ARE YOU LONELY? 9 WAYS KNITTING CAN HELP ISSUE 155 Mar 2020
KEEP CALM & CAST ON
Our new mindfulness page! THE UK’S BESTSELLING KNIT MAG
SIMPLE KNITS FOR SPRING! 42
pages of easy seasonal makes
MAKE THIS IN SIZES 6-28
10 SIZES!
CHEERFUL HOME PATTERNS
KNIT THIS FROM £14 6 KNITS FOR KIDS
CLEAN & GREEN EXPLORE ECO-FRIENDLY KNITTING WITH OUR INDEPTH GUIDE
ALL THIS & MORE
INSIDE!
1 LK Mar20 Cover 155.indd 1
HAND-DYED HEAVEN
DISCOVER THE WORLD OF ARTISAN YARNS
BUTTERFLY STITCH
LEARN HOW IN STEP-BY-STEP
SUPERSOFT SHEEP CUSHION £6.99 | Mar 20 Issue 155
EXCITING PRIZES
WIN AN EXOTIC YARN FOR EVERY WEEK OF THE YEAR! 31/01/2020 09:37
EDITOR’S Letter
Welcome!
14 73
27
Simple doesn’t have to mean dull, as the five gorgeous garments that make up this month’s Simply Stylish Collection show. Whilst all are a basic no-frills shape, each one has a fab twist, from a touch of lace to a simple cable. Classic shapes work well for all sizes, and you’ll find a wide range on these patterns, with the two-tone sweater on page 25 sporting instructions for dress sizes 6-28. The collection starts on page 14 We all need to do our bit to protect the environment, and our feature on page 73 has some brilliant tips for how to become a more eco-conscious crafter – and we’re delighted to say that it doesn’t mean enjoying your hobby any less! Regular readers will notice some new features in this issue. Our focus on more niche areas of knitting starts with hand-dyeing on page 27, whilst on page 81 is our new page dedicated to mindfulness. You’ll find other little tweaks throughout the magazine – we hope you like them! Nominations are open in the British Knitting & Crochet Awards 2020. We can’t wait to hear who and what you currently love. Everyone who nominates online receives a free blanket pattern, and one lucky entrant will win an exotic yarn for every week of the year! Find out more on page 56.
ABOVE RIGHT: The Simply Stylish Collection, p14 ABOVE LEFT: how to be an eco-conscious crafter, p73 CENTRE: This month we’re loving...hand-dyed yarns, p27 LEFT: our new mindfulness page, p81
81
BELOW: win an exotic yarn bundle, p56
56
Happy Knitting
28
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All items from patterns published by Let’s Knit are for personal use only and cannot be sold. Multiple copies of any part of this publication may not be made, and no part of this publication whether in its original form or a reproduction thereof may be sold. All patterns featured within Let’s Knit are reproduced in good faith that they do not infringe any copyright. DISCLAIMER: We recommend that readers use the main specified yarn for every project as this will produce the best results. The alternatives given are suggestions only, and as no two yarns
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are exactly the same we advise readers to swatch an alternative yarn carefully before choosing to use it for their project. The publishers are not responsible for any safety issues arising from any items knitted from patterns contained within Let’s Knit magazine. Please note that toys with small parts are not suitable for children under three years of age. If making a toy for a very young child, omit any buttons and embroider the details instead. Babies should be supervised when playing with toys. Prices are all correct at time of print.
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March 2020
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In this issue 82
SHOPPING
8 See It, Want It, Love It!
Our top picks for March
27 We’re Loving...Hand-dyeing
There is so much to love about hand-dyed yarns!
45 Make It Mint
Freshen up your look with these stylish yarns
59 Keep It Classic
Enjoy our amazing collection of pure wool yarns
78 Newsflash
Catch up with the latest news in knitting
FOCUS
47 Style Your Space
Transform your crafting corner into a creative haven
56 The British Knitting & Crochet Awards 2020
Vote for your favourites and have your say
66 The Let’s Knit Yarn Shop Tour
Super-soft Crochet Blanket
Escape to the country and discover fabulous bricks-and-mortar stores
73 Our Guide To Going Green
Become an eco-conscious crafter
77 9 Steps to Combat Loneliness
Use your crafting skills to link up with like-minded makers
81 Keep Calm & Cast On
Introducing our brand new mindfulness page
85 What’s The Secret?
Discover top tips for tricky techniques
PEOPLE
Cover Star
10 Knit It, Write It, Share It!
Sp
Your incredible makes and letters
12 Out and About
39
Checkered Texture Top
Let us help you! WE UNDERSTAND THAT NOTHING IS MORE ANNOYING THAN ERRORS IN KNITTING PATTERNS, SO HERE’S OUR PROMISE TO YOU l Exclusive patterns featured in Let’s Knit have been professionally checked and reproduced with the utmost care. Updates can be found at letsknit.co.uk/pattern-updates l Should you encounter any problems we are more than happy to provide support and assistance. Contact us and we will endeavour to respond as soon as possible.
BY PHONE: 01206 508622 (office hours only) BY EMAIL: support@letsknit.co.uk BY POST: at the address at the top of page 94 (please mark your envelope ‘Support’) (Please note we cannot offer assistance with patterns not published in Let’s Knit)
Fill your calendar with wonderful events
70 Charity Corner Funky Kid’s Hoody
Contact us HAVE ANOTHER QUERY? HERE’S HOW TO GET IN TOUCH l Subscription enquiries/ customer services: 0800 904 7000, aceville@dctmedia.co.uk l Advertising enquiries: 01206 505114, samantha.dean@aceville.co.uk l Online registration/website enquiries: webmaster@letsknit.co.uk
Knitters using their needles to make a difference
98 My Life In Patterns
We hear from knitter, designer and author Alyssarhaye Graciano
IN EVERY ISSUE
3 Welcome 7 Just For You This Month 28 Subscriptions 50 Teabreak 51 Coming Next Month 60 Read & Relax 72 Giveaways 76 Reader Offer 93 Knitter’s Know-How
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53
WIN! WIN! WIN!
61
OVER
£1,000
OF GREAT PRIZES ON PAGE 72
Knitted Baby Book
Briana The Cavegirl
43
67
PATTERNS
54
Spring Teacosy
Beautiful Bunny Hat
Hidden Pocket Jumper
Cuddly Cable Jumper
16 Lace Border Cardi 19 Hidden Pocket Jumper 21 Cuddly Cable Jumper 23 Checkered Texture Top 25 Two Tone Sweater 31 Skinny Scarf 35 Sheep Cushion 39 Funky Kid’s Hoody 43 Spring Teacosy 48 Comfy Cushion 53 Briana The Cavegirl 61 Knitted Baby Book 67 Beautiful Bunny Hat 79 Sweet Pea Set 82 Super-soft Crochet Blanket 86 Butterfly Baby Hat
Two Tone Sweater
Lace Border Cardi
1 SE 3-P CT AG IO E N
THE SIMPLY STYLISH COLLECTION Starts on page 14
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JUST FOR YOU THIS MONTH
FLUFFY EYELASH YARN + CUTE ORANGUTAN PATTERN
No. 1 for gifts
Meet Ozzie, our adorable, awesome ape! When he’s not swinging through the tree-tops, he enjoys big hugs and watching people knit. Take a look in your pack to find the pattern leaflet, along with our exclusive eyelash yarn that also has a hint of shimmer! Don’t forget to share your photos using the details on page 11. We’d love to see them. This month, knitting royalty Debbie Bliss has shared some of her favourite patterns for women and babies, check out your bonus pattern booklet!
THIS MONTH’S
LOVE YOUR YARN KIT? GET MORE!
BONUS PATTERN BOOK! 8 stylish designs from Debbie Bliss
150g bumper kit including 70g of special fluffy yarn for only £7.99*! Simply visit magazinestoyou.com or call 0800 904 7000 *T&Cs: postage charges apply. Limited stock available.
FREE* BOOK WORTH £9.99!
*UK customers only, just pay postage
Go supersized with this brilliant title by Hanna Charlotte Erhorn. Knitting With Giant Needles (£9.99, DK Books) includes 35 super chunky projects to knit and crochet, covering homewares, garments and accessories – and they’re all suited to newbie crafters. Turn to page 76 to find out how to get your copy for free!*
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Treats you’ll love ONLY IN LET’S KNIT
3Super soft eyelash yarn 3Cute and easy toy pattern 3Debbie Bliss collection 3Bonus yarn offer 3 FREE* super chunky knitting book
Find over 1,600 fabulous knitting patterns at letsknit.co.uk
Coming next issue! KNIT OUR EASTER FRIENDS! Look at this fantastic character collection, featuring all your favourite springtime critters! Make our brilliant bunny or one of his cuddly pals using your exclusive yarn pack, which includes a super soft and fluffy fleecy effect.
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APRIL ISSUE OF LET’S KNIT ON SALE THURSDAY 12TH MARCH
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YOUR 13 PAGE FASHION SPECIAL
The Simply Stylish
Collection
THE ZINGY LIME SHADE IS PERFECT FOR SPRING
FUSS-FREE PATTERNS FOR THE NEW SEASON
PAGE
19
Hidden Pocket Jumper
S izes 8-26
COMBINE GARTER AND STOCKING STITCH IN THIS OH-SO PRACTICAL MAKE
PAGE
23
Checkered Texture Top
EASY to knit
Get set for spring with our knitted wardrobe update! Featuring five garments for beginners and improvers, this collection includes easy-to-wear shapes and techniques to boost your knitting repertoire. Our expert designers show you how to transform basic bread-and-butter stitches into stunning stitch effects, plus there’s the opportunity to have a go at classic cables and easy eyelets. Look out for Jacinta Bowie’s stripy sweater – it’s got a pocket! 14
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KNIT YOURSELF A COMFY CLASSIC
THE STYLE
Edit
Everyday favourite
PAGE
16 Lace Border Cardi
PAGE
25
Two Tone Sweater
Spring staple E L P M I S withsat twi
PAGE
21
Cuddly Cable Jumper
CHOOSE TEXTURE WITH THIS STROKABLY SOFT KNIT
B rand new yarn
ADD INTEREST TO YOUR MAKE WITH A PRETTY EYELET EDGING
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ACCESSORY
pattern
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City
STYLE ACCESSORISE WITH CHARMAINE FLETCHER’S SKINNY SCARF Scarves are just the thing for adding a knitty touch to any outfit and this one is ideal for those cooler days before spring has fully sprung. Wrap it around your neck several times until the knots hang in the right position. This pattern is worked in purl garter stitch, but you’ll also be shaping certain sections. Each end is decorated with a subtle bead for a pretty finishing touch.
One-ball KNIT
great ADVICE “Every time an increase or decrease is made, place a lock-in stitch marker at the end of the row, to keep count.”
LK DESIGNER, Charmaine
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CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH JANE BURNS’ COSY HOME ACCESSORY
If you have a soft spot for novelty knits, there is no need to be sheepish! In fact, this cheerful cushion offers wool lovers everywhere the opportunity to celebrate their favourite fibre and the animal they owe it to. The perfect fit for a country cottage or a super-cute nursery scheme, this project offers an exciting opportunity to practice working from a chart and sewing together knitted pieces.
SI
Cuddly CUSHION
HOME
TO • E X C L US
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KID’S
pattern
the hood LIFE SURPRISE YOUR YOUNGSTER WITH THIS PLAYFUL PATTERN
Jo Allport has done it again with this simple yet effective design. From the interesting neckline and colourful edges to the practical pocket and super-cute hood, we’re having trouble choosing our favourite element to obsess over. If you are looking to expand your skill set, you will be pleased to learn that this pattern provides an excellent introduction to shaping, sewing up and knitting with more than one shade of yarn.
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BRIGHTEN UP YOUR BREAKS WITH SIÂN BROWN’S COLOURFUL COSY
FLORA fancy L Worked in simple garter stitch, novice knitters and experienced crafters alike should be able to tackle this pretty pattern. Even sewing up your cosy will take no time at all - it’s as easy as pinning your pieces around a teapot and leaving gaps for the handle and spout. Another helpful tip is to select a yarn that can be machine washed, as this will come in handy if you are regularly bringing your knit around food and drink.
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HOME
pattern
HOME
pattern Terrific TEXTURES
Next issue BABY BLANKET BY JULIE FEGUSON April issue of Let’s Knit on sale THURSDAY 12TH MARCH
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Don’t miss our...
CUTE CHARACTERS TO KNIT!
Next issue APRIL ISSUE OF LET’S KNIT ON SALE THURSDAY 12TH MARCH * FREE YARN PACK
BUMPER EASTER TOYS KIT
Worth £6.99
with soft fluffy yarn!
ALSO! MONEY-OFF DISCOUNTS INSIDE
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BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL!
Step into spring with our stand-out collection of vibrant garments, including easy colourwork and lovely lace!
PLUS
Projects subject to change. *Just pay postage, UK customers only
4 YOUR NEW SEASON KNITTING GUIDE 4 HOW TO BE COLOUR CONFIDENT 4 PATTERN IDEAS FOR PAMPERED PETS
PLUS!
BONUS PATTERN BOOK From
pattern picks
ing celebrations 3 Easter spr for ng nti bu rty Pa 2 me ho ur yo 1 Rainbow cushion to brighten le outfits 5 All-season stripy shawl rab ado d an y nn bu llet Ba 4 ats tre e tiv basket for fes 51
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Briana the CAVEGIRL
TOY
pattern
SACHIYO ISHII’S CUTE DOLL IS THE ORIGINAL ROCK STAR!
Briana means ‘strong’ and they don’t come stronger than this petite-but-powerful cavegirl. Isn’t she special? A few things to bear in mind: sew the seam with the right side facing out using mattress stitch; if you’re using safety eyes with washers, make sure you attach them before stuffing the head; and raid your bathroom for cotton buds because they give the neck perfect stability. You’re good to go!
GREsAhT sta r buste
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Win! Win! Win!
Nominate here or go online: letsknit.co.uk/awards
IN RSHIP NE RT PA WITH
AN EXOTIC YARN BUNDLE
NOMINATE YOUR FAVOURITES IN THE BRITISH KNITTING & CROCHET AWARDS 2020 AND YOU COULD WIN ALL THIS!
OVER
Tell us which knitting and crochet products, designers and brands you love, and over 50 balls of exotic yarn could be yours! Nominate your favourites in the British Knitting & Crochet Awards 2020 and you could be knitting with a new and exciting yarn every week of the year! Courtesy of top brands, this bundle includes luxury skeins, faux fur, boucle, yarn cakes, mohair, ribbon yarn and a host of other exciting must-try novelties. Not only that, everyone who visits letsknit. co.uk/awards to nominate online receives a free downloadable pattern for a funky Hexagon Blanket. If entering on the form (right), send it to British Knitting & Crochet Awards 2020, 1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY by the closing date of 8th April 2020. The British Knitting & Crochet Awards are hosted annually by Let’s Knit and Let’s Get Crafting magazines. The categories opposite are all entirely voted for by readers, so don’t miss your chance to give your knitting heroes the recognition they deserve! Once all the nominations are in, a shortlist of the most popular yarns, stores, designers and accessories will be assembled ready for the final voting stage. Nominate now to make sure your favourites won’t be left out!
50 BALLS!
A WORD FROM OUR PARTNER
“Arena Travel is proud to present Stitchtopia craft holidays – a wonderful collection of creative holidays uniquely crafted with you in mind! From knitting and crochet to quilting and embroidery, our craft holidays are specially created for small groups of like-minded people, embracing all things creative. Each holiday has been carefully designed by our dedicated team of travel experts, who share a passion for crafting.
The attention is in the detail and we ensure every crafter enjoys a seamless travel experience as they explore the textile heritage of some of the world’s most exotic destinations, as well as the rich textile traditions around our own UK shores. Every holiday is accompanied by a well-known and enthusiastic expert, and with their friendly guidance lies the opportunity to learn new and different crafting techniques.” Find out more at stitchtopia.co.uk or follow @stitchtopiauk on social media.
HOW TO ENTER
ENTERING ONLINE?
Either fill in the form opposite and post it to British Knitting Awards 2020, 1 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY or enter online at letsknit.co.uk/awards. CLOSING DATE: 8th April 2020
Everyone who visits letsknit.co.uk/awards to nominate online will receive a free downloadable pattern for Nicola Valiji’s vibrant Hexagon Blanket – a fantastic way to put your stash to good use!
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Playful PAGES
TOY
pattern
TREAT A LITTLE ONE WITH VAL PIERCE’S COLOURFUL CREATION Spark your baby’s love of books from an early age with this fabulous detailed design. Including simple numbers and favourite animals, there is much to enjoy on every page. Each item is relatively straightforward to make with basic stitches and shaping, but there are a lot of parts to this project. Label all your pieces as you knit them so you don’t get confused. You may even prefer to make up each page as you go.
Use you STASH r !
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ACCESSORY
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BUSINESS TREAT YOUR YOUNGSTER TO THIS SEASONAL KNIT FROM NICOLA VALIJI
Your little one will be bouncing around the house when they are gifted this super-cute make. Featuring adorable ears and a selection of pretty flowers, what more could you ask of a spring-themed accessory? Although this is a relatively simple knitting pattern, you will need to take care over sewing up the various pieces. You should also consider the colours of your flowers, why not embrace an eco-friendly approach and use up the shades already in your stash?
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TOY
pattern
Sweet PEAS
NICKY FIJALKOWSKA’S EASY-KNIT VEGGIES ARE SIMPLY ADORABLE! Soft, squeezable and undeniably cute, this little playset is sure to be a hit. They’re quick and simple to knit too, using a classic DK yarn. The increasing and decreasing on the peas means that once you gather the top edge, they can easily be sewn into a round shape. Practise embroidering the faces to make sure you get a good expression.
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TOP YARN FOR CROCHET More super soft chenille yarns to try! Crochet with
SIRDAR SNUGGLY SQUISHY Polyester. £5.50 per 100g (100m) ball from 01442 245383, needlecraftstore.co.uk
JAMES C. BRETT FLUTTERBY CHUNKY Polyester. RRP £4.34 per 100g (175m) ball. For stockists, visit jamescbrett.co.uk
KING COLE YUMMY Polyester. £4.49 per 100g (120m) ball from 0800 033 7651, buddlycrafts.com
BERNAT VELVET Polyester. £11.50 per 100g (288m) ball from 01433 620933, woolfull.com
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I V E TO
3MM, 3.25MM NEEDLES
MEASUREMENTS & SIZES To fit age (mths): 0-6 (6-12, 12-18, 18-24)
KNIT KIT
Yarn: Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino, shades (A) Lipstick Pink, (B) Candy Pink, one 50g ball of each Needles: 3mm, 3.25mm Button: 2.8cm Tapestry needle
TENSION SQUARE n 24 sts x 44 rows n 10cm x 10cm n Over pattern n 3.25mm needles
EXCLU S TO •
SPORT WEIGHT YARN
E
GREAT FOR IMPROVERS
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Butterfly BABY
•
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LEARN WITH US
CREATE THIS PRETTY EFFECT WITH JO ALLPORT’S EASY GUIDE
For ages
0-2 YEARS
SPECIAL ABBREVIATIONS
WLS: work loose strands - insert tip of left needle through five strands on RS of work, going from top to bottom so they lie kwise. P these tog with next st and drop five strands and st of left needle
FOR ABBREVIATIONS SEE PAGE 97
ABOUT THE YARN
Debbie Bliss Baby Cashmerino is a machine washable blend of 55% wool, 33% acrylic and 12% cashmere, making it soft and practical for little ones. It’s between a 4ply and DK in tension and there are 75 shades to choose from. It costs £4.99 per 50g (125m) ball from 01409 404010, lovecrafts.com
NEED AN ALTERNATIVE?
Bergere de France Ideal is another sport weight yarn, but blends 40% wool, 30% polyamide and 30% acrylic. It’s machine washable and costs £4.10 per 50g (124m) ball from bergeredefrance.co.uk
A LOCAL YARN SHOP IS A GREAT PLACE TO BUY ALL YOUR KNITTY ESSENTIALS FIND YOURS ON P89
This sweet little beanie is quick to knit and the ideal project for trying out this fantastic stitch pattern. It’s worked by slipping a number of stitches, leaving long strands of yarn on the front of the work. You then gather the strands together to complete the butterfly. The design works well in two colours but you could use just one shade if you prefer.
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