Knitting

BRONAGH MISKELLY • PAT MENCHINI • JACINTA BOWIE Capsule Classics Craft your own wardrobe staples 22 timeless knits



Welcome You’d have to be hiding under a rock not to January can be a tough time for many of know that there’s a cost of living crisis going us. The festivities of Christmas are over, the on, not just in the UK but all around the lights and decorations are coming down and globe. If you can still afford a rock, that is. the teetotal dieting season is here, should Rising energy prices are forcing businesses we wish to take on its challenges. Thank to tighten their belts, while some people goodness we have our knitting to shine a are even having to choose between heating light into the darkest season of winter and their homes and eating. softly, warmly and cosily carry us through to the first shoots of spring. Where do we go when we’re worried? Straight to our knitting, of course. In this Christine issue, health and wellbeing expert Betsan Corkhill shares her thoughts on using your NEXT MONTH: craft to beat the winter blues in a guest column. Plus I review KnitPro’s new Mindful Who you gonna call? Stashbusters! Collection of needles. Can these tools really 20 inspired designs for mini-skeins, help make your knitting more mindful? advent calendars and all that yarn you’ve been squirrelling away… • Meet Annette This issue’s design collection is all about O’Toole, star of Netflix drama Virgin River knitting for a capsule wardrobe. Classic, • Stashbusting tips, tricks and inspiration elegant creations that won’t go in and out of • Plus designs by Francesca Hughes, Jacinta fashion, in considered colours that will work Bowie, Joan of Dark and many more with everything you own, and which are On sale January 26 designed to be dressed up or down as desired. The fibres aren’t always the cheapest – these are knits we hope you will love making and then cherish for many years to come. knittingmag.com 1

ISSUE 239 REGULARS CONTENTS 1 Editor’s letter 5 News Knitting (ISSN 1740 6943) is published 13 times a year 9 Shopping by GMC Publications Ltd, 86 High Street, Lewes, 36 Style file East Sussex BN7 1XN 44 Your views T: 01273 477374 91 Essential information 93 Coming next month EDITOR Christine Boggis 96 Purl about town 01273 402824 [email protected] REVIEWS SUB-EDITOR Jane Roe PATTERN EDITORS Rachel Vowles, Amelia Hodsdon 18 Books and accessories [email protected] 21 Yarn review DESIGNER Claire Stevens EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Yuliia Sytnikova GALLERIES PHOTOGRAPHER Laurel Guilfoyle STYLISTS Lindsey Poole, Ellie Nightingale 25 Fashion MODELS Nina Napoletano, Sarah Oh, Rohan Duggal 38 Home and gifts PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Jim Bulley [email protected] FEATURES ADVERTISING Guy Bullock 01273 402855 10 Guest Column: Betsan Corkhill [email protected] 12 Cast on with... Ellen Shek MARKETING Anne Guillot 14 Knitting Knockers PUBLISHER Jonathan Grogan DISTRIBUTION Seymour Distribution Ltd HOW TO 020 7429 4000 PRINTER Precision Colour Printers 46 Jo Allport’s A-Z of Techniques: Reading your knitting part 2 SUBSCRIPTIONS 01273 488005 70 Quick technique: [email protected] Decreasing cable pattern Subscribe online at: knittingmag.com/subscribe Subscribe from £39 (including free P&P) Save 10% with 6 issues Save 15% with 12 issues Save 20% with 24 issues Plus UK subscribers can save an extra 10% by choosing Direct Debit Cheques should be made payable to GMC Publications Ltd, and sent to The Subscriptions Department GMC Publications Ltd, 166 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 1XU Current subscribers will automatically receive a renewal notice (excludes direct debit subscribers) See page 90 for more details NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Find your nearest shop that stocks Knitting with this handy postcode finder and never miss an issue again! seymour.magzene.com JOIN KNITTING ON Views and comments expressed by individuals do not necessarily represent those of the publishers and no legal responsibility can be accepted for the result of the use by readers of information or advice of whatever kind given in this publication, either in editorial or advertisements. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the Guild of Master Craftsman Publications Ltd.

PATTERNS MEN 50 Rosa 80 Austin 52 Nadene 83 Twisty Sheep Socks 54 Retro Classic 58 Cable Detail Sweater HOME 60 Olden 63 Lochinver 77 Chevron Throw 72 Cardigan 78 Fairisle Tea Cosy 74 Halley 79 Lacy Rib Shopper 76 Polo Neck CHILDREN & PETS ACCESSORIES 84 Whisper of White 48 Winter Morning shawl baby blanket 57 Marina shawl 66 Brioche Moebius Loop 86 Frosty neck cosy 68 Verdrey hat 87 Venus Fly Trap 71 Neci socks



NEWS IMAGE: SHUTTERSTOCK.COM WE CATCH UP ON THE LATEST YARNS HAVE YOUR SAY AND WIN! We want to hear all about you and your knitting – and if you can take the time to fill in our survey, you’ll be in with a chance of winning some of the exciting goodies that have landed in our offices over the past year, including tools, accessories, yarn, books and more. Our poll is made up of 15 questions all about you, your knitting and your interests, and should take around five minutes to complete. Join in at knittingmag.com! TALE ENDS FOR STITCH & STORY NEW YARNSMITH SUPER CHUNKY Craft kits business Stitch & Story has During the summer she had shared closed its doors for the last time after with Instagram followers that the Wool Warehouse has added a super 10 years in business. business was struggling with freight and chunky-weight yarn to its own-label supply chain issues that meant it was Stitch & Story was the brainchild of overstocked out of season and facing long Yarnsmiths range. friends Jennifer Lam and Jen Hoang, delays with its collaborative launches. Yarnsmiths Create Super Chunky joins who started out running a small stand ‘We worked very hard with our third- in London’s Old Spitalfields Market and party warehouses both in the UK and Create DK, Baby DK, Baby 4 Ply and knitting workshops in London before US, but the difficulty of navigating all the Baby Aran in the affordable, easy-care evolving the business into kits for knitting challenges in the current market has been range. It comes in 20 shades to suit a and much more. Their aim was to inspire insurmountable. We needed the support range of projects including jumpers, people to knit and craft, and to give them a and capital to continue and when we scarves, cushions and blankets, perfect stress-free experience doing so. exhausted all possible options, it left us no choice but to close shop,’ she wrote. for wintry weather. Jennifer announced that the business had gone into liquidation on Instagram in But she added: ‘As first-time KNITTER WENDY November. She wrote: ‘I am heartbroken entrepreneurs, we learned so much about CELEBRATES MILESTONE to announce that S&S has been left with building a business and many of you have no choice but to close our beautiful heard our rollercoaster stories along the BIRTHDAY business after 10 years. I am deeply sorry way. We are so grateful for our community, to those of you who have been personally our staff, stockists and our collaboration A passionate knitter has celebrated her impacted by this outcome and for letting partners. I will never forget the times when 100th birthday – and become one of the all our team, customers, investors and we met King Charles, debuted on the early recipients of a birthday card from suppliers down. BBC’s Make Craft series and supported the King Charles III. Wendy Binns lives at UK government as female-owned business ‘For Jen and me, Stitch & Story was ambassadors. There is still so much left Friends of the Elderly’s New Copford not just a job – it has been our heartbeat to do in this crafting world, but we hope Place residential care home in Colchester and our passion. The road for small we’ve inspired many of you to craft.’ brands bringing a product to market is and loves to knit. She has even won long and hard.’ prizes for her creations and used to make blankets for newborn babies at her local hospital. Wendy says the secret to a long and happy life is ‘doing what you love’. knittingmag.com 5

HOTFOOT IT DOWN TO HABERDASHERDO HEADS UP FOR ARMED FORCES CHARITY Bournemouth sewing and knitting emporium to offer something to complement these Haberdasherdo has kicked off 2023 with a yarns. We often get customers saying The armed forces charity SSAFA has new series of sock knitting workshops. they’d like to try socks but are unsure released a free hat pattern in military about knitting in the round. We’ll also be colours designed by one of its volunteers, The courses are targeted at improver running some Knitting Knowhow sessions and is calling on knitters to make them knitters and beyond, and are split into three – explanatory sessions to demonstrate and to support serving personel, veterans and one-hour sessions that introduce knitting practise every knitter’s conundrums, such their families. in the round, shaping the heel and finishing as sewing up, picking up stitches, shaping, the toe. Knitters will be able to practise on buttonholes and any other problem areas.’ SSAFA volunteer Dawn Civill-Williams sample pieces and then work on their own designed the stripy hat in three shades of creations, and there will be some homework The sock knitting course costs £50 DK yarn: dark blue to represent the Royal required to put your best foot forward. including yarn, circular and double-pointed Navy, red for the Army and air force blue for needles, and the next two courses kick off the Royal Air Force. Owner Jane Scott says: ‘Having recently on January 11 and February 7. Book your expanded our wool range with Stylecraft, spot at haberdasherdo.co.uk. She says the pattern is easy to follow King Cole and Rico sock yarns, we wanted and adds: ‘I can knit one hat in an evening, cats permitting.’ Find out more, download the pattern and donate to the SSAFA at ssafa.org.uk. BEHIND THE BRAND is a means to that goal. Thanks to this vital collaboration, the sale of each skein of Urth WHERE DO YOUR FAVOURITE YARNS COME FROM? THIS MONTH Yarn plants a tree. SALES EXECUTIVE KATIE DOLGUN INTRODUCES… URTH YARNS Where do your yarns come from? Who are you and where are you based? artisans and talented team members. We source some of our yarn locally in Urth Yarns is a small, family-run business As Urth Yarns, we’ve dedicated ourselves Turkey, with the larger portion from based in Turkey. We have been active in international suppliers practising the local yarn industry for five decades. to producing exquisite quality hand-dyed mulesing-free methods. What started out in 2017 as a tiny family- yarns. We enjoy developing new dyeing members-only operation, today is an techniques to offer a fresh approach to Are there specific designs for your yarns? extended family with the addition of skilful making colourways. Our design team works hard to offer our customers a variety of beautiful designs All our collections are crafted they can choose as projects, or use as meticulously by the hands of talented inspiration in creating their own ideas. women. We also strive to create the means We collaborate with several highly to employ as many as we can through our talented independent designers and are sample-making programme. These samples are displayed at shops and events. looking forward to increasing those partnerships. It is a rewarding In our mission to sustain and surprise every time a new give back, we have partnered design made with our yarn with Trees for the Future, is introduced. helping them keep the planet clean and green by urthyarns.com making sure our business 6

Switch Sweater KRYSTEN RITTER BACK AT WAK CRAZY SEXY WOOL’S Actress, author and knitter Krysten Ritter beginner crochet patterns: The Cute Little NEW LITTLE SISTER has returned to We Are Knitters with a new Round Rug in WAK Mini Cordage Yarn, also collection of knitwear designs. priced at £64 for the kit, and the Crochet If you love Wool and the Gang’s signature All Day Blanket in The Petite Wool, which super chunky Crazy Sexy Wool but are The Go-To Sweater is a simple, stylish comes in a wide range of colours and costs looking for something lighter, you’re going jumper made in Touch Me Mohair, a blend £77 for the kit. to love Lil Crazy Sexy Wool. of baby alpaca, super kid mohair and mulberry silk. It is available as a kit in a The new designs join Krysten’s original The yarn is the same 100% wool roving range of shades, with prices starting at £64, collection of patterns and kits for women, made in Peru as its big sister, but knits and is suitable for beginner-level knitters. babies and pets and are available on up on 8mm needles for a slightly less weareknitters.co.uk. chunky effect. The new collection also includes two WATG has released a number of patterns WINTER READS and kits to go with the new yarn, including simple knits the Hands Up Hat, Switch Long nights and chilly days make winter Sweater and Our Time Tank. the best time to curl up with a good book – and knitting reads are the best of all. Here Lil Crazy Sexy Wool comes in 12 shades are some of our top recommendations for including neutrals, pastels and some bolder the season. tones. It retails at £8.50 for a 100g ball and kits start from £24. Kalurah Hudson has released Cozy Cables, published by Page Street Publishing, which Our Time Tank features wonderful cabled knits ranging from quick-knit chunky hats and accessories to full garments and including plenty of tips Yorkshire wool, featuring twisted stitches in and tricks to get your cabling just perfect. geometric designs, in six garments and six accessories. It is published by KDD & Co. Sark by Kate Davies is a beautiful collection of designs in the natural grey Nancy Warren’s Vampire Knitting Club shades of Kate Davies Designs Ooskit cosy mystery series, published by Ambleside Publishing, is now on its 14th edition, and the earlier books are available as box sets or as e-reads. There is also a new sister series: Vampire Knitting Club Cornwall. And a perennial cold-weather favourite is Emily Foden’s beautifully photographed, snow-filled Knits About Winter, a collection of inspired wintry designs published by Pom Pom Press. knittingmag.com 7

Comfort DK What’s On Bubblegum JANUARY 24-26 UNRAVEL Charcoal A celebration of all things yarn 11 LEARN TO and making, from knitting and Big Value KNIT SOCKS AT crochet to spinning and Super Chunky HABERDASHERDO weaving, at Farnham Put your best foot forward Maltings in Surrey. Look out Claret and learn to knit socks for independent and local at Bournemouth sewing producers, established makers Ginger Cherished DK and knitting emporium and first-time yarn show Haberdasherdo. Sign up for exhibitors from around the UK. Chunky Big Value three hour-long sessions that farnhammaltings.com Tweed Baby DK will teach you to knit in the round, shape heels and finish MARCH Raasay Autumn toes, with all materials included. Stornaway Chunky haberdasherdo.co.uk 4-5 YORKSHIRE YARN FEST Fashion Aran 15 WALTHAM ABBEY Head to York for a whole WOOL SHOW weekend of celebrations of WINTER BOOST FOR KING COLE Kate and Diana invite you to all things craft at new venue celebrate the 10th anniversary Sandburn Hall. There will King Cole has added new and Midnight, centred on of the Essex-based Wool be crafting social events, shades to its chunky and super indigo colours. Show. Get inspiration, meet workshops and a whole chunky yarn range. creative exhibitors and host of vendors including The yarn brand has also artisans of crochet, knitting, Lilliputwight, The Urban Solid shades Bubblegum, introduced a number of new spinning and felting with Purl and Botanical Yarn. Charcoal, Claret and Ginger patterns. Cardigan patterns and demonstrations and workshops. yorkshireyarnfest.com join Big Value Super Chunky’s designs with matching hats for walthamabbeywoolshow.co.uk palette, while purple Raasay babies join its collections for and grey-brown Stornaway Comfort DK, Cherished 26-28 ARDINGLY 18-19 FIBRE QUEST have been added to the Chunky DK and Big Value Baby DK, QUILT SHOW Somerset’s Fernhill Farm, Tweed range and Autumn while a set of matching hat and Check out bright and beautiful between Bristol and Wells, has Chunky has gained bold cowl or scarf designs for women quilt displays by well-known teamed up with Stitch Fest multi-toned shades Dawn, has been added to the Fashion quilters and textile artists, shop South West to launch Fibre based around a pale turquoise, Aran portfolio. for patchwork and quilting Quest, a showcase of natural supplies and enjoy the restaurant fibres with a focus on holistic NEW TWEEDY SHADES FROM HHF and other facilities at the South agriculture. There will be talks of England Showground in and discussions about how to Hedgehog Fibres has released Hedgehog Fibres encourages Ardingly, West Sussex. rehabilitate the land as well as two new shades in its Tweedy knitters to send them their grosvenorshows.co.uk/ blade-shearing workshops, and yarn, a blend of 50% Falkland unwanted yarn scraps to be ardingly-quilt-show there will be a programme of Merino wool, 37.5% recycled reused in Tweedy, and offers traditional textile skills over wool and 12.5% HHF Thread discounts to those who do, FEBRUARY the weekend. Waste. Dusky pink Bliss and from 10% off for 200g up to fernhill-farm.co.uk lilac Lullaby join a limited, 30% off for anyone who sends 9-12 VOGUE KNITTING elegant palette including shades a kilogram or more. LIVE NEW YORK 18-19 EAST ANGLIA of grey and a mustard yellow. This sought-after event features YARN FESTIVAL The yarn brand has also been world-class teachers including The Norwich-based festival HHF Thread Waste is recycled highly commended in the Best Melissa Leapman, Norah is back for its second year at yarn waste collected from Indie Hand Dyer category of Gaughan, Gayle Roehm, Franklin new bigger venue the Norfolk knitters, which is spun into the The British Knitting & Crochet Habit, Julie Weisenberger and Showground Arena, which blend and adds bright pops of Awards 2022. Find out more at many more, and is back in person offers ample parking as well colour and texture to the yarn. shop.hedgehogfibres.com. in the Big Apple. as workshops, social evening vogueknittinglive.com/ events and lots of fibre fun. newyork23 EAYF aims to celebrate the amazing talent of local vendors 12-13 KNITTING AND as well as wonderful businesses CROCHET HOLIDAY travelling from all over the UK. Book yourself a week away eastangliayarnfestival.com at The Gartmore House for a 8 knitting, crochet or macramé course, and get ready for some crafty fun! the-gartmore-house. bookinglayer.com

I KNITTING This month’s makers’ must-haves MINI-SKEIN SETS HOBBY GIFT REVERSIBLE BEACHCOMBED BUTTONS From £12, folkestoneharbouryarn.com PROJECT BAG From £3, Lilliput Wight £23-35, [email protected] 45-HOUR SCENTED CANDLE HEMLINE HOBBY SCISSORS HOT WATER BOT TLE KNIT KIT £12.50, tillyflopdesigns.etsy.com £6.99, [email protected] £28, Lauren Aston Designs WELLNESS STONE COURAGE SHEEPSKIN SLIPPERS FAUX FUR WEIGHTED BLANKET £26.99, Joma Jewellery £55, The Small Home £45.99, Voshie knittingmag.com 9

GUEST COLUMN Knit to beat the blues LIFESTYLE, HEALTH AND WELLBEING COACH BETSAN CORKHILL ON HOW YOU CAN USE YOUR KNITTING TO SUPPORT YOU THROUGH CHALLENGING TIMES Here in the northern hemisphere, January more aware, more receptive, fully present therefore paramount to lowering stress. is seen as one of the most difficult months in the moment and better able to learn, so Stress can also lead to poor sleep. Your to navigate. With Christmas and New Year it’s likely to benefit your knitting too. It will festivities gone, it can lead many into a keep you grounded at times when your mind brain won’t allow you to go into deep, mental and physical slump. The rising cost of wants to whirl off somewhere else. restorative sleep if it thinks you are in danger. living coupled with the ongoing circulation It’s difficult to arouse you from a deep sleep of viruses will no doubt add to the challenges It can be easy to get stuck in your so this is your brain’s way of ensuring you’re that face us over the coming months. thoughts and for them to spiral into negative ready to run or fight. In recent years it’s been downward cycles which are difficult to difficult for our brains to believe that we are Fortunately, as knitters you have the break. Knitters tell me that knitting breaks safe in our beds and in our homes, when perfect solution at your fingertips, and you into these patterns. It quietens the constant we’re constantly being bombarded by media can learn to enhance the benefits of knitting chitter chatter that can sometimes go on in messaging that the world is an unsafe place. through therapeutic knitting. I would define our minds. So if you find yourself constantly Consequently, many people are struggling therapeutic knitting as the combination mulling things over, use your knitting to with poor sleep. Knitting can help you here. of knitting and knowledge to deliberately deliberately break these cycles. Knitting during the day can train your improve your wellbeing. It’s about using systems to feel safe and promote feelings of your knitting to facilitate positive change in Feeling safe is hugely important calm, while knitting before bed can break your health, wellbeing and life and knowing for wellbeing. Rhythmic movement is into whirring thoughts and put your mind how to do that. particularly helpful because it makes the and body in a state that facilitates good, brain feel safe. Our brains are constantly restorative sleep. You can even use it in the Uncertainty has always been a part of our predicting what’s around the corner in order middle of the night if waking in the early lives from the moment we are conceived, to keep us alive. Brains like things that are hours is a problem. Choose a simple pattern but it’s not something we usually think predictable. Rhythmic movement that doesn’t stimulate your brain too much about much. However, in the past few years is predictable, the brain feels safe. and use a dim light that’s focused on your it has been thrust into the forefront of our knitting, not into your eyes. minds through constant media messaging Stories from knitters over the past three in an attempt to keep us safe during a global years have highlighted the need to feel in The right light at the right time is pandemic. Ongoing worries about what the control of something in your life, however important for our wellbeing, setting our future may hold makes it even more difficult. small. Knitters tell how their knitting circadian clocks and our sleep. In brief, gives them this sensation of control, some we need bright light in the mornings to Worry, anxiety and fear live in our stability even when everything else around wake our systems up, and dim light as the thoughts about the future. Most people is chaotic. This can help you navigate life’s afternoon progresses to send the right live in their heads – their thoughts about inevitable challenges and manage feelings information to our brain. In these shorter, the past or future – most of the time, so are of uncertainty. My work has shown that darker days many knitters and crafters rarely fully present in the now. Meditation in those times when we feel vulnerable, use daylight lamps. These are fine in the and meditative movement can help to bring we need a framework to follow. Knitting mornings, but if you are using bright light, you into a state of embodied presence, provides us with the safe framework of a particularly if it’s an LED light, in the where your mind and body are in the same pattern. It keeps us grounded, anchored. evenings, it will send the wrong information place at the same time. Our mind is capable to your brain, which won’t know that it of extraordinary time travel but our body As well as life’s inevitable, bigger will soon be time to sleep. If you’re having is always in the present moment, where challenges, knitting can help you manage problems with deep, restorative sleep then neither past nor future exist. With practice the day-to-day stresses of life, so I would it may be worthwhile changing your light you can learn to live your life from this advocate knitting a bit every day so that source in the late afternoon or evening. beneficial state. As you knit, focus your stress doesn’t accumulate. Stress leads attention on your hands, bringing your mind to many other issues such as low mood, Low light levels in the winter can also and thoughts into the soothing, rhythmic pain, digestive and sleep problems, so it’s trigger low mood. In our Stitchlinks and motion. Focus on the texture of the needles important to manage it on an ongoing basis. Cardiff University survey of more than and the yarn as it runs through your fingers. Our stress response is triggered when we 3,500 knitters from 32 countries, one of our In this state of embodied presence you are perceive a threat, preparing us to fight, run most significant findings was that the more or freeze. Having a sense of ‘being safe’ is 10 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m

GUEST COLUMN frequently people knitted, the happier and Betsan Corkhill is a lifestyle, health and researching the meditative, creative and calmer they reported feeling. 81% felt happier wellbeing coach who specialises in working social benefits of knitting since 2005. She after knitting, 54% felt happy or very happy with people living with long-term health is the founder of Stitchlinks, the home of and fewer than 1% remained sad. Excitingly, problems, particularly pain. She has many therapeutic knitting, and has published the this translated across to people with clinical years’ clinical experience as a former book Knit for Health and Wellness: How depression. You may be surprised to hear senior physiotherapist and is a passionate to knit a flexible mind and more, which is that the texture of your yarn is twice as advocate for a whole-person approach to sold worldwide and has been translated into important as the colour for affecting your health, from managing day-to-day stress German and Spanish. mood. If you touch something good, it will and life’s inevitable challenges through make you feel good. You can increase the to managing ill-health. Betsan has been stitchlinks.com effect by knitting in a colour that makes you smile. Knitting for other people and charity Being creative can open up your is also a great way of improving mood and world. Thinking creatively will feelings of self-worth. help with problem-solving, not just in your knitting, but in your As the days close in, we can close down. day-to-day life. It widens your As a consequence, any problems or health perspective on the world and issues in our lives can become our sole gives you topics of conversation focus. Being creative can open up your outside yourself. world. Thinking creatively will help with problem-solving, not just in your knitting, but in your day-to-day life. It widens your perspective on the world and gives you topics of conversation outside yourself. Feeling successful is also important for your wellbeing. Being successful at something, however small, is a huge boost to mood and self-worth. Knitting’s portability enables you to be successful from an armchair, or even a bed. Our brains have a system called the reward system. This fires off a boost of feelgood, pain- relieving, motivating chemicals when you are successful at a task that requires a little effort. Get into the habit of setting your projects at a level that requires a little effort, but that you know you’ll be successful at, to boost those feelgood chemicals. The winter months may isolate us more, so join a face-to-face or online knitting group. A social knitting group provides a rich, safe form of social engagement which is so important for our wellbeing. If going to a new group makes you anxious, choose an easy project and use this as a self-soothing tool to manage any anxiety that arises. Knitting alone can also deal with feelings of loneliness by helping you enjoy moments of solitude. Whereas loneliness is detrimental to our health in many ways, enjoyment of solitude is highly beneficial. Taking care of your mental and physical health takes knowledge, planning, perseverance, patience and commitment. Lasting success in all aspects of life requires this. Your knitting has already taught you these skills. Knitters told us this in our survey. The good news is that you don’t have to be an expert for it to be therapeutic. Focus your mind on the process, the rhythm of the movements and look forward to knitting your way to a happier 2023. knittingmag.com 11

CAST ON WITH… Cast on with.. Ellen Shek of Ka Lok Shek Ellen A NEED FOR CREATIVITY IN HER LIFE LED HOBBY KNITTER ELLEN SHEK INTO HAND-DYEING YARNS WHICH SHE SELLS ONLINE AND AT SHOWS Tell us about your background. job. Working as a counter assistant now use acid dyes from various sources and I I am second-generation British-born doesn’t allow that. One day, I just searched find that they create beautiful colours. I like Chinese with parents from Hong Kong, for a hand-dyeing kit online and, after using the acid dyes, as time is precious and and am currently based in Aberdeen, experimenting with it, I knew this was the they help speed up the dyeing process. north-east Scotland. Forty years ago, my route I wanted to go down.  parents came to the UK with nothing to What’s on your needles right now? their name and little education, but with And how did it become a career? Currently on the needles is an Elton the determination to give their offspring It became a career when I applied for yarn cardigan designed by Joji Locatelli using a better life. They retrained on the job, shows in Scotland and had a lot of fun. The a Merino, cashmere and nylon blend as working in a Chinese restaurant, and for main aspect was seeing people who are the main colour and a suri alpaca and a few years now, they have moved around different from my day-to-day job. It became a mulberry silk yarn as the contrast. The Scotland. As this is all they know, it’s only relief to know that there are nice customers simple design is perfect for TV knitting or natural for me to be heavily involved in even though it’s in a different capacity.  knitting with friends.  their business today. However, I wasn’t keen to be work in the catering industry for What do you love about dyeing? What sort of things do you love to knit? my career, so I went to university to study The whole dyeing process can be lengthy Knitting brings me joy and peace when I human resources management.  and tiring at the best of times. However, need it the most. Personally, I love garter seeing how colours play together in the pan stitch for the ease of it, but I do enjoy Who taught you to knit? is great fun, and translating an object in a challenging pattern where cables are When my mum was pregnant with my your mind into colour can be a challenge. I involved – think traditional aran sweaters. I little brother, when I was nine years old, like to mix the dyes to see what results I get love simple cables: they create such intricate she was knitting a cardigan for him. I was in terms of their tones and hues. The most designs when the techniques used are intrigued and asked to learn how to knit. interesting part is seeing how each base simple once mastered.  However, I kept making mistakes and had takes colour differently when the recipe wonky edges, and when I asked for help is exactly the same. The most rewarding What do you do when you’re not knitting? she couldn’t offer me any. So the flair for part is sharing it on the socials and people When the knitting motivation has taken knitting died down until I was in my early purchasing from you. It really does make me a little trip out into the woods, I like to twenties. By then you could search for all do a happy dance, whether it’s in person at a sew whenever possible, and I have dabbled sorts of knitting tutorials online show or online.  in other crafts that I enjoy as well. Usually, and in books. you will find me with something in my What inspires your shades? hands when I’m not working, which could How did you get into dyeing?  I take inspiration from nature and I love be in the form of cross stitch, a book or On a whim! I’d always wanted to be creative using my rich Chinese heritage to express a slow stitching project such as English in one way or another, and knitting and myself as a person. I like to think of this paper piecing. crochet weren’t quite enough for my soul. as a way to tell my story. Other times, it During my years studying, I realised I can be nostalgia that hits me, in terms of kalokshekellen.com wanted to work with colour as part of my childhood fun times or books. I typically @kalokshekellen 12 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m

CAST ON WITH… The most rewarding part is sharing it on the socials and people purchasing from you. It really does make me do a happy dance, whether it’s in person at a show or online. knittingmag.com 13

FEATURE Knitting knockers CRAFTERS AND YARN BRANDS ARE STEPPING OUT, NEEDLES AND HOOKS IN HAND, TO HELP SURVIVORS OF BREAST CANCER In 2020, 2.3 million around the world women. Cascade Yarns regularly adds new worn more intimately and regularly than were diagnosed with breast cancer and colours to its Ultra Pima cotton, which is knitted knockers. A woman’s skin can be sore 685,000 died, according to the World the top yarn for US breast prosthesis charity from surgery, burned from radiation or itchy, Health Organisation. At the end of 2020, the Knitted Knockers Support Foundation. so it’s important that the yarn used is soft, there were 7.8 million women alive who ‘We try to add more skin tones every year,’ smooth and retains its shape after laundering were diagnosed with breast cancer in the says Cascade’s Shannon Dunbabin. or swimming. Cascade Ultra Pima is made past five years, making it the world’s most from pima cotton. It is mercerised and stays prevalent cancer. Breast cancer occurs in ‘We love Cascade Ultra Pima and Ultra soft after much washing and wearing. It every country of the world in women at any Pima Fine,’ says Barbara Demorest, founder retains its sheen and holds its shape without age after puberty, but with increasing rates and president of the Knitted Knockers pilling, and it is also affordable.’ in later life. In the UK, breast cancer is the Support Foundation. ‘We have a list of over most common cancer, accounting for 15% of 30 approved yarns, any of which work great Many women who find standard all new cancer cases and nearly one in three for knockers.’ Knitted Knockers is based in prosthetics uncomfortable are happier with of all new female cancer cases, according Bellingham, Washington state, and aims to a knitted version. Neutral colours are the to Cancer Rearch UK and the National connect volunteer knitters and crocheters most requested shades for knitted breasts, Institute for Health and Care Excellence.  with breast cancer survivors around the Barbara says. ‘Many knitters enjoy making world to provide them with free knitted bright ones, but most requests are for neutral Crafty volunteers are stepping up to knockers. Its website knittedknockers. colours. We suspect that many women are help women who have had mastectomies org has more than 4,000 individual groups most comfortable matching bra colours. We by making them knitted and crocheted registered, in 50 states and 60 countries. It suggest knitters or crocheters can always add prosthetics, while yarn brands are working is 100% volunteer-run and sends out more colour to the back of the knocker for fun.’ to provide more yarn shades to suit more than 10,000 free knockers each month to women all over the world. Its free patterns have been downloaded more than 1.2 million times and its videos have been viewed more than 635,000 times. Barb says: ‘Few things are Few things are worn more intimately and regularly than knitted knockers WIN the Cascade Ultra Pima yarns pictured here to knit your own knockers. Visit our Competitions page at knittingmag.com to enter. Deadline: January 26 14 YARN IMAGE: LAUREL GUILFOYLE

FEATURE knittingmag.com

FEATURE It’s wonderful to know that something that we enjoy doing makes such a big difference to someone KNOCKERS IN THE UK can choose bra size, colours and styles. 3,234 orders, even though it had been partly Volunteers around the country make closed during that year because of Covid-19. Knitted Knockers UK is a registered charity the knockers to order, and they are then Deb says: ‘We provide all of our knockers in England and Wales offering bespoke quality checked, parcelled up and sent free of charge and rely on donations to help knitted and crocheted knockers to women along with additional filling, spare lacing us do that. The charity is run by volunteers. who have had surgery following a breast and a care card in an organza bag. ‘Many We attend events and give talks around cancer diagnosis. It also offers a knitted of our volunteers also send a personal the country, and have little mini knocker knocker suitable for swimming, called message to the knocker recipient,’ says keyrings that we sell through our webpage an aqua and filled with shower scrunchie trustee and secretary Deb Wright. which help us raise funds.’ material, which dries more quickly. Women can order knockers through the In the year to April 2022 Knitted Knitted Knockers UK’s prosthetics are website knittedknockersuk.com and Knockers UK made 4,620 knockers for 100% cotton and its approved list of yarns includes brands King Cole, Rico, Sirdar, Stylecraft and Hobbii. ‘We will make knockers in any colour requested, as long as it is available,’ says Deb. ‘If someone doesn’t request a specific colour, we provide knockers in white, cream or a pastel shade. The front of the knocker will be knitted in the plain colour, but our volunteers can be creative with the back of the knocker. We say: “Business on the front, party on the back.” We have developed some colour wheels which we send to people who ask for a skin colour, and we ask them to choose the colour which they think most matches the tone they want, from the colours produced by the yarn manufacturers.’ Knitted Knockers UK volunteers need to knit two test knockers to a required standard, and each new volunteer is allocated a mentor who helps them through the process. The charity currently has 105 approved knitters, and others going through the mentoring process. ‘We get lots of thank you messages from knocker recipients, and some of them bring us to tears,’ Deb says. ‘It’s wonderful to know that something that we enjoy doing makes such a big difference to someone.’ Gektniintvtoedlvkendo:ckersuk.com knittedknockers.org 16 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m

LIFE CHANGERS POMPOM POWER Thank yous and testimonials Lauren Aston Designs has created kits to make booby pompoms, in a bid to raise cash for Breast Cancer Awareness. Team member Helen says: ‘We were conscious KNITTED KNOCKERS UK that as women, we are all impacted by breast cancer in some way, and we wanted to ‘A huge thank you to the fabulous Barbara be able to offer some creative fun while raising funds for such an important cause. It who has knitted my new boobs. What an was important to us to offer different ways of presenting breasts, from colour to size awesome, free service and one that is so very of nipples and areolas, because as we know, all boobs are different! We are planning a meaningful. Thank you Barbara for making blog post to offer other ways of creating the pompoms, including boobs with a scar.’ them flatter at the back to help them fit Find out more and get your booby pompom kits at laurenastondesigns.com. better with my concaved chest.’ ‘My order arrived today and they are wonderful, thank you! The everyday knocker is so comfortable. I’ve put the aqua one ready in my swimsuit and am looking forward to trying it. They are both so pretty too. My NHS prosthesis split and it’s taking forever to get a new one, so thank you and Pat for getting my lovely knitted knockers to me so quickly. They are so nice and light, I’d rather use these anyway!’ ‘Please pass on my thanks to Natalie who has made me two beautiful knitted breasts. I can’t wait to try out the swimming one as soon as I’m able to get back in the sea. It’s been immensely comforting to know that women are looking out for each other and to imagine someone thinking of me as they knit.’ KNITTED KNOCKERS, WASHINGTON ‘I was diagnosed with stage three triple negative breast cancer at the age of 23. After a mastectomy, chemo and radiation, I’m proud to say I’m now 27 and three-and- a-half years out from diagnosis. Dealing with my diagnosis and now “life after cancer” at such a young age has had its challenges. Putting on a pink pair of knitted knockers would give me that extra boost of confidence needed on most days to feel, well, like I’m enough.’ Vanessa, Pennsylvania ‘My niece had a double mastectomy at 38 years old. She has been wearing heavy prosthetic silicone, and saying they wear out, are heavy and leak. When I found your website she cried, because she had never heard of knitted knockers. I now am making it my mission to help other women.’ Karen, Oregon ‘I’m excited to try the knitted knockers, I’ve got the heavy, uncomfortable prosthetics but have chosen not to wear them because they are so uncomfortable. I still want that “girly” look, but being so concave, it is hard. Thank you for giving me hope again.’ Deborah, North Carolina knittingmag.com 17

REVIEWS CHRISTINE BOGGIS AND JANE ROE CHECK OUT THE LATEST LAUNCHES KNITPRO MIDFULNESS COLLECTION As the cost of living crisis deepens, more Gratitude, Believe, Warmth, Kindness, So is this set really more mindful than and more people are finding their mental Explore and Grateful. any other set of knitting needles? Of health affected by worries about the future, course, you don’t need to buy anything at uncertainty and a sense of hopelessness, I tried out the Gratitude interchangeable all in order to practise mindfulness – just according to a study by the University of needle set, which includes 12 stainless bring your focus to your craft and you’ll Swansea. Studies show that practising steel tips sized from 3-12mm, along be away. But if you are looking to invest mindfulness can help to manage common with swivelling cables and accessories in a new set of tools, these offer a handy mental health problems like depression, including stitch markers, tapestry needles and pleasant reminder that knitting isn’t anxiety and feelings of stress, and there and a needle gauge, all packed in a pretty just for pleasure, creativity or to while is some evidence that it could even help turquoise zipped case and presented in a away the hours. The words embossed with more complex conditions such as handy fabric pouch that can double up as on each needle tip and the pretty psychosis and bipolar disorder, according a project bag. Like all the KnitPro needles mandalas adorning the set act as handy to mental health charity Mind. But can I’ve tried, they are a delight to work with. little reminders to stop for a minute or knitting needles and accessories really The swivelling cables are a particular boon two and immerse yourself in the present help you with mindfulness? as they avoid any twisting up, and the moment. They could provide an inspiring tips are strong but comfortable to work mantra for a particular project or add a Mindfulness is the practice of being with, with sharp points perfect for lace layer of thoughtfulness to a simple knit. aware of your body, mind and feelings knitting. I also explored the chakra stitch Just reading the word ‘gratitude’ as you in the present moment. Lots of knitters markers, which worked brilliantly well with choose your needle tips could remind find that knitting really helps them get the Gratitude set, plus a handy set of teal you to think about things you are thankful into the moment and find a focus and wooden darning needles presented in for – something that studies have shown sense of being present that can bring a lovely wooden case and a pretty – promotes feelings of wellbeing. Whether with it feelings of calm. But it’s not always and very useful – teal measuring tape. you’re into mindfulness or not, the KnitPro the case. KnitPro’s new Mindfulness KnitPro’s Mindful Collection includes Mindfulness Collection is yet another Collection offers gentle reminders with the full range of straight, fixed and great launch from this brilliant brand. CB each tool that knitting can be a mindful interchangeable circular and double- KnitPro Gratitude Set approx £120, activity. Each needle is embossed with a pointed needles as well as bags, mandala and a buzzword such as serene, accessories and other goodies. various retailers grace, believe and dream. A set of seven sterling silver stitch markers represents Just reading the word ‘gratitude’ as you choose your needle tips each of the seven chakras. And there are could remind you to think about things you are thankful for a number of needle sets, each named after a mindful feeling or practice: 18 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m

REVIEWS WIN a Hemline darning mushroom and Pony Black knitters’ needles MODERN VINTAGE MAGICAL WOODLAND WE HAVE FOUR TO GIVE AWAY! KNITTING VOLUME 2 KNITS Venita Kidwai Claire Garland For your chance to win visit our Competitions page at knittingmag.com. Deadline: January 26 Following the success of You may have seen Claire Modern Vintage Knitting Garland’s astonishingly lifelike HEMLINE DARNING MUSHROOM Volume 1, Venita Kidwai knitted animals on Instagram, AND PONY BLACK KNITTERS’ NEEDLES of Knit Different returns where she posts as Dot with a new book of 14 Pebbles Knits. Now she has Making do and mending is all the rage these days, so it’s a great original patterns aimed at published a collection of time to invest in some handy tools to make sure your fix sticks. intermediate knitters and 12 patterns inspired by her Faced with some holes in a favourite jumper’s cuff and elbow, I adventurous beginners. love of fairy-tale-like tried out the Hemline darning mushroom, a mushroom-shaped Venita’s unique combinations woodland worlds. piece of wood with a little handle that allows you to hold your hole of yarns, structures and comfortably in one place as you work, and the Pony Black sewing patterns make for an These animal designs are needles for knitters, which have useful large eyes and are in a intriguing read and knit, and more complicated than most striking black and white design that stands out well against your once you open this book other patterns on the market: work. This is particularly useful if, like me, you have a tendency to you’ll be desperate to know each combines several yarns put things down and mislay them. These needles are not nickel- how to make these wonderful in different colours and plated, which is useful for allergy sufferers. Both the mushroom creations – and itching to cast textures, there are lots of and the needles are small, lightweight, easy to use and affordable, on. The collection comprises seams to sew up and some making them perfect essential tools to have stashed around the six neck warmers of various projects require specialist home, ready to mend beloved items rather than replacing them at sorts, each with matching kit, such as wire legs for the a cost both to yourself and to the environment. CB cuffs, gloves or wrist warmers, birds. However, all that effort Pony Black knitters’ needles approx £1, Hemline darning plus another cowl design is worth it for the incredibly mushroom approx £5, [email protected] interpreted in two different realistic results. Claire explains ways. Each design is named all of the processes in detail after a part of London and and there are clear photos of each features an unusual and the assembly stages to help creative approach: chunky you get the perfect finish. It’s ribs meet gossamer lace; hard to choose favourites, but huge buttons and lightweight the ones that stand out most geometric eyelet patterns for me are the Roe Deer Fawn, adorn a solid garter stitch Barn Owl and Wolf. JR knit; and a super chunky £16.99, David & Charles cable knit is adorned with feminine frills. Favourite makes include beaded collar Picadilly Petite, super chunky Greenwich button scarf and mitts and the lovely layered Lewisham set. CB £16, Amazon knittingmag.com 19



YARN YARN REVIEW REVIEW SWATCH SARAH HAZELL BEATS PATTERN THOSE WINTER BLUES This month I used variations of st st and a garter stitch ridge. This is just one example: Rows 1,3, 5 and 6: Knit. Rows 2 and 4: Purl. 21

YARN REVIEW BROOKLYN TWEED CASCADE YARNS MCINTOSH DONEGAL RICO CREATIVE IMBUE 220 GRANDE RICH TWEED CHIC-UNIQUE DK Imbue is an impeccable yarn This brand new yarn from Donegal Rich Tweed is a Creative Chic-Unique DK and as soon as you start to knit Cascade is the chunky version high quality tweed yarn that with it you can tell that a lot of its classic Cascade 220 is hand-dyed to order. The is a fun and easy yarn to knit of thought has gone into it. It yarn. It is made from Peruvian Donegal nep is spun with the with. It is made up of two is the first yarn from Brooklyn Highland wool and is a blend wool so the neps stay intact threads fairly loosely spun Tweed that is worsted spun of Corriedale and Merino and remain an integral part of together, whose colour but also has a heathered fleeces, making it lightweight the knitted fabric. I was really gradient works at different appearance. This is great and durable with excellent impressed with how smoothly lengths. This ensures a unique news for knitters, because it stitch definition. It has a and evenly this yarn knits up, knit every time, because the means you get all the springy generous 200m per 200g and although it looks great different shades combine in and durable texture you ball, representing good value in stocking stitch, it is crying a random rather than pre-set would expect from a worsted, for money. It knits up quickly out to be twisted into all sorts way. Even if you and a friend combined with a fabric that and evenly and would make an of cables. With its standard knitted a project in exactly has strong rustic appeal. It ideal substitute yarn. tension this would make an the same size and colour, the has a lovely felted feel when excellent substitute yarn for overall fabric would be slightly knitting and is fabulous for Cascade Yarns is well known any of your favourite DK knits. different! This yarn has an textures and cables. for its extensive colour range, excellent metreage and would and 9332 Sapphire (pictured) There are 11 vibrant semi- allow you to knit several small Imbue is spun from Merino is one of 21 shades available. solid colours to choose from, accessories from just one ball. fleece that is 100% American. The collection is made up of including Bluestack (pictured). It absorbs dye really well and solid and heathered shades A couple of shades that There is a seamless blending the heathered colourways are inspired by the natural caught my eye are a fabulous and merging of colours in all made by blending solid colours world. This is a great yarn for on-trend emerald green eight shades, including 007 in different proportions. There homeware, especially bowls called Glenties and a punchy Aqua (pictured).Rico has are 11 colours, including Boho and baskets. Find more magenta called Mountcharles. released a special brochure of (pictured). There are patterns inspiration on the Cascade knitting and crochet patterns for several thoughtfully Yarns website. There are two kits available for garments and accessories designed garments and online: a shawl and a balloon- suitable for all abilities. accessories on the website. Hand-wash in cool water sleeve sweater with textured Machine-wash on a low Hand-wash carefully, dry flat. and lay flat to dry, away from cuffs. Care instructions are setting but do not tumble-dry. direct sunlight. inside the yarn band. Iron low on reverse. Composition: 100% American Composition: 100% Peruvian Composition: 87% wool, Composition: 75% acrylic, Merino wool Highland Wool 13% Donegal nep 15% wool, 10% polyamide Weight: 50g Length: 95m Weight: 200g Length: 200m Weight: 100g Length: 225m Weight: 200g Length: 695m Rec needle size: 4.5-5.5mm Rec needle size: 6-8mm Rec needle size: 4mm Rec needle size: 4mm Tension (10cm): 18-20 sts Tension (10cm): 12-14 sts Tension (10cm): 22 sts x 28 rows Tension (10cm): 22 sts x 30 rows RRP: £12.30 (approx.) RRP: £15.99 RRP: £22.50 RRP: £14.75 Contact: brooklyntweed.com Contact: cascadeyarns.com Contact: knitmcintosh.com Contact: rico-design.com 22 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m

YARN REVIEW THE FIBRE CO KING COLE RICO LUXURY CRAZY URTH YARNS &MAKE ARAN NORDIC CHUNKY COMPOSITION HARVEST DK &Make Aran is a glorious new If you have enjoyed knitting Luxury Crazy Composition We have featured several yarn from The Fibre Co with with King Cole Fjord DK in yarns from Urth recently and quality and sustainability in the past, you will love this new is a real treat for the needles! I am always impressed by the mind. Fairly traded Peruvian chunky version. It shares the It is buttery soft to work with brand’s attention to detail Highland wool gives it same self-patterning features and creates a fabric that is and quality. Harvest DK is no strength and durability, while and is even cosier than its lightweight and warm, with exception. I am not always the alpaca makes it squishy and predecessor! It is quick and fabulous drape. The kid biggest fan of Merino yarns, extra cosy to wear. Its 2-ply comfortable to knit with and mohair will give your projects but this one has enough bite construction makes it easy would be great for beginners a lovely halo, and the silk adds a to make it easy and pleasant to to knit with and it delivers who want to bring some slight sheen that catches knit with. As you would expect a lightweight fabric with pattern to their projects. Stitch the light. with a Merino, the stitch excellent stitch definition. definition is really good and definition is great, and it the knitted fabric needs very I achieved a fairly loose has enough elasticity to I love the fact that the little blocking. tension on the recommended make it a good choice for shade we feature is called 5mm needle, so it is worth fitted garments. Hyper Blue, because it really Nordic Chunky is available checking your tension before is such a fantastically vibrant in eight Scandinavian-inspired starting on a project. I would Harvest DK is hand-dyed colour, and there are other colours, including 4800 also advise using needles with by artisans in Turkey, inspired equally strong colours in the Tove (pictured). There is sharp points. by the colours of harvest, and 20-strong range. There are excellent pattern support for the 23-strong palette includes lots of beautifully designed this yarn, with leaflets that The colour range is as Indigo (pictured). There are patterns on the website, feature garments, homeware sumptuous as the yarn. The four delightful patterns for including the Purls of Wisdom and accessories. I think the colours are not entirely flat, scarves and shawls on the sweater, which showcases pattern for a blanket, cushions as the silk element remains website. Two are worked in a some of the colours in the and bed runner will be very undyed and adds texture, single colour, while the others range. Beginner-friendly popular. For a really quick including in Marine (pictured). demonstrate how well this accessories include the knit there is a pattern for a yarn is suited to colourwork. oversized, cosy Gridland scarf slipover with three different Specific patterns for this yarn and The Warm and Easy Hat. neck options. Machine-wash can be found in the brochure Machine-wash cold, do not Hand-wash in cool water. low, do not tumble-dry. Made By Me 13, full of simple, tumble-dry. Iron gently on cosy garments and accessories reverse if necessary. Composition: 50% Highland Composition: 80% acrylic, with a modern twist. Machine- wool, 50% alpaca 20% superwash Merino wool wash low, do not tumble-dry. Composition: 100% extra fine Weight: 100g Length: 150m Weight: 150g Length: 200m superwash Merino wool Rec needle size: 4.5-5.5mm Rec needle size: 6mm Composition: 63% alpaca, Weight: 100g Length: 275m Tension (10cm): 15-18 sts Tension (10cm): 14 sts x 20 rows 23% mohair, 7% wool, 7% silk Rec needle size: 3.75-4.5mm RRP: £16.80 RRP: £6.29 Weight: 50g Length: 115m Tension (10cm): 21-24 sts Contact: thefibreco.com Contact: kingcole.com Rec needle size: 5mm RRP: £18 Tension (10cm): 18 sts x 24 rows Contact: urthyarns.com RRP: £12.99 Contact: rico-design.com knittingmag.com 23

A fun & playful super chunky yarn for quick & easy knits For all our latest patterns & yarns visit www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk Member of the UK Hand Knitting Association For your nearest stockist telephone 01484 848435

Capsule Classics Wardrobe staples and go-to garments are key investments – and by knitting them, you’re investing in your me-time too! WINTER MORNING Bronagh Miskelly Yarn Stylecraft Charm Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 48 This gossamer shawl is tougher than it looks thanks to its blend of acrylic, wool and mohair, and the gentle colour transitions and beautiful lace pattern will make it a joy to knit and a treat to wear. COHNAELBLAELNLGE

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NADENE Jo Allport Yarn Uist Wool Siaban DK Skill level Beginner Plus Pattern page 52 This pretty tie-side cardigan is flattering to wear and would make a great TV knit or a first cardy for adventurous beginners. ROSA (OPPOSITE) Bronagh Miskelly Yarn King Cole KC Collection Mulberry Soft DK Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 50 This beautifully soft tunic features pretty lace details at the hem and sleeves. Despite its complex appearance the pattern repeat is surprisingly straightforward, and the super-soft blend of wool and silk in this luxury yarn will make Rosa a truly delightful knit. 27

RETRO CLASSIC Pat Menchini Yarn Rico Essentials Merino DK Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 54 This fitted, vintage-style cardigan is the perfect go-to garment for work and play. 28

CABLE DETAIL SWEATER (BELOW) Anniken Allis Yarn Scheepjes Merino Soft Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 58 An asymmetric cable pattern adorns this classic jumper, which will work with any outfit over all seasons. MARINA (ABOVE) Brian Smith Yarn Life in the Long Grass Singles Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 57 A shawl is a knitter’s wardrobe – and project bag – staple, and this one ticks all the boxes. With two strands of hand- dyed yarn held together it’s a quick and enjoyable knit to produce a garment you’ll love to wear. 29

OLDEN Jacinta Bowie Yarn Sirdar Cashmere Merino Silk DK Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 60 This longline jumper in a gorgeous blend of Merino wool, cashmere and silk has an oversized look that will always be in style. LOCHINVER (OPPOSITE) Pat Menchini Yarn King Cole Wool Aran Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 63 A modern, sleeveless take on the traditional aran sweater, Lochinver is a wardrobe staple you can layer year-round.

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BRIOCHE MOEBIUS LOOP (OPPOSITE) Anniken Allis Yarn McIntosh Donegal Rich Tweed DK Skill level Advanced Pattern page 66 This gorgeous loop cowl is knitted in two- colour brioche, and is a great opportunity to practise brioche increases and decreases as well as playing with the beautiful colours in this lovely tweedy yarn. VERDREY (RIGHT) CHOANLELBEANLGLE Jo Allport Yarn Bow Fiddle Yarns DK Skill level Beginner Plus Pattern page 68 This cabled hat in a gorgeous hand-dyed Masterclass yarn is the perfect treat for winter weather. page 70 NECI (LEFT) Sarah Alderson Yarn Fruitful Fusion Merino Aran Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 71 These cosy bedsocks are knitted from the toe up in the round in a beautiful wool dyed in the colours of a blazing log fire. 33

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CARDIGAN (OPPOSITE) HALLEY (ABOVE LEFT) POLO NECK (ABOVE RIGHT) Lang Yarns Martin Storey Rico Design Yarn Lang Yarns Cashmere Premium Yarn Rowan Kid Classic Yarn Rico Essentials Fine Fine Merino Skill level Intermediate Skill level Intermediate and Super Kid Mohair Loves Silk Pattern page 72 Pattern page 74 Skill level Beginner Plus Pattern page 76 An investment knit is a key part of a This classic textured cardigan can be capsule wardrobe, and this oversized dressed up or down to suit any outfit and This classic, oversized sweater is knitted cardigan in pure cashmere is something is a must-knit for every wardrobe. with a strand of Merino held together with you will wear and wear. another of a mohair and silk blend, giving a fine fuzzy halo to the finished garment. 35

FASHION STYLE FILE YULIIA SYTNIKOVA SUGGESTS ALTERNATIVE COLOURWAYS AND STYLING IDEAS FOR THREE KNITS FROM THIS MONTH’S GALLERY OLDEN IN SIRDAR CASHMERE MERINO SILK DK 410 LILAC BLOSSOM 422 SAND STONE 405 SILVER GREY RETRO CLASSIC IN RICO ESSENTIALS MERINO DK 29 COBALT BLUE 93 CARMINE RED 70 MUSTARD CABLE DETAIL SWEATER IN SCHEEPJES MERINO SOFT 607 BRAQUE 627 MANET 647 TITIAN 36 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m

FASHION Our collection of capsule wardrobe classics will go with just paired with a striking dress, stylish mock croc handbag and loafers about anything. Oversized Olden by Jacinta Bowie is the perfect and adorned with a pretty, personalised necklace. This ensemble slouchy sweater for lounging around in, just the thing for throwing will make the day-to-evening transition totally seamless. on over skinny jeans to run an errand – or you could dress it up with a mini-skirt and boots and take it out on the town, especially Cable Detail Sweater by Anniken Allis is another knit that can matched with some cute studs and a warm scarf. be dressed up or down. We’ve paired it with vintage flared jeans, Converse high-tops, stacking rings and a floral tote – but swap Pat Menchini’s vintage-inspired, fitted Retro Classic cardigan these for wide-leg trousers, platform heels and a statement works well in timeless jewel tones, and is a great top to wear to work necklace and you can wear this design to any event you like. SKIRT SCARF BOOTS STUDS £9, Primark £35, Fatface £35, F&F £9.50, Oliver Bonas DRESS BAG FAMILY NAMES NECKLACE LOAFERS £27.99, New Look £30, River Island £99.99, gettingpersonal.co.uk £99, Hotter FLARED JEANS CONVERSE HIGH-TOPS STACKING RINGS TOTE £45, Joe Browns £80, Very £24, Oliver Bonas £15, National Trust knittingmag.com 37

Winter home Knit and be cosy with our cold weather collection CHEVRON THROW Bernat Yarn Bernat Blanket Ombré Skill level Beginner Pattern page 77 This simple knit has a pattern repeat of just two rows yet creates a stunning blanket you’ll want to wrap up in this winter. 38

FAIRISLE TEA COSY LACY RIB SHOPPER Sian Brown Sian Brown Yarn Debbie Bliss Rialto Aran Yarn Lily Sugar ‘n Cream Denim Skill level Beginner Plus Skill level Beginner Plus Pattern page 78 Pattern page 79 Keep your tea toasty warm on cold days with this An all-over lace pattern makes this flexible cute tea cosy – the stranded colourwork pattern shopper a real treat to knit. even means it has a double layer of protection. GET THE LOOK - COSY WINTER Winter Garden fabrics Mug Mantel decorations 39 From £26, ILIV £22, Jane Abbott Design From £9.99, Lights4fun

AUSTIN Pat Menchini Yarn Rico Essentials Soft Merino Aran Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 80 This classic raglan V-neck cardigan features intriguing cable details and is an easy-wear garment sure to become a wardrobe staple. 40

TWISTY SHEEP SOCKS Christine Boggis Yarn Daughter of a Shepherd Brume 4 Ply Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 83 Knitted from the top down in a beautifully sheepy undyed British wool, these socks feature a subtle twist in the ribs that keep them neatly fitted to your legs. 41

WHISPER OF WHITE Drops Design Yarn Drops Alpaca and Kid-Silk Skill level Intermediate Pattern page 84 This beautiful fluffy blanket is the perfect knit for a new arrival who needs to be kept warm and cosy. 42

CHOANLELBEANLGLE FROSTY NECK COSY VENUS FLY TR AP Christine Boggis Emma Varnam Yarn Cascade 220 Superwash Grande Yarn Scheepjes Metropolis and Merino Soft Skill level Beginner Skill level Intermediate crochet Pattern page 86 Pattern page 87 This chunky polo neck with a bib to wear Crocheted house plants are all the rage – under your coat on cold days is super and they won’t die if you forget to water simple to knit, with the ribbed polo neck them! Practise your amigurumi with this made in the round and the back and front cute example. bibs worked separately in stocking stitch with garter-stitch edging. It is sized from tiny tots up to large adults. 43

YOUR VIEWS ASK SARAH YOUR QUERIES ANSWERED BY SARAH HAZELL SHORTCUT TO BETTER because this measurement has already this by 12 rows you would need to make the SLEEVES been calculated to fit the armhole. increases on every third row. The important thing to remember is that any adjustments to Although at 70 years old I’ve been lucky Any successful alteration starts with the length of a sleeve should be made before enough to retain a youthful attitude to life measuring. You will need to establish and fashions, I don’t want sleeves covering how much shorter your sleeve needs to be. ILLUSTRATION: ARTMARI SHUTTERSTOCK.COM my hands as much as I often see in patterns You can do this by using a tape measure today. I know I can alter sleeve lengths, but to measure from the underarm along the if a sleeve has shaping, how do I shorten it inside of your arm to a point that you are to retain the fit? comfortable with. Compare this to the measurement given on the schematic or On the same subject, I’ve been knitting the pattern measurements and note how for my daughter a colourwork sweater, much shorter your sleeve needs to be. You where the colourwork on the sleeves can convert this measurement into rows by matches the body. Can I shorten the sleeves multiplying the number of rows equal to without giving up on the colourwork and 1cm by the length you require. So, if 3 rows knitting them plain? are equal to 1cm in length and you need to lose 4cm, you will need to work 12 rows Pauline Lofkin, by email fewer than advised. However, you still need to make the decreases work in proportion I think the style and length of a sleeve is to the shape of your arm, so you will need one of the most popular things knitters to return to the pattern and work out how find themselves wanting to alter. There is many stitches and rows the suggested currently a trend for long and balloon-style sleeve uses up to the point of shaping for sleeves, which look fabulous if you have the sleeve head. In other words, if you are long arms, but I personally always prefer decreasing the number of rows you want a bracelet length, partly because I have to work, you will need to make the row shorter arms and partly because I always increases more often. For example, if wear several bracelets! It is important the original pattern requires you to that you feel comfortable about the add 20 sts over 40 rows, you would length of your sleeves, as it will make all make your increases on every the difference to how you feel about the fourth row. If you need to reduce garment in general. However, it is also important to consider how any changes will LSETTATRER impact on the overall design of the garment. I will use the example of a simple set-in sleeve, as this is probably the most common sleeve shape knitters need to alter. As a general rule, the cuff of a sleeve will be worked straight. Sleeves are then shaped by increasing at both ends of the row until the desired width is reached. These increases will be staggered to allow for the sleeve to grow in proportion to the shape of the arm. A pattern will then usually advise knitting straight until a specified measurement is reached. Any alterations to the sleeve length should take place before shaping the sleeve head, 44 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m

YOUR VIEWS ASK SARAH YOUR LETTERS STAR LETTER PRIZE SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA Pauline Lofkin asked this month’s star OR EMAIL FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN question. Pauline wins five balls of Stylecraft Grace to knit this gorgeous MORE SMILES PLEASE STAR jumper, courtesy of Stylecraft. LETTER In these miserable times, please can If you have a question, email we have smiling happy models in your [email protected] pages? Sometimes the adverts cheer me or write to Ask Sarah, Knitting, more than the featured patterns! GMC Publications, 86 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 1XN. I shall carry on buying Knitting anyway, as in my opinion it is the best the start of the sleeve head. It is also worth of the available magazines. thinking about whether you want to adjust the length of the cuff, so that it also works in Mary Ridd, by email proportion to the length of the sleeve. Ed says: Dear Mary, thanks for your Things can get a little more complicated kind words. As per your request (and if you are trying to alter the length of a multiple requests from my Mum), sleeve that has some form of patterning like please see some pics of our cables or Fairisle, as with your daughter’s gorgeous models smiling here! sweater. The issue is much easier to resolve if you are working from the top down, as WHAT’S ON YOUR NEEDLES? you have the freedom to customise the length and shaping as you work towards Fran Diriziomgava made the wrist or elbow. If you are knitting the Winter Fantasy sleeves from the bottom up, I would advise Jacket by Drops Design taking your measurements as before and for a friend, using alpaca then calculating where the difference in yarn. ‘Three-stranded measurement lines up with the pattern. colourwork on the purl Once you know how many rows fewer side – never again!’ you need to work, you can calculate she says. It’s come out where to start in a Fairisle sequence so gorgeous though, Fran! that the patterning lines up with the body of the garment. You mention a yoke, Nargis Saeed knitted this teddy Carolyn Whitlock which indicates that you may be working bear blanket using two different- adapted the Purple raglan sleeves. In this case, make sure all coloured strands of Yarnart Roses Mittens by alterations are made before the point where Merino Exclusive held together. Ieva Ozolina, owner you join all the component pieces together. of Hobbywool, from Good luck with both projects. the book Knit Like a Latvian, for her great-niece. STAR LETTER PRIZE Mary Ridd is this month’s Star Courtesy of Letter Prize winner. Mary wins the pattern and yarn to make this super cute, hooded baby blanket. Bernat Sheepy is tactile, fluffy and fun, and perfect for adding a little texture to your decorative projects. With smooth, stretchy fibres wrapped into a plaited centre strand, this cloud-soft, super chunky yarn that comes in a range of tempting shades will be a tough one to put down. Available from woolwarehouse.co.uk and readicut.co.uk Show us what you’re knitting on Favourite Make Fridays at facebook.com/KnittingMagazine. Twitter: @KnittingMag • Pinterest: knittingmag1 • Facebook: KnittingMagazine Instagram: knittingmagazine • Email: [email protected] Post: Christine Boggis, Knitting, GMC Publications, 86 High Street, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 1XN

TECHNIQUES JO ALLPORT’S A TO Z OF KNITTING TECHNIQUES R IS FOR READING YOUR KNITTING PART 2: STITCH PATTERNS AND SIMPLE DECREASES After learning to count stitches and rows to see what you have done Similar but different is rib, where each row is a mixture of knit and already in your knitted piece in part 1, we are now looking at the purl as with moss stitch, but where the non-bumps are knitted and stitches on your needle. How do you decide if the next stitch will be bumps are purled. Once you’ve understood and mastered what a knit or a purl stitch? If the next stitch on the left-hand needle has a happens to a stitch when you knit or purl it, you can knit anything! bump at its base, it is a purl stitch. If you are working in stocking stitch or reverse stocking stitch, that means you will purl it on this row. If REVERSE STOCKING STITCH you are working in moss stitch, you will need to knit this stitch. This is simply the back, or reverse, of stocking stitch. To work out If the next stitch on the needle has no bump at its base, but stitch and row counts, count either the smiles or the frowns, but instead narrows to a V which goes into the loop below, this is a knit not both. As I’m always one for positives, I prefer to count the stitch. If you are working in stocking stitch or reverse stocking stitch smiles (image 1). you will knit this stitch. If you are working in moss stitch, purl it. MOSS STITCH It may sound complicated, but in effect when you knit a stitch, pushing the needle through from the front to the back of the stitch This stitch is a bit more complicated as it is made up of a and wrapping the yarn around the needle, this pushes the top of the combination of knit and purl stitches on every row. You’ll need to stitch to the back, which creates a bump on the other side of your work. learn to read what you’ve done and look at what is on the needle so Conversely, if you are purling the next stitch, then your needle comes you know whether to knit or purl the next stitch. through the stitch from the back to the front, and after wrapping the yarn round the right-hand needle tip, it brings the top of the stitch to When looking at the stitches you have worked, the first thing to the front of your work to create the loop or bump at the front. note is that when counting bump to bump, either in a column for the number of rows or across the piece for the number of stitches, On the next row, if you have bumps facing you, then purling measuring from bump to bump represents two rows or stitches these keeps the bumps on this side of your work, which will result (image 2). in the other side being smooth. If the stitches have no bump, knitting these stitches will push the bumps to the back, making RIB this side smooth. In rib patterns, each row is made up of a mixture of knit and Moss stitch is created by knitting the bumps and purling the purl stitches, but each column of stitches faces the same way non-bumps, creating a series of island bumps across the fabric, throughout. So work as you would in stocking stitch, knitting both in a stitch by stitch and row by row way. This means there are a non-bump knit stitch and purling a bump purl stitch when you little knobbles on both sides, making the resulting fabric reversible. see it (image 3). The white O indicates that this stitch was knitted on the last row. So knit this stitch on this row for moss stitch Each Each There is smile is smile is no bump a row a stitch so this stitch was 1 purled on shows a row. Six rows have been worked the last row. Purl it again 2 46 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m

TECHNIQUES SIMPLE DECREASES many stitches disappear and how many rows have been worked, then do the maths. Many patterns have repeated decreases which lean either to the left or to the right, creating columns of slanting stitches which add As with all things knitting, practice will develop the skills you decorative detail to a piece as well as shaping it. The two simplest are need to understand the fabric you have created. After you have k2tog, which slants to the right, and its opposite, ssk, which slants to worked some decreases and different stitch patterns, look back at the left. Both of these are worked on the right side of stocking stitch, what you have made and see if you can read these stitches by looking a knit row. The trick is to understand not only the decrease, but also at your work rather than your notes. on which row you did it. Next time: More stitch patterns, lace and cables Here I worked the first set of decreases on the row where I changed colour (image 4). You can see the two stitch columns that O represents the row before merge into one column where the decrease took place along the first blue row. k2tog { ssk 2 sts { So how do I know the decreases were every other row, or every into 1 2 sts right-side row? Count the rows! It might look like the decrease into 1 happened every row, as there is a neat diagonal column where the 4 decreases are, but if you count the number of rows and count the number of decreased stitches, using the columns, you can work out that the decrease frequency is every other row. If the decrease is two stitches into one stitch, you will see the two columns merge into one. If it slants to the right, it’s a k2tog, and if it slants to the left, then its an ssk or skpo. The next swatch (image 5) shows k3tog and p3tog decreases every row, still slanting to the right. You can see that the number of stitches decreases rapidly, as the slant to the right is quite flat. You can also see that many stitches disappear. Again you can count how Purl No purl bump so bump so purl this knit this stitch stitch Each V is Decrease on every row a stitch 35 Advertise here! For more information: 47 Email [email protected] or call 01273 402855 knittingmag.com

in 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 PATTERNS cm 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 WINTER MORNING BY BRONAGH MISKELLY SIZE and after each repeat. The Edging will from * to last 6 sts, k2, (yo, ssk) twice, require approx 3g more yarn than the last yo (inc 2). Wingspan: 165cm (65in) section worked. Row 11: Yo, k2tog, yo, k6, (k5, yo, cdd, yo, Depth at deepest point: 85cm (331/2in) k6) to last 7 sts, k5, yo, ssk, yo (inc 2). LACE PATTERN Rows 12 and 14: Knit. YOU WILL NEED Row 13: Yo, k to end, yo (inc 2). Worked beginning with a multiple of Row 15: Yo, k2tog, k to last 2 sts, ssk, yo. Stylecraft Charm 85% acrylic, 10% wool, 14 sts plus 5 Row 16: Knit. 5% mohair (approx 1,084m per 200g) Row 1 (RS): Yo, k2tog, yo, k1, (yo, ssk, yo, 1 x 200g ball in 1861 Moorland k3, cdd, k3, yo, k2tog, yo, k1) to last 2 sts, EDGING 3.5mm circular needle yo, ssk, yo (inc 2). 4 stitch markers Rows 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 (WS): Purl. Row 1 (RS): Yo, k2tog, yo, k1, (yo, ssk, yo, Scrap cotton yarn Row 3: (Yo, k2tog) twice, yo, *k1, yo, ssk, yo, k3, cdd, k3, yo, k2tog, yo, k1) to last 2 sts, 4mm crochet hook k2, cdd, k2, (yo, k2tog) twice, yo; rep from * yo, ssk, yo (inc 2). Row counter to last 3 sts, k1, yo, ssk, yo (inc 2). Rows 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 (WS): Purl. Note: Yarn amounts given are based Row 5: (Yo, k2tog) twice, yo, k1, *(yo, ssk) Row 3: (Yo, k2tog) twice, yo, *k1, yo, ssk, yo, on average requirements and are twice, yo, k1, cdd, k1, (yo, k2tog) twice, yo, k2, cdd, k2, (yo, k2tog) twice, yo; rep from * approximate. k1; rep from * to last 4 sts, (yo, ssk) twice, to last 3 sts, k1, yo, ssk, yo (inc 2). yo (inc 2). Row 5: (Yo, k2tog) twice, yo, k1, *(yo, ssk) TENSION Row 7: (Yo, k2tog) twice, yo, k1, yo, *(ssk, twice, yo, k1, cdd, k1, (yo, k2tog) twice, yo, yo) 3 times, cdd, (yo, k2tog) twice, yo, k1, k1; rep from * to last 4 sts, (yo, ssk) twice, 17 sts and 26 rows to 10cm over st st using yo; rep from * to last 6 sts, (ssk, yo) 3 times yo (inc 2). 3.5mm needles, after blocking. (inc 2). Row 7: (Yo, k2tog) twice, yo, k1, yo, *(ssk, yo) Use larger or smaller needles if necessary Row 9: (Yo, k2tog) twice, yo, k3, *k2, yo, 3 times, cdd, (yo, k2tog) twice, yo, k1, yo; rep to obtain correct tension. ssk, yo, k1, cdd, k1, yo, k2tog, yo, k3; rep from * to last 6 sts, (ssk, yo) 3 times (inc 2). Lace Pattern Chart ABBREVIATIONS Edging Chart cdd = slip 2 sts together, k1, then pass both slipped sts over For more abbreviations see page 91 PATTERN NOTES The Lace Pattern is worked in full on each side of the marked centre stitch. So work the first stitch after the first marker and the last before the second marker, then do the same between the third and fourth markers. For a larger shawl, work more repeats of main chart, weighing before 48 k n i t t i n g m a g . c o m