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Editor’s letter
T: 020 7429 4000
PRINTER Precision Colour Printers
ADVERTISING Russell Higgins
T: 01273 402841
russellh@thegmcgroup.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS Helen Chrystie
So here it is – merry Christmas! It’s
T: 01273 402873 such a treat to knit during the festive
helenc@thegmcgroup.com
Subscribe online at:
season – there are so many gifts and
thegmcgroup.com decorations to craft, from well-thought-
12 issues (including a 10% discount)
UK £64.69, Europe £80.87, Rest of
out projects that have been in the
World £90.57. 24 issues (including planning all year, to those last-minute
a 20% discount) UK £115.01,
Europe £143.76, Rest of World quick knits on Christmas Eve. And of
£161.01, DD – UK only (including course it’s the perfect time to treat
a 30% discount), Every 6 issues
£25.16, Every 12 issues £50.32. yourself to that project you’ve been coveting all year.
US customers should call the
subscriptions department for
We’ve got plenty to inspire you in our festive extravaganza
subscription rates in USD ($). this issue. We’re looking forward to popping some corks at
Cheques should be made payable
to GMC Publications Ltd,
glitzy Christmas parties, so we’ve got some really glam designs
and sent to The Subscriptions – including an ombré gradient wrap in gorgeous Malabrigo
Department GMC Publications
Ltd, 166 High Street, Lewes, Merino that converts to a poncho or a shrug, perfect for day
East Sussex BN7 1XU to evening wear, and some sparkly sequinned numbers by top
Current subscribers will
automatically receive a designer Pat Menchini.
renewal notice (excludes Other fab names in the issue include Amy Herzog, Lisa
direct debit subscribers)
See page 90 for more details
Richardson, Katya Frankel, Bronagh Miskelly, Natalie
With thanks to our photo shoot
Warner, Sian Brown and Jo Allport – who continues her slip
location, The Mesmerist, Brighton stitch masterclasses with the cute Doris hat in Erika Knight’s
Cover image by Lady Desidia homegrown British Blue Wool.
We haven’t forgotten that Christmas is the perfect time to get
cosy and snuggle up at home – so we’ve got some lovely home
knits as well as comfy jumpers you’ll love to wear and wear. Plus
there are plenty of patterns for quick-knit last minute gifts.
Along with the team at Knitting, I wish you a wonderful festive
season and a happy new year.
Christine
black and white: we’re
NEXT MONTH: It’s there in
collection of designs all
going monochrom e with a
shades of grey. Look out
in trendy black, white and
Views and comments expressed by individuals
a
nerts, Anna Maltz, Georgi
do not necessarily represent those of the
knittingmag.com 1
51
63 81
85 87
REGULARS FEATURES
1 Editor’s letter 13 Guest column:
5 News Gwen Wagner-Adair
12 Spotlight on 14 Feature: Christmas
36 Style file knitting
46 Your views
91 Coming next month HOW TO
96 Purl about town 48 Techniques A-Z: picot
70 Slip stitch masterclass
REVIEWS 89 Essential information
2 knit tingmag.com
60
79
76
PATTERNS 80 Torrie hat and
Gwen scarf
50 Cosy Up
84 Festive socks
51 Limelight
54 Bobbles and Cobbles MEN’S
56 Alpine
81 Braniel hat and gloves
60 Kim
63 Into the Woods
KIDS AND PETS
64 Barley
67 Zigzag 85 Little Prince
69 Annika 86 Songbird sweater
87 Kitten blanket
74 Haddam
88 Dog’s toy ball
ACCESSORIES HOME
59 Afterglow wrap
76 Deck the Halls
68 Doris hat Christmas decorations
72 Tangled Lace scarf 77 Clouds and
and shawl Mountains throw
73 Guilloche shawl 78 Hot water bottle cover
79 Candyapple
wristwarmers
59
BIG AND
BRITISH YARN FOR HEAD AND HEELS
A fashion designer has launched an all- Stylecraft has launched Head Over
British giant yarn. Heels, a superwash wool and nylon
Chunky Row is the brainchild of blend 4 ply in three bold self-striping
Charlotte Claridge (pictured below), who colours and three pastel-themed self-
has sourced wool from the Shetlands for patterning shades. The yarn is perfect
her undyed giant yarn range. for accessories, shawls and socks – hence
She tells Knitting: “As a fashion design the name. The company is also giving
student I started knitting and wanted to away free gifts on its Facebook page
k pag
use really chunky wool, but I wanted it to every day from November 27–December
ber 27–Decemb
be British and couldn’t find it out there. I 20, to celebrate
te Advent – including a
used tops but it didn’t hold its structure, free pattern to make the stylish corsage
so once I had finished university my target pictured here.
was to see if it was possible to spin a really
chunky yarn, and this is the result.”
The wool is sourced from 100% Shetland
sheep, so it is classed as real Shetland, and
is spun in Derbyshire by Griffiths Mill.
Charlotte says: “Traditionally Shetland
can be quite a rough texture and is not
necessarily known for its softness. But
because we don’t spin it tightly, it still holds
the softness of the original tops. When first
spun it comes out a bit thinner, but as you
knit, it unspins and breathes.”
The yarn comes in three sizes: 30m
(£45), which is enough for a hat or smaller
scarf; 50m (£70), for a larger scarf or cowl; MOONSTONE GLAMOUR
GLAMOU
and 140m (£185), which is enough for a Sirdar has launched Moonstone,
Mo an
throw or shawl. acrylic
rylic yarn dusted
du with glass beads to
Chunky Row also sells a range of kits, addd glitz
glit and sparkle to any outfit. The
which include the yarn, a pattern and a yarn comes in three jewel tones as well
25mm knitting needle or crochet hook. as white, grey and black, and is perfect
There is also a selection of patterns for accessories. There is even a one-ball
designed by Charlotte, all named after beanie pattern included on the ballband.
places in the Shetlands.
Find out more at chunkyrow.co.uk.
KNIT AND STITCH IN
HARROGATE
There’s still time to get to the northern
leg of the Knitting & Stitching Show,
which takes place at Harrogate’s
International Centre on November 24-27.
Look out for UK Hand Knitting, which
will be encouraging show-goers to pick
up their needles and craft for a good
cause. Find out more and get your tickets
at theknittingandstitchingshow.com.
ALBERT PEGO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
knit tingmag.com 5
KNITTY KITTY
TY
Charity Cats Protection has launched a knitting bee to get crafty
cat lovers to make cosy blankets and mouse toys for unwanted
and abandoned felines this Christmas.
Donations can be brought to the charity’s stand at the Knitting
& Stitching Show in Harrogate on November 24-27, or dropped
off at any of its branches, shops or adoption centres around the
country.
Cats Protection events manager Emma Osborne says: “Our staff
and volunteers work tirelessly throughout the year to look after
the cats and kittens in our care while they wait to find a new home.
“But there’s no denying that it is heartbreaking to see so many
cats without a home of their own at such a special time of year.
“By taking part in our knitting bee, knitters can be assured
that their lovingly made creations will go some way to making
this Christmas a little more comforting and cosy for these cats.”
Knitters can use their own designs to make blankets and mice or
follow a pattern for the popular Captain Cat-Battler knitted mouse,
designed by Lauren O’Farrell of whodunnknit.com – get yours by
calling the charity’s helpline on 03000 121212.
6 knit tingmag.com
24-27 15
KNITTING YOUR CLOTHES OFF THE KNITTING & WALTHAM ABBEY WOOL
At first glance, you wouldn’t expect nudity and STITCHING SHOW SHOW
knitting to be a good match – but a book and Enjoy a great day out with See a fantastic range of
short film have brought the two together to a stitching workshops and craft exhibitors and their luxurious
rapturous social media response. shows in Harrogate. yarns and accessories plus
Nudinits is the brainchild of Sarah Simi, a writer, designer and theknittingandstitchingshow. beautiful handmade items.
knitter who owns stop-motion animation company Woolly Vision in com walthamabbeywoolshow.
partnership with animator Ed Hartwell. co.uk
She tells Knitting: “I had the idea of a knitted village, and thought 24-11 December
it would make a really good animation. Then I read something BATH CHRISTMAS 28-29
about free hiking, and loved the image of a guy wearing walking MARKET CRAFTING LIVE
boots, binoculars and nothing else. I thought it encapsulated British Handmade gifts and crafts, SANDOWN
eccentricity, so all the characters in my village lost their clothes from festive treats and mulled wine Visit a vast range of exhibitors
that point on. in the beautiful setting of stocking stamps, dies,
“After that the double entendre and innuendo came into it, which Bath city centre. decoupage, fabric, ribbon and
again is very British – from the Carry On films to seaside postcards, bathchristmasmarket.co.uk much more at Sandown Park.
we have a real tradition of it.” craftinglive.co.uk
The book is packed with yarn puns, as well as patterns to knit 26-2 January
some of the village’s characters and accessories. You can find out THE WINTER TREE BY FEBRUARY
more and see the film at nudinits.com. KAFFE FASSETT
Kaffe Fassett will create 2-4
a signature tree in the THE STITCHING, SEWING
FIND FESTIVE CRAFTS IN BATH courtyard for Standen, the & HOBBYCRAFTS SHOW
Bath is gearing up for a crafty festive season with its Christmas National Trust’s Arts and A day filled with endless
market, which runs from November 24 to December 11. Crafts house in Sussex. supplies, new product
The market will be packed with hand-crafted gifts and the nationaltrust.org.uk/events launches, demonstrations
goods you need to make your own. and workshops designed
Stallholders include local textile artist Emma Leith; Wild Wool, DECEMBER to inspire your creativity in
which sells wool throws and alpaca socks; Amica Felt, which Manchester.
sells handmade felt toys; and The Makery, selling festive fabrics, 3 stitchandhobby.co.uk
haberdashery and decorations. THE LACEMAKING,
There’s plenty of good food, mulled wine and comfortable QUILTING AND 16-18
accommodation to be had in the city as well. Find out more at NEEDLECRAFT CRAFT4CRAFTERS
bathchristmasmarket.co.uk and visitbath.co.uk. CHRISTMAS FAIR Get the chance to pick up
A perfect day out for you and loads of supplies, many great
your family, with exhibitions, bargains and see the latest
workshops and seminars in crafting must-haves.
Solihull. craft4crafters.co.uk
makitfairs.com
24-25
14 MAKE IT/KNIT AND
KNITTING KITTENS CLUB STITCH IT 2017
Crafty cat lovers with any Meet suppliers and brand new
level of expertise can enjoy companies demonstrating and
the Knitting Kittens Club selling a variety of hobby craft
at Battersea Dogs and Cats products, materials kits and
Home, London. designs in Farnborough.
battersea.org.uk exhibitions.co.uk
knit tingmag.com 7
8 knit tingmag.com
OFFER
cardigan in its new
Life Vintage yarn.
Life Vintage is a
blend of 25% wool and
75% premium acrylic that
comes in a palette of three
rustic-styled marled shades.
The round neck cardigan
pattern and yarn we have to
give away accentuates Life MY YARN SHOP
Vintage Autumn shade with
solid Copper from Stylecraft’s
Fabrications, Hackney
range. The two yarns
Life ra Fabrications is a unique textile crafts store and studio in trendy
were designed
d to work Broadway Market in Hackney, East London.
together.
toge It has a yarn range with a focus on British-grown wools, but
For your chance which also includes a range of eye-catching mixed-texture yarns
tto win, visit our developed from textile waste by the shop’s owner, designer and
Competitions page maker Barley Massey.
at knittingmag.com Barley doesn’t just sell these yarns – she runs workshops
and use the code where you can learn to make your own yarns from textile
Stylecraft162. Closing waste, alongside a whole range of classes in knitting, crochet,
ddate: December 15. upcycling, quilting and more. The shop hosts community events,
school and college groups and parties, as well as offering its
basement studio space for hire.
Upstairs in the retail space, yarns sit alongside textiles, blankets
SURPRISING
SING made from waste wool from a tweed mill, upcycled clothes by
FASHION FROM RICO one of the designers behind the eco-fashion boutique Junky
Rico has launched a yarn with such a Styling and a range of self-made kits called Rethink Rubbish.
mixture of effects and textures that it has Barley also sells sewing machines and runs a service
simply been called Surprise. transforming old clothes – for example baby clothes or
Rico Fashion Surprise blends 53% acrylic those of a loved one who has died – into keepsakes
with 23% wool, 14% mohair and 10% such as cushions or quilts.
polyester, with a touch of sparkle. Find out more at fabrications1.co.uk.
There are six colour effect shades,
including bluey-green 04, pictured here in
Pat Menchini’s Beginner’s Luck tunic from
Knitting 160, October 2016.
The chunky yarn knits up at 11
stitches and 16 rows to 10cm, and its
recommended price is £3.60-£4.39 for a
50g ball with 85m of yarn.
Rico has also launched a trio of yarns
inspired by Parisian glamour and chic.
Fashion Luxury Bouclé is a blend of
mohair, wool, polyamide and polyester
that comes in six colours.
There are three shades each of
Fashion Luxury Style – an eyelash yarn
incorporating 64% viscose and 7%
cashmere, and Fashion Luxury Glamour,
a sparkly eyelash yarn incorporating 53%
viscose and 6% cashmere. Nominate your favourite yarn shop
The yarns come with a bespoke design and win a copy of Erika Knight’s The
collection and are recommended to knit Collection if it is featured – simply
by themselves or to use with other yarns email christine.boggis@thegmcgroup.com
with the shop’s details and a brief
for a touch of glamour.
note on why you love it.
I KNITTING
Your one-stop shop for woolly treats
10 knit tingmag.com
People Knitting by Barbara Levine Wendy Evolution scarf/shawl in a box KnitPro Melodies of Life Zing
£9.99, abramsandchronicle.co.uk £15, tbramsden.co.uk interchangeables gift box £65, knitpro.eu
o eu
Knitting With Rainbows by Carol Feller Pony bell-shaped point protectors Clover heart pompom
mpom maker
€22 (£20), stolenstitches.com £1.90-£2.90, groves@stockistenquiries.co.uk From £3.99, clover@stockistenquiries.co.uk
The Mason-Dixon Knitting Colouring Book Beautiful Bloom Hobby Gift PVC yarn Cabin haberdashery or project pouch
by Juliana Horner and knitting pin holder by Danica Studio
£12.99, thegmcgroup.com £11, groves@stockistenquiries.co.uk £15.50, loopknittingshop.com
knit tingmag.com 11
BURBERRY
the catwalk, from Antonio Berardi’s
SIBLING
reds and blacks, to sparkles and velvets
from Preen by Thornton Bregazzi,
azzi, and
vintage-inspired gowns with h a twist
from Vivienne Westwood.od.
OILILY
PHOTOGRAPHY: BRITISH FASHION COUNCIL KRIS MITCHELL, DAN SIMS, SAM WILSON, SHUAN JAMES COX
DAVID KOMA
VIVIENNE WESTWOOD
ANTONIO BERARDI
PETER PILOTTO
ERDEM
ook
Get the L Rowan S
elects
Sirdar
Moonsto
ne
lk
Fine Si
Yarns
Blacker
a
St Kild
Dress £75, littlewoods.com • Bag £39.95, White Stuff • Stole £55, Debenhams
Earrings £250, London Road Jewellery • Shoes £80, Dune
Every knitter’s
Christmas
SURVIVAL GUIDE
Knitter, designer and blogger Gwen Wagner-Adair
on the best way to get through a woolly festive season
Every year, I resolve to plan ahead. But no matter how you’ll understand your pattern. Essential.
much I’d like to be the goddess of Christmas knitting, • Set boundaries. Step away from the lace-weight
the envy of all knitters, able to make yarn comply with mohair! It is too late in the year to contemplate a
my every behest, it doesn’t really work out that way. shawl (even a small one). You know it’s going to
I am fickle and changeable, not godlike at all. end in tears in the wee hours. Put. It. Down.
I change my mind about yarn, patterns, or both. • Think outside the box. Have you really
Someone puts in a special request. Then it’s summer considered all the opportunities for knitting?
and sweaty wool is no fun. No matter how well Could you knit: on the bus? At lunchtime? In
you’ve planned, there comes an autumn day when the bath? While walking? (Disclaimer: It is
someone says: recommended that you begin training for this
“Do you know, it’s only 30 days until Christmas?” prior to the Christmas knitting season.)
And you panic. You absolutely do. • Increase efficiency. Don’t lose a minute of
Knitters are smart people. We can look at our knitting time. Adapt household tasks into units of
planned projects, our mountain of yarn, figure the knitting time. Boiling the kettle = three rounds of
numbers of stitches and do the maths. Thus begins a sock. Cooking sausages on the grill = picking up
our quest to meet the immoveable deadline of stitches for a buttonband.
Christmas morning. • Be organised. Plan projects according to
suitability. Large projects for home, portable
So here is my Christmas survival guide to help you projects for out and about (scarves, socks, really
through the season: anything beginning with S is best). Never leave the
house without a project. Never.
IMAGE: KOSTIKOVA NATALIA/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
• Enjoy the present. Because part of what we love • Evaluate. Consider your project-to-time ratio. Your
is fancy yarns and spending time knitting, Christmas sister doesn’t really need that 4 ply jumper, chunky
starts early for knitters. Splash out on some luxury yarn is better for winter anyway. Is a scarf essential?
yarns – you’ll love knitting them, and your family Cowl it is then. Trending towards smaller projects
and friends may be doubly surprised to learn about and bigger yarn.
the lesser-known benefits of buffalo wool. • Prioritise. Christmas Eve is not the time to start
• Stay focused. If you’re going to achieve your goal making stocking stuffers, or you may find yourself
of knitted gifts for all, you’re going to have to knit at 6am on Christmas morning, rocking in the
like a ninja. Do not stray from the path. There corner, saying “just one more row, just one more
will be no knitted antlers for the dog, no fuzzy cat row…” under your breath, half-drunk on the dregs
socks and no Christmas pudding hats. I repeat, no of brandy eggnog.
Christmas pudding hats.
• Eat a balanced diet. If you can balance it in If all else fails, announce: We’re having Christmas
your hand, you can eat it. If you’re cooking for in July!
your family, I have one word for you: crockpot.
Almost no preparation or washing up and, Gwen Wagner-Adair, originally from New
with any luck, there will be leftovers, which England, now lives and works in England, residing
sorts tomorrow’s dinner too. in beautiful Yorkshire with her near-perfect husband
• Keep fit. Maintain hydration. Knitting and running her knitwear design and workshop
burns 100 calories an hour, even more business, Petitchoufleur Knits, in her spare time.
if you can combine it safely with She bloody loves a deadline, and loves to see what
stationary bike. Keep the tea and everyone is making. Follow her on Instragram
coffee coming. They’ll keep as @petitchoufleur. To see her patterns, kits and
your brain awake – so upcoming workshops, visit petitchoufleurknits.co.uk.
13
Simply stitching
a wonderful
Christmas time
SUNNY STUDIO/SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
14 knit tingmag.com
knit tingmag.com 15
16 knit tingmag.com
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knittingmag.com 19
20 knittingmag.com
knittingmag.com 21
CROMWELL PULLOVER
DESIGN BY BOBBI INTVELD
Step into
Christmas
COSY UP
Pat Menchini
Yarn King Cole Galaxy DK
and King Cole Embrace DK
Skill level Intermediate
Pattern page 50
23
LIMELIGHT
Pat Menchini
Yarn King Cole Galaxy DK Up t
Skill level Intermediate
UK s o
Pattern page 51 ize
A flattering and sweet ribbon
28
detail and colourful sparkles
mean this sweater will really
stand out under the fairy lights.
24
BOBBLES AND
COBBLES
Belinda Harris-
Reid
Yarn Belinda Harris-Reid
Light Moonshine
Skill level Intermediate
Pattern page 54
25
ALPINE
Natalie Warner
Yarn Manos del Uruguay Serena
Skill level Advanced
Pattern page 56
26
27
KIM
Natalie Warner
Yarn Wendy Aspire
Chunky
Skill level Advanced
Pattern page 60
28
29
BARLEY
Lisa Richardson
Yarn Rowan Felted Tweed
Skill level Advanced
Pattern page 64
30
DORIS
Jo Allport
Yarn: Erika Knight British
Blue Wool
Skill level: Intermediate
ZIGZAG
Sian Brown
Yarn Debbie Bliss Rialto DK
Skill level Beginner Plus
Pattern page 67
in
ech niq ue
n a new t lip stitch
Lear t’s s page 70
lp o r
Jo Al class on
r
maste
31
32
SHAWL
Katya Frankel
Yarn West Yorkshire Spinners
Illustrious DK
Skill level Intermediate
Pattern page 73
33
HADDAM
Amy Herzog
Yarn Rowan Kid Classic
Skill level Beginner Plus
Pattern page 74
34
0161-427-2529 01298-26636
46 Market Street 1 Spring Gardens
Marple SK6 7AD Buxton SK17 6BJ
0161-376-8643
43 Wilmslow Road
Cheadle SK8 1DR
www.myknittingyarnandwool.co.uk
Monday - Saturday, 9am - 5.30pm
w www.westcliffe-knitting.co.uk e westcliffehotel@aol.com
36 knit tingmag.com
knit tingmag.com 37
Hang a
la s
nute piration?
our G st-mi
ifts pre
Galle
ry fr sents in
om pa
ge 40
shining star
Christmas is a time when those little crafty touches in
our homes really sparkle. In a world of mass-produced
gifts and decorations, we can offer something unique
and handmade with love. Here are some big and
small projects to adorn your home.
38
Get cosy in this beautiful throw, and Make every bedtime feel like Christmas
practise your slip stitch while you knit. night with this lovely and quick-to-knit
Scandi-style hot water bottle cover.
Nordic Christmas star Cosmic jar lantern Farrow & BBall Rectory Red paint
£9.90, atnumber67.co.uk £44.99, in-spaces.com £39.50 for 2.5 litres, farrow-ball.com
39
CANDYAPPLE
WRISTWARMERS
Christine Boggis
Yarn Bergère de France Cachemire+
Skill level Beginner
Pattern page 79
GWEN
AND TORRIE
Rico
Yarn Rico Fashion Surprise
Skill level Intermediate
Pattern page 80
40
BRANIEL HAT
AND GLOVES
Bronagh Miskelly
Yarn John Arbon Knit by
Numbers DK
Skill level Advanced
Pattern page 81
One
Chal Ball
lenge
FESTIVE SOCKS
Drops Design
Yarn Drops Karisma
Skill level Intermediate
Pattern page 84
41
LITTLE PRINCE
Pat Strong
Yarn Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino
Skill level Beginner Plus
Pattern page 85
Knit your er
first jump
42
SONGBIRD SWEATER
Pat Olski
Yarn Cascade Yarns 220
Skill level Intermediate
Pattern page 86
43
KITTEN BLANKET
Yolanda Soto-Lopez
Yarn Any DK yarn
Skill level Beginner
Pattern page 87
44
45
ASK JEANETTE
STAR LETTER PRIZE
ASK JEANETTE
of MillaMia’s book Country Escape
and 16 balls of MillaMia Naturally Soft
Merino in a colour of her choice to
make the Charlie Cardigan,
courtesy of LoveKnitting.
a final time to complete the round and the first Note: Jeanette regrets that she
NO LUCK WITH NO-SEW KNIT sleeve. You should now have joined the sleeves cannot enter into any personal
I recently made Gloria from Rowan’s Finest to the body and transferred to the longer correspondence with readers and can
booklet, the first time I had knitted a seamless needle. Stop and take a look at the completed only answer letters that are chosen
garment. It was all lovely up to the point when round. If you’re getting a lot of pinching at the for publication in Knitting.
all the pieces needed to be joined together to sleeve points, you’re pulling too tightly. If it’s
work the top section of the garment and the still gaping, you’re not pulling tightly enough.
yoke. That was tricky, but manageable. But You may be worried about pulling tightly on HELP! I CAN’T WEAR WOOL
when the project was completed I found I was the yarn if it is fragile. In that case, work the You have some delightful patterns in your
left with some annoying elongated stitches and joining row as instructed, then deal with any magazine, but I have a major problem because
little holes under the arms, which I fi xed with gaps that may occur on the second round of I am unable to wear wool. In consequence
a combination of Swiss darning and sewing. the yoke. When you arrive at the wide strand I frequently have to look for an alternative
A similar problem arises when I knit gloves, that’s creating the gap, working from back to yarn – I can wear silk, cotton, cashmere and
between the thumb and first finger. I am a front, insert the tip of the right needle under many man-made yarns, just not wool! I was
competent sewer so I can fi x these annoying the strand and lift it on to the left needle (it very frustrated to see that the lovely pattern
problems, but after all these years of knitting should be sitting the same way as the stitch for Drama Queen and the very attractive
I thought I might ask you for tips to avoid it on its left) then work it together with the next Géometrique, both by Pat Menchini in Knitting
happening in the first place. Any ideas? stitch on the left needle. This will eliminate the 158, September 2016, both contain wool. I
Sally Nadori, Deptford, London gap and doesn’t alter your stitch count. appreciate that wool is being promoted at the
You can then work the next round, placing moment and wish I could wear it. Do you have
As you’ve found, gaps or stretched stitches any stitch markers needed to identify your any ideas for non-wool alternatives? I’m sure I
can occur just when you don’t want them, raglan decrease points. You’ll find this method can’t be the only one in this position.
and there are a couple of things you could does produce a slight mark at the point where Patricia Burn, by email
try to avoid having to Swiss darn or sew at the stitches have been worked together. While
the end. When I first began sock knitting I it’s very discreet when worked in a fine yarn as You’re right, you won’t be the only one
was increasingly frustrated at the gaps I was in this design, it will be more visible if worked of our readers unable to wear wool, and
getting between the last stitch on one needle in a chunky yarn. I hope one of these tips Knitting generally features a range of
and the first stitch on the next. If you imagine solves your problem. different materials – although wool is a great
46 knit tingmag.com
STAR
YOUR LETTERS LETTER
PRIZE
Share your thoughts through Facebook,
Charmaine wins a copy
Twitter or email for your chance to win of 50 Knitted Gifts for
Year-round Giving by
ST
CREATE DON’T COPY
C LET AR the editors of Sixth &
TER Spring Books, worth
K
Knitting is now increasingly looked to not simply £14.99, available from
aas a hobby, but for an income. Consequently, there’s thegmcgroup.com.
a blurring of lines between reproducing published designs for Share your thoughts for
pleasure and profit.
p your chance to win.
Some unscrupulous crafters even pass off other people’s
ccreations as their own. This includes something
LEFT: Drama Queen I designed for a book being sold online twice without
RIGHT: Géometrique, both by Pat crediting me or the book.
Menchini in issue 158 Although an auction site removed it, the internet shop
proprietor was unrepentant. So I appeal to knitters everywhere:
favourite for autumn and winter, and enjoy working designers’ patterns, but don’t sell or claim them
was particularly relevant to September’s as original work, it’s totally unfair – on everyone.
Fairisle theme, as Fairisle designs are Charmaine Fletcher, Basildon, Essex
traditionally knitted in wool. Rico’s
Creative Melange, a blend of 53% wool and SHOULD KNITTING BE TAUGHT IN SCHOOLS? WHAT’S ON YOUR
47% acrylic, is the main yarn used in Pat’s NEEDLES?
Drama Queen design, while Géometrique A recent article in The Pauline Lofkin says: “It
is in King Cole’s Panache DK, a blend of Guardian by author Kathleen baffles me why schools or
50% wool and 50% acrylic. Kerridge has sparked an other organisations don’t
To knit Drama Queen with a summery enthusiastic debate on make use of older people to
feel, you could use Universal Yarn’s Knitting’s Facebook page. teach the skills and crafts that
Bamboo Pop, a blend of 50% bamboo and Kathleen argues that skills have almost disappeared. As a
50% cotton. With a lovely rich, lustrous such as knitting, sewing, Brownie leader, I held a craft
appearance, it comes in both solid and cooking and gardening day for my girls, in my garden.
variegated colours and has a metreage of should be taught to children I had a big tent where they
266m per 100g ball (£6.05). For a more in schools – especially in the could get out of the sun.
wool-like feel try Universal’s 100% acrylic current economic climate. “We did spinning with
Uptown DK Colors. It has a metreage of She writes: “Maybe it’s simple drop spindles, making
250m per 100g ball (£4.75). Or there’s King time to go back, so we can a hand brush out of reeds, Elizabeth Plue has been
Cole Flash DK, a 100% acrylic yarn that has move forward, and relearn pressed flower pictures, a loom-knitting kittycat hats –
a metreage of 290m per 100g ball (£3.75) the skills we’re losing. Teach bit of foody stuff, and we all and here are the results. She
and comes in a choice of nine shades, them in schools, make them made a carrier bag to take our says: “They are super-easy.
including 1696 Mulberry, a vibrant mix of compulsory. Because one makes home. Just alternately knit and purl
burgundy, red, purple, olive and turquoise. day we will need them, and “We all enjoyed our day. on a 41-peg round loom. At
For the classic slipover shape of there’ll be no one left to They brought food and went about 40cm length, fold over,
Géometrique I’ve found you something teach us.” home with their craft badges. bind closed and then sew up
a bit luxurious. Lang Yarns’ Cashmere Knitting readers I know it’s not school and it the rough
g end.”
Premium is an extremely soft yarn made overwhelmingly agree with sounds a bit naff now. But
from 100% cashmere. It has a metreage Kathleen’s argument, and say the fuel that fired the day up
of 115m per 25g ball (£15) and there’s a that if schools don’t teach was enthusiasm and a desire
choice of more than 30 colours, including these skills, parents should. to show kids that using their
the lovely marled shade 23, a light grey, Many say they already lead, hands to make something
which goes well with shade 80, a deep or would be willing to lead, is fun. Children always learn
wine, to echo the colours of the original. teaching sessions and after- from older people. There’s
If you’re feeling less extravagant, there’s school clubs. more to life than tapping keys!”
Stylecraft Alpaca DK. It’s 80% acrylic and
20% alpaca, so it shouldn’t be too hairy,
and it has a metreage of 240m per 100g Don’t be a stranger
(£3.79). There’s a choice of 10 shades Twitter: @KnittingMag Pinterest: knittingmag1 This is Fiona Laden’s gorgeous
available, including 6014 Storm, a marled little grandson Alexander
mid-grey, which would work well with Facebook: KnittingMagazine Instagram: @knittingmagazine
wearing the Clayoquot
shade 6023 Aubergine. I hope one or more Email: christine.boggis@thegmcgroup.com Toque by Tin Can Knits she
of these alternatives helps, and let me Post: Christine Boggis, Knitting, GMC Publications, 86 High Street, Lewes, made for him from Knitting’s
East Sussex BN7 1XN
know how you get on. September issue 158.
knit tingmag.com 47
cPartis2: Picot
forcastcasting
off
off
A picot is created by casting on and
immediately casting off stitches.
The picot cast off adds a decorative
but delicate touch to a project, and is
ideal for baby knits, scarves, stoles and
the stretch and spread of the lace when
blocked.
It’s an easy technique to adapt should you
want to increase the length of the picots,
but it uses more yarn than a basic cast off
precious metres of a discontinued yarn.
It can also be used over any number of
stitches.
This technique uses the standard cast-off
technique to cast off and the two-needle or
shawls, where its elasticity works well with so bear this in mind if you’re using the last knitted cast on to create stitches.
1 2
1. Knit the first two stitches, then cast off one stitch. 2. Move this loop back to the left needle, then insert the right needle
between the first and second loops and cast on three new stitches.
3 4 5
3. Now cast off five stitches – that’s the 4. Repeat the last two steps until you have 5. To increase the length of the picots, cast
three stitches just created plus the next two one stitch left, then break the yarn and pull on more stitches in Step 2 and then cast
stitches of the original edge. You’ve created the loop through to finish. them off in Step 3. In this swatch I alternated
the first picot. the original-sized picot with longer ones
made by casting on five stitches then casting
off seven stitches for a staggered look.
48 knit tingmag.com
This cast-on method can be paired with the picot cast off when
knitting scarves, stoles or even fingerless mitts. For extra impact,
why not work it in a contrasting colour?
1 2
1. Make a slip knot and place it on the left needle. Insert the tip of 2. Now insert the tip of the right needle in between the first and
the right needle into the loop and wrap the yarn around. Pull the second loops. Wrap the yarn around the needle, then pull the new
new stitch through and place it on the left needle. stitch through and place it on the needle. Repeat this step until you
have a total of five stitches on the left needle.
3 4
3. Cast off two stitches, then pass the remaining loop from the right 4. Repeat Step 2 but only cast on four stitches, then cast off the first
back to the left needle. You’ve created your first picot. two stitches as in Step 3. Keep working like this until you have the
required number of stitches.
5 6
5. For a longer picot, cast on six stitches when working Step 2, then 6. You could also work the edge in a contrasting colour.
cast off four stitches during Step 3.
knit tingmag.com 49
Row counter
Note: Yarn amounts given are based on
average requirements and are approximate.
TENSION
22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm over plain st
14
50 knittingmag.com
SLEEVES
Using 3.25mm needles and A, cast on
43[45:47:49:51:53] sts.
Work in rib as on Front, shaping Sleeve by inc
1 st at each end of 7th row, then on every foll
8th row until there are 53[55:57:59:61:63] sts,
taking extra sts into rib.
Work 7 rows straight.
Change to 4mm needles and beg with
a k row for RS, work in st st, inc 1 st at
each end of 3rd row, then on every foll
14th[10th:6th:6th:6th:5th] row until there
are 59[61:63:71:79:89] sts, then on every foll
14th[10th:8th:8th:6th:6th] row until there are
65[71:77:81:87:93] sts.
Cont straight until Sleeve measures 43cm
(17in) at centre, ending after a P row.
Shape top
Row 1: K to last 4 sts, turn.
Row 2: Sl1 firmly, p to last 4 sts, turn.
Rows 3 to 4: Sl1 firmly, work to last 8 sts,
turn. SIZES
Rows 5 to 6: Sl1 firmly, work to last 12 sts, To fit:
turn. UK size 6-8[10-12:14-16:18-20:22-24:26-28]
Cont in this way working 4 sts fewer on every 76-81[86-91:97-102:107-112:117-122:127-132]cm
row until the 2 rows: Sl1 firmly, work to last (30-32[34-36:38-40:42-44:46-48:50-52]in)
28 sts, turn have been worked. Actual measurement:
Next row: Sl1, k to end. 84[94:103:114:123:134]cm
Cast off loosely. (33[37:40.5:45:48.5:53]in)
Length to shoulder: 57[58:58:59:60:60]cm
NECKBAND (22½[23:2:23¼:23¾:23¾]in)
Join left shoulder. Sleeve length at underarm: 43cm (17in)
Using 3.25mm needles and A, RS facing, k Figures in square brackets refer to larger
across 63[67:69:71:73:77] sts of Back, pick up sizes: where there is only one set of figures
and k17[20:20:23:23:25] sts evenly down left this applies to all sizes.
side of neck, k across 53[57:59:61:63:67] sts of
Front, finally pick up and k18[21:21:24:24:26] YOU WILL NEED
sts evenly up right Front neck. King Cole Galaxy DK 31% wool, 65% acrylic
151[165:169:179:183:195] sts. (approx 175m per 50g)
Beg with row 2, work 6 rows in rib as on Front. 7[7:7:8:8:8] x 50g balls 1713 Stardust
Cast off firmly in rib. 1 pair each 2.75mm, 3.25mm, 4mm and
5mm needles
COWL 1 stitch holder
Using 3.25mm needles and B, cast on Stitch marker
150[165:168:177:183:195] sts. Length of ribbon
Row 1 (RS): K2, (p2, k1) to last st, k1. Row counter
Row 2: K1, p1, (k2, p1) to last st, k1. Note: Yarn amounts given are based on
Rep these 2 wide rib rows until Collar meas average requirements and are approximate.
19cm (7½in).
Cast off very loosely in rib. TENSION
22 sts and 28 rows to 10cm over st st using
TO FINISH 4mm needles.
Join right shoulder and edges of Neckband. Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
Stitch cast-off edges of Sleeves to upper to obtain correct tension.
sections of Back and Front. Join side and
Sleeve seams. Join side edges of Cowl. ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 89
▼
knittingmag.com 51
TO FINISH
Stitch cast-off edges of Sleeves to upper
sections of Back and Front.
Join side and Sleeve seams.
Cut ribbon in half and stitch one end of each
57[58:58:59:60:60]
42[47:51.5:57:61.5:67]
52 knittingmag.com
TIPS
For extra sparkle, add tiny crystal beads to
the top of each bobble and to each point
of the picot edge. Cast off with a larger-size
needle to give a lovely stretchy edge.
PATTERN NOTES
Work backwards and forwards on circular
needle as if on straight needles.
BODY
With 3.5mm circular needle cast on 316 sts.
Rib row: (K1, p1) to end.
Rep last row 5 more times.
Foundation Row 1 (RS): K12, yo, k1, yo, k7,
SIZES (k2tog, k7, yo, k1, yo, k7) 17 times, k2tog, k5
To fit: One size (334 sts).
Actual width at underarm: 80cm (31½in) Foundation Row 2 (WS): P5, (p2tog, p16)
Length collar to hem: 72cm (28¼in) 17 times, p2tog, p21 (316 sts).
Sleeve length: 35cm (13¾in) Cont in Waves and Bobbles patt as folls:
Figures in square brackets refer to larger Row 1 (RS): K13, yo, k1, yo, k6, (k2tog, k8,
sizes: where there is only one set of figures yo, k1, yo, k6) 17 times, k2tog, k5 (334 sts).
this applies to all sizes. Row 2: P5, (p2tog, p16) 17 times, p2tog, p21.
(316 sts).
YOU WILL NEED Row 3: K14, yo, k1, yo, k5, (k2tog, k9, yo, k1,
Belinda Harris-Reid Light Moonshine yo, k5) 17 times, k2tog, k5 (334 sts).
70% alpaca, 20% silk, 10% cashmere Rows 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14: As row 2.
(approx 225m per 100g) Row 5: K15, yo, k1, yo, k4, (k2tog, k10, yo,
6 x 100g hanks Undyed (A) k1, yo, k4) 17 times, k2tog, k5 (334 sts).
1 x 100g hank Silver (B) Row 7: K16, yo, k1, yo, k3, (k2tog, k11, yo,
(Can also be made with 6 hanks of Belinda k1, yo, k3) 17 times, k2tog, k5.
Harris-Reid Merry O or Cobblestone) Row 9: K17, yo, k1, yo, k2, (k2tog, k12, yo,
1 circular 3.5mm and 4.5mm needle k1, yo, k2) 17 times, k2tog, k5.
80cm long Row 11: K18, (yo, k1) twice, (k2tog, k13, yo,
Set of four 3.5mm and 4mm dpns k1, yo, k1) 17 times, k2tog, k5.
Stitch holders Row 13: K19, yo, k1, yo, (k2tog, k14, yo,
2 different coloured stitch markers k1, yo) 17 times, k2tog, k5.
Row counter Row 15: K5, (skpo, k7, yo, k1, yo, k5, MB, k1)
Note: Yarn amounts given are based on 17 times, skpo, k7, yo, k1, yo, k5, MB, k6.
average requirements and are approximate. Row 16: P21, (p2tog tbl, p16) 17 times, p2tog
tbl, p5 (316 sts).
TENSION Row 17: K5, (skpo, k6, yo, k1, yo, k8) 17
22 sts to 10cm over st st using 3.5mm needles. times, skpo, k6, yo, k1, yo, k13 (334 sts).
20 sts to 10cm in st st using 4mm needles. Rows 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 and 30:
Use larger or smaller needles if necessary As row 16 (316 sts).
to obtain correct tension. Row 19: K5, (skpo, k5, yo, k1, yo, k9) 17
times, skpo, k5, yo, k1, yo, k14 (334 sts).
ABBREVIATIONS Row 21: K5, (skpo, k4, yo, k1, yo, k10) 17
kpk = k next st, do not take st off needle, times, skpo, k4, yo, k1, yo, k15.
move yarn to front and p same st, do not Row 23: K5, (skpo, k3, yo, k1, yo, k11) 17
take st off needle, move yarn to back and k times, skpo, k3, yo, k1, yo, k16.
into same st Row 25: K5, (skpo, k2, yo, k1, yo, k12) 17
MB = make bobble: (k, yo, k, yo, k) all in next times, skpo, k2, yo, k1, yo, k17.
st, turn work, k5, turn work, p5, slip 2nd, 3rd, Row 27: K5, (skpo, k1, yo, k1, yo, k13) 17
54 knittingmag.com
TO FINISH
Join underarm sts using Kitchener st or
three-needle cast-off. Darn in loose ends.
Sew small beads or crystals to top of each
bobble and point of each of picot points
(optional).
Hand wash and rinse in lukewarm (30°C)
water with mild soap, ensuring garment
is completely covered.
Do not rub or scrub. Squeeze out excess
water. Roll in a clean towel.
35 *Dry flat and reshape while damp - if this
72
80
knittingmag.com 55
56 knittingmag.com
▼
Alpine Chart Back
K on RS, p on WS
yo
k2tog
ssk
sk2po
knittingmag.com 57
45
56[58:60]
46[51.5:57]
58 knittingmag.com
knittingmag.com 59
PATTERN NOTES
When working side seam shaping through
lace panels, ensure that you have enough
stitches to work both yarn overs to offset
the sk2po decrease. For half a repeat, work
k2tog before the yo when shaping the first
side seam and ssk after the yo when shaping
the second. Stitches in the lace panel that
cannot form part of a pattern repeat should
be knitted in stocking stitch until they are
taken into the seam shaping.
60 knittingmag.com
Chart B
K on RS, p on WS
Chart C
P on RS, k on WS
yo
LT
RT
sk2po
C10F
C10B
C8F
C8B
C6F
C6B
Pattern Repeat
knittingmag.com 61
62 knittingmag.com
▼
this applies to all sizes. 128[136:144:160:170] sts.
40[41:42:42:44]
40[41:42:42:44]
45[49:53:57:63]
knittingmag.com 63
TENSION
26 sts and 33 rows to 10cm over patt using
3.75mm needles.
Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
to obtain correct tension.
ABBREVIATIONS
C2BP = slip next st to cn and leave at back
(RS) of work, p1, then p1 from cn
C2FP = slip next st to cn and leave at front
(WS) of work, p1, then p1 from cn
64 knittingmag.com
▼
Body Chart Key
Sleeve Chart
knittingmag.com 65
TO FINISH
Join remaining raglan seam and Neckband.
Sew side and underarm Sleeve seams.
Darn in loose ends. ●
66 knittingmag.com
▼
YOU WILL NEED
Debbie Bliss Rialto DK 100% Merino wool
18[19:20:21:22:
TENSION
22 sts and 30 rows to 10cm over st st using
45
4mm needles.
36
PATTERN NOTES
When working Chart, strand yarn not in use
across back of work. Keep strands loose to 46.5[49:51.5:154:56.5:59:61.5]
avoid puckering.
Measurements are given in cm
knittingmag.com 67
TENSION
28 sts x 36 rows to 10cm (4in) over rib using
3.25mm needles.
24 sts x 36 rows to 10cm (4in) over slip stitch
pattern using 4mm needles.
Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
to obtain correct tension.
PATTERN NOTES
Weave unused yarn up the side loosely
to avoid weaving in many ends.
HAT
Using A and 3.25mm needles,
cast on 123 sts.
Row 1 (RS): K1, *p1, k1; rep from * to end.
Row 2: P1, *k1, p1; rep from * to end.
These two rows form 1x1 rib.
68 knittingmag.com
BACK
With 3.75mm needles, cast on
151[160:174:185] sts.
Knit 4 rows in g st.
knittingmag.com 69
1 2 3
1. On row 1 (RS), using yarn A, the main 2. On row 2 (WS), purl across the row in A. 3. On row 3 (RS), begin with B and knit
colour, knit the across all stitches, including The image shows the stripes and floats 8 stitches in B, then slip 2 stitches in A.
the slipped stitches from the row below. from slipping stitches on the previous Spread the slipped stitches so that your
alternate row. work stays elastic. Note that the stitches
are slipped purlwise with yarn at the back.
4 5 6
4 and 5. On row 4 (WS), add the next yarn, C. At first this seems odd as you have only 6. This image shows your work, ready for row
worked one row in B, but B will be picked up again on row 6. With C, purl 6 sts and slip 4 sts 5, with the six stitches in C and four slipped
pwise with yarn at the front. This creates the medallion shape. stitches – two in A slipped in row 3, and a
stitch in B on either side of them, slipped in
row 4. Note that your work will pucker till it
has been blocked to stretch it out.
8
3 4
7. When working row 5, slip the four stitches 8. On row 6 (WS), with B, purl 8 stitches 9. This ends the first half of the pattern.
purlwise with yarn at the back. The stitches and slip the two stitches in A that were first The first two rows are repeated to form
are stretched out on the right needle to slipped in row 3 with the yarn at the front of rows 7 and 8, then the medallions are
make sure the floats remain loose. the work. Note the longer floats in C. moved along four stitches to create the
overall pattern for rows 9 to 12, replacing
yarn C with yarn D.
70 knittingmag.com
43[42:41.5:41]
33[34:34.5:35.5]
67.75[72.75:79:84]
▼
knittingmag.com 71
Knit k3tog
yo Pattern
k2tog repeat
86.5[132]
Charts show RS only, on WS rows
work Sl1p wyif, k1, p to last 2 sts, k2.
Tangled Lace Chart
43[66]
72 knittingmag.com
SIZE TENSION
Depth: 63.5cm (25in) 22 sts x 28 rows to 10cm (4in) over g st
Wingspan: 188cm (74in) using 4mm needles.
Border width: 14cm (5½in) Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
to obtain correct tension.
YOU WILL NEED
West Yorkshire Spinners Illustrious DK ABBREVIATIONS
70% wool, 30% alpaca (225m per 100g) M1R = make 1 right: pick up the bar
2 x 100g balls in Mulberry 765 (A) between the next 2 sts with the left needle
1 x 100g ball in Sea Glass 303 (B) and knit into the front of it (inc 1)
4mm circular needle 150cm (59in) long M1L = make 1 left: pick up the bar between
4 stitch markers the next 2 sts with the left needle and knit
Yarn needle into the back of it (inc 1)
Note: Yarn amounts given are based on For more abbreviations see page 89
▼
average requirements and are approximate.
RS: knit
WS: purl
yo
RS: ssk
WS: p2tog tbl
RS: k2tog
WS: p2tog
RS: sl1, k2tog, psso
WS: sl1 wyif, p2tog tbl, psso
RS: knit into fb
WS: purl into fb
knittingmag.com 73
SHAWL
Garter tab
With A, cast on 4 sts.
Knit 56 rows.
Base
Set up row (WS): K4 sts, pm, turn your
knitting 90 degrees and pick up and k1 st
into the next garter ridge, pm, pick up and
k26 sts from the long edge of the garter tab,
pm, pick up and k1 st into the last garter
ridge along the long side of the tab, turn
your knitting 90 degrees again, pm and pick
up and k4 sts from the cast-on edge (36 sts).
Main Body
Next row (WS): Yo, k4, sm, p1, sm, p to
marker, sm, p1, sm, k4.
Row 1 (RS): Yo, k4, sm, yo, k1, m1R, sm, work
row 1 of stitch patt to marker, sm, m1L, k1,
yo, sm, k4, drop last yo (40 sts).
Row 2: Yo, k4, sm, *p to next marker, sm; rep
from * twice, k4, drop yo.
Row 3: Yo, k4, sm, yo, k to marker, m1R, sm,
work the foll row of stitch patt to marker, sm, SIZES
m1L, k to marker, yo, sm, k4, drop yo (44 sts). To fit: UK size 8-10[12-14:16-18:20-22:24-26]
Rep last two rows until the shawl measures 81-86[91-97:102-107:112-117:122-127]cm
approx 51cm (20in) along the centre spine, (32-34[36-38:40-42:44-46:48-50]in)
working a WS row last. Actual measurement: 94[104:115:127:140]cm
Garter Edging (37[41:45:50:55]in)
Join B and work the following two rows: Length to shoulder: 60[62:64:66:68]cm
Row 1 (RS): Yo, k4, sm, yo, knit to marker, (23½[24½:25:26:27]in)
m1R, sm, k to marker, sm, m1L, k to marker, Sleeve length: 45[46:47:48:48]cm
yo, sm, k4, drop yo (4 sts inc). (17½[18:18½:19:19]in)
Row 2: Yo, k4, sm, kfb into yo, k to 1 st Figures in square brackets refer to larger
before last marker, kfb into yo, sm, k4, drop sizes:where there is only one set of figures
yo (2 sts inc). this applies to all sizes.
Cont working the edging by rep rows 1 and
2, alternating the yarn colours as follows: YOU WILL NEED
4 rows in A, 4 rows in B, 2 rows in A. Rowan Kid Classic 70% wool, 22% mohair,
Cut A, leaving a long tail and continue in 8% polyamide (approx 140m per 50g)
B only. 7[8:9:9:10] x 50g balls 866 Bittersweet
Rep rows 1 and 2 until the edging is approx 1 pair 5mm needles
15cm (6in) wide. 1 circular 5mm needle 120cm long
Cut B leaving a long tail. 1 circular 5.5mm needle 120cm long
Join A and cast off all sts loosely. Stitch holder
Row counter
TO FINISH Note: Yarn amounts given are based on
Cut yarn leaving a long tail. average requirements and are approximate.
Weave in all ends and wet the shawl
thoroughly. TENSION
Squeeze out all excess water without 19 sts and 25 rows to 10cm over st st using
wringing the shawl. 5mm needles.
Dry flat. ● Use larger or smaller needles if necessary to
obtain correct tension.
BACK
Using 5mm needles cast on
87[97:107:119:131] sts.
74 knittingmag.com
LEFT FRONT
Using 5mm needles cast on
38 [44:48:54:60] sts.
Row 1 (RS): (K1, p1) to last 2 sts, k2.
Row 2: P2, (k1, p1) to end.
These 2 rows form rib.
Work in rib until Left Front meas 2.5cm (1in),
inc 1[0:1:1:1] st at end of last row, ending with
RS facing for next row. 39[44:49:55:61] sts.
Begin with a k row, work in st st until Left
Front meas 9[10:11:12:13]cm
(3½[4:4¼:4¾:5¼]in), ending with RS facing
for next row.
▼
knittingmag.com 75
TENSION
25 sts and 34 rnds to 10cm (4in) over st st
using 3mm needles.
Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
to obtain correct tension.
A A
ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 89 B B
PATTERN NOTE m1 m1
These baubles can be knitted in two ssk ssk
contrasting ways, but only one way is written
k2tog k2tog
out. To knit the contrasting bauble, simply
substitute A for B and vice versa. No stitch No stitch
76 knittingmag.com
CHRISTMAS TREE
(make one in each colour)
Using 3mm needles, cast on 5 sts.
K 5 rows.
Cast on 4 sts at beg of next two rows (13 sts).
*Work 5 rows in g st.
Next row: K2tog, k to last 2 sts, k2tog
(11 sts).
Rep from * until there are 5 sts left.
K 3 rows.
Next row: K2tog, k1, k2tog (3 sts).
K 1 row.
Next row: K3tog, fasten off.
TO FINISH
Baubles
Stuff bauble with toy stuffing, pull yarn tail
tight to close up and sew in end.
Cut a strand each of A and B approx 25cm SIZE
(10in) long and twist together, then sew ends Approx: 105 x 142cm (41¼ x 56in)
into bauble top to form loop.
Christmas tree YOU WILL NEED
Weave in ends and sew on a loop. ● Wendy Evolve 50% wool, 40% acrylic,
10% alpaca (180m per 100g)
5 x 100g balls in Embers shade 3265 (A)
4 x 100g balls in Frost shade 3262 (B)
One each of 5mm and 6mm circular needles,
80cm (31½in) long
Yarn needle
Note: Yarn amounts given are based on
average requirements and are approximate.
TENSION
15 sts x 27 rows to 10cm (4in) over slip st
pattern using 6mm needles.
15 sts x 34 rows to 10cm (4in) over g st
using 5mm needles.
Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
to obtain correct tension.
THROW
Using A and 5mm needles, cast on 142 sts.
Work in g st for 5cm (2in), ending with
a RS row.
Change to 6mm needles.
Slip st pattern
Foundation row (WS): P to end.
Row 1 (RS): Using B, k to end.
Row 2 and 4: Using B, k6, *sl2 wyif, k6;
rep from * to end.
Row 3: Using B, k6, *sl2 wyib, k6; rep from *
to end.
▼
knittingmag.com 77
TO FINISH
Block lightly if required and weave in ends. ● SIZE
Approx: 23 x 33cm (9 x 13in)
TENSION
18 sts x 24 rows to 10cm (4in) over st st
using 5mm needles.
Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
to obtain correct tension.
PATTERN NOTES
When working from Chart, odd-numbered
rows are k rows and read from right to left.
Even-numbered rows are p rows and read
from left to right.
Strand yarn not in use loosely across wrong
side of work. Alternatively the hot water
bottle can be knitted in A and the pattern
can be Swiss darned in B.
78 knittingmag.com
knittingmag.com 79
RIGHT MITT
Using 4mm dpns cast on 42 sts and join in
the round, taking care not to twist sts.
Pm to mark start of round. SIZE
Rnd 1: *K1, p1; rep from * to end. Hat to fit average adult head:
This row sets 1x1 rib. Cont in rib until work 53cm (20¾in) circumference.
measures 2cm (1in). Scarf: 56cm (22in) wide x 108cm (42½in) long.
Left-leaning diagonal stripe pattern
Rnd 1: *P1, k5; rep from * to end. YOU WILL NEED
Rnd 2 and every alt rnd: Knit or purl each Rico Fashion Surprise 53% acrylic,
stitch as it appears. 23% wool, 14% mohair, 10% polyester
Rnd 3: *K1, p1, k4; rep from * to end. (85m per 50g)
Rnd 5: *K2, p1, k3; rep from * to end. Torrie Hat: 1 x 50g balls in shade 01
Rnd 7: *K3, p1, k2; rep from * to end. Gwen Scarf: 4 x 50g balls in shade 01
Rnd 9: *K4, p1, k1; rep from * to end. 1 pair 7mm needles
Rnd 11: *K5, p1; rep from * to end. Cable needle
Rnd 13: *P1, k5; rep from * to end. Torrie Hat: matching 10cm pompom
Rnd 15: *K1, p1, k4; rep from * to end. (pompom shown is Rico Designs Faux Fur
Rnd 17: *K2, p1, k3; rep from * to end. Pompom in Berry)
Rnd 19: *K3, p1, k2; rep from * to end. Note: Yarn amounts given are based on
These 20 rnds form patt. average requirements and are approximate.
Cont in patt until work measures 12cm
(4¾in), ending with an odd-numbered rnd. TENSION
Set thumbhole 15 sts x 14.5 rows to 10cm (4in) over Cable
You will now be working in rows. Pattern.
Next row (WS): Work back across the sts Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
you have just worked, continuing in patt to obtain correct tension.
working each st as it appears.
Continue in patt, working backwards and ABBREVIATIONS
forwards until work measures 17cm (6½in), C6F = cable 6 front: slip the next 3 sts on
ending on a RS row. to cn and hold at front, k3, then k3 from cn
You will now be working in rnds. For more abbreviations see page 89
Next rnd: Cast on 1 st at beg of rnd, patt to
last st, k2tog (cast-on st and last st in rnd), DOUBLE RIB PATTERN
hence joining to work in the round. Over multiples of 4+2 sts and 2 rows
The marker should still be in place marking Row 1 (RS): P2, (k2, p2) to end.
the start of the round. Row 2: K2, (p2, k2) to end.
Continue in patt until work measures 20cm
(8in).
80 knittingmag.com
HAT
Cast on 62 sts.
Work in Double Rib Pattern for 5cm (2in),
ending with a RS row.
Inc row (WS): Patt 4 sts, *m1, patt 6 sts:
rep from * to last 4 sts, m1, patt 4 sts (72 sts).
Set Cable Patt
Row 1 (RS): P1, (Cable Patt row 1) 7 times, p1.
Row 2: K1, (Cable Patt row 2) seven times, k1.
These 2 rows set Cable Patt, and the first
and last st in rev st st. Cont in patt as set till
work measures 18cm (7in), measured from
the cast-on edge and ending at the end of
row 6.
Shape crown
Crown row 1 (RS): P1, (p2tog, k6, p2tog)
seven times, p1 (58 sts).
Crown row 2: K1, (k1, p6, k1) 7 times, k1.
Crown row 3: (P2tog, k6) 7 times, p2tog
(50 sts).
Crown row 4: (K1, p6) 7 times, k1.
Crown row 5: *P1, k1, (k2tog) twice, k1;
rep from * 7 times, p1 (36 sts). SCARF SIZE
Crown row 6: (K1, p4) 7 times, k1. Cast on 74 sts. To fit average man’s hand: 22-23cm
Crown row 7: *P1, (k2tog) twice: rep from * Work in Double Rib Pattern for 10cm (4in), (8¾-9in) around the palm below the fingers
seven times, p1 (22 sts). ending with a RS row. To fit average size head: 56cm (22in)
Crown row 8: (K1, p2) seven times, k1. Inc row (WS): Patt 6 sts, *m1, patt 7 sts: rep circumference
Leave a long tail and thread this through from * to last 5 sts, m1, patt 5 sts (84 sts).
the remaining sts and pull tight. Set Cable Pattern YOU WILL NEED
Use the tail to seam down the back of the hat. Row 1 (RS): P2, (Cable Patt row 1) 8 times, k2. John Arbon Knit by Numbers DK
Weave in ends and attach the pompom to Row 2: K2, (Cable Patt row 2) 8 times, k2. 100% Merino wool (250m per 100g)
the top of the hat. These 2 rows set the position of the patt: on 2 x 100g balls in KBN15
a RS row, the first 2 sts are worked in rev st Set of 3mm double-pointed needles
st (before decs) and the last 2 sts are worked 3mm circular needle 40cm (15¾in) long
in g st, with the Cable Patt in between. Stitch markers
Cont in patt as set and work in the foll decs, Yarn needle
starting on the next row: Note: Yarn amounts given are based on
Next row (RS): Dec 1 st, patt to end (83 sts). average requirements and are approximate.
Next row (WS): Patt to end.
Rep the last 2 rows till only 14 sts remain, TENSION
ending with a WS row. 27 sts x 36 rnds to 10cm (4in) over st st
Cast off all sts. using 3mm needles.
Weave in ends. ● Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
to obtain correct tension.
RIGHT GLOVE
Using 3mm dpns, cast on 48 sts (16 sts per
needle) and join in the rnd, taking care not
to twist the sts.
Rnd 1: K1, *p2, k2; rep from * to last 3 sts,
p2, k1.
Rep rnd 1 a further 19 times.
Rnd 21: Rib 12 as set, m1, rib to end
(49 sts).
Rnd 22: Rib 11, work 3 sts as Chart row 22,
rib to end.
▼
knittingmag.com 81
82 knittingmag.com
knittingmag.com 83
TENSION
22 sts x 30 rnds to 10cm (4in) over st st
using 3.5mm needles.
Use larger or smaller needles if necessary
to obtain correct tension.
SOCK (MAKE 2)
Using 2.5mm dpns and A, cast on
66[66:69:69] sts. Join to work in the round.
Pm for start of round.
Rnd 1: *K1, p2; rep from * to end.
Last rnd forms rib. Cont in rib until work
measures 4cm (1½in).
Change to 3.5mm dpns.
84 knittingmag.com
knittingmag.com 85
86 knittingmag.com
2"
19 Not critical for this project
7 (7½, 8½)"
17
SLEEVE
ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 89
10 (10½, 11)"
15 FRONT
&
13
BACK 6½" BLANKET
11 1½" With 5.5mm needles and A, cast on 50 sts.
9 Work in g st until work measures approx
6 (6½, 6¾)" 31cm (12in) from cast-on edge.
7
1½"
Cast off all sts.
5 9½ (10½, 11½)"
3 HEAD
1 Pattern from With dpns and B, and leaving a 20cm (8in)
19 sts 60 Quick Baby Knits end to close cast-on opening, cast on 8 sts,
by Cascade Yarns divide sts onto 3 dpns, pm, and join to work
Colour Key Stitch Key published by in the round.
Sixth & Spring Rnds 1-2: K to end.
Alaska Sky (MC) Straight stitch using Rnd 3 (inc): *K1, m1; rep from * to end (16 sts).
Persimmon (B)
Rnd 4: K to end.
Blue (C)
French Knot Rnds 5-6: Rep rnds 3 and 4 (32 sts).
using Mocha (A) Rnd 7: *K2, m1; rep from * to end (48 sts).
▼
knittingmag.com 87
88 knittingmag.com
STOCKISTS ABBREVIATIONS
BELINDA HARRIS-REID k knit pwise purlwise
T: 01392 252256 E: info@belindaharrisreid.co.uk p purl rem remain/ing
W: belindaharrisreid.co.uk alt alternative rep repeat
beg begin/ning rev st st
reverse stocking stitch
BERGERE DE FRANCE ch chain (RS purl, WS knit)
E: hello@bergeredefrance.com W: bergeredefrance.co.uk cm centimetre/s rnd round
cn cable needle RS/WS right side/wrong side
CASCADE YARNS cont continue skpo slip one, knit one, pass
W: cascadeyarns.com dc double crochet the slipped stitch over
dec decrease (decrease 1)
DEBBIE BLISS/LOUISA HARDING dpn(s) double-pointed sk2po slip one, knit two
Designer Yarns needle(s) together, pass slipped
T: 01535 664222 E: enquiries@designeryarns.uk.com foll follows/following stitch over (decrease 2)
W: designeryarns.uk.com g gramme/s s2kpo slip two stitches
g st garter stitch one at a time knitwise,
DROPS (every row knit) knit one, pass two
W: garnstudio.com in inch/es slipped stitches over
inc increase (decrease 2)
ERIKA KNIGHT k2tog knit two stitches sp2po slip one purlwise, purl
TB Ramsden together (decrease 1) two together, pass
T: 01943 494184 E: sales@tbramsden.co.uk W: tbramsden.co.uk k3tog knit three stitches slipped stitch over
W: erikaknight.co.uk together (decrease 2) (decrease 2)
kfb knit into front and sl1 slip one stitch
JOHN ARBON back of next stitch sl1p slip one stitch purlwise
T: 01598 752490 W: jarbon.com (increase 1) sm slip marker
kwise knitwise ssk slip next two stitches
JUNIPER MOON FARM LH/RH left hand/right hand one at a time, knitwise,
Intercontinental Yarns m1 make 1 stitch: pick up to right hand needle,
T: 01535 664222 E: enquiries@intercontinentalyarns.co.uk the loop lying between insert tip of left hand
W: intercontinentalyarns.co.uk the two stitches and needle through both
knit into the back of it stitches and knit them
KING COLE (increase 1) together (decrease 1)
T: 01756 703670 W: kingcole.com m1p make 1 purlwise st(s) stitch(es)
meas measures st st stocking stitch
MALABRIGO mm millimetre/s tbl through back loop
T: 020 3514 1551 E: europa@malabrigoyarn.com m st moss stitch tog together
W: malabrigoyarn.com ndl needle tr treble crochet
p2tog purl two stitches w&t wrap and turn
MILLAMIA together (decrease 1) wyib with yarn in the back
LoveKnitting p3tog purl three stitches wyif with yarn in the front
T: 0845 544 2196 E: info@loveknitting.com together (decrease 2) yfwd yarn forward
W: loveknitting.com patt pattern yo yarn over
pm place marker yrn yarn round needle
RICO psso pass slipped stitch over y2rn yarn twice round needle
E: info@rico-design.de W: rico-design.de
Advanced: These are the ones for all you knitting experts out there.
Cables, lacework, fancy stitches – nothing is too tricky for you, so
we’ve got plenty of challenging knits for real aficionados.
knittingmag.com 89
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15 CAMDEN PASSAGE, ISLINGTON, LONDON N1 8EA 020 7288 1160
I
love Christmas, I do. I really do. In the end, getting your knitted gifts out of the way as quickly as
It feels like there’s actual magic possible isn’t really in the spirit of the season. Gifts should reflect how
in the air, you spend time with you feel about the person you are giving them to, and in theory I’d love
your loved ones and are hopefully to give handmade gifts to all of my friends and family. But in practice
wearing some gorgeous knits you’ve the thick and quick method is a way to show you care without running
whipped up throughout the year. yourself into the ground during the busy festive season. So why not grab
But despite my love for the season your 22mm needles and give some super-bulky yarn a try?
I absolutely hate knitting Christmas
gifts. It’s the sheer pressure of trying
to produce a handmade item at one
of the busiest and most stressful
times of the year that doesn’t sit
well with me. There is also the
disappointment you feel when the
recipient opens your gift and doesn’t
jump up and down with the joy you’d
imagined. Usually they follow this
up with the crushing
ith th hi blow
bl off a di
dismissive “thanks”, and then heartlessly
stuff the gift you spent weeks of your life creating back into the glittery
gift bag it came from. I can’t bear it.
But wait. If you are reading this and thinking: “Maybe she’s right.
Maybe I shouldn’t waste my valuable knitting time making that hat for
my friend,” then stop! I am not saying that you shouldn’t knit for people
at Christmas. It’s a beautiful thing to give up your precious time to make
something for someone you love, and I applaud that. I clearly have just
made too many under-appreciated gifts, which has affected me deeply.
I probably just need knitting counselling about it.
There is a way that you can knit for your loved ed ones at Christmas
without sacrificing your priceless time: chunkyy weight yarns
and huge needles. The thick and quick method d of using
bulky and super-bulky yarns can be your saviour. ur.
Want to make that hat for your friend? Two hours urs
of knitting with some of this stuff and you can
get it wrapped and under the tree, no problem. m.
With a production rate like that you could
complete your entire Christmas gift knitting in n
a weekend and leave the stress behind.
Last year I visited New York for a work
trip and stumbled across a moving sale for a
shop called Loopy Mango. I had never heard
of the brand before, but this accidental find
was a spectacle to behold. Crates of huge yarn n
– apparently the thickest available on the market rket
– were piled up in the middle of the room with th
broom handle-sized needles resting against them. hem.
The yarn looked like someone had caught a cloud loud and MUST KNIT:
wound it into a ball, it was so big and squishy. With this yarn Purl Soho has a few great
g options for super-chunky hats which
and 22mm needles you can crack out a blanket in an evening. Sadly are sure to please any gift recipient. Go super-simple with the
the cost of the yarn might bankrupt you, but other more affordable Snow Day Hat, or try out Fairisle knitting with their Friendly Fair
brands include Rowan Big Wool, Lion Brand Thick & Quick, Drops Isle Hat. Grab a pattern from purlsoho.com.
Eskimo and Cascade Magnum. You could also consider using several
strands of lighter weight yarn held together. MUST SQUISH:
So think chunky cowls, cosy hats, squishy mittens, simple scarves, If you are itching to knit with the biggest yarn on the market
oversized Christmas stockings, fat tea cosies and plump throw cushions. then you can buy the cloud-like yarn by Loopy Mango in the UK
All can be completed in no time at all and do not need fancy stitch from loveknitting.com. Warning: Your bank balance may also
patterns or complicated constructions – the graphic oversized stitches feel cloud-like after purchase.
provide interest in themselves, so you can keep it simple as well as snappy.
FOR
96
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