to yarn A £ Rows 11-13: cont in st st £ Row 14: (k3, k2tog) to end. 24 sts £ Rows 15-21: cont in st st £ Row 22: (k2, k2tog) to end. 18 sts £ Cast off HEAD Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £ Rows 1-5: rep Rows 1-5 of Body. 30 sts £ Row 6: k2, (kfb, k4) to last three sts, kfb, k2. 36 sts £ Rows 7-11: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 12: k8, (k2tog) ten times, k8. 26 sts £ Rows 13-18: cont in st st £ Row 19: (p2tog) to end. 13 sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off EAR (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on 12 sts £ Row 1 (WS): (p2tog) to end. Six sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off ARM (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £Rows1-8:begwithap (WS) row work in st st £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off LEG (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on seven sts £Row1(WS):ptoend £Row2:(kfb)toend.14sts £Rows3-7:begwithap row, work in st st £ Row 8 (start shaping ankle): k4, (k2tog) three times, k4. 11 sts £Row9:ptoend £ Row 10: k4, k3tog, k4. Nine sts £ Rows 11-13: cont in st st £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off TROUSERS Using 3.5mm needles and yarn B, cast on ten sts £ Rows 1-6: rep Rows 1-6 of Head. 36 sts £ Rows 7-11: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 12: (k4, k2tog) to end. 30 sts £ Rows 13-14: cont in st st £ Cast off kwise STRAP (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn B, cast on 18 sts £ Cast off Mummy Bear BODY £ Work as for Daddy Bear using yarn C in place of yarn B WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW... MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Mummy and Daddy Bears: 10cm tall Baby Bear: 8.5cm tall Basket: 6.5cm wide Banana: 5cm long Apple: 2cm wide Grapes: 4cm tall Blanket: 17.5cm x 17.5cm KNIT KIT Yarn: DK, shades (A) Taupe, 40g, (B) Lilac, (C) Pink, (D) Blue, (E) Red, (F) White, (G) Golden Yellow, 20g of each, Dark Brown, Light Yellow, Light Brown, Green, small amounts of each, Dark Brown 4ply, small amount Needles: 3.5mm Crochet hook: 3.5mm Safety toy eyes: 6mm black, six Sewing needle Sewing thread: black, orange Cardboard: 5cm x 7cm Felt: orange Safety toy stuffing Glue Tapestry needle FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN This project was made using small amounts of DK yarn. See what you can find in your yarn stash! Start knitting here... HEAD, EAR, ARM AND LEG £ Work as for Daddy Bear DRESS Using 3.5mm needles and yarn C, cast on 60 sts £Rows1-2:ktoend £Row3(RS):ktoend £Row4:ptoend £ Row 5: (k2tog) to end. 30 sts £Row6:ptoend £ Row 7: cast off nine sts, k11, cast off to end. 12 sts With WS facing, rejoin yarn to rem 12 sts £Row8(WS):k2,p8,k2 £Row9:ktoend £ Rows 10-11: rep Rows 8-9 £ Rows 12-13: k to end £ Cast off kwise STRAP (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn C, cast on 12 sts £ Cast off Baby Bear BODY Using 3.5mm needles and yarn D, cast on ten sts £Row1(WS):ptoend £Row2:(kfb)toend.20sts £Row3:ptoend £ Row 4: k2, (kfb, k2) to end. 26 sts £ Rows 5-10: beg with a p row, work in st st Change to yarn A £Row11:ptoend £ Row 12: k2, (k2tog, k2) to end. 20 sts £ Rows 13-19: cont in st st £ Row 20: (k2, k2tog) to end. 15 sts £ Cast off A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88 “There are a lot of small pieces to this project so make sure you label them clearly or sew up the parts as you go.” LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler When making the blanket, you’ll be using two colours across the row. Strand the colour not in use across the back of the work, ensuring your tension is nice and even. If it’s too tight your work will pucker and won’t lie flat. Too loose and you’ll end up with large loops on the wrong side. Clever COLOURWORK
79 letsknit.co.uk Apple (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn E, cast on eight sts £Row1(WS):ptoend £Row2:(kfb)toend.16sts £ Rows 3-5: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 6: (k2tog) to end. Eight sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off Seam and stuff Apples LEAF Using 3.5mm needles and Green DK, cast on three sts £ Row 1 (RS): sl 1, pass second st over first st, then cast off next st Attach Leaf STALK NOTE: alternatively work as Leaf Using 3.5mm crochet hook and Dark Brown DK, make 3ch £ Fasten off Attach Stalk to Apple Banana ( make three) Using 3.5mm needles and Light Yellow DK, cast on eight sts £ Rows 1-13: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 14: (k2tog) to end. Four sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off STALK Using 3.5mm needles and Dark Brown DK, cast on eight sts £ Cast off Seam and stuff Bananas. Sew Bananas together at cast-on edge. Attach Stalk. Grape( make 18-20) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn B, cast on ten sts £ Cut yarn leaving a long tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off STALK Using 3.5mm needles and Dark Brown DK, cast on five sts £ Cast off Sew Grape ends together to make bobble. Sew together in triangle shape, attach stalk. Weave in all ends LK C u t e m i n i M A K E S HEAD Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £ Rows 1-3: rep Rows 1-3 of Body. 20 sts £Row4:(k1,kfb)toend.30sts £ Rows 5-11: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 12: k7, (k2tog) eight times, k7. 22 sts £ Rows 13-18: cont in st st £ Row 19: (p2tog) to end. 11 sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off EAR (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on ten sts £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off ARM (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on seven sts £Rows1-6:begwithaprow (WS) work in st st £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off LEG (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn A, cast on six sts £Row1(WS):ptoend £Row2:(kfb)toend.12sts £ Rows 3-6: beg with a p row, work in st st £ Row 7: p4, (p2tog) twice, p4. Ten sts £ Row 8: k4, k2tog, k4. Nine sts £ Rows 9-11: cont in st st £ Cut yarn leaving a tail, thread through rem sts, pull tight and fasten off TROUSERS Using 3.5mm needles and yarn D, cast on ten sts £ Rows 1-4: rep Rows 1-4 of Head. 30 sts £Rows5-9:begwithaprow work in st st £ Row 10: (k3, k2tog) to end. 24 sts £Row11:ptoend £ Cast off STRAP (make two) Using 3.5mm needles and yarn D, cast on 12 sts £ Cast off TO MAKE UP BEARS Using cast-on yarn tail of Body, gather cast-on edge and draw tightly. Sew Body seam to neck. Stuff Body, keeping neck end open. Seam Trousers to cast-off edge, wrap around Body and secure. Sew Legs and Arms, stuff and attach to Body. With fastened-off yarn end, sew Head halfway. With cast-on yarn end, gather cast-on edge of Head and draw tightly. Sew seam a little further, attach safety eyes, stuff and close. Stitch Ear ends to make semicircle. Attach Ears. With Dark Brown 4ply, embroider nose and mouth. Attach Head to Body. Attach straps. For Mummy Bear, sew back seam of Dress. Attach Arms and Legs before placing Dress on Body. Weave in ends Blanket Using 3.5mm needles and yarn E, cast on 44 sts £Rows1-2:ktoend NOTE: letter foll instruction indicates yarn shade £*Row3(RS):k2E,(k4E, k4 F) four times, k2 E £Row4:k2E,(p4F,p4E) four times, k2 E £ Rows 5-8: rep Rows 3-4 twice £Row9:k2E,(k4F,k4E) four times, k2 E £Row10:k2E,(p4E,p4F) four times, k2 E £ Rows 11-14: rep Rows 9-10 twice more * £Repfrom*to*three times more Cont in yarn E only £ K three rows £ Cast off kwise Weave in ends. Lay a tea towel over knitted piece and press gently with an iron Basket Using 3.5mm needles and yarn G, cast on ten sts £Row1(WS):ptoend £Row2:(kfb)toend.20sts £Row3:ptoend £Row4:(k1,kfb)toend.30sts £Row5:ptoend £Row6:(k2,kfb)toend.40sts £Row7:ptoend £Row8(edge):ptoend £ Rows 9-11: (p4, k4) to end £ Rows 12-14: (k4, p4) to end £ Rows 15-17: (p4, k4) to end £ Row 18 (edge): p to end £ Row 19: (p8, p2tog) to end. 36 sts £ Rows 20-21: beg with akrow,workinstst £ Cast off Fold Basket in half lengthways and sew cast-on edge together. Sew rest of seam. Fold in cast-off edge and secure. Cut out cardboard and orange felt to fit base, secure in place HANDLE (make two) Cut three 30cm strands of Light Brown DK and tie ends together. Make a plait 6cm long and knot at end Attach Handles to Basket
KEEP IN THE LOOP WITH THE LATEST TREATS AND TRENDS Rico Design Discover the new Ricorumi Crochet Along from Rico Design! The project features nine adorable springtime characters made in Ricorumi DK and the patterns are available for free, with new designs being released each week. The fun has already started, so head to rico-design.com to join in. Follow @ricorumi on Instagram and share your progress using #ricorumiCAL. ROWAN Be inspired to add crochet to your crafty repertoire with the gorgeous collection in Rowan Magazine 67. We love this Ravenna Shawl which features pretty floral motifs. Find your nearest stockist of yarns and patterns at knitrowan.com 80 letsknit.co.uk ADVERTORIAL LITTLE WREN POTTERY These charming yarn bowls from Little Wren Pottery come in a variety of styles and colours and are a useful addition to your crafty workspace. The barrel shape cups balls of yarn inside while you knit or crochet away and is also great for storing all your accessories. The bowls can be customised with your name to make them unique to you! See all the designs available at littlewrenpottery.etsy.com CYGNET YARNS Add some colour to your summer wardrobe with the Boho Spirit Cosmic Garter Shawl from Cygnet Yarns. Made using just four 100g balls of Boho Spirit Cosmic, it is the perfect accessory for the new season. Download the pattern for free and find your local stockist at cygnetyarns.com KING COLE This pretty pastel set is from the new leaflet 5588 by King Cole. Knitted in self-patterning yarn Beaches DK, it includes a blanket, matinee jacket, hat and cardi. With sizes from preemie to 24 months, it’s perfect for any recent addition to the family. Find stockists at kingcole.com Knitting Know-How This handy manual from CICO Books contains all your need-to-know knitting techniques. It’s the perfect companion for home learning and covers your starting stitches, shaping, colourwork, lace and more! Visit rylandpeters.com for more details. The Little Knitting Company We love these new wooden needles from The Little Knitting Company! Hand-crafted from Albizia (East Indian walnut), they come in lengths from 15cm to 40cm and in sizes from 2.5mm to 20mm, covering all your project needs. There are also double-pointed needles, too! See the range and buy online at tlkc.co.uk or call 01367 710362 to find out more.
Established 2008 International Yarns... Locally Special offers on stock clearance items! www.yarnpile.co.uk Click on ‘Special Offer Items’ found in the ‘Categories’ section on our website to see all the gorgeous yarns and pattern books that have been discounted.
WASH YOUR HANDS AND PICK UP YOUR PHONE, YOUR LOCAL YARN SHOP IS HERE FOR YOU. Yarn Shops are the lifeblood of our craft and your community, so in these difficult times let’s show them some love. They’ll send it right back to you. You can chat about a project. They’ll give you helpful and expert advice. You can join a virtual craft group, invest in a stash for the future and much, much more. We’ve just updated our list of shops, so visit www.ukhandknitting.com and select ‘finding-a-yarn-shop’. Then pick up your phone and have a real good yarn. U P D A T E M a n y s h op s a r e s t i l l ope n fo r b u s i n e s s o n - l i n ea n db y m a i l o r de r
83 letsknit.co .uk Every knitter loves to hear the words “Wow! Did you make that Every knitter loves to hear the words “Wow! Did you make that yourself?” - unless of course we’re busy counting stitches in yourself?” - unless of course we’re busy counting stitches in which case the best response is silence! However, things don’t which case the best response is silence! However, things don’t always go to plan and over the years we have received some always go to plan and over the years we have received some rather odd reactions to our WIPs and finished projects. So, to rather odd reactions to our WIPs and finished projects. So, to celebrate the quirks and queries of non-knitters everywhere, we celebrate the quirks and queries of non-knitters everywhere, we asked the fibre arts community to share some of their favourites. asked the fibre arts community to share some of their favourites. My mother-in-law told me she had lined the cat’s basket with the Fair Isle pullover I had knitted for my father-in-law. To add insult to injury she used another one to line the dog’s basket! Linda Nagle ALMOST DONE “ARE YOU PREGNANT THEN?”. . .I WA S KNITTING A SCARF! Fran Holden A LATTE CHEEK I was knitting in a coffee shop when a man came up to me and asked for a tankini - let’s just say it wouldn't have been a pretty sight! Sarah Beedle SECRET STYLIST Many years ago I knitted a beautiful cardigan using the wrong wool. It was huge...the sleeves were dangling on the floor. My mum’s response was “ Don’t worry, you’ll grow into it”. Unknown to me, she took the cardigan apart and made the whole thing again so it was the perfect fit! Beth Holmes WHY NOT TRY DIY? I knitted a unicorn and offered it to my family on Facebook. An old friend, with whom I'd only just reconnected, replied saying "Can you knit two more for my daughters and post them to us in Australia?" When I demurred, suggesting she could learn to knit and make them herself, she replied, "Ha! As if I have the time to do that!" Gillian Coyle COOL COMMUTER I was on a train knitting when a man got on and (thinking he was hilarious) said "Can you knit me a jumper?". Without looking up or putting down my needles, I replied "Chest size? ". . .n o answer! Linda Kennett REPURPOSED PRESENT SAYWhat? One of my granddaughters was so happy with the cardigan I had made her, she insisted on matching knits for all of her toys. It took me a while, but eventually the collection was finished and she was absolutely delighted! Alison Carter "T hat'll keep you warm" - this was said when a jumper I had knitted finished up about eight inches below my bottom. It should have been normal length, but I obviously didn't check the tension properly! Gaynor Wiseman Huh? SPOT THE DIFFERENCE The number of times someone has come up to me and asked me what I’m crocheting! I honestly don’t understand how people can get the two confused. Felicity Freeman THE PERFECT PLAN? My son always says the sound of my needles sends him to sleep. I decided to put his theory to the test and one time, when he was watching football, I deliberately picked up my knitting. A few minutes in he nodded off! I got to turn over the channel and relax with my favourite show. Mandy Parson CRAFTY TRICK? We had an ugly sweater contest at work and I decided to knit the ugliest jumper I could think of. It was neon and featured pom-poms and bobbles. I thought it would be funny to trick my husband into thinking I’d made it for him...You should have seen his face! Grace Farmer
LEARN WITH US 84 letsknit.co.uk Brand NEW NEW YARN! YARN! Crossed COWL E X C L U S IVE T O • E X C L U S I V E T O • EX C L U S I V E T O • Known as Indian cross stitch, this lovely effect is really simple to achieve and LK designer Jo Allport is here to show you everything you need to know. Just follow her step-by-step guide on the right. This cowl is the ideal project for first-time cross stitchers as there’s no shaping at all. It’ll also keep out any lingering chilly winds when you're out in the garden. Perfect! HAVEAGOATA BRAND NEW STITCH! MEASUREMENTS & SIZES 24cm deep x 120cm circumference KNIT KIT Yarn: Rowan Island Blend Fine, shade 103 Wedgewood, three 50g skeins Needles: 3.5mm Tapestry needle TENSION SQUARE n25stsx24rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over pattern n 3.5mm needles SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS cross 8: sl eight sts dropping extra loops, using left needle pass first four slipped sts on right needle over next four slipped sts to cross them, return sts to left needle in the new order and k these eight sts cross 4: sl four sts dropping extra loops, using left needle pass first two slipped sts on right needle over next two slipped sts to cross them, return sts to left needle in the new order and k these four sts FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN Rowan Island Blend Fine mixes 70% wool, 15% silk and 15% alpaca. Projects should be washed by hand. It costs £14.79 per 50g (165m) skein from 01925 764231, blacksheepwools.com GREAT FOR IMPROVERS 4PLY YARN 3.5MM NEEDLES A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P88
85 letsknit.co.uk LEARN WITH US TIME TO WRAP On Row 5, knit the first stitch. Insert the right needle into the next stitch and wrap the yarn around the tip four times, using the index finger of your left hand to anchor the wraps. Repeat for each stitch to the last stitch. DROP YOUR LOOPS On Row 6, slip the first eight stitches to the right needle dropping all the extra wraps. You can do this one at a time, or all at once. Gently pull the elongated stitches to make the stitches slightly taut. THE NEW ORDER Hold these stitches in place with your left index finger to stop them slipping off the left needle. Now slip the remaining four stitches from the right needle back to the left, again using the index finger of your left hand to keep them in order. 1 3 5 KNIT AND REPEAT Knit these eight stitches as normal in their new crossed position, then repeat across the row. On Row 12, start and end with groups of four stitches to stagger the crossed effect. KEEP IT LOOSE Knit the last stitch of the row. This photo shows the start of Row 6 and you can see the many wraps on the needle. Wrap the yarn quite loosely so you can move the wraps along the needle to fit on all the ‘stitches’. SWAP THE STITCHES Take the left needle point and insert it into the first four stitches of the group of eight that are on the right needle. It is easier to do if the stitches are slightly taut. Pass these four stitches over the four stitches that are nearest the tip and leave them on the left needle. 2 4 6 This is one of those stitch patterns that looks more complicated than it actually is, but it does require a bit of practice to make it easy. It creates a loose airy fabric that would make a great top, shawl or accessory. Rows 1-4 of the stitch pattern are simple knit rows. Designer Jo shows you this great technique COWL Using 3.5mm needles, cast on 64 sts Commence Indian Cross Stitch as folls: £Row1(RS):ktoend £Rows2-4:ktoend £Row5:k1, *k1 wrapping yarn around needle four times, rep from * to last st, k1 £Row6:*cross8,rep from * to end £ Rows 7-10: k to end £Row11:k1, * k1 wrapping yarn around needle four times, rep from * to last st, k1 £ Row 12: cross 4, *cross8,repfrom*to last four sts, cross 4 Rows 1-12 set patt £ Rep these 12 rows until work meas 120cm unstretched, ending after aRow2 £ Cast off TO MAKE UP Do not block. Sew cast-on and cast-off edges together and weave in ends. See ball band for further care instructions LK Start knitting here... EXPERT ADVICE Try not to stretch your loops when slipping them as this will make your pattern look uneven. LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler
£ Rnd 3: 1ch, 2dc in each 2-ch sp to end, join with a slstinfirstch £Rnd4:1ch,1dcineachst toend,joinwithaslstin first ch Rnds 2-4 set patt £ Cont in patt until bag meas 13cm, ending after a Rnd 4 £ Next rnd: 15ch, sl st in first ch £ Fasten off Sew bottom edge together Lilac Bag Using 3.5mm hook and yarn C, make 36ch, join with aslstinfirstch £Rnd1:1ch,1dcineachstto end, join with a sl st in first ch £ Rnd 2: 1ch, (MB, 3dc) to end, join with a sl st in first ch £ Rnds 3-4: 1ch, 1dc in each sttoend,joinwithaslstin first ch £ Rnd 5: 1ch, (2dc, MB, 1dc) toend,joinwithaslstin first ch £Rnd6:1ch,1dcineachst toend,joinwithaslstin first ch Rnds 1-6 set patt £ Cont in patt until bag meas 10cm, ending after a Rnd 4 £ Next rnd: 6ch (counts as 1tr, 3ch), miss next two sts, (1tr in next st, 3ch, miss two sts) to end, join with a sl st in third of beg 6ch £ Next rnd: 5ch (counts as 1tr, 2ch), 1tr in 3-ch sp, (3ch, 1tr in next 3-ch sp) to end, 1ch, join with a sl st in third of beg 5ch Crochet a collection of handy soap saver bags and reusable make-up pads. The little bags can be used to work up a lather and there are three stitch effects to try. The simple pads are ideal for your daily cleansing routine and would also make lovely gifts for a friend. You can get multiple makes from just one 50g ball. MAKE THESE EASY ECO SWAPS FROM DROPS £ Next rnd: 6ch (counts as 1tr, 3ch), miss next two sts, (1tr in next st, 3ch, miss two sts) to end, join with a sl st in third of beg 6ch £ Next rnd: 1ch, 3dc in each 3-ch sp to end, join with aslstinfirstch £ Fasten off Make two twisted cords and thread through holes in opposite sides. Knot ends to secure ties. Sew bottom edge of bag together Pads Using 4.5mm hook, make 4ch, join with a sl st in first ch £ Rnd 1: 3ch, 1tr in ring, 2ch, (2tr in ring, 2ch) to end, join withaslstinthirdofbeg3ch £ Rnd 2: 1ch, 4dc in each 2-ch sp to end, join with a sl st in first ch £ Rnd 3: 3ch, 1tr in next st, 1ch, (2tr-cluster in next st, 1ch) to end, join with a sl st in third of beg 3ch £Rnd4:1ch,2dcineachch sptoend,joinwithaslstin first ch £ Fasten off LK Cut two strands of yarn each 1.5m long. Knot them together at each end, then twist them until they begin to kink. Fold the cord in half and allow it to twist back on itself. Give it a gentle tug to even out the twist. Untie the original knots and re-knot to secure the cord. You may prefer to thread the cord through your work before making the final knot. Twisted CORDS 86 letsknit.co.uk REUSABLE BATHROOM ACCESSORIES Ditch the disposables with MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Grey bag: 10cm wide x 12cm long Pink bag: 12cm wide x 13cm long Lilac bag: 11cm wide x 13cm long Pads: 9cm diameter CROCHET KIT Yarn: DROPS Paris, Bags: shades (A) 24 Dark Grey, (B) 33 Pink, (C) 05 Lilac, one 50g ball of each; Pads: shown in shades 31 Purple, 10 Turquoise, 29 Ice Blue, 58 Powder Pink, one 50g ball makes five pads Hook: 3.5mm, 4.5mm Tapestry needle TENSION Grey bag n18stsx16rows n 10cm x 10cm n Half treble crochet n 3.5mm hook Pink bag n18stsx21rows n 10cm x 10cm n Double crochet n 3.5mm hook Lilac bag and Pads n16stsx18rows n 10cm x 10cm n Double crochet n 4.5mm hook SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS 2tr-cluster: (yoh, insert hook into st, yoh, pull through loop, yoh, pull through first two loops on hook) twice in same st, yoh, pull through all three loops on hook MB: (yoh, insert hook into next st, pull through loop, yoh, pull through first two loops on hook) in same st three times, yoh, pull through next two loops on hook, yoh, pull through rem four loops on hook FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97 ABOUT THE YARN DROPS Paris is an aran weight cotton yarn with a soft, matte finish. It comes in a whole rainbow of shades and can be machine washed. It costs £1.05 per 50g (75m) ball from cottonpod.co.uk Grey Bag Using 3.5mm hook and yarn A, make 36ch, join with aslstinfirstch.36sts £ Rnd 1: 2ch (counts as 1htr throughout), 1htr in each ch to end, join with a sl st in second of beg 2ch. 36 sts £ Rnd 2: 2ch, (3ch, miss two sts, 1htr in next st) to end finishing last rep with a sl st in second of beg 2ch £ Rnd 3: 2ch, (1ch, 1htr in next 3-ch sp, 3ch, 1htr in next 3-ch sp, 2ch) to end, join with aslstinsecondofbeg2ch £ Rnd 4: 2ch, (3ch, 1htr in next 3-ch sp) to end, finishing last rep with a sl st in second of beg 2ch £ Rnd 5: 2ch, (1ch, 1htr in next 3-ch sp, 3ch, 1htr in next 3-ch sp, 2ch) to end, join with aslstinsecondofbeg2ch Rnds 4-5 set patt £ Cont in patt until bag meas 12cm £ Fasten off Sew bottom edge together. Make a twisted cord and thread through top of bag P ink Bag Using 3.5mm hook and yarn B, make 44ch, join with aslstinfirstch £Rnd1:1ch,1dcineachstto end, join with a sl st in first ch. 44 sts £ Rnd 2: 3ch, (2ch, miss one st, 1tr in next st) to end finishing last rep with a sl st in third of beg 3ch Crochet with Let’s Knit!
“To be extra eco- friendly, look for bar soap that is free from palm oil or is made from sustainably sourced ingredients.” LK Deputy Editor Adrienne Chandler 87 letsknit.co.uk TOP YARN FOR CROCHET Take a look at these alternative aran weight cotton yarns RICO CREATIVE COTTON ARAN. £1.75 per 50g (85m) ball from 01507 466838, thewoolfactoryonline.com PAINTBOX COTTON ARAN. £2.79 per 50g (85m) ball from 01409 404010, loveknitting.com LILY SUGAR ‘N CREAM SOLIDS. £2.99 per 71g (109m) ball from 01162 713759, readicut.co.uk WOOL AND THE GANG SHINY HAPPY COTTON. £9 per 100g (142m) ball from 0207 241 6420, woolandthegang.com
Our guide to the industry's finest yarn shops Y a r n S h o p L O V E Y O U R BEDFORDSHIRE Wools, Yarns & Inspiration Exclusive Knit & Crochet Patterns 1-4 Peacock Mews, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 1JH Any queries please call us on 01525 376456 www.thespottedsheep.co .uk BERKSHIRE Stitchery Do 31-35 Denmark street Wokingham RG40 2AY Wool, Fabric & Haberdashery Sirdar, Rico, King Cole, WYS, Stylecraft & James C Brett. www.Stitcherydo.co.uk BERKSHIRE The Pincushion, 1 St Marks Crescent, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 5DA | Tel: 01628 777266 The Pincushion We stock many Stylecraft yarns, Sirdar Snuggly yarns plus much more including Knit Pro & Pony knitting needles. Postal service available – phone for details. BERKSHIRE YarnFest Independent yarn shop offering workshops, fantastic range of yarns, patterns and craft accessories. Near J13 of M4 with free parking. Old Telephone Exchange, Long Lane Hermitage RG18 9 QS Tel: 01635 201660 Knot just your average knit Facebook: Yarnfest1 www.yarnfest.co.uk BUCKINGHAMSHIRE We are a fabric and yarn shop stocking lots of beautiful fabrics and a wide range of yarns, acr ylics, cottons, pure wool in 4ply, DK, Aran, chunky and super chunky. ‘ Knit and Knatter’ Thursday afternoons 1pm-4pm. Come in and see us at 1d Well Street, Buckingham, Bucks MK18 1EY Open Tues-Sat 9.30am-5 .00pm (Mon Closed) www.nimble-thimble.co.uk The Nimble Thimble 01280 822236 CAMBRIDGESHIRE Linda’s Wool N Yarn Stockists of: StyleCraft, King Cole, James C Brett Pond World Retail Park, Lynn Road, Wisbech, PE14 7DA Tel: 01945 581082 Telephone orders welcome CAMBRIDGESHIRE 25B, High Street, Chatteris, Cambs PE16 6BG 01354 669922 Stocking a range of crafting supplies Exclusive crochet kits Email orders welcome www.enfys.me.uk/rainbow-valley-shop.htm CAMBRIDGESHIRE 7 High Street Passage , Ely CB7 4NB T: 01353 664000 Email: ely@sewmuchtodo.co.uk www.sewmuchtodo.co.uk We’re proud to be a Rowan flagship store and stoc kist of Stylecraft, West Yorkshire Spinners , Sirdar and Manos del Uruguay yarns . We also run social groups and workshops . CHESHIRE Black Sheep Craft Barn Warehouse Studios Glaziers Lane Culcheth Warrington WA3 4AQ 01925 764231 www.blacksheepwools.com CHESHIRE We have the biggest stock of wool in the area and have a great selection of haberdashery too. We also have a daily drop in session every morning and if you need help with your knitting or crochet then there is always someone that will be able to help, or if you want to join in then that's fine too. We are offering a local home delivery service. Crafty Corner, 80 Mill St, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 6NH 01625 404195 www.craftycornermacc.co .uk CHESHIRE Stocking yarns from Sirdar, Stylecraft, King Cole, Rico plus many more! 48 Witton Street, Northwich Cheshire, CW9 5AG Email: contact@craftystitchesonline.co .uk www.craftystitchesonline.co.uk Tel: 01606 431 87 Crafty Stitches CHESHIRE Wool and Patterns and an extensive range of accessories. Help and advice too. Sirdar, Stylecraft, Rico, KintPro, Pony, Groves, Millward and more... Weekly Yarn and Yatter sessions. Help us with our Charity Knitting Projects. Haberdashery, Trimmings and an Amazing Fabric range including licensed fabrics and brands. Visit us in Bramhall Village Square, Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 1AW 0161 478 2253 crookilleycrafts@gmail.com Etsy.com/shop/uk/CrookilleyCrafts CrookilleyCraftsEmporium CC_Emporium CHESHIRE • YARN • HABERDASHERY • FABRIC Stocking: King Cole, Sirdar, Stylecraft, Robin, Wendy, James C Brett Rico & Makower. 19 The Precinct, Romiley, Stockport, Cheshire, SK6 4EA. 0161 430 2566 @Knitters @Knitters @Knitters CORNWALL Built from the ground-up by Rachael Hunt, Sew and Fabric has positioned itself as the leading haberdashery shop in Cornwall. Stylecraft yarn and patterns; Hemline Haberdashery Products; Beresford Ribbons; Simplicity, New Look and Burda sewing patterns. 1 Biddicks Court, Saint Austell, PL25 5EW Tel: 01726 75385 | sewandfabric.co.uk DERBYSHIRE DERBYSHIRE We stock an extensive range of high quality yarn by Stylecraft, Rico, James C Brett, King Cole, Adriafil, Woolcraft and Jarol, plus patterns and accessories. Bargain prices, expert, friendly advice and parking available at the door. 36 Marple Road, Charlesworth, Glossop, Derbyshire SK13 5DA Tel: 07586 343438 facebook.com/woolshopdirect Woolshopdirect
Our guide to the industry's finest yarn shops L O V E Y O U R Y a r n S h o p DEVON Purple Valley Wool Shop Specialising in yarns from Opal, Sirdar, King Cole, Rico Design, James C Brett, West Yorkshire Spinners, Woolcraf t, Hayfield, Regia, Lilypond Yarns. Large range of craft books from Search Press. Embroidery, Cross-Stitch and Felting supply. Everything a knitters and crocheters heart desires. 50 Hyde Road, Paignton, Devon TQ4 5BY Tel: 01803 411300 · Open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm Purplevalleyhatdesign www.purplevalleyyarn.etsy.com www.purplevalleystitch.etsy.com www.purplevalleycraftbooks.com DORSET Knit Wits stocks a wide range of yarns from the everyday to the very special, together with accessories, patterns, craft books, buttons and much more! 15 East Street, Blandford Forum DT11 7DU 01258 488542 ESSEX www.franklinsgroup.com Franklins Colchester info@franklinsgroup.com Colchester • Ipswich • Chelmsford • Salisbury • Dovercourt Keep an eye out for new products, special offers, promotions and classes in-store by visiting our Facebook page. One of the largest knitting shops in East Anglia! ESSEX 5 Red Lion Yard, Colchester, Essex CO1 1DX Tel: 01206 370590 www.nannasyarnbarn.co .uk nannasyarnbarn nannasyarnbarn1 We’re supporting Essex Air Ambulance with a donation. ESSEX ESSEX Southend Fine Wool and Yarn Shop 253 Hamstel Road, Southend on Sea, Essex SS2 4LB www.thecrochetlounge.org Tel: 01702 303030 crochetclublounge ESSEX We are stockists of; King Cole, Rico, WYS, J.C.Brett, Cygnet, Wendy, Robin, Bergere de France, Knit Pro, Pony, Silver Reed knitting machine and more... Open: Monday-Saturday 9am-4pm 197 Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff On Sea, Essex SS0 7EL TEL: 07941 002458 ESSEX EXTENSIVE YARN RANGE 28 High Street, Clacton-On-Sea, Essex CO15 1UQ Tel: 01255 428352 Also at branch: 71 Connaught Avenue, Frinton, Essex CO13 9PP Tel: 01255 674456 YARN, HABERDASHERY, LINEN, FABRICS, CRAFTS & BABYWEAR sandra_woolcabin@hotmail.com www.woolcabin.co.uk GLASGOW 117 TOWNHEAD, KIRKINTILLOCH, G66 1NX Tel: 0141 777 6633 enquiries@isew2.co.uk GLASGOW The Orry Mill is an indepe nde nt wool shop passionate about colour, texture, quality & contemporary design. Westock Rowan, WYS, Regia, & more... Best Small Shop Competition 2019 Finalist www.theorrymill.c o.uk T: 01355 301 244 18a Glasgow Road, Glasgow G76 0HU GLASGOW 148 Queen Margaret Drive , Glasgow G20 8NY 0141 946 5305 www.theyarncake.co.uk Celebrating 10 years in business! GREATER MANCHESTER Stockists of James C. Brett, King Cole, Stylecraft, Rico & WYS. We also stock hand-dyed yarn. 42 High Street, Standish, Wigan WN6 0HF 07761 783766 HAMPSHIRE 1a, Albert Road, Southsea, Hampshire PO5 2SE www.seeded.com HERTFORDSHIRE We stock a fantastic range of knitting wool and crochet cottons. Whatever your level of skill there is always a knowledgeable member of staff who can help you. Drop in classes from 10 o’clock Tel: 01442 245 383 142 Cotterells, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP1 1JQ www.needlecraftstore.co.uk ISLE OF WIGHT ‘An old fashioned wool shop with a modern twist’ Stockists of James C Brett, King Cole and Stylecraft, Knitting needles, crochet hooks etc. DMC embroidery silks Haberdashery inc elastic, zips, buttons Knitting Bags and gifts from Vanessa Bee Designs Come in for our weekly “Stitch 'n' Bitch” sessions! Please contact us about our weekly Crochet groups 11 Sandown Road Lake, Isle of Wight, PO36 9JL 01983 716890 www.facebook.com/knitknacksiow JERSEY Wool on Wheels Yarn, Patterns, buttons and an extensive range of knitting and crochet accessories. Friendly service and advice. Stockists of We st Yorkshire Spinners , Wendy, Robin, Sirdar, DMC, KnitPro and many more. Come and see us for all your knitting needs. La Rue, Six Roads, St Lawrence, Jersey JE3 1GL 01534 863742 woolonwheelsjersey
Y a r n S h o p L O V E Y O U R Our guide to the industry's finest yarn shops KENT 15 Chatterton Road, Bromley, Kent. BR2 9QW 020 8290 1238 www.avicraftwool.com email: avicraftwool@gmail.com Craft Club is 1st & 3rd Wednesday each month from 7pm Open: Tuesday-Saturday 10am-4pm AvicraftWool KENT Tel: 07958 427 853 16 High Street, New Romney TN28 8BY Stitch ‘ n’ B...h in time Check out our NEW ebay shop! wool_craft_kent LANCASHIRE Yarns from Katia, Jarol, King Cole and Wendy. Patterns, needles, crochet, felting, macrame, DMC threads and all things crafty. Phone: 01507 522659 www.horncastlehobbyhouse .co.uk 25 North Street, Horncastle, Lincs LN9 5DX LINCOLNSHIRE Horncastle Hobby House LINCOLNSHIRE Stockists of: Stylecraft, King Cole, Rico, WYS, Sirdar 01427 614251 www.thewoolloft.co.uk 60 Bridge Street, Gainsborough DN21 1LS LONDON Breaking the Boundaries of Colour For your yarn, fabric, haberdashery and Really Maria’s patterns and kits. 15 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich, London SE22 8EW www.reallymaria.com T: 0203 581 0909 NORFOLK NORFOLK NORFOLK NORTH YORKSHIRE Stockists of: Rowan WYS King Cole Opal Adriafil Herdy Vanessa B and more! Support a small business - we're happy to post out NORTH YORKSHIRE NORTHAMPTONSHIRE Stockists of: Stylecraft, James C. Brett, King Cole, DMC, Sirdar and more! Accessories, Patterns, Haberdashery & Mini Project Kits Group or One to One Knitting & Crocheting Classes 1A High Street, Finedon, Welingborough, Northamptonshire, NN9 5JN Tel: 01933 680119 email: joolswools@outlook.com www.joolswools.co.uk NORTHERN IRELAND MullansFashions Mullan’s Fashions ● Wool and Hand Knit Garments ● Ladies Fashions ● Baby Gifts 47 The Promenade Portstewart BT55 7AE Tel: 028 7083 2960 NORTHUMBERLAND Henley Warehouse Farm Road, Henley on Thames RG9 1EJ 01491 572528 Mon-Fri 10-4 Open Sat 2nd May 10-4 Marlow Shop Moy House, Institute Road, Marlow SL7 1BN 01628 890532 Mon-Sat 9.30-5 .30 OXFORDSHIRE/BUCKS Rowan Flagship Store Erika Knight – Stylecraft – Sirdar Patchwork and Quilting Fabrics In store and on-line NORTHERN IRELAND A warm and inviting shop for all lovers of wool to indulge their passion Now offering an order & collect service and free local home delivery 16 Church Street, Portadown, BT62 3LN Open: Mon - Sat 10:00 - 16:00 07927 764416 valerie@lovewool.co.uk www.lovewool.co.uk
L O V E Y O U R Y a r n S h o p Our guide to the industry's finest yarn shops SCOTLAND Ginger Twist Studio is a wee bijou yarn shop in Edinburgh stacked to the rafters with Ginger’s Hand Dyed, delicious yarns, pattern books & supplies. See Jess scamper up her gorgeous new ladder to fetch whatever you fancy. Come check out the shop revamp! www.gingertwiststudio.com 11 London Road, Edinburgh EH7 5AP SCOTLAND Mary Bobbins Our newly established business includes haberdashery and wool within our growing list of products and services offered. We strive to deliver exceptional customer service ensuring we exceed our customers expectations. Stockists of: Sirdar, Hayfield, Rowan, WYS, Rico, Regia, Adriafil, Schoppel & more! 25 Commerce Street, Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, AB43 9AQ T: 01346 510 784 info@marybobbinsshop.co.uk Telephone orders are welcome www.marybobbinsshop.co .uk SCOTLAND NAIRN WOOL SHOP ALSO LOCALLY CRAFTED ORIGINAL GIFTS Open 10am - 5.30pm Monday - Saturday Nairn Wool Shop, 6/6a Falconers Lane, Off the High Street, Nairn IV12 4DS 01667 452423 www.nairnwoolshop.com nairnwoolshop Workshops held thoughout the year Pure Wool • Local spun wool Yarns • Haberdashery Accessories • Felting supplies • Fabrics SCOTLAND SCOTLAND Tel: 01506 842013 TheThreadCounter Keep calm and keep knitting! This is what you have trained for! Best wishes from The Thread Counter. SCOTLAND SOMERSET An Aladdin’s cave of yarns, haberdashery, fabrics and other crafts items. Many yarns etc are natural or made from recycled plastics including threads and ribbons. You can order by phone, email and Facebook. We will reply as soon as possible and post or deliver your orders. Find us on Facebook or email wellsknittingcentre@gmail.com Tel: 01749 677 548 between 10am and 12noon or 07813 253 937. SOMERSET Bath’s Premier Knitting Emporium; we are stockists of big name brands such as Rico, Rowan, Fyberspates, Adriafil and King Cole as well as small, indie and local makers such as Hedgeknits and Dyebath Yarns. 19 Old Orchard Street, Bath BA1 1JU Tel: 01225 469144 www.woolbath.co.uk SOUTH YORKSHIRE Busy Fingers Yarn and haberdashery stockists Stockists of King Cole, Sirdar, Hayfield, James C Brett Adult and children's knit and natter groups held weekly Regular workshops held 528 Manchester Road Stocksbridge Sheffield S36 1AF SUFFOLK Stockists of King Cole , Stylecraft, Sirdar, James Brett, Grundl, Wendy and Robin yarns , needles , embroidery cottons , threads , cross stitch kits and much more . Tel: 01473 780033 www.sandpknitting.co.uk S and P Knitting, Woolverstone Marina, Ipswich, Suffolk IP9 1AU SUFFOLK 23 Hatter Street, Bur y St Edmunds IP33 1NE T: 01284 755459 Email: bur y@sewmuchtodo.co.uk www.sewmuchtodo.co.uk We’re proud to be a Rowan flagship store and stoc kist of Stylecraft, West Yorkshire Spinners, Sirdar and Manos del Uruguay yarns . We also run social groups and workshops . SURREY We stock Isager, Cambrian Wool, West Yorkshire Spinners, Sirdar and Stylcraft yarns. Plus Lykke and Knitpro needles and accessories. Books include pompom and Laine Magazine. 27 High Street, Caterham on the Hill, Surrey CR3 5UE 01883 345 220 www.idashouse.co .uk SURREY SUSSEX TYNE AND WEAR Simply low prices Good range of current and clearance yarns www.kempswoolshop.com Email: ekemp58@outlook.com Tel: 0191 567-3455 203 Chester Road, Sunderland SR4 7TU VARIOUS www.abakhan.co .uk Mostyn · Liverpool Birkenhead · Hanley · Chester Manchester · Preston · Bolton Altrincham · Shrewsbury
Y a r n S h o p L O V E Y O U R Our guide to the industry's finest yarn shops WALES Just Into Crafts has it all and, is always happy to help and assist you with your crafting ventures! 7 Cowell Street, Llanelli SA15 1UU Tel: 01554 757704 www.justintocrafts.com WALES Knitting yarn specialists stocking Stylecraft, Rico, Adriafil, Baa Ram Ewe, Wendy, Sirdar, Katia and West Yorkshire Spinners as well as cross stitch, tapestry and haberdashery supplies. DMC Select Partner. We hold knitting and crochet workshops and also provide a bespoke picture framing service. Birmingham House, 22 Alban Square, Aberaeron SA46 0AH Tel: 01545 905051 www.rosemaryswoolshop.co.uk Email: enquiries@rosemaryswoolshop.co.uk WEST MIDLANDS Remember When Monthly Wool Market Stockists of Debbie Bliss, Lion Brand, Louisa Harding, Bergere De France, Rowan, Wendy, Sirdar, Adriafil, King Cole, Rico, Stylecraft & James C Brett. Remember When Monthly Wool Market, Coleshill Town Hall, High Street, Coleshill B46 3BG Tel: 01827 874488 www.rememberwhenshop.co.uk WEST MIDLANDS Your local yarn shop based in Sutton Coldfield. Large stockist of Rowan, WYS, Wool & the Gang and Sirdar, as well as a range of hand dyed yarns including Rosies Moments, Fine Fish, Fruitful Fusion and new featured dyers every few months plus quality accessories. No 5, Mitchells Exclusive Shopping, Weeford Road, Sutton Coldfield B74 6NA Tel: 01217 920774 WEST MIDLANDS Yarns & Patterns from Sirdar, Stylecraft, Cygnet and WYS Crochet and Knitting Lessons Available enquiries@withitwitch.co.uk Visit us online at www.withitwitch.co .uk Halesowen Knitting Centre 75 High Street Halesowen B63 3BQ Tel: 0121 5500201 Withit Witch WEST SUSSEX We stock wools, yarns and cottons plus all associated needs for knitting and crochet. Also a growing selection of fabric, needlecraft and other creative pursuits. 130 South Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex, RH16 4LT 01444 455611 shop@sussex-crafts.co .uk www.sussex-crafts.co .uk WEST YORKSHIRE Creative Craft Centre Stockist of Sirdar, James C Brett, King Cole, Rico, Wendy, Bernat, Caron. Everything a crafter could ever need. Union Street, Dewsbury, WF13 1AJ 01924 469500 WEST YORKSHIRE 9 Station Road, Osset, W Yorkshire, WF5 8AB 07736 772114 Selling high quality yarns at competitive prices. Cotton fabrics, haberdashery, including DMC threads, Gütermann sewing threads and much more. Regular workshops throughout the year. WILTSHIRE Cricklade Crafts We offer a fast Mail Order Service via phone, email or web. Tel: 01793 750604 Email: info@crickladecrafts.co .uk www.crickladecrafts.co.uk 89a High Street, Cricklade SN6 6DF WORCESTERSHIRE You’ll find an exquisite range of yarns and a wide selection of knitting accessories, as well as craft and dressmaking fabric including sewing and patchwork accessories. Stockist of Rowan, Patons and many other yarn brands. Mail order available Tel: 07771 243976 Unit 12, Market Hall, The Shambles, Worcester WR1 2RA WORCESTERSHIRE Wherever possible, we stock natural and eco-friendly products sourced right here in Britain. With our specially selected supply of yarn there is something for every taste and every budget. 56 Lowesmoor, Worcester WR1 2SE www.wotahoot.co.uk YORKSHIRE Stockists of: Stylecraft, Rico, Sirdar and Adriafil; a wide range of haberdashery, crafts, buttons and so much more! Open Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9-5pm and Sat 9-1pm. Closed Wed and Sun. Tel: 01924 494 157 119-121 Nab Lane, Mirfield, WF14 9QJ YORKSHIRE A bright, friendly atmosphere found in the heart of North Yorkshire. Stocking Stylecraft, WYS, Lion Brand, Grundl, Opal, Malbrigo, Hand Dyed Yarn and Knit Pro. Thrice weekly knit and natter sessions. Knitting and Crochet Workshops delivered to small groups. Found on 18 Millgate, Thirsk, Yorkshire YO7 1AA Tel: 01845 527978 www.eweandyarn.co.uk EWE & YARN FOR ALL YOUR WOOLLY NEEDS YORKSHIRE Stockists of King Cole, Rico and Stylecraft. Huge range of patterns, books & accessories. Knit n Natter every Saturday 10-12pm Beginners welcome Can't make it to the shop then you can order online or over the phone. 46 Kirkgate Wakefield WF1 1TQ Tel: 01924 565740 www.woolnstuff.co.uk A new date for Yarn Shop Day 2020 to be announced soon! Keep your eyes pe eled for more information
KNOW-HOW l PRACTICAL GUIDES l ABBREVIATIONS l STEP-BY-STEP TECHNIQUES l PATTERNS FOR YOUR LEFTOVERS 93 letsknit.co.uk PRACTICAL GUIDES How to cast on (two needle method) 1 Create a slipknot on your left hand needle, pulling it taut (but not too tight). Carefully insert the right needle into the knot from front to back, passing under the left hand needle. Wrap the ball end of yarn anticlockwise around the point of the right needle. 2 Pull the loop that forms back through the original stitch (knot) and insert the tip of the left hand needle into the new stitch from underneath to transfer it from the right hand to the left hand needle. There should now be two stitches on the left needle. 3 Repeat Steps 1 and 2, knitting into the top stitch on the left needle and returning the new stitches from the right to the left needle until you have the required number of stitches. Essential info from OVERLAPPING WAVES STITCH Cast on a multiple of six sts plus four £ Row 1 (RS): k2, * yfwd, ssk, k4, rep fro * to last two sts, yfwd, ssk £Row2andallWSrows:ptoend £ Row 3: k2, * yfwd, k1, ssk, k3, rep from * to last two sts, yfwd, ssk £ Row 5: k2, * yfwd, k2, ssk, k2, rep from * to last two sts, yfwd, ssk £ Row 7: k2, * yfwd, k3, ssk, k1, rep from * to last two sts, yfwd, ssk £ Row 9: k2, * yfwd, k4, ssk, rep from * to last two sts, yfwd, ssk £Row10:ptoend We cast on 22 sts. Our square is knitting in DK weight yarn on 4mm needles and measures 10cm x 10cm Square of THE MONTH Knitter ’s
U K ( m m ) O l d U K Needle sizing 2 14 2.25 13 2.75 12 3 11 3.25 10 3.5 - 3.75 9 4 8 4.5 7 5 6 5.5 5 6 4 6.5 3 7 2 7.5 1 8 0 9 00 10 000 12 - 15 - 16 - 19 - 20 - 25 - How to take measurements Our handy diagram shows you where to take some key measurements. If possible, get someone else to help you. Hold the tape measure level and comfortably snug, but avoid pulling tight. 1BUST – measure around the fullest part of the bust 2HIGH BUST – measure directly under the arms and above the bust. This is useful for particularly fitted designs 3WAIST – tie a length of narrow elastic around the waist and let it settle naturally at your waistline, then measure over the elastic 4HIP – measure around the fullest part of the hips 5BACKOFNECKTOHIP – this is a common garment length, but designs can be longer or shorter depending on your preference LET’S KNIT 1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY EDITOR Sarah Neal, sarah.neal@aceville.co.uk DEPUTY EDITOR Adrienne Chandler, adrienne.chandler@aceville.co.uk EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Libby Loughnan, libby.loughnan@aceville.co.uk GROUP EDITOR Lynn Martin PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Helen Tudor SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES 0800 904 7000 aceville@dctmedia.co.uk LET'S KNIT PATTERN SUPPORT 01206 508622, support@letsknit.co.uk GROUP ADVERTISING MANAGER Rebecca Reynolds 01206 505861, rebecca.reynolds@aceville.co.uk ADVERTISING MANAGER Samantha Dean 01206 505114, samantha.dean@aceville.co.uk ART EDITOR Richard Allen GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Chris England, Clare Brasier, Fiona Palmer and Joanne Higgs AD PRODUCTION Adrian Pratt PHOTOGRAPHY CliQQ Photography, cliqq.co .uk IMAGES Shutterstock, shutterstock.com HAIR AND MAKE UP Dottie Monaghan FASHION STYLIST Boo Hill PROMOTIONS OFFICER Abigail Gibson abigail.gibson@aceville.co.uk CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER Anne Marie Hartley 01206 505902, annemarie.hartley@aceville.co.uk SUBSCRIPTIONS EXECUTIVE Laura Tebby laura.tebby@aceville.co.uk MARKETING MANAGER Andrea Turner PUBLISHER Matthew Tudor DISTRIBUTED BY Frontline Ltd. , Peterborough. Tel: 01733 555161 PRINTED in England © Aceville Publications Ltd GIVEAWAYS TERMS & CONDITIONS This competition is open to all UK residents aged 18 or over, excluding employees or agents of the associated companies and their families. The prize detailed in each competition cannot be exchanged for goods, or towards the purchase of goods at any retail outlet. It cannot be exchanged for cash, or replaced if lost or damaged. Illegible entries and those that do not abide by these T&Cs will be disqualified. Prizes must be taken as stated and cannot be deferred. The decision of the judge is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Winners will be notified by 03/07/20, a list of winners will be available on request in writing from Andrea Turner, 21/23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY PRACTICAL GUIDES 1 3 2 5 4 Knit stitch Purl stitch 2Using the right hand needle, pull a loop of the wrapped yarn through the original stitch to create a new one on the right hand needle. Slide the original stitch off the left hand needle. Repeat from Step 1. You are now knitting! 2Draw the needle backwards and upwards, forming a new stitch on the right hand needle. Now let the loop from the left needle slide off the end. Repeat Steps 1 and 2. 1 Once cast on, insert the tip of the right needle upwards and from front to back into the top stitch on the left needle. The right hand needle should sit behind the left hand one. Wrap the ball end of yarn anticlockwise around the tip of the right hand needle. 1 With the ball end of the yarn at the front (toward you) insert the tip of the right hand needle into the front loop of the first stitch from right to left and with the right hand needle in front of the left hand needle. Wrap the yarn anticlockwise around the needle. 94 letsknit.co.uk n Before starting a project you should knit a sample square to check your tension is correct. Using the same yarn and needles as in your pattern, cast on the number of stitches given in the tension square plus five more, and work in the specified stitch for the same number of rows plus five more. In the example on the left, you would cast on 27 stitches and work 33 rows in stocking stitch. Block the square as you would your finished project. nUsepinsandarulertomarkouta 10cm square area in the centre. Carefully count the number of stitches and rows over 10cm (for stocking stitch this is easy as each stitch is a clearly defined v-shape). n If your stitch and row counts match the tension square then the size of your finished item should be correct. Too many stitches and rows mean your knitting is too tight, so try a larger needle. If it’s too loose, with fewer stitches and rows, try going down a needle size. Most projects, especially garments, include a tension square like this one: 22stsx28rows 10cm x 10cm Stocking stitch 4mm needles Tension Learn new skills with our brilliant YouTube channel! Watch the VIDEO
PRACTICAL GUIDES 95 letsknit.co.uk Yarn Weights and Substitution STANDARD TENSION 30-33 sts-36-50 rows 28 sts-36 rows 26 sts-32 rows 22 sts-28 rows 18 sts-24 rows 14 sts-19 rows 9 sts-12 rows YARN TYPE Lace 4ply Sport DK Aran Chunky Super Chunky STANDARD NEEDLE SIZE 2mm-3mm 3.25mm 3.5mm 4mm 5mm 6.5mm 10mm Swapping in a different yarn? Here are some points to remember. n Choose one with a similar tension to the specified yarn. Match the tension given on the ball band of the yarns, as the pattern may use a different stitch. n Consider the fibre content and how this might affect the finished project. For example, cotton yarn will knit up very differently to wool. n Don’t forget to check the care instructions of your new yarn. Not all yarns are machine washable. n Look at the meterage of the new yarn, rather than the weight of the ball. Not all 50g balls have the same meterage and you don’t want to run short when nearing the end of your project. MEASUREMENTS & SIZES Orange Daisy: 6cm Forget-me-not: 9cm KNIT KIT Yarn: DK, shades (A) Orange, (B) Yellow, (C) Turquoise, small amounts of each Needles: 3mm Safety toy stuffing Brooch pin (optional) Tapestry needle Orange Daisy PETALS Using 3mm needles and yarn A, cast on six sts £ Row 1: cast off four sts, transfer sts from RH needle to LH needle £ Row 2: cast on five sts. One petal made £ Rows 3-44: rep Rows 1-2 21 times. 22 petals made £Row45:ktoend £ Cast off CENTRE (make two) Using 3mm needles and yarn B, cast on six sts £Row1:ptoend £Row2:kfb,ktolastst,kfb. Last-minute Make Eight sts £Rows3-5:begwithap row, work in st st £ Row 6: k2tog, k to last two sts, k2tog. Six sts £Row7:ptoend £ Cast off TO MAKE UP Sew two Centre pieces together with RS facing out, stuffing as you go. Sew Petals around Centre. Weave in all ends. Sew brooch pin to back if desired Forget-me-not PETAL (make seven) Using 3mm needles and yarn C, cast on four sts £Row1andeveryaltrow:p to end £ Row 2: (kfb) to end. Eight sts £Row4:ktoend £ Row 6: k2tog, k to last two sts, k2tog. Six sts £ Row 8: k2tog, k2, k2tog. Four sts £ Row 10: (k2tog) to end. Two sts £ Row 11: p2tog. One st £ Fasten off CENTRE £ Work as for Orange Daisy TO MAKE UP Work as for Orange Daisy, sewing Petals to back of Centre LK USE YOUR ODDS AND ENDS FOR NICOLA VALIJI’S QUICK CORSAGES Start knitting here...
Beginning a seam 1 With the pieces placed next to each other with right side upwards, thread the yarn tail through the fabric after the first stitch, moving the needle from front to back. Then, take the needle behind the first stitch on the second piece from the back of the work to the front. The yarn will form a figure 8. Tug gently to secure. Mattress stitch 1 With the two pieces to be joined lying next to each other, hook the horizontal bar of the first stitch with the tapestry needle. Move to the other piece and hook the first horizontal bar of the stitch on that side. 2Repeat this moving from one piece to the next and pulling the yarn to tighten the join. Back stitch 1 Pin the pieces to be joined, with the right sides together. Thread the loose end of yarn onto a tapestry needle. Start by stitching the two outer edges together, then bring the needle through the two pieces 1cm from back to front ahead of the previous stitch. 2Push the needle back through at the position where the yarn emerged from the previous stitch. Return it to the front of the work, approx 1cm ahead of the stitch just made. Repeat this until the whole join is complete, working in a straight line. Joining cast-off edges 1 Lay the two pieces to be joined right side up and with the cast off edges touching. Thread a tapestry needle with the loose yarn and push this through the centre of the first stitch, and then in and out through the centres of two stitches on the opposite side. 2Take the needle over to the first side and insert where it previously exited, bringing it out through the centre of the next stitch. Repeat this process alternating sides and stitching single stitches until the pieces are joined. PRACTICAL GUIDES ! Give awa y FORM 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 21/05/20 Mark your envelope: May Giveaways, PO Box 443, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8WG At Aceville we don’t do spam. We want to keep in touch, but only if you want to hear from us. So we can let you know about what’s going on, including our great offers and special deals please agree to receiving emails from us by ticking this box ☐ We may release your data to external companies to supply you with a prize in the event you win a competition but we promise we won't share your information with anyone else and you can manage what we send you at any time by following the link to our preference centre at the bottom of any of our emails. You may photocopy this form to avoid cutting your magazine. Full terms & conditions on page 94. Please complete your contact details: Mr/Mrs/Ms/Other ____________________ Forename _________________________ Surname __________________________ Address __________________________ _________________________________ Postcode _________________________ Daytime telephone __________________ Email ____________________________ BLOCKING This is the process of stretching and shaping your finished items to create the correct dimensions and even out your stitches. There are a few different ways to achieve this: Wet blocking: dampen the pieces, gently squeeze out excess water, pin to correct measurements, leave to dry. Steaming: lay a damp cloth over your work and gently iron over the top. Do not iron directly on to your knitting. Continue until the cloth is dry. Alternatively, gently hover over your work with the iron and apply steam until the knitting relaxes. Pin to the desired measurements and allow to set. 96 letsknit.co.uk l Weave in ends on the wrong side of the work, along seams if possible. Instead of tying any knots it’s preferable to secure the yarn by splitting a stitch and pulling the yarn through it l Steam, press or wet block all individual pieces (see right) and leave them to dry thoroughly before sewing up. l Using the correct technique for sewing together your pieces will result in a much more professional finish. See below for our step-by-step guide. l Take care to follow the correct washing instructions for your fibre – you should find these on the ball band TOP FINISHING tips OUR EXPERT GUIDE TO PERFECT FINISHED ITEMS Pattern UPDATES You can find updates at letsknit.co.uk. If you have any pattern queries please call 01206 508622 (office hours only) or email support@letsknit.co .uk and we will get back to you as soon as we can. LK 155 March, Cuddly Cable Jumper, p22 Row 10 of the Cable pattern should be worked the same as Row 2. LK 156 April, Peplum Stitch, p93 Row 3 was accidentally omitted. It should say: £ Row 3: p2tog, * p2, k2, yfwd, k1 , yfwd, k2, p2, p3tog, rep from * to end £ Hoooked £ Bernat Blanket £ The Knitting Gift Shop £ Kandoupatterns £ Rico Design £ Mystery Bundle £ GMC Publications
2Insert the tapestry needle knitwise into the 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, repeat Steps 3 and 4 until all stitches have been grafted. Insert the tapestry needle knitwise into the first stitch on the front needle and slide the stitch off. Before you pull the yarn through this stitch insert the tapestry needle into the next stitch on the front needle purlwise and pull the yarn through, this time leaving the stitch on the needle. 4 Insert the tapestry needle purlwise into the first stitch on the back needle and slide it off. Before pulling the yarn through this stitch, insert the tapestry needle into the next stitch on the back needle knitwise and pull the yarn through, leaving the stitch on the needle. Kitchener stitch PRACTICAL GUIDES Abbreviations 0 no stitches, times or rows - no stitches, times or rows for that size alt alternate approx approximately beg beginning C4F (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 cm centimetres cn cable needle cont continue (ing) dc double crochet dc2tog (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 (s) following (follows) htr half treble crochet inc increase (ing) k knit kfb knit into the front and the back of next stitch kfbf knit into the front, back and front of the next stitch k2tog knit two stitches together kwise knitwise k wrap insert right hand needle up tog with through the wrap and into st the stitch, knit the wrap together with stitch LH left hand m1 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 patt pattern pb place bead pfb purl into the front and back of next st pm place marker p2tog purl two stitches together prev previous psso pass slipped stitch over and off needle p2sso pass two slipped stitches over and off needle pwise purlwise rem remain (ing) rep repeat (ing) rev st st reverse stocking stitch (p onRSrow,konWSrow) rm remove marker rnd(s) round(s) RH right hand RS right side skpo slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over sk2po slip next stitch kwise, knit two together, pass slipped stitch over and off needle sl 2, k1, p2sso slip next two stitches knitwise at the same time, knit one, pass both slipped stitches over p wrap Slip the wrapped stitch from tog with the left hand to right hand st needle, insert left hand needle into wrap, return stitch to left hand needle, purl wrap and stitch together 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 hook yon yarn over needle (between a purl and a knit stitch) yrn yarn round needle (between purl stitches and between a knit and a purl stitch) y2rn wrap yarn twice around needle * repeat instructions following the asterisk as many times as instructed () £ work instructions inside the brackets as many times as instructed 97 letsknit.co.uk This is a brilliant technique for grafting toe stitches together on socks. It is worked as follows: SET UP: Before starting you need to prepare the stitches on the needle. Hold the two needles with the remaining stitches parallel. The loose end of yarn should be coming from the back needle and lying to the right of the work. 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. ADD COLOUR TO YOUR HOW WITH LUCINDA GANDERTON’S PATCHWORK SLIP STITCH SAMPLER CUSHION. DOWNLOAD THE PATTERN AT LETSKNIT. CO.UK
I couldn’t believe it when I discovered that wool had such a low value in this country. I decided to start purchasing the fibres at a fair price and began my work as a yarn producer and distributor. In 2014 I launched the fibreworkshop (fibreworkshop.co.uk) where I sell Norfolk Horn yarn, patterns, accessories, and even soap made from sheep milk! I also have a blog where I share my findings and about my experience with hand-dyeing. I like to work with natural dyes, as they are sustainable and produce a beautiful effect. I regularly host workshops where I explore everything to do with wool. It’s amazing when I get to interact with people and see the penny drop as they realise why it’s so important to protect the genetic diversity of the sheep in this country. I ’ve also met so many passionate people in the industry who work tirelessly to enhance the value of British wool. Over the past five years more and more people are taking an interest in where their yarns are coming from. There F rom the fields of Norfolk to the silver screen JENNIFER MONAHAN is promoting an ethical, sustainable and thoughtful approach to fibre arts. With an enviable talent for completing projects using nothing more than a photo, Jenn is also skilled at inspiring crafters to consider the origin of their yarns, encouraging knitters everywhere to find the value in local fibres. Fascinated by Jenn’s work, we were thrilled when she agreed to share her life in patterns... I can’t remember a time before I knew how to knit. Both my granny and my mum were knitters and I followed suit when I was very young. I remember knitting tiny clothes for my Sindy doll. My passion for rare breeds and British wool was born when we moved to Norfolk and I spotted some unusual sheep in the field next to us. They turned out to be Norfolk Horn (Norfolk’s indigenous rare breed sheep) and I’ve been obsessed with them ever since. I may not have my own sheep, but I can appreciate the work that goes into producing wool. It’s not a lucrative industry, the owners of rare breeds aren’t in it for the money – they are doing it out of love. 98 letsknit.co.uk Using natural fibres, Jenn created a shawl for Beth March Jenn is skilled at hand-dyeing her yarns using natural dyes Jenn enjoys working with rare breeds such as the Norfolk Horn has definitely been a shift! My passion for wool has led me to knitting costumes for a number of television shows and films. I recently produced knits for Sam Mendes’ film 1917, including mittens, scarves and balaclavas. Knitting for Greta Gerwig’s movie Little Women was also a brilliant experience. My research has never stretched so far back and I was surprised by how advanced the techniques were. We’re really not doing anything too different nowadays! It was important that we used traditional yarns, as it would feel strange using an acrylic fibre for a project set during the 1800s. I produced 15 pieces in total including Beth’s shawl pattern which is now being sold on Ravelry to raise money for charity. For this piece I worked mostly with pure wool but also silk, alpaca, nettle and linen fibres. I am currently working on a book about the Norfolk Horn. I am also busy creating new knitting patterns for the book using my yarns. I am regularly updating the hand-dyed yarns and adding to the workshops listed on my website. I find Instagram a great platform for sharing updates, so you would be very welcome to follow me (@fibreworkshop). I love everything related to knitting, so I am never at a loss for inspiration. “Over the past five years more and more people are taking an interest in where their yarns are coming from.” MY LIFE IN PATTERNS Jenn has designed costume pieces for period dramas, including the 2019 film Little Women. Credit: © 2019 Columbia Pictures Industries, Sony Pictures MOVIE KNITS CREATOR AND BRITISH WOOL FAN JENNIFER MONAHAN