Since we’re bringing you a double issue this week, we’re also bringing you a bumper knitting and craft preview.
Photograph by Ally Stuart.
Knitting
You can look forward to a lovely sparkly cardigan pattern in our December 7 issue. It features lovely vertical lace panels to add a feminine touch.
It comes in six sizes ranging from 76/81 cm (30/32 ins) to 127/132 (50/52 ins) with an 8 – 13 cm (3 – 5 ins) ease.
The lace panels are worked over a 14-row pattern. It is essential to count as the number of stitches varies from row to row. We recommend marking the beginning and end of the panel.
The lace design also features on the back, adding a little bit of extra interest. The sleeves are in stocking-stitch throughout.
The yarn used is a favourite for the festive season: King Cole Galaxy DK.
It has sequins incorporated into it, so you are adding sparkle with every stitch. Our choice is Catkin (3254), one of the 15 shades in the range.
You can check them out and find a stockist at www.kingcole.com.
Our buttons came from Duttons For Buttons, and you can view their amazing selection at www.duttonsforbuttons.co.uk.
Photograph by Hobbycraft.
Craft
Our craft this issue is great fun: we are showing you how to create Christmas crackers with the personal touch.
We start with a pack of ready-to-decorate crackers from Hobbycraft, and then show you a dozen ways to decorate them quickly and simply.
Many of the things we have used are typical of what is in a crafter’s stash: ribbon, toppers, stamped letters . . .
Use our ideas as a starting point to come up with your own variations — either adapting to suit your table decorations, or maybe adding a personal twist.
The crackers come in packs of six, and you can find then in your local Hobbycraft store.
Visit www.hobbycraft.co.uk to order online or to find a local stockist.
They make a cracking decoration!
We bring you a knitting and craft preview every week, alongside sneak peeks at our features and fiction. Keep up to date on our This Week’s Issue pages.
Have you tried making these wonderful little Christmas trees yet?
Liz O’Rourke I am part of the Features Team and my hobbies include knitting and crafts, reading and foreign travel – which are also my main responsibilities on the “Friend”. If you walk into the office you will soon spot my desk, it’s the one piled high with knitwear and balls of yarn!
